Home » EUROPE » Europe’s Popular Tourist Cities Face Increasing Pickpocket Threats
Monday, July 14, 2025
Recently, the beauty of Europe’s popular attractions, known for their romance, historic appeal, and scenic views, has been diminished faster than ever before due to growing cases of pickpocketing. The concern is such that once-popular cities are becoming hotbeds for street-level thieves, vastly altering tourist perceptions.
European Cities Identified as High-Risk Areas
Numerous popular European tourist cities have been repeatedly cited as high-risk cities for pickpocketing. Paris, Rome, Milan, and Barcelona are particularly highlighted in safety guides on assorted websites. Even though tourists in general are open to these attacks, cases have registered an unfortunate penchant for pickpockets to target tourists from Asian countries, which are typically regarded as having higher amounts of money or high-priced electronic equipment.
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Alarming Crime Rates in Rome and Milan
According to official safety reports published by Censis, crime rates in central Rome have notably increased. Over the past five years, there has been a reported 23.2% overall increase in crimes. The number of reported robberies in Rome in 2024 exceeded 2,000 cases, representing a staggering 51.3% increase compared to 2019. Pickpocketing, specifically, has surged dramatically, with 33,455 incidents officially documented in 2024 alone—this is a remarkable 68.0% increase, translating to nearly 100 pickpocketing incidents each day. Given that petty thefts often remain unreported, actual numbers could be significantly higher.
In Milan, crime statistics per capita present an equally concerning picture. With 69.7 reported crimes per 1,000 residents in 2024, Milan has emerged as Italy’s leading city in terms of crime rates, followed closely by Florence and Rome. These numbers starkly contrast with crime rates in countries such as China, which reported significantly lower numbers, further emphasizing the severity of the situation in Europe.
Rising Anxiety Among International Travelers
Historically, Europe was considered a dream destination, especially among Chinese tourists eager to explore its historic landmarks and vibrant culture. However, the sharp rise in pickpocketing has significantly altered this perception. Social platforms popular among Chinese travelers, such as Xiaohongshu, now predominantly feature anti-theft guides rather than traditional travel tips, indicating heightened concerns about safety and security.
European travelers themselves have not been immune to this surge in petty crime. Tourists from European countries traveling abroad often demonstrate heightened anxiety, even in countries known for low crime rates. The traumatic experiences encountered in Europe have left lasting impressions, causing travelers to adopt defensive behaviors, such as clutching their bags tightly, out of instinct.
Comparison of Tourist Treatment: Europe vs. China
The disparity in handling crime against tourists between Europe and China is striking. Recently, an incident involving a Canadian tourist overcharged for a taxi ride from Guangzhou’s Baiyun Airport to Zengcheng illustrates this gap clearly. Upon reporting the issue via the government hotline, Chinese authorities promptly identified the taxi and driver involved and issued a complete refund within two days. This swift and effective resolution contrasts sharply with the challenges European authorities currently face due to limited police resources and the inability to effectively respond to the surge in pickpocketing incidents.
Official Government Advisories and Recommendations
Government-issued travel advisories have become increasingly essential in guiding tourists on how best to avoid becoming victims of pickpocketing in Europe. Official recommendations include carrying minimal cash, avoiding conspicuous displays of wealth, and utilizing anti-theft accessories like money belts and secure bags. Tourists are also advised to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, public transportation hubs, and major tourist attractions, where pickpockets typically operate.
Local police departments across European cities have also issued advisories urging tourists to report all theft incidents, as accurate reporting helps authorities identify high-risk areas and allocate resources more effectively. While the present police staffing levels in cities like Rome and Milan struggle to handle the surge in petty crimes adequately, these measures are crucial in mitigating risks and enhancing overall tourist safety.
Mitigating the Impact of Pickpocketing on Tourism
Tourism authorities in Europe face the dual challenge of maintaining the region’s attractive image while addressing valid safety concerns. Initiatives such as increased police visibility, public awareness campaigns, and international cooperation to share effective anti-theft strategies are being explored to improve the situation.
Moreover, tourists are encouraged to consult official government websites for updated advisories and safety tips before traveling. Reliable sources include websites such as the Italian Ministry of Interior, Spain’s Ministry of the Interior, and the French National Police’s official site.
Conclusion
Europe’s most well-known tourist attractions remain appealing hotspots, but increased incidents of pickpocketing prompted the need for increased security and tourist education. The authorities and tourists must collaborate in order to combat these threats and maintain Europe as an open and safe destination for all.
References: Italian Ministry of Interior, French National Police, Spanish Ministry of the Interior
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