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Few scams

Northern Europe

Tourist scams in Denmark

Denmark is very safe, and tourist scams are not described as widespread. The main risks are pickpocketing, taxi drivers pushing for ATM cash, poor exchange deals and high prices in tourist areas.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPickpocketing and petty theftSomeone steals your wallet, phone or other belongings. Theft against visitors is usually non-violent. Pickpocketing is the main crime risk highlighted for travellers.Busy tourist attractions and train stations, especially in Copenhagen. 3Read
  2. 2 TaxisOccasionalTaxi driver asks you to withdraw cashYou try to pay by card, but the driver asks you to withdraw money from an ATM instead. This is described as mostly a scam to run the trip outside the licensed taxi system. Copenhagen taxis accept major international credit cards.CopenhagenRead
  3. 3 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor exchange rates and high commission on StrøgetSome exchange offices offer a low exchange rate and charge a very high commission. You receive fewer Danish kroner than you expected. This is a poor-value exchange deal rather than necessarily fraud.Copenhagen 2Read
  4. 4 Changing moneyOccasionalBad exchange rates when paying in foreign currencyA business accepts euros or Swedish kronor but uses a poor exchange rate. Paying in a familiar currency can cost more than paying in Danish kroner. Acceptance of foreign cash does not guarantee a fair rate.Copenhagen 2Read
  5. 5 Food and drinkOccasionalHigh-priced drinks in NyhavnNyhavn draws many visitors, and its high drink prices make it a tourist trap. The risk is paying more than expected for the location. High prices alone do not mean the bill is fraudulent.Copenhagen 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Strøget, CopenhagenCurrency exchange offices here are described as offering low rates and very high commission.
  • Nyhavn, CopenhagenDrinks can be expensive. Businesses accepting foreign currency may also use poor exchange rates.
  • Tivoli, CopenhagenForeign-currency payments may use poor exchange rates.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Choose a licensed taxi with a roof sign. Officially registered taxis have registration plates starting with 98 or 99.
  • Confirm card payment before setting off.
  • Use a booking app or an upfront fixed fare to see the price before travelling.
  • Do not assume an expensive fare is a scam. Taxis in Denmark are costly, especially on longer trips.

Money

  • Check prices in Danish kroner, shown as kr or DKK.
  • Compare the final amount after commission when exchanging money.
  • Check the rate before paying in euros or Swedish kronor.
  • Keep receipts until you have checked the amount paid.

Cards and ATMs

  • Cover your PIN and keep your card in sight when paying.
  • Ask about any fee for using a foreign-issued card before paying.
  • Keep a spare card separately from your main wallet.
  • Avoid withdrawing cash simply because a taxi driver pressures you to do so.

Your belongings

  • Use closed pockets or a zipped bag for valuables.
  • Keep your bag in front of you around busy attractions.
  • Watch your luggage while waiting for trains or boarding.
  • Keep copies of important documents separate from the originals.

Nights out

  • Read the drinks menu before ordering, especially in Nyhavn.
  • Check the bill against what you ordered.
  • Drink moderately so you can watch your belongings and get home safely.
  • Plan your journey home before going out.

What travellers say about Denmark

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

Questions

Is Denmark safe for a first-time visitor?

Yes. Denmark is very safe. Pickpocketing and petty theft are the main crime concerns for visitors, especially around busy attractions and train stations.

Where should I watch my belongings most closely?

Take extra care at busy tourist attractions and in train stations. Keep valuables zipped away and luggage within sight.

What should I do if a taxi driver asks me to use an ATM?

Do not let the driver pressure you into withdrawing cash. Copenhagen taxis accept major international credit cards. Ask to pay by card and save the journey details if there is a dispute.

How can I recognise a licensed taxi?

Look for a taxi sign on the roof. Officially registered taxis have registration plates starting with 98 or 99. Booking through a taxi app can also show the price before you travel.

Should I exchange money on Strøget?

Compare carefully. Exchange offices there are described as having low rates and very high commission. Ask for the exact number of kroner you will receive after all fees.

Is paying in euros or Swedish kronor a good idea?

Check the rate first. Some tourist businesses accept these currencies but use poor exchange rates. Ask for the price in Danish kroner before deciding.

Is Nyhavn a scam?

Nyhavn is described as a tourist trap because of high drink prices. That does not make every bill fraudulent. Read the menu before ordering and compare nearby options.

Does an extra card fee mean I have been scammed?

Not necessarily. Some businesses charge fees for foreign-issued cards. Ask about fees before paying and check that the final amount matches what you agreed.

What should I do first if my wallet or phone is stolen?

Get somewhere safe, freeze missing cards and secure your phone account if needed. Save details of what happened and report the theft to police on 114.

Which number should I call for help?

Call 114 for non-emergency police matters. Call 112 for immediate danger or a serious emergency. Calls to 112 are free.

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