Taxi overcharging in North Macedonia

City journeys, station taxi ranks and summer trips in Ohrid.

How it works

Drivers may ask tourists for higher fares, especially when they seem unsure of the price. In Ohrid, summer fares can reach three times the usual starting rate. Drivers outside Ohrid bus station have asked up to 400 denar for a trip to the centre. Some drivers may also try to persuade you to go somewhere you did not plan to visit.

Warning signs

The driver demands a high fare for a short city trip.
There is no clear agreement about the price or use of the meter.
The driver pushes you to visit a different destination.

How to avoid it

Agree on a fare before getting in, or confirm that the driver will use the meter.
In Skopje, use Wizi to book a taxi and check payment options.
If taxis outside Ohrid bus station demand too much, walk to a nearby road towards the centre and try another taxi.
Keep your planned destination and walk away from an overpriced offer.

If it happens to you

Ask the driver to explain the fare and refer to your agreement or the meter. If the situation becomes threatening, prioritise getting somewhere safe. Keep the vehicle details and any receipt for a report.

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 it can costOhrid bus station to the centre: 100–150 denar is described as fair, while demands up to 400 denar were reported in 2025. Skopje railway station to the centre: 50–100 denar. Other Skopje city journeys are generally described as costing no more than 300 denar.

Where it happensCity journeys, station taxi ranks and summer trips in Ohrid.Skopje, Ohrid

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in North MacedoniaPickpocketing during street approaches: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the taxi overcharging scam in North Macedonia?

How can I spot it early?

The driver demands a high fare for a short city trip. There is no clear agreement about the price or use of the meter. The driver pushes you to visit a different destination.

How do I avoid taxi overcharging in North Macedonia?

Agree on a fare before getting in, or confirm that the driver will use the meter. In Skopje, use Wizi to book a taxi and check payment options. If taxis outside Ohrid bus station demand too much, walk to a nearby road towards the centre and try another taxi. Keep your planned destination and walk away from an overpriced offer.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Where in North Macedonia does this happen?

City journeys, station taxi ranks and summer trips in Ohrid. It has been reported in Skopje, Ohrid.

How much can it cost me?

Ohrid bus station to the centre: 100–150 denar is described as fair, while demands up to 400 denar were reported in 2025. Skopje railway station to the centre: 50–100 denar. Other Skopje city journeys are generally described as costing no more than 300 denar.

How common is this scam in North Macedonia?

Common. 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