These are the tourist scams Trzly has documented across Países Baixos, grouped by destination. Each one is real, with a clear way to stay safe. Read before you land.
Como funciona: Street dealers, often near the centre and red-light area, offer drugs to tourists that are fake, cut with harmful substances or a setup for robbery. Buying from them is both risky and illegal.
Como evitar: Never buy anything from a street dealer. It is unsafe and against the law, and the pills or powders sold this way have caused serious harm. Walk away from anyone offering.
Como funciona: Some rental outlets photograph a bike, then claim pre-existing scratches or a 'stolen' bike after you return it, demanding a large fee from your card or deposit.
Como evitar: Rent from a well-reviewed, established shop, photograph the bike yourself before riding, keep your receipt, and always lock it properly to a fixed stand with the locks provided.
Como funciona: Restaurants along Damrak and around the main squares lure passers-by with photo menus, then serve mediocre food at inflated prices with unexpected extra charges.
Como evitar: Avoid places with staff waving you in and pictures of every dish. Walk a few streets into the Jordaan or De Pijp, check printed prices, and pick spots busy with locals.
Como funciona: Thieves work busy trams, Centraal station and crowded tourist spots, lifting phones and wallets during the crush of boarding or in a staged jostle.
Como evitar: Keep your bag zipped and in front, hold your phone securely, and be extra alert when a tram is packed or someone bumps into you. Carry only what you need for the day.