Avoiding Scams in Milan: Essential Tips for Tourists

Milan is one of Italy’s top tourist destinations. With its famous Duomo cathedral, luxury shopping, and historic sites, over 8 million visitors flock here every year. Unfortunately, the city’s popularity also attracts scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists.

A Close Look at 10 Major Scams in Milan

Key points about this article

1. Pickpocketing:

Spot: Thieves often target crowded areas like metro stations, landmarks and restaurants. They work in groups to distract you while stealing wallets, phones or bags.
React: If you catch a pickpocket in the act, yell to attract attention. Report the crime to police immediately.
Avoid: Carry minimal valuables when out. Keep bags in front of you and zipped up. Be wary of people crowding or distracting you.

2. Rigged ATMs:

Spot: ATMs may have card skimmers or pinhole cameras attached. Check for anything unusual before using.
React: Inform the bank if you find a tampered ATM. Cancel cards that may be compromised.
Avoid: Use ATMs inside banks when possible. Cover pin when typing and check monthly statements.

3. Public Transportation Ticket Scam:

Spot: Con artists may sell counterfeit public transportation tickets that won’t work when scanned.
React: Purchase tickets from authorized vendors or automated machines. Verify the ticket’s authenticity before boarding.
Avoid: Buy tickets from official outlets and use the official transportation website or app to ensure you’re using valid tickets.

4. Taxi Scams:

Spot: Dishonest drivers take longer routes, pretend the meter is broken, or switch bills to overcharge riders.
React: Only pay the metered fare, and clearly negotiate rates upfront for journeys outside the city.
Avoid: Call for official taxis instead of hailing them on the street. Confirm the rate before getting in.

5. Restaurant Scams:

Spot: Menus may lack prices, then extremely high charges are added to bills. Extra fees for bread or cover are illegal.
React: Review the menu and bill carefully. Refuse to pay unfair fees. Pay only for what was ordered.
Avoid: Ask for prices when ordering. Look up reviews to avoid scam spots. Pay with credit card for added protection.

6. Street Games:

Spot: Locals try to engage tourists in games like shell matching or card guessing, then pressure bets and rig it so you lose.
React: Decline invitations to play games on the street. If coerced, walk away and alert authorities if needed.
Avoid: Ignore gambling invites. Don’t follow strangers promising easy money.

7. Fake Petitions:

Spot: People pretend to be deaf or disabled and collect signatures and donations that actually fund criminal groups.
React: Politely refuse to sign or donate if you suspect a scam. Notify police of organized groups.
Avoid: Be cautious around petitioners, especially near tourist sites. Donate through verified organizations.

8. The “Friendly” Bracelet Scam:

Spot: Scammers approach tourists, offering friendship bracelets as gifts. Once the bracelet is tied, they demand exorbitant payments for the seemingly free item.
React: Politely decline the offer and walk away. If confronted, firmly return the bracelet and stand your ground.
Avoid: Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering gifts. Keep a reasonable distance from street vendors who appear overly persistent.

9. Counterfeit Goods:

Spot: Black market sellers offer fake brand name bags, watches, sunglasses. Quality is poor.
React: Do not purchase illegal counterfeits. Keep a safe distance from sellers if aggressive.
Avoid: Buy directly from authorized retailers. Inspect goods closely before purchasing.

10. Currency Exchange:

Spot: Dishonest exchanges give poor rates, might switch money, or skim cash off counts.
React: Count your money carefully. Refuse service if scammed and alert authorities.
Avoid: Exchange at banks or reputable vendors. Decline street exchangers.

How to Get Help:

If you find yourself in a scam-related situation, seek assistance from the following resources:

Tourist police number : 113
Your embassy/consulate
Your bank or credit card company

Learn more about top travel scams at Milan in this video

Adventure Safety: Our scam guides don’t stop in Milan. They’re like a treasure map that works in other cities like

Rome
Florence

Also check out other scams in Italy

The best way to avoid scams is to be informed, use common sense, and exercise caution when interacting with strangers. Be safe and enjoy your time in Milan!