🇪🇸 7 Travel Scams to Avoid in Spain (and How to Outsmart Them)
- Zamhyrre Perral
- Aug 14
- 2 min read
by NextDestination Travel and Tours
7 common travel scams in Spain — and how you can avoid falling for them.
1. The Fake Petition Scam
📍 Common in: Madrid, Barcelona (near major attractions) A friendly stranger approaches you with a clipboard asking you to “sign a petition” for a good cause. Once you’re distracted, their accomplice picks your pockets.
💡 Tip: Politely decline and keep walking.
2. The “Broken” ATM Trick
📍 Common in: Tourist-heavy neighborhoods scammers place signs saying the ATM is “out of order” and redirect you to another machine they control.
💡 Tip: Only use ATMs inside banks or reputable establishments.
3. The Rose or Bracelet Gift
📍 Common in: Las Ramblas, Plaça Catalunya someone offers you a “free” rose or bracelet as a gesture of friendship — but once you accept, they demand payment or cause a scene.
💡 Tip: Never accept unsolicited “gifts” from strangers.
4. Distraction Pickpocketing
📍 Common in: Metro, train stations, crowded plazas pickpockets may bump into you, spill something, or create a commotion so you don’t notice your valuables being taken.
💡 Tip: Keep bags zipped, wear a crossbody bag, and avoid carrying all your cash in one place.
5. Fake Police Officers
📍 Common in: Late-night streets, near tourist areas someone shows a fake badge, claims they’re checking for counterfeit money, and asks to see your wallet.
💡 Tip: Real police in Spain won’t ask for your wallet — ask them to show official ID or head to the nearest station.
6. Overpriced Taxi Rides
📍 Common in: Airports, tourist spots some drivers take longer routes or “forget” to turn on the meter.
💡 Tip: Use official taxi stands, confirm the fare before starting, or book via ride-hailing apps.
7. The Restaurant Menu Switch
📍 Common in: Beach towns, touristy restaurants a restaurant shows you a cheap menu outside, but when the bill arrives, the prices are higher.
💡 Tip: Always ask for a menu with prices before ordering and keep a photo for reference.
💼 Travel Tip from NextDestination International Travel and Tours. We help our clients travel smarter — from securing trusted accommodations to providing insider tips for a safe, worry-free adventure. Whether it’s Spain, Japan, or anywhere in the world, we make sure you’re well-prepared before your flight.
📩 Send us a message today and let’s plan your dream trip without the stress — or the scams.
📍 Visit us at: 2566 Tejeron Sta. Ana, Manila
📞 Call or Viber: 0926 786 1703 / (02) 85341295
📧 Email: nextdestinationintltravel@gmail.com
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