These are the tourist scams Trzly has documented across Ireland, grouped by destination. Each one is real, with a clear way to stay safe. Read before you land.
手口: The pubs and restaurants right in the Temple Bar tourist strip charge premium prices banking on atmosphere and foot traffic. A pint of Guinness that costs €5.50–7 in a normal pub is regularly €9–11 here, and food and cocktails are marked up to match.
避け方: Enjoy Temple Bar for a quick look and the music, but drink and eat a few streets away — the Liberties, Stoneybatter, Phibsborough or any back-street local pub. Check the price list at the bar before ordering; by law it must be displayed.
Taxi overcharging and the long route
手口: Some drivers on the airport run or outside late-night venues quote a flat price and refuse the meter (which is illegal in Ireland), or take the longer M50 motorway loop to add distance and a toll to the fare.
避け方: Only take taxis from the official rank or a licensed app, insist on the meter, and ask for the direct route upfront. Note the plate number and get a receipt; if a fare seems wrong you can report it to the National Transport Authority.
Fake charity petition and clipboard distraction
手口: Groups, often young, approach tourists on busy streets asking you to sign a 'charity' petition. The clipboard is a distraction to block your view and press close while an accomplice picks your pocket or bag.
避け方: Politely decline and keep walking — genuine registered charities don't work this way. Keep your bag zipped and in front of you in crowds, and don't stop to engage with clipboard groups on O'Connell Street or Grafton Street.
ATM skimming and 'helpful' stranger
手口: Card-skimming devices have been found on standalone ATMs, particularly around O'Connell Street, and someone may hover claiming the machine is faulty and offer to 'help', trying to see your PIN or swap your card.
避け方: Use ATMs inside a bank branch where possible, cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN, and refuse any offers of help. Check the card slot for anything loose, and watch your account for unexpected charges.
Phone snatching in the street
手口: Phones held out on the footpath or at a Luas stop are grabbed by a passing thief on foot or on a bicycle, especially on Grafton Street, O'Connell Street and around transport stops.
避け方: Keep your phone in an inside pocket, don't stand near the kerb using it, and be aware of your surroundings when you stop to check a map or take a photo. Use a wrist strap or hold it firmly with both hands.
Unlicensed 'hackney' touts late at night
手口: Outside nightclubs and late-night venues on Leeson Street and Camden Street, unlicensed drivers tout for business, offering a lift home. These cars are uninsured for passengers and can overcharge or be unsafe.
避け方: Only use a licensed taxi from a rank or booked through a licensed app such as Free Now. A licensed taxi has a roof sign and an ID card on the dashboard; if in doubt, wait at an official rank.