Scam in MonacoTaxis
Taxi overcharging in Monaco
How it works
A driver starts the journey without agreeing a fare or switching on the meter. They then demand an inflated amount from the tourist.
Warning signs
- The driver will not agree a fare before leaving.
- The meter is off when the journey starts.
- The driver gives a vague answer when you ask about the price.
How to avoid it
- Agree the full fare before the taxi moves, or check that the meter is running.
- If the driver refuses both options, choose another taxi.
- Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi if you need help.
If it happens to you
Ask calmly for an itemised receipt and an explanation of the fare. Keep the vehicle details and any evidence of the agreed price. Report suspected fraud to police once you are safe.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid a confrontation or chasing a thief.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- If your phone was stolen, use its remote lock feature and secure important accounts.
- Save receipts, booking details, screenshots and a short account of what happened. Note the time, place and vehicle details if relevant.
- Report suspected fraud or theft to police. Ask for a report reference for your bank or insurer.
- Contact your insurer about a claim. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement advice.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Monaco2024Cab Fare in MonacoA traveller reported an unexpected €70 Apple Pay taxi charge from Monaco to Ceto, with commenters alleging overcharging while clarifying that the restaurant lies outside Monaco.Read on Reddit
- TripadvisorTripadvisor traveller reviewsTaxi Monaco - All You SHOULD Know Before Going 2026 (with Reviews)A reviewer alleged that taxi drivers overcharged their family and shouted at them, leaving them to walk.Read on Tripadvisor
Questions
What is the taxi overcharging scam in Monaco?
A driver starts the journey without agreeing a fare or switching on the meter. They then demand an inflated amount from the tourist.
How can I spot it early?
The driver will not agree a fare before leaving. The meter is off when the journey starts. The driver gives a vague answer when you ask about the price.
How do I avoid taxi overcharging in Monaco?
Agree the full fare before the taxi moves, or check that the meter is running. If the driver refuses both options, choose another taxi. Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi if you need help.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask calmly for an itemised receipt and an explanation of the fare. Keep the vehicle details and any evidence of the agreed price. Report suspected fraud to police once you are safe.
Where in Monaco does this happen?
Taxis in Monaco and taxis outside the terminals at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport.
How common is this scam in Monaco?
Common. Monaco has very little street crime and a strong police presence. Taxi overcharging is the main scam concern described here, while pickpocketing can happen in crowds at major sporting events.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft or suspected fraud. Give the location, time, description and any receipts or other evidence. Ask for a report reference. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or an official contact number to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep receipts and any police report reference. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost or stolen passport.
Reviewed by @snuck