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Few scams

Southeast Europe

Tourist scams in Serbia

Serbia is generally safe for visitors. Taxi scams are common in Belgrade, and unregulated taxis can overcharge in Novi Sad too. Watch for pickpockets in crowds and on public transport, and be cautious around transport touts.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonUnregulated taxis and taxi toutsAn unregulated driver offers a ride and charges far above the normal fare. Taxi touts approach arriving bus passengers. Waiting taxis at Belgrade airport Arrivals are a particular risk. Unaffiliated taxis in Novi Sad can also charge much more, especially at the railway station.Belgrade, Novi Sad 2Read
  2. 2 TaxisCommonTaxi fare inflation and extra chargesA driver tries to charge an excessive fare, avoids using the meter or asks for extras that should already be included. Luggage is included in Belgrade's metered fare. An airport fixed-price slip should have no add-ons. Tips are optional.Belgrade 3Read
  3. 3 TheftCommonPickpocketing in crowdsA thief takes a wallet, phone or other valuables while people are crowded together. Bags worn behind you and wallets in easily reached pockets are harder to watch.Crowded tourist places and public transport across Serbia, including Belgrade. 3Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalTheft of unattended belongingsBelongings can be taken when their owner stops watching them. Coach rest breaks are a time to keep a close watch on bags. Unattended wallets, cameras and phones also create an opportunity for theft.Coach rest stops and places where valuables are left unattended. 1Read
  5. 5 Buses and trainsOccasionalSupposed luggage porters at bus arrivalsSomeone presents themselves as a luggage porter when passengers arrive. Their role and the terms of their help may be unclear. Treat unsolicited offers to handle your bags with caution.BelgradeRead
  6. 6 Buses and trainsOccasionalExtra charge for a Soko upper-deck seatA ticket seller may charge extra for sitting on the upper deck of a Soko train. Check whether you want this option before paying. An extra charge alone does not establish fraud.Belgrade, Novi Sad 1Read
  7. 7 Changing moneyOccasionalHigher prices when paying in eurosSome businesses accept euros, but the price can be higher than paying in dinars. This can cost you extra even without deliberate deception.Businesses that accept euros directly. 2Read
  8. 8 NightlifeOccasionalProvocation into a bar or club fightA hostile person tries to draw you or your group into an argument. This can be a setup by local thugs looking for a fight. The chance of encountering it is described as very low.BelgradeRead

Where to stay alert

  • Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport ArrivalsWaiting taxis are a particular overcharging risk. Arrange a ride or obtain a fixed-price slip before choosing a taxi.
  • Belgrade Bus Station (BAS), Antifašističke borbe 2Be cautious around taxi touts and supposed luggage porters when arriving by bus.
  • Novi Sad railway stationUnaffiliated taxis are specifically linked to fares of up to four times the normal amount.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Book Belgrade taxis through an app where possible. Complete SMS verification before you need a ride.
  • Check Belgrade taxis for the numbered city roof sign and a licence plate ending in TX.
  • Use the meter unless travelling with an airport fixed-price slip. In Niš, also check that the driver starts the meter.
  • Keep your booking details and request a receipt if the fare seems wrong.

Money

  • Carry small dinar notes. Taxis, street vendors and small restaurants may struggle to change large notes, especially RSD5,000.
  • Use official exchange offices, locally called menjačnica.
  • Ask for prices in dinars and check any conversion before paying in euros.
  • Count your money and change before leaving the counter.

Cards and ATMs

  • Shield your PIN and keep your card in sight during payments.
  • Enable transaction alerts so you can spot unexpected charges.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere separate from your cards.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags in front of you on crowded public transport.
  • Keep wallets in front pockets and secure phones and travel documents.
  • Take valuables with you at coach rest stops.
  • Keep control of your luggage when arriving at a station.

Nights out

  • Walk away from people trying to provoke an argument.
  • Ask venue staff or security for help if someone will not leave you alone.
  • Pace your drinking. Rakija can be stronger than you expect.
  • Plan your journey home before drinking and keep your companions informed.

What travellers say about Serbia

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

Questions

Is Serbia safe for a first visit?

Serbia is generally safe. The main concerns here are taxi overcharging and theft in crowds. Keep valuables secure and arrange transport carefully.

What is the safest way to get a taxi from Belgrade airport?

Book through Yandex Go, CAR:GO or Pink Taxi, or order by phone. These pickups meet you at Departures. Another option is a fixed-price slip from the machine next to baggage claim, with pickup at Arrivals.

How can I recognise a regulated Belgrade taxi?

Look for a roof sign with the city coat of arms and a number. The licence plate must end in TX. Use the meter unless you have an airport fixed-price slip.

Are taxi luggage charges and tips compulsory?

In Belgrade, luggage is included in the metered fare and tips are optional. An airport fixed-price slip should have no add-ons.

Where should I be most careful about pickpockets?

Watch your belongings in crowded tourist places and on public transport. Keep your bag in front of you and your wallet in a front pocket.

Should I accept help with bags at a bus station?

Be cautious with unsolicited help, especially at Belgrade bus arrivals. Keep control of your luggage and ask transport staff if you need assistance.

Is it better to pay in euros or dinars?

Use dinars for ordinary purchases. Businesses that accept euros may charge a higher effective price. Confirm the total and your change before agreeing to pay in euros.

What extra train or bus charges should I check?

A Soko ticket seller may add RSD120 for an upper-deck seat, so check before paying. Belgrade Bus Station also has an RSD300 platform-entry charge that may be separate from the ticket, and a driver may charge RSD100 per bag in the cargo compartment. These bus charges alone are not evidence of a scam.

What should I do if someone tries to start a fight in a bar?

Ignore the provocation and leave. Stay with your companions and ask staff or security for help. Call police on 192 if you are threatened.

Who handles a Belgrade taxi overcharging complaint?

Contact the taxi operator and city inspection on +381 11 3227-000. For an airport journey, also contact airport inspection on +381 11 2097-373 or taxi@beg.aero. Keep the receipt, roof-sign number and licence plate.

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