Very good advice: as much as possible, do a few things (you can also read Rick Steve's articles about pickpockets. 1. use a money belt under your clothes to keep the bulk of your Euros and passport 2. try to have shirts that provide pockets with side or top zippers - they work well if you have a sweater on or a jacket. Avoid anything in your back pockets. Zippered pant pockets are valuable too (especially under flaps). If you wear a vest, ensure there are zippered, interior pockets. 3. use small combination locks on your knapsack zippers - combo locks are better than needing keys. Ensure they are TSA for customs. 4. keep a copy of your passport with you in your moneybelt. And leave the original in the hotel safe. If no safe, use combination locks on your suitcases and lock things up in them in your hotel room. Also, get yourself a nice small travel wallet and only bring what is truly necessary. Leave the Costco membership card at home. 5. dont leave your phone or camera sitting on a restaurant table, as that is a 'please steal me' sign. Get rid of branded camera straps and use plain coloured ones. And remember that today's thieves know the camera models that provide the best $$. Put a small piece of black tape over the camera model name (ie: gaffer) 6. most places will accept credit cards, so keep the cash hidden until really needed. And don't say yes to currency conversion on your cards...say you want to pay in Euros all the time. Your credit card will cost you less for conversion. This scam is popular (and, sadly, legal). 7. not a bad idea to have an Apple Airtag hidden in your carry ons and luggage in case anything disappears. Whether by the airline, or a local thief. 8. and the best advice: don't trust ANYBODY. When wearing a backpack, try to keep it against a wall when you can (and fully zipped up). 9. try to have fun anyways.
Happened to my girlfriend and I today getting on the Tram line 6 after getting off on the Syntagma metro stop coming from the airport. A group of guys in their mid 30d/early 40s surrounded us as entered the crowded Tram, and I noticed via the reflection on the tram window that the man behind had his hand up towards my backpack as we got in. After we got in seconds later, he graciously offered for my girlfriend to “please take a seat” whereby I noticed that my backpacks top zipper at already been opened a couple inches. I told my girlfriend that I suspected the man next to us opened it, he overheard me, and we got into a verbal altercation. He got loud and upset, and wanted to “take it outside” before the tram left, either to fight or show me the supposed “camera footage”. After calming down, he later walked away to the other Tram cart, and his “partners” walked along away with him at various times after we had initially started jawing off at each other. He stormed off insulting me by saying “F*cking American!”. Okay, pal, good one. All is to say these crooks work in teams, and the video author’s point is true to keep your bags closed with locks preferably. Keep your guard up, and don’t let this take away from your experience on in otherwise fun city and/or journey to other parts of the country!!!
@@GreeceExplained I have to say Sebastian, if it weren’t for the pickpocketing attempt and finding your videos after that happened, that our trip to Santorini wouldn’t have been as great as it was. We watched your videos on how to get to the hotel from Fira via bus, find great photo spots, and eat delicious Souvlaki at Nick the Grill. You’re great, man! Thank you!!
Well he wanted to fight you, it's something that's really common here in Greece, if someone says let's go outside, to talk or something, just call the cops because they are a lot of cops in Athens and you might also want to have something so you can defend yourself but never take it out immediately because the cops will arrest you and not the other guy either way just try to stay out of trouble and go there in the morning because in the night most of the times that's where all the criminals etc go out
Sebastian, your You Tube videos were invaluable before our recent trip to Greece. My husband was the attempted victim of pickpockets twice! The first time was on the Athens metro train --- it was crowded where we stood near the doors and a couple guys started asking directions, just like you said in your video. Fortunately, I had sewn Velcro strips on my husband's front pocket (where he kept a wallet with one credit card and less than 100 euros). He heard the Velcro strips start opening which stopped the attempt. Later, when exiting the metro on the escalator, the guy behind him started trying to put his hand in my husband's pocket. My husband was able to grab his hand and thwart this second attempt. This was at the Akrotiri stop, so be extra careful at the popular tourist metro stops. Later my husband added safety pins to his pockets. I never carried a purse, but had my passports, credit cards and large bills in a neck pouch under my shirt when they were not able to be in a hotel safe. Personally, I would not recommend taking the metro from the airport. You will be too tired and stressed and an easy victim for pickpockets. Do not start your trip this way; just spend the extra money for a driver to meet you at the airport. Thank you so much, Sebastian!
I always bring a fake wallet with Monopoly money in it. I've only had to give it away once but it turned a bad situation into a funny one for us. Always be one step ahead of these clowns and keep your head on a swivel at all times.
Great job Sebastian! As a Greek I must mention another dangerous area for people to have in mind, which is Plaka. Plaka is the area below Akropilis, which is full of caffes and taverns and so very crowded, making it super easy to get robbed without even noticing it! I got robed there on Easter time, where it was not that crowded as in summertime. In my case there was a group of 50 Algerians and Tunisians gang (they got arrested 6 months after I was robbed), that were operated in small groups disorienting the victims to strike. Most probably others took their place, so be very careful. There are many places in Plaka where you can sit and rest your back on the railings, on the inside of which are the ancient monuments. What the thieves do is that they come from the inside, crouched so as not to be seen and if you have made the mistake of leaving your bag or your mobile on the terrace and next to you, you lost it as if by magic! When they are in place and ready to strike, someone of the group is comming to talk to you about directions and anything and the other guy from behind copletes the magic trick! ALWAYS have your things on you and don't put anything valuable next to you!
I'm coming the first week of January, do they operate also in winter or they take a break and operate only in summer? : P I'll be careful nevertheless either way! (in winter it should be more difficult to be robbed since all the valuables stay inside internal, closed pockets of the coat... with maybe a scarf being an additional obstacle)
I'm going to Athens next year so this was good advice. I ran into one of those evil bracelet sellers earlier in the year in Gran Canaria, on that walkway beside the Charca where lots of pedlars are. This quite attractive lady called to me, all flattery - I would normally walk on but I was in a good mood so I said hello and got closer than I normally would. She grabbed my hand and started wrapping this 'bracelet' round my wrist. I tried to pull away but she was surprisingly strong and who wants to start a fight? So once she'd wrapped this thing round my wrist she demanded I pay. Again, not wanting a fight I said okay, pulled out my money purse and reached for a 1 euro coin. Instead she reached in and snatched a five euro note. Well, I wasn't having that so on the hand that was still clutched round my wrist I dug my fingernails in so hard it drew blood. But no, she wouldn't give up, those notes don't tear easily, and I had to decide, do I let go of the note or maybe face violence if she had backup? So I let go of the note. I then ripped the cords off my wrist and threw them in her face, and sat down on the stone seating nearby, making evil eyes at her and trying to wave people away. Evil - if rather attractive - young crone. 🧙♀ Honestly, it rather ruined the day and I was in a bad mood for at least 24 hours after.
Spotted a gang on subway last weekend. One by one, they joined at various stops en route to airport. They were brazen enough to piggy back the ticket barriers at the airport (ie didn't even pay for metro tickets). They couldn't really be obvious? I pointed them out to security person which simply stimulated him to rescan my ticket and left them to go on their way! I subsequently saw them split into groups of 2 sitting around the airport (departures) looking for victims . Horrible.
See? That's the real problem, corrupted police and security system from top to bottom is the key that these scums are still around. Especially seeing many pickpocket group appear in the same place everyday without getting even questioning by the authority! I think I might cancel my greece trip thanks for pointing that out.
I tried to research on RUclips because of an incident that happened to me yesterday. I was in Athens and as you mentioned, I was going from the airport to Syntagma Square. I think there were 4 people. They suddenly crowded in front of the door. While I was trying to get off, they pressed the button next to the door and the door did not open. They started knocking hard and the door opened very little and got stuck. One person pretended to try to open the door. They tried to push me, one from behind and one from in front of me. It was a very strange moment. The door opened, I saw a man's hand on the edge of my pocket and the other was looking at my coat, I felt it. I got out and checked. Luckily, my pocket was zippered so he could not open it. But as far as I learned from a Turkish couple in the evening, they got off the metro at the next stop, which was Monastiraki, and stole the man's wallet with the same tactic
It happen to me as well in 2018 at Omonia train station we where waiting for the train Train arrived this gentleman said to me in English after you sir and all of a sudden I felt a hand on top of mine had my wallet in front pocket he was trying very hard but he got nothing
I've had this happen a couple times walking around the shops at Syntagma where a young looking person would hold a booklet and start try talking to me. I don't say anything and keep on walking to which they get mad and start calling me names or something. What could they possibly want?
My husband was aggressively approached by two youth with flowers - the girl (about 14 yrs. old) shoved a sad-looking "bouquet" in his face while the younger one (boy about 12 years old) got up in husband's chest and slipped his phone out of front shirt pocket. Location was near Monostiraki Square in Acropoli after dark.
We just went to Athens a couple of weeks ago and took the metro from the airport to Monastiraki. We didn’t feel “unsafe” but I don’t think I would do it again with big luggage. The train kept getting fuller with every stop and when it was time to get out, it was hard with all of the luggage. However on the way back we took a Taxi and that was 50 euro, keep that in mind.
I was wondering the same thing. I read on some forums that some pickpockets aim especially the airport's metro line because travellers with big luggages are more vulnerable. Not sure how much this is common, though.
agreed!! The metro gets fuller and fuller, and more suspicious looking people start to board as you approach the center of town. The metro is 9 euros, so a Taxi might work out the same if you’re traveling with more than one other person. Read my latest comment and stay safe!
Get a good pair of pickpocket proof shorts, with hidden, zippered pockets! I walked around Greece with wads of dollars and euros in hidden pockets (my passport too), and a small plastic bag of razor blades (for shaving, of course!) in my main front, non security pockets. One of the pickpockets screamed when she grabbed my bag of blades, and cursed at me in Romanian, or whatever she was! I don't trust my passport or cash in hotel safes. They are often robbed!
We are currently visiting Greece (Athens and Santorini) and today was the last day in Athens. We have been using Taxi mostly, but for a change thought of using the Metro and I almost got robbed. Two girls surrounded me and one almost took my wallet before i realised last minute. Almost spoiled our trip as i was carrying my cards and cash. For a minute i thought i became attractive in Greece when those pretty girls surrounded me.
Question. You advise to leave passports in the hotel room. The government and official websites I have seen have said that you should always have your passport with you because police vcan stop you at any time to ask for it. I think one suggested bringing a photocopy and another form of ID and carrying that around so you can lock your passport in your room. Can you advise what is the best thing to do?
Syntagma subway to the airport. Crowd at the door and my money and papers were gone. Breast pocket with backpack in front. These are already real experts. It's best to keep your distance on the train and not get boxed in. There are practical pockets for belts, which are hidden between underpants and pants. who is consciously on the lookout, need not fear
We leave for Greece first week of September and will take a taxi into the city center and hotel. Ain’t gonna risk anything plus we’ll have large suitcases as we’re gonna be on holiday for a month! Love you videos and will continue to watch more to get insights. Thanks
bare in mind the fixed taxi rates at the airport are €38-40. a good useful tip to know as last time when my family and i went, we were hugely ripped off (he charged us €100) 🫠
Last summer I took a taxi to go to Syntagma where the cost is usually about 5 euros from my place of stay and the driver had the audacity to say "15 euros"! I called him out on it and he said "OK, give me 10". I gave him the 10 and got out as I didn't want to argue with him...
@@Johnny-hn9ts after watching more of Sebastian’s videos we decided that we will take the metro as our apartment is right next to Acropolis metro station. We are prepared for that journey and watched all his videos and are confident on our decisions. Thanks
Rent a Airbnb/hotels walkable to most attractions Join hop on hop off bus tour Take taxi, it's more expensive but outweigh the chance being pickpocketed. Avoid extremely crowded area, when in doubt, time to go Take express bus/taxi to/from airport/port
awful experience in Athens. After eating dinner at a restaurant we were going back to our hotel and a gang of 7 men attacked us trying to steal my necklace and phone. We fought back but they took the phone. We called the police but they weren't helpful. They suggested to report it tomorrow at the police station, we were also scared to go back to our hotel but they said "ok you can take a taxi". Tomorrow we went to the police station but they said it is not the police station for such reports, when we went to the other one they said 'no it is the other police station because we don't take such report'. We packed our things and left immediately. Never going back again!
Are you suggesting from the airport into the center of Athens the pickpocketers begin or from center to the airport? And is it specific metro stations, like syntagma, omonia etc.?
From Airport to Center. Much rarer to have pickpockets in the other direction. And yes its specific stations : Syntagma and Monastiraki. Coz thats where all the tourists hop off.
Thanks for the advice! Being Hong Kong-Canadian, it's pretty much guaranteed that I'm gonna look like a tourist in Europe, even if I don't try to look like a tourist in Europe. And I think that we're good at avoiding pickpockets once we've offloaded our bags at the hotel and such by following the standard advice. But getting pickpocketed as you're starting your vacation is quite insidious - feels like easy work for the pickpockets. We're gonna have to be careful if we decide to take the metro. And I guess that's the kicker - watching your videos, I'm not sure there's a more convenient way to get from the airport to the city than the metro. Thankfully, I have some time to figure that out.
That flower gift scam is a very popular one, and I've come across once at Plaka area. This sweet young girl came and offered us a beautiful rose and said it was free. But once the flower was in my hands, she asked for some money! She pointed at her tummy indicating that she needed milk money for her soon to be born baby. She was pushy, but I told her to take back the rose, and handed her a Euro 5 note, and told her to be on her way. She wanted 10, I said NO. And we walked away!😅
I love your content. Thanks for this information, it is certainly helpful. My husband and I will be traveling to Athens in the next 3 weeks with our 13 months old. We also wanted to go to Santorini but it was difficult to find hotels that accommodates toddlers. We are going to do a day trip and then back to Athens in the evening but not sure how feasible that is.
@@Dreamcatcher9000 Went to Athens and got back like 3 weeks ago but we didn’t make it to Santorini. We were traveling with our 13 months old so seemed hectic. Hopefully we can go to Santorini in the future. We went Switzerland after Athens.
Beware of pickpockets in the metro! This night, when we arrived in Athens, one stop before Syntagma, three young men, aged 20 - 25 with beards entered and did the door blocking trick. One of them tried to snatch my wallet, but luckily I caught him. Thank you very much for your warning!
I was pickpocketed while entering the Athens Airport train on feb 16 2024 (fortunately they gave me my wallet back, less 250EU after I pleaded with them). But I disagree about your warning to be aware of foreigners asking directions, because I know this is, in fact, genuine).
I bet you Tokyo doesn't have immigrants from former USSR, Romania, middle east, or Tunisia, Georgia etc... Greek police have aprehended & thwarted gangs of petty criminals from such nationals who are organised pick pockets in Athens... What sucks is that tourists can't distinguish them...I hope people file thet reports... Is there no police or security present in the Sintagma or Monastiraki Metro stops? Are Athenians anti-Police?
Tip for guys if you have waist money wallet what he called a fanny pack buy w thin nylon one. Where pouch to front and that is tucked inside your trousers right next to your precious bits you know what i mean. If someone wants to try putting a hand down there 🤣 Always were a T shirt or short sleeve outside.
Another scam is "guides'asking you to pay extra - thora- especially around Xmas, Easter and June-September. These guides see how much $$$$so you have. They let someone else know who suddenly walks into you after you exit the taxi.
They are MASTERS, not like in Italy but still very very good. Either you sense them or ... Great great video, maybe to add something - all the cash, passport, phone keep at your front, at the belly cover by clothes and do not keep all the cash together (socks or wherever) Be prepared as much as you can, but still Americans are very very easy target. Alone = never. Thank you for all you do 🙏
Greece trip was awesome thanks to your videos. By the way, that forced selling happened with me in Mykonos. 'Roses for the lady' she appeared from nowhere and started with putting them in my wife's hand. 'That will be 2 euros' 'Give me that 10. I'll give you change' 'Oh I meant 2 euros for one rose' 'No no please take them. The money is for my baby ' And she kept and rushed with my 10 euros for the most pathetic 5 roses I have ever seen 😂
It’s not only pickpocketing it’s a dangerous city drugs and homeless all over very dirty and smell human urine throughout. Very bad experience took my family and left as soon as we saw the Parthenon. Bad experience
Go back twenty or more years. There you go. Wallop. Simple. Now, people prosper most when defining once-beautiful lands as besieged, beleaguered and not much more than avoidable. The plan is Progressing perfectly. To where shall we not go next? Who needs a secure and united home and welcomed travel free from harassments (most egregious and criminial of which are official) when we can all Stay Home, sit tight, and wait for the Newer Normal to arrive on the doorstep to order?
He is abosultely right and NO you do not see such nasty thefts in a place like Vancouver Canada!!!! Perhaps visit othrr countries to know NOt all major cities metro stations are this miserable
![WHERE TO STAY in Athens [Watch BEFORE you book a hotel]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/a2SMLmsZ7GA/mqdefault.jpg)
![WHERE TO STAY in Athens [Watch BEFORE you book a hotel]](/img/tr.png)
![Athens AIRPORT : How to get to your hotel ? [Comparing Metro, Bus, Taxi, Uber]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YpOv3_6uEX0/mqdefault.jpg)
Very good advice: as much as possible, do a few things (you can also read Rick Steve's articles about pickpockets.
1. use a money belt under your clothes to keep the bulk of your Euros and passport
2. try to have shirts that provide pockets with side or top zippers - they work well if you have a sweater on or a jacket. Avoid anything in your back pockets.
Zippered pant pockets are valuable too (especially under flaps). If you wear a vest, ensure there are zippered, interior pockets.
3. use small combination locks on your knapsack zippers - combo locks are better than needing keys. Ensure they are TSA for customs.
4. keep a copy of your passport with you in your moneybelt. And leave the original in the hotel safe. If no safe, use combination locks on your suitcases and lock things up in them in your hotel room. Also, get yourself a nice small travel wallet and only bring what is truly necessary. Leave the Costco membership card at home.
5. dont leave your phone or camera sitting on a restaurant table, as that is a 'please steal me' sign. Get rid of branded camera straps and use plain coloured ones. And remember that today's thieves know the camera models that provide the best $$. Put a small piece of black tape over the camera model name (ie: gaffer)
6. most places will accept credit cards, so keep the cash hidden until really needed. And don't say yes to currency conversion on your cards...say you want to pay in Euros all the time. Your credit card will cost you less for conversion. This scam is popular (and, sadly, legal).
7. not a bad idea to have an Apple Airtag hidden in your carry ons and luggage in case anything disappears. Whether by the airline, or a local thief.
8. and the best advice: don't trust ANYBODY. When wearing a backpack, try to keep it against a wall when you can (and fully zipped up).
9. try to have fun anyways.
Happened to my girlfriend and I today getting on the Tram line 6 after getting off on the Syntagma metro stop coming from the airport. A group of guys in their mid 30d/early 40s surrounded us as entered the crowded Tram, and I noticed via the reflection on the tram window that the man behind had his hand up towards my backpack as we got in. After we got in seconds later, he graciously offered for my girlfriend to “please take a seat” whereby I noticed that my backpacks top zipper at already been opened a couple inches. I told my girlfriend that I suspected the man next to us opened it, he overheard me, and we got into a verbal altercation. He got loud and upset, and wanted to “take it outside” before the tram left, either to fight or show me the supposed “camera footage”. After calming down, he later walked away to the other Tram cart, and his “partners” walked along away with him at various times after we had initially started jawing off at each other. He stormed off insulting me by saying “F*cking American!”. Okay, pal, good one. All is to say these crooks work in teams, and the video author’s point is true to keep your bags closed with locks preferably. Keep your guard up, and don’t let this take away from your experience on in otherwise fun city and/or journey to other parts of the country!!!
Well handled !!!
@@GreeceExplained We’ll be in Santorini tomorrow. Any advice for a 1 day itinerary??
@@LeonardoIslas-i7o ruclips.net/video/ENghGXAt2X8/видео.html
@@GreeceExplained I have to say Sebastian, if it weren’t for the pickpocketing attempt and finding your videos after that happened, that our trip to Santorini wouldn’t have been as great as it was. We watched your videos on how to get to the hotel from Fira via bus, find great photo spots, and eat delicious Souvlaki at Nick the Grill. You’re great, man! Thank you!!
Well he wanted to fight you, it's something that's really common here in Greece, if someone says let's go outside, to talk or something, just call the cops because they are a lot of cops in Athens and you might also want to have something so you can defend yourself but never take it out immediately because the cops will arrest you and not the other guy either way just try to stay out of trouble and go there in the morning because in the night most of the times that's where all the criminals etc go out
Sebastian, your You Tube videos were invaluable before our recent trip to Greece. My husband was the attempted victim of pickpockets twice! The first time was on the Athens metro train --- it was crowded where we stood near the doors and a couple guys started asking directions, just like you said in your video. Fortunately, I had sewn Velcro strips on my husband's front pocket (where he kept a wallet with one credit card and less than 100 euros). He heard the Velcro strips start opening which stopped the attempt. Later, when exiting the metro on the escalator, the guy behind him started trying to put his hand in my husband's pocket. My husband was able to grab his hand and thwart this second attempt. This was at the Akrotiri stop, so be extra careful at the popular tourist metro stops. Later my husband added safety pins to his pockets. I never carried a purse, but had my passports, credit cards and large bills in a neck pouch under my shirt when they were not able to be in a hotel safe. Personally, I would not recommend taking the metro from the airport. You will be too tired and stressed and an easy victim for pickpockets. Do not start your trip this way; just spend the extra money for a driver to meet you at the airport. Thank you so much, Sebastian!
Very proud of you, you did great !!!
Glad to hear my video helped :-)
I always bring a fake wallet with Monopoly money in it. I've only had to give it away once but it turned a bad situation into a funny one for us. Always be one step ahead of these clowns and keep your head on a swivel at all times.
Great job Sebastian!
As a Greek I must mention another dangerous area for people to have in mind, which is Plaka. Plaka is the area below Akropilis, which is full of caffes and taverns and so very crowded, making it super easy to get robbed without even noticing it! I got robed there on Easter time, where it was not that crowded as in summertime.
In my case there was a group of 50 Algerians and Tunisians gang (they got arrested 6 months after I was robbed), that were operated in small groups disorienting the victims to strike. Most probably others took their place, so be very careful.
There are many places in Plaka where you can sit and rest your back on the railings, on the inside of which are the ancient monuments. What the thieves do is that they come from the inside, crouched so as not to be seen and if you have made the mistake of leaving your bag or your mobile on the terrace and next to you, you lost it as if by magic! When they are in place and ready to strike, someone of the group is comming to talk to you about directions and anything and the other guy from behind copletes the magic trick!
ALWAYS have your things on you and don't put anything valuable next to you!
I'm coming the first week of January, do they operate also in winter or they take a break and operate only in summer? : P I'll be careful nevertheless either way! (in winter it should be more difficult to be robbed since all the valuables stay inside internal, closed pockets of the coat... with maybe a scarf being an additional obstacle)
This is SO GOOD to know!! I will be EXTRA on guard in the areas you mentioned. Thank you!
Thank you for the advice! love how efficient you are with explaining information clearly. cheers!
I just returned from Athens
Police everywhere
We use taxi, Uber from Piraeus and Airport
Price is fixed now
So it is pretty ok
I'm going to Athens next year so this was good advice.
I ran into one of those evil bracelet sellers earlier in the year in Gran Canaria, on that walkway beside the Charca where lots of pedlars are. This quite attractive lady called to me, all flattery - I would normally walk on but I was in a good mood so I said hello and got closer than I normally would. She grabbed my hand and started wrapping this 'bracelet' round my wrist. I tried to pull away but she was surprisingly strong and who wants to start a fight?
