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Some scams

Western Europe

Tourist scams in Netherlands

The Netherlands is generally safe, but taxi scams are common. Visitors should also watch for pickpockets, baggage theft and bicycle theft, especially in large cities and busy tourist areas.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonTaxi overchargingA driver quotes or charges more than the allowed fare. Charges above double the legal maximum are not uncommon. A fixed fare can be valid, but it must stay within the legal maximum.Across the country. In Amsterdam, drivers at Centraal Station and Leidseplein may quote very high fares. 3Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonPickpocketingSomeone takes a wallet, phone or other valuables from your pocket or bag without you noticing.Large cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Take extra care on main shopping streets, public transport, at stations and around tourist crowds. 3Read
  3. 3 TheftCommonBicycle theftA thief takes a parked bicycle.Large cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. 3Read
  4. 4 TaxisCommonUnlicensed taxi offersAn unlicensed driver offers a ride. Outside Schiphol, illegal taxi services frequently charge large sums for short trips. Unlicensed drivers in Zuidoost are known as snorders.Amsterdam 2Read
  5. 5 TaxisCommonRefusing short taxi ridesA driver refuses a short journey, sometimes after waiting for the front position at a rank. The refusal may come with pressure to accept a much higher fare or use another taxi.Taxi ranks, especially those at major stations. Amsterdam's Centraal Station and Leidseplein are specifically mentioned. 2Read
  6. 6 TheftOccasionalBaggage theftSomeone takes your bag or luggage, especially when it is unattended or out of sight.Amsterdam, The Hague 3Read
  7. 7 TaxisOccasionalLong taxi route to raise the fareThe driver agrees to use the meter but takes an unnecessarily long route. The meter keeps running, making a short journey cost more.Amsterdam 2Read
  8. 8 TaxisOccasionalFalse claim that you must take the first taxiA driver claims you must take the first taxi in the queue. You are free to choose any taxi.Taxi ranks, including those at major train stations and near entertainment districts. 1Read
  9. 9 ShoppingCommonOld flower bulbs sold to visitorsFlower bulbs sold at the market are usually too old to grow. Visitors may only discover the problem after taking them home.Amsterdam 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Schiphol AirportIllegal taxi services frequently offer rides outside the airport and charge large sums for short trips.
  • Amsterdam Centraal StationTaxi drivers may refuse short trips, quote very high fares or take unnecessarily long routes. Stations also need extra care against pickpockets and baggage theft.
  • Leidseplein, AmsterdamTaxi drivers may refuse short trips, quote very high fares or take unnecessarily long routes.
  • Zuidoost (the Bijlmer), AmsterdamUnlicensed taxi drivers known as snorders mainly operate here.
  • Bloemenmarkt, AmsterdamFlower bulbs sold here are usually too old to grow.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Check for registered blue plates, a visible tariff card and a meter.
  • Confirm the price arrangement before leaving.
  • You can choose any taxi at a rank.
  • Keep the taxi number and receipt if there is a dispute.
  • Use public transport when practical, especially from Schiphol.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and valuables out of easy reach.
  • Watch luggage on trains, trams and at stations.
  • Keep copies of important documents separate from the originals.
  • Lock a bicycle whenever you leave it, following rental instructions.

Money

  • Check the price before paying and keep receipts.
  • Stores commonly round cash totals up or down to the nearest five cents. This is not itself a scam.
  • Check signs near the entrance or till before using large banknotes. Some shops do not accept them.
  • Keep a spare payment method separate from your main wallet.

Police and officials

  • The national police are called Politie.
  • Airport, port and border security is handled by the Marechaussee, also called KMar.
  • Municipal officers may wear blue uniforms marked handhaving. Other enforcement uniforms may say toezicht or parkeercontrole.
  • If unsure about someone's identity, calmly ask for identification and verify it through an official channel.

What travellers say about Netherlands

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

Questions

Is the Netherlands safe for a first visit?

Generally, yes. Violent crime is rare. The main concerns here are taxi scams, pickpockets, baggage theft and bicycle theft, especially in large cities.

How can I recognise a licensed taxi?

Look for registered blue plates, a visible tariff card and a meter. The driver must carry a taxi driver's licence card.

Should I accept a taxi offer outside Schiphol?

Avoid unsolicited offers from unlicensed drivers. Illegal taxi services frequently operate outside the airport and may charge heavily for short trips. The train is a practical alternative.

Must I take the first taxi in the queue?

No. You are free to choose any taxi. A driver should also not refuse a short ride.

Can a taxi driver overcharge me while using the meter?

Yes. A driver can take an unnecessarily long route. Check the route beforehand, follow the trip on a map and ask about unexplained detours.

Where should I be most careful about pickpockets?

Take extra care on busy shopping streets, trams and trains, at stations and around tourist crowds. Keep valuables in a closed bag close to your body.

How do I protect a rented bicycle?

Lock it every time you leave it. Secure it to a fixed object where permitted and follow the rental company's instructions. Keep identifying details in case it is stolen.

Is rounding my cash bill a scam?

No. Stores commonly round the total up or down to the nearest five cents. This can mean you do not receive one- or two-cent coins in change.

Are flower bulbs at Bloemenmarkt a good souvenir?

Avoid buying bulbs there. They are usually too old to grow. Consider a garden centre and check planting seasons and your home country's import restrictions.

What should I do if my passport is stolen?

Report the theft to police and contact your embassy or consulate for replacement help. Most embassies are in The Hague. Keep the police report reference for your insurer.

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