Scam in NetherlandsTaxis
Long taxi route to raise the fare in Netherlands
How it works
The driver agrees to use the meter but takes an unnecessarily long route. The meter keeps running, making a short journey cost more.
Warning signs
- The route makes unexplained loops or moves away from your destination.
- The fare keeps rising on what should be a short trip.
How to avoid it
- Check the route before entering the taxi.
- Follow the journey on a map.
- Ask about unexpected detours while the trip is underway.
- Use public transport for trips you cannot judge confidently.
If it happens to you
Ask the driver to explain the route. Save the route, receipt and taxi number for a complaint.
- Move to a safe public place. Avoid chasing a thief or arguing with someone who threatens you.
- If there is immediate danger or an urgent injury, call 112 and say whether you need police, an ambulance or firefighters.
- Block missing payment cards through your card issuer. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
- Save receipts, messages, payment records and useful details, such as a taxi number. Write down what happened, where and when.
- Report theft or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference and contact your insurer if relevant.
- Contact the taxi company or seller about a dispute. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement help.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Amsterdam2025Be aware of taxi scam!A commenter reports a metered taxi taking the A10 instead of the tunnel from Amsterdam Noord, pushing the meter toward €90.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Amsterdam2022What's going on with Uber?A commenter describes an airport taxi taking a circuitous route toward Noord instead of Westerpark and changing direction when they checked Google Maps.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the long taxi route to raise the fare scam in Netherlands?
The driver agrees to use the meter but takes an unnecessarily long route. The meter keeps running, making a short journey cost more.
How can I spot it early?
The route makes unexplained loops or moves away from your destination. The fare keeps rising on what should be a short trip.
How do I avoid long taxi route to raise the fare in Netherlands?
Check the route before entering the taxi. Follow the journey on a map. Ask about unexpected detours while the trip is underway. Use public transport for trips you cannot judge confidently.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the driver to explain the route. Save the route, receipt and taxi number for a complaint.
Where in Netherlands does this happen?
Amsterdam, with warnings about drivers at Centraal Station and Leidseplein. It has been reported in Amsterdam.
How much can it cost me?
An unnecessary route can run up €15 or more on the meter.
How common is this scam in Netherlands?
Occasional. The Netherlands is generally safe, but taxi scams are common. Visitors should also watch for pickpockets, baggage theft and bicycle theft, especially in large cities and busy tourist areas.
Are there similar scams in Netherlands?
Yes: taxi overcharging, unlicensed taxi offers, refusing short taxi rides.
Who can I report it to?
Police (Politie): report theft or suspected fraud and provide evidence. Ask for a report reference. Call 112 only when there is an emergency. Taxi company: complain using the taxi number, journey details, receipt and amount charged. Record the number if a driver refuses a short ride. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to freeze missing cards and report unauthorised charges. Ask whether a disputed payment can be challenged. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen. Most embassies are in The Hague. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep the police reference, receipts and a list of missing items. Bicycle rental company: tell the company promptly if its bicycle is stolen. Follow its reporting instructions and provide police report details.
What number do I call in an emergency in Netherlands?
Police, ambulance and fire emergencies: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck