Skip to content
Few scams

Central Europe

Tourist scams in Slovenia

Slovenia is generally very safe for visitors, and tourist scams are not a major concern. The main price traps are high charges for taxis picked up on the street in Ljubljana and overpriced flea-market goods. Petty theft can happen anywhere, so keep valuables secure.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonHigh street-pickup taxi chargesTaxis waiting on the street usually add a high street-pickup charge. A short ride can cost €25 or more. Taxi fares vary between companies.Ljubljana 3Read
  2. 2 TheftOccasionalOpportunistic theft of belongingsUnattended belongings may be stolen. Leaving valuables visible in a parked car creates an easy opportunity, especially while you are away doing an activity.Countrywide; thefts have also been reported in Tivoli Park in Ljubljana late at night. 1Read
  3. 3 ShoppingOccasionalOverpriced flea-market goodsStalls sell knick-knacks at high prices. Some goods are broken or of little value. This is a risk of paying too much rather than a clearly described fraud.Ljubljana 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Street taxi pickup points, LjubljanaTaxis waiting on the street usually have high pickup charges. A short ride can cost €25 or more.
  • Sunday flea market, Gallusovo nabrezje, LjubljanaOverpriced knick-knacks are sold here, including postcards priced at €10.
  • Tivoli Park, LjubljanaThefts and sexual assaults have been reported late at night. The park is generally safe during the day.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • In Ljubljana, order a taxi by phone or app to avoid high street-pickup charges.
  • Check the pickup charge and fare before the ride.
  • Keep your booking record and ask for a receipt.
  • Uber rides in Ljubljana use registered taxis and are metered. The final price can differ from the app estimate.

Money

  • Slovenia uses the euro.
  • Check prices before buying, especially at the flea market on Gallusovo nabrezje.
  • Inspect goods before paying, including their condition.

Cards and ATMs

  • Read the ATM fee screen before confirming a withdrawal.
  • Cancel if you do not accept the displayed fee.
  • Cover your PIN and keep your card in sight when paying.
  • Plan cash withdrawals ahead in smaller towns and villages, where ATMs are less common.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and within reach.
  • Do not leave a watch, phone or other valuables visible in a parked car.
  • Secure your belongings before kayaking or taking part in other activities.
  • Stay alert in Tivoli Park late at night.

Nights out

  • Stay aware of people around you in crowded bars and clubs.
  • Move away from anyone who becomes aggressive or touches you without consent.
  • Ask staff for help if you feel unsafe.
  • Arrange your journey home before leaving.

What travellers say about Slovenia

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

Questions

Is Slovenia a high-risk country for tourist scams?

No. Slovenia is generally very safe. The main concerns covered here are high street-pickup taxi charges in Ljubljana, overpriced flea-market goods and occasional theft.

How can I avoid an expensive taxi ride in Ljubljana?

Order by phone or app and check the charges before getting in. Taxis waiting on the street usually add a high pickup charge. A short ride can cost €25 or more.

Is the Uber estimate a fixed price?

No. In Ljubljana, Uber hails registered taxis. Rides are metered, taxi fares vary, and the final price can differ from the estimate.

What should I check at Ljubljana's flea market?

Check both the price and the condition before paying at the market on Gallusovo nabrezje. Goods can be overpriced or broken. Postcards are listed at €10.

Can I leave valuables in the car while kayaking?

Do not leave valuables visible on a seat. Take them with you or arrange secure storage before the activity.

Is Tivoli Park safe?

It is generally safe and popular during the day. Thefts and sexual assaults have been reported late at night. Stay alert and avoid large groups hanging around then.

Are ATM fees a sign of a scam?

A withdrawal fee alone does not mean fraud. Bank fees vary. Read the displayed charge and cancel if you do not accept it.

What should I watch for in bars and clubs?

Some people become aggressive in crowded venues, and grabbing or groping can happen. Move away, seek help from staff and contact police if needed.

Who should I call after a theft?

Dial 113 for police. Dial 112 in an emergency. Freeze missing payment cards and keep evidence for your bank and insurer.

What should I do if my passport is stolen?

Report the theft to police and ask for a report reference. Contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details for help replacing your travel document.

Reviewed by