Scam in North MacedoniaFood and drink
Overpriced airport food in North Macedonia
How it works
Both food outlets are described as overpriced. This is a price concern; no deception or hidden-charge method is described.
Warning signs
- The displayed price is more than you want to pay.
- You have reached the airport without food and have few choices.
How to avoid it
- Check prices before ordering.
- Eat before travelling to the airport.
- Bring suitable snacks where airport rules allow.
If it happens to you
Check the bill against the displayed prices. Query any difference before paying.
- Move to a safe public place. Avoid an argument or chasing someone.
- Check what was taken or charged. Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about suspicious payments.
- Save receipts, booking records, messages and photographs. Write down the time, place and vehicle or seller details.
- Report theft, fraud or threats to police. Ask for a written report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing, your embassy or consulate.
- Secure affected accounts and keep copies of all reports and correspondence.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/mkd2024How happy are you with Skopje International Airport?Airport users complain that food, drinks and bottled water are extremely expensive compared with other Balkan airports, without describing deceptive billing.Read on Reddit
- Travel blogCestee reader comments2025Skopje SKP Airport Services – What to ExpectA reader commenting on Skopje Airport’s facilities describes its Burger King as very overpriced.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the overpriced airport food scam in North Macedonia?
Both food outlets are described as overpriced. This is a price concern; no deception or hidden-charge method is described.
How can I spot it early?
The displayed price is more than you want to pay. You have reached the airport without food and have few choices.
How do I avoid overpriced airport food in North Macedonia?
Check prices before ordering. Eat before travelling to the airport. Bring suitable snacks where airport rules allow.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check the bill against the displayed prices. Query any difference before paying.
Where in North Macedonia does this happen?
The parking-lot café and sandwich shop at the gates of Ohrid airport. It has been reported in Ohrid.
How common is this scam in North Macedonia?
Occasional. North Macedonia is generally safe, but visitors should watch for taxi overcharging, persistent ride touts and pickpockets. Shopping risks include overpriced goods and misleading pearl sales, especially around Lake Ohrid.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, suspected fraud or threats. Give the location, time, description and any evidence. Ask for a report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to freeze a card, report unauthorised payments and ask about a payment dispute. Taxi booking service: if you booked through an app, use its support channel and provide the trip record, agreed fare and amount charged. Seller or business: request a refund or correction. Keep the receipt and a written record of what was promised. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep receipts, police reports and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck