Tips on Avoiding Zagreb Tourist Traps

Tips on Avoiding Zagreb Tourist Traps

Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia. Many people flock to the beautiful beaches on the Mediterranean coast of the nation for their holiday excursions, but there are plenty of great attractions in Zagreb. While it’s a generally safe and relaxing city, there are a few tricks and scams that you should be aware of before you make a visit.

Airport Taxi Trap

Cab drivers will sometimes try to overcharge new travelers who don’t know any better. Some have even said that they were charged double what a local was charged when they flew in. This is a fairly easy thing to avoid. Before you agree to take a ride with a cab driver, work out a set rate before. It’s a good idea to check with your hotel or someone that works at the airport to see what the appropriate charge should be. Refuse to take the ride unless they charge you what they would charge anyone else. Another good idea is to book a car to pick you up at the airport before you land. You might be surprised at how affordable it is, and there won’t be any surprises when the bill comes.

Beggars

There are a lot of beggars near the city center that will ask you for money. Avoid doing this unless you think they are in real danger. Some women will even carry around dolls and pretend that they have hungry children with them in order to gain your favor. The most aggressive beggars in Zagreb are surprisingly the children. They can become aggressive if you don’t want to give them money, refusing to leave you alone. Many of these beggars treat it as a full-time job and are pretty well off, making much more than someone in the city who is working full time. They are especially prevalent near Lotrscak Tower because it is such a popular attraction with tourists.

Be Aware When Exchanging Money

One place all travelers to Zagreb should avoid is the money exchange shops as they charge a much higher commission fee to exchange money than other