So once she'd wrapped this thing round my wrist she demanded I pay. Again, not wanting a fight I said okay, pulled out my money purse and reached for a 1 euro coin. Instead she reached in and snatched a five euro note. Well, I wasn't having that so on the hand that was still clutched round my wrist I dug my fingernails in so hard it drew blood. But no, she wouldn't give up, those notes don't tear easily, and I had to decide, do I let go of the note or maybe face violence if she had backup?
So I let go of the note. I then ripped the cords off my wrist and threw them in her face, and sat down on the stone seating nearby, making evil eyes at her and trying to wave people away. Evil - if rather attractive - young crone. 🧙♀ Honestly, it rather ruined the day and I was in a bad mood for at least 24 hours after.
Helpful
I love this channel ! Very good tips 👍
Im taking my first trip there next april. This was really helpful, thanks.
If u ever see this, how did it go? My hotel is in Plaka and i was thinking i would walk to acropolis but seeing this video just got me scared
Spotted a gang on subway last weekend. One by one, they joined at various stops en route to airport. They were brazen enough to piggy back the ticket barriers at the airport (ie didn't even pay for metro tickets). They couldn't really be obvious? I pointed them out to security person which simply stimulated him to rescan my ticket and left them to go on their way! I subsequently saw them split into groups of 2 sitting around the airport (departures) looking for victims . Horrible.
See? That's the real problem, corrupted police and security system from top to bottom is the key that these scums are still around. Especially seeing many pickpocket group appear in the same place everyday without getting even questioning by the authority! I think I might cancel my greece trip thanks for pointing that out.
I tried to research on RUclips because of an incident that happened to me yesterday. I was in Athens and as you mentioned, I was going from the airport to Syntagma Square. I think there were 4 people. They suddenly crowded in front of the door. While I was trying to get off, they pressed the button next to the door and the door did not open. They started knocking hard and the door opened very little and got stuck. One person pretended to try to open the door. They tried to push me, one from behind and one from in front of me. It was a very strange moment. The door opened, I saw a man's hand on the edge of my pocket and the other was looking at my coat, I felt it. I got out and checked. Luckily, my pocket was zippered so he could not open it. But as far as I learned from a Turkish couple in the evening, they got off the metro at the next stop, which was Monastiraki, and stole the man's wallet with the same tactic
I just dressed in full Spartan armor and that seemed to do the trick 😜… I’m kidding, great video my friend!
:D
the pickpockets are immigrants not Greeks
@@ΑκριβήΤαράτσα I agree. Thej are Albanian and Romanian too
It happen to me as well in 2018 at Omonia train station we where waiting for the train Train arrived this gentleman said to me in English after you sir and all of a sudden I felt a hand on top of mine had my wallet in front pocket he was trying very hard but he got nothing
I've had this happen a couple times walking around the shops at Syntagma where a young looking person would hold a booklet and start try talking to me. I don't say anything and keep on walking to which they get mad and start calling me names or something. What could they possibly want?
My husband was aggressively approached by two youth with flowers - the girl (about 14 yrs. old) shoved a sad-looking "bouquet" in his face while the younger one (boy about 12 years old) got up in husband's chest and slipped his phone out of front shirt pocket. Location was near Monostiraki Square in Acropoli after dark.
This happened March 6, 2024. We filled out a Police report. Sadly, this has made my husband not want to return to Greece.😔
@@stefannah71 you have those gypsies all over europe
Thank you for the tips, Enjoyed greece,😊
Thank you for the tips! So would you say it's safe to take the metro from the airport or is it better not to take the risk and just take a taxi?
We just went to Athens a couple of weeks ago and took the metro from the airport to Monastiraki. We didn’t feel “unsafe” but I don’t think I would do it again with big luggage. The train kept getting fuller with every stop and when it was time to get out, it was hard with all of the luggage. However on the way back we took a Taxi and that was 50 euro, keep that in mind.
@@smachovidal i'll keep that in mind, thank you!
I was wondering the same thing. I read on some forums that some pickpockets aim especially the airport's metro line because travellers with big luggages are more vulnerable. Not sure how much this is common, though.
@@ShadowSolaris They definitely do! Read my latest comment.
agreed!! The metro gets fuller and fuller, and more suspicious looking people start to board as you approach the center of town. The metro is 9 euros, so a Taxi might work out the same if you’re traveling with more than one other person. Read my latest comment and stay safe!
Get a good pair of pickpocket proof shorts, with hidden, zippered pockets! I walked around Greece with wads of dollars and euros in hidden pockets (my passport too), and a small plastic bag of razor blades (for shaving, of course!) in my main front, non security pockets. One of the pickpockets screamed when she grabbed my bag of blades, and cursed at me in Romanian, or whatever she was! I don't trust my passport or cash in hotel safes. They are often robbed!
Thanks for the tips.
Very useful! Thank you :)
We are currently visiting Greece (Athens and Santorini) and today was the last day in Athens. We have been using Taxi mostly, but for a change thought of using the Metro and I almost got robbed. Two girls surrounded me and one almost took my wallet before i realised last minute. Almost spoiled our trip as i was carrying my cards and cash. For a minute i thought i became attractive in Greece when those pretty girls surrounded me.
Question. You advise to leave passports in the hotel room. The government and official websites I have seen have said that you should always have your passport with you because police vcan stop you at any time to ask for it. I think one suggested bringing a photocopy and another form of ID and carrying that around so you can lock your passport in your room.
Can you advise what is the best thing to do?
I'd go for the photocopy technique :-)
@@GreeceExplained Thank you so much!
Syntagma subway to the airport. Crowd at the door and my money and papers were gone. Breast pocket with backpack in front. These are already real experts.
It's best to keep your distance on the train and not get boxed in. There are practical pockets for belts, which are hidden between underpants and pants. who is consciously on the lookout, need not fear
We leave for Greece first week of September and will take a taxi into the city center and hotel. Ain’t gonna risk anything plus we’ll have large suitcases as we’re gonna be on holiday for a month! Love you videos and will continue to watch more to get insights. Thanks
bare in mind the fixed taxi rates at the airport are €38-40. a good useful tip to know as last time when my family and i went, we were hugely ripped off (he charged us €100) 🫠
Last summer I took a taxi to go to Syntagma where the cost is usually about 5 euros from my place of stay and the driver had the audacity to say "15 euros"! I called him out on it and he said "OK, give me 10". I gave him the 10 and got out as I didn't want to argue with him...
@@Johnny-hn9ts wow, the way taxi drivers rip off their customers is so bad. they need to do better!
@@Johnny-hn9ts after watching more of Sebastian’s videos we decided that we will take the metro as our apartment is right next to Acropolis metro station. We are prepared for that journey and watched all his videos and are confident on our decisions. Thanks
My departing flight from Athens is at 7am. I have to arrive at 4:30am at the airport, is taking a taxi the safest option at that time?
There are no metros at that time anyway ... Video coming up in 2 weeks explaining how to commute between the airport and the city center :-)
Thanks for this interesting video. A warned man tells for 2 !
I lived for 12 years in Athens and never had a problem? Is it people from outside?
Rent a Airbnb/hotels walkable to most attractions
Join hop on hop off bus tour
Take taxi, it's more expensive but outweigh the chance being pickpocketed.
Avoid extremely crowded area, when in doubt, time to go
Take express bus/taxi to/from airport/port
awful experience in Athens. After eating dinner at a restaurant we were going back to our hotel and a gang of 7 men attacked us trying to steal my necklace and phone. We fought back but they took the phone. We called the police but they weren't helpful. They suggested to report it tomorrow at the police station, we were also scared to go back to our hotel but they said "ok you can take a taxi". Tomorrow we went to the police station but they said it is not the police station for such reports, when we went to the other one they said 'no it is the other police station because we don't take such report'. We packed our things and left immediately. Never going back again!
Very sorry for the traumatic experience ! In which neighborhood was this ?
@@GreeceExplained near the parlament, Ermou street I believe it was called
Are there less pickpockets around/less cases of pickpocketing in a less busy time of year such as april?
Yes correct
Are you suggesting from the airport into the center of Athens the pickpocketers begin or from center to the airport? And is it specific metro stations, like syntagma, omonia etc.?
From Airport to Center. Much rarer to have pickpockets in the other direction.
And yes its specific stations : Syntagma and Monastiraki. Coz thats where all the tourists hop off.
Thanks for the advice! Being Hong Kong-Canadian, it's pretty much guaranteed that I'm gonna look like a tourist in Europe, even if I don't try to look like a tourist in Europe.
And I think that we're good at avoiding pickpockets once we've offloaded our bags at the hotel and such by following the standard advice. But getting pickpocketed as you're starting your vacation is quite insidious - feels like easy work for the pickpockets. We're gonna have to be careful if we decide to take the metro. And I guess that's the kicker - watching your videos, I'm not sure there's a more convenient way to get from the airport to the city than the metro. Thankfully, I have some time to figure that out.
That flower gift scam is a very popular one, and I've come across once at Plaka area. This sweet young girl came and offered us a beautiful rose and said it was free. But once the flower was in my hands, she asked for some money! She pointed at her tummy indicating that she needed milk money for her soon to be born baby. She was pushy, but I told her to take back the rose, and handed her a Euro 5 note, and told her to be on her way. She wanted 10, I said NO. And we walked away!😅
Also be careful on ferries. I had some idiot follow me on one
Just saw you doing a tour in Athens.
I love your content. Thanks for this information, it is certainly helpful. My husband and I will be traveling to Athens in the next 3 weeks with our 13 months old. We also wanted to go to Santorini but it was difficult to find hotels that accommodates toddlers. We are going to do a day trip and then back to Athens in the evening but not sure how feasible that is.
Day trip to Santorini from Athens?? I hope you took the plane at least, and not the boat! :p
@@Dreamcatcher9000 Went to Athens and got back like 3 weeks ago but we didn’t make it to Santorini. We were traveling with our 13 months old so seemed hectic. Hopefully we can go to Santorini in the future. We went Switzerland after Athens.
Beware of pickpockets in the metro! This night, when we arrived in Athens, one stop before Syntagma, three young men, aged 20 - 25 with beards entered and did the door blocking trick. One of them tried to snatch my wallet, but luckily I caught him.
Thank you very much for your warning!
Perfect !! Well handled !!
Hi, any advice on the best SIM card to get for a month in Greece please?
ruclips.net/video/vEyFpvXV5jY/видео.html
I was pickpocketed while entering the Athens Airport train on feb 16 2024 (fortunately they gave me my wallet back, less 250EU after I pleaded with them). But I disagree about your warning to be aware of foreigners asking directions, because I know this is, in fact, genuine).
Sounds like that was mugging rather than pickpoteting
Some people are saying airbnb are getting break in :(
Yup thats why I recommend staying at hotels instead
Thank you for the safety tips. I hope the bad guys don't get ideas from watching ;)
With all due respect, not all big cities have pickpocketing problem. You can travel to Tokyo 100 times and never meet a single thief
I bet you Tokyo doesn't have immigrants from former USSR, Romania, middle east, or Tunisia, Georgia etc... Greek police have aprehended & thwarted gangs of petty criminals from such nationals who are organised pick pockets in Athens... What sucks is that tourists can't distinguish them...I hope people file thet reports... Is there no police or security present in the Sintagma or Monastiraki Metro stops? Are Athenians anti-Police?
thet = theft ( sorry typo)
Yeah but this is a video about Greece, context is important.
Tip for guys if you have waist money wallet what he called a fanny pack buy w thin nylon one. Where pouch to front and that is tucked inside your trousers right next to your precious bits you know what i mean. If someone wants to try putting a hand down there 🤣 Always were a T shirt or short sleeve outside.
Another scam is "guides'asking you to pay extra - thora- especially around Xmas, Easter and June-September. These guides see how much $$$$so you have. They let someone else know who suddenly walks into you after you exit the taxi.
The pickpockets are immigrants, not Greeks
Not always.
They are MASTERS, not like in Italy but still very very good. Either you sense them or ... Great great video, maybe to add something - all the cash, passport, phone keep at your front, at the belly cover by clothes and do not keep all the cash together (socks or wherever) Be prepared as much as you can, but still Americans are very very easy target. Alone = never. Thank you for all you do 🙏
what do you mean alone==never?
@@HardPass ...never walk alone, only with someone. Don't be easy target for them. At the end of the day, you wanna enjoy your trip.
Just for notice They are Georgians and Gypsies not Greeks
I was taught as a young man that when you go to a big city to put your wallet in your front pocket.
Greece trip was awesome thanks to your videos. By the way, that forced selling happened with me in Mykonos.
'Roses for the lady' she appeared from nowhere and started with putting them in my wife's hand.
'That will be 2 euros'
'Give me that 10. I'll give you change'
'Oh I meant 2 euros for one rose'
'No no please take them. The money is for my baby '
And she kept and rushed with my 10 euros for the most pathetic 5 roses I have ever seen 😂
It’s not only pickpocketing it’s a dangerous city drugs and homeless all over very dirty and smell human urine throughout. Very bad experience took my family and left as soon as we saw the Parthenon. Bad experience
I hope you left away from this terrible terrible city and went somewhere safer somewhere
over the rainbow la LA LA lalalala🎶
You must br part of the pickpoecket team defending those nasty theieves
Stay away from athens metro!!!
maybe the police is involved to as well? as they shall clearly know dirty tricks about these scums there but keep igoring them?
I live in Athens 40 years I never got robbed, all thats is nonsence...
I never got robbed either. Pickpockets are not targetting locals, they're targetting tourists.
Go back twenty or more years. There you go. Wallop. Simple.
Now, people prosper most when defining once-beautiful lands as besieged, beleaguered and not much more than avoidable. The plan is Progressing perfectly. To where shall we not go next? Who needs a secure and united home and welcomed travel free from harassments (most egregious and criminial of which are official) when we can all Stay Home, sit tight, and wait for the Newer Normal to arrive on the doorstep to order?
Wallop ?
Well, you have to take care like every big city in the world.
So i don't like the way you present this video.
I'm sorry.
❤
He is abosultely right and NO you do not see such nasty thefts in a place like Vancouver Canada!!!! Perhaps visit othrr countries to know NOt all major cities metro stations are this miserable
Are you a purse-snatcher?
Σού θίξανε την ΑΘήνα εσένα και κάνεις έτσι; Καλά τα λέει ο ξεναγός, και το παρουσιάζει και όμορφα και διακριτικά το πρόβλημα.