Skip to content
Few scams

Southern Europe

Tourist scams in Cyprus

Cyprus has low crime rates, but visitors can face taxi overcharging, pushy nightlife promoters and petty theft. Take extra care with drinks from strangers in Ayia Napa, where muggings have been reported.
  1. 1 NightlifeVery commonPushy nightlife promoters and free-drink offersPromoters approach people with offers of free shots, drinks or club deals. Some are very persistent and may grab you to get your attention. Deals can be genuine, but the friendly approach is aimed at getting you to spend money.Ayia Napa 2Read
  2. 2 TaxisCommonTaxi overcharging without a meterA driver leaves the meter off, making the fare harder to check. You may then face a higher charge at the end of the journey.Nicosia, Ayia Napa 3Read
  3. 3 TheftCommonMuggings linked to accepting drinks from strangersThere have been numerous muggings linked to accepting drinks from strangers, especially in Ayia Napa. The exact method is not described.Ayia Napa 1Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalPickpocketing and petty theftPickpockets and other petty thieves can target visitors in tourist areas. No specific distraction or theft method is described.Nicosia 3Read
  5. 5 NightlifeOccasionalUnspecified bar scamsSome bar scams are reported, but their methods are not described. They may be less of a problem in Nicosia than at beach resorts.Nicosia 1Read
  6. 6 NightlifeOccasionalMisleading cabaret brandingMany venues called cabarets are brothels associated with organised crime. Visitors expecting a conventional entertainment show may misunderstand what the venue offers. No specific billing scam is described.Venues described as cabarets across Cyprus 1Read
  7. 7 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor euro conversion in Northern CyprusNorthern Cyprus uses Turkish lira. Euros are generally accepted in tourist centres, but at unfavourable rates. This can make a purchase cost more; it is not necessarily fraud.Tourist centres in Northern Cyprus 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • The Square and surrounding nightlife streets, Ayia NapaPromoters make persistent approaches with free-shot, drink and club offers.
  • Toga Toga, Ayia NapaVisitors are specifically advised to be cautious about promoters directing people to this strip club.
  • Moulin Rouge, Ayia NapaVisitors are specifically advised to be cautious about promoters directing people to this strip club.
  • Ayia Napa nightlife areasAccepting drinks from strangers is linked to reports of muggings.
  • Nicosia tourist areasPickpocketing and petty theft are a risk.
  • Nicosia barsSome bar scams are reported, though no particular venues or methods are identified.
  • Tourist centres in Northern CyprusEuro payments may be accepted at unfavourable conversion rates.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Check that the meter is running when you enter a taxi in Nicosia.
  • In Ayia Napa, use the meter or agree the total fare before leaving.
  • Keep a receipt and vehicle details if you need to dispute a fare.
  • Use an exact map pin for your destination. Street names and house numbers can be confusing in Cyprus.

Money

  • Northern Cyprus uses Turkish lira. Check the conversion before paying in euros.
  • Turkish lira are not generally accepted in the south.
  • Confirm prices before paying and check your change.
  • Ayia Napa convenience stores can be expensive. Compare prices instead of relying on advertised offers.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags zipped and valuables out of easy reach in tourist areas.
  • Do not leave your phone or wallet unattended.
  • Carry only the cash and cards you need for the outing.
  • Keep a separate copy of important travel documents.

Nights out

  • Be cautious about drinks offered by strangers, especially in Ayia Napa.
  • Stay with trusted friends and keep your drink in sight.
  • Check drink prices, admission fees and promotion terms before committing.
  • Decline persistent promoters clearly and keep moving.
  • Check what a cabaret actually offers before entering.

Police and officials

  • If arrested or detained, assert your right to have your home country informed.
  • Do not assume that authorities have already contacted your embassy, consulate or high commission.

What travellers say about Cyprus

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Cyprus safe for a first-time visitor?

Cyprus has low crime rates. The main concerns here are pushy nightlife promoters, taxi overcharging, petty theft and muggings linked to drinks from strangers.

How do I avoid being overcharged by a taxi?

In Nicosia, check that the meter starts as soon as you enter. In Ayia Napa, use the meter or agree the total fare before departure.

What should a taxi from Larnaca airport to Ayia Napa cost?

The stated guide fare is around €45–55 for a 45-minute journey. Confirm the fare arrangement before leaving.

Are free-drink offers in Ayia Napa genuine?

Some promoter deals are genuine, but their aim is to get you to spend. Check the full terms and prices. Walk away if someone becomes persistent or grabs you.

Should I accept a drink from a stranger?

Be cautious, especially in Ayia Napa. Muggings have been linked to accepting drinks from strangers. Stay with trusted friends and keep your drink in sight.

Where should I watch out for pickpockets?

Tourist areas in Nicosia are identified as a risk. Keep bags closed and valuables out of easy reach. No specific street or attraction is identified.

What does cabaret mean in Cyprus?

Many venues using this name are brothels associated with organised crime. Check what the venue offers before entering.

Can I pay in euros in Northern Cyprus?

Euros are generally accepted in tourist centres, but conversion rates can be unfavourable. Ask for the Turkish lira price and compare the euro total before paying.

Are high shop and club prices always a scam?

No. Ayia Napa convenience stores can be expensive, and club admission fees can be high. A clearly stated high price is different from a misleading offer or an unexplained charge.

Who should I contact after a scam or theft?

Report crime to police and block stolen cards through your bank. Contact your insurer for a claim and your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing or you need consular help.

Reviewed by