Wroclaw Scams & How to Avoid Them (9 most common)

Street Girls Scam

When wandering the streets late at night, especially if you’re slightly inebriated, be cautious of two friendly women approaching you. They might claim to be tourists seeking bar recommendations. Be aware; if you don’t resemble Brad Pitt, this might be a setup! 

These women often lure unsuspecting individuals to bars where they work. Once inside, they might request you to buy them drinks. The catch is that these drinks are priced exorbitantly, and menus lack price listings. Departing without settling the outrageous bill might involve an intimidating confrontation with security personnel.

Flower Gift Scheme & Sign-Up Scheme 

As you stroll through Wroclaw’s Old Town, children might offer you roses, claiming it’s a gift. Subsequently, they show pictures of purportedly sick relatives, weave a heart-wrenching tale, and request donations. Be wary; these stories are frequently fabrications and you’ll notice that the image of their sick relative is the top image on Google when you search “sick person” This is one of the most common scams in Wroclaw around the Old Town.

Beware of individuals urging you to sign petitions or lists. While you’re distracted, an accomplice might attempt to pickpocket you. This normally happens at train stations when people are in a rush and not focused. 

Drug Warning 

Though not strictly a scam in Wroclaw, it’s important to be cautious if someone offers you illicit drugs in Wroclaw. The quality is often poor and the substances are potentially harmful. Our suggestion is to stick to local vodkas and some of Wroclaw’s bars and clubs for a genuine Polish experience.

Ordering Drinks

This is the most common scam in Wroclaw to watch out for if you love going out for a drink.

Ensure you specify your preferred alcohol brand when ordering at clubs. Otherwise, bartenders will serve the most expensive option leading to inflated bills. When in Wroclaw, embrace local flavours and try Wyborowa, a high-quality yet affordable Polish vodka.

It’s best to join a pub crawl so you will taken to reputable places.

ATM/Cash Points 

Steer clear of Euronet ATMs with unfavourable exchange rates and exorbitant fees. Here is a great video that explains the same scam in Prague. 

Currency Exchange

Wroclaw boasts several currency exchange outlets offering “0% commission.” Their catch often lies in unfavorable exchange rates, causing you to lose more money. 

Taxi Tips

Always opt for licensed taxis to avoid arbitrary charges. Unlicensed taxis charge you whatever they feel like.  It’s advisable to book taxis through Mega Taxi, Radio Taxi, or Eko Taxi. While Uber and Bolt are often more affordable in Wroclaw, they can’t access the Old Town and certain restricted areas.

Strip Clubs 

We suggest steering clear of strip clubs in Wroclaw. Unlike their counterparts in some European cities, Wroclaw’s establishments often aim to fleece tourists. They often disguise themselves as cabarets or whiskey bars. Issues include overcharging, multiple unauthorized card charges, and spiked drinks. With a plethora of friendly locals at Wroclaw’s bars and clubs, strip clubs are unnecessary.

Picture Scam 

Be cautious if a stranger requests you to take their photo. They might deliberately drop their camera upon return and blame you, demanding compensation. If someone seems suspicious, decline their request graciously.