Tourist scams in Istanbul (and how to avoid them)
Going to Istanbul? These are the 4 scams travelers report the most, in plain words, with the quick move that gets you out of each one.
Part of 21,000+ scam warnings and traveler tips from travelers worldwide, growing every day.
Istanbul · most reported
The dropped shoe-brush
A shiner “accidentally” drops a brush; you return it, he insists on shining and charges heavily.
Hand the brush back and keep moving. Don’t let him touch your shoes.
Friendly guy → inflated bar bill
A new “local friend” takes you to a bar; women join, and the bill is enormous.
Never follow a stranger to a bar. Leave if drinks appear unpriced.
Note-switch taxi
You pay with a large note; the driver swaps it for a smaller one and asks for more.
Say the note’s value out loud and pay with small bills.
Carpet / high-pressure shop
Tea, charm, and hours of pressure to buy an overpriced rug you didn’t come for.
It’s fine to walk out. Only buy if you truly want it, at your price.
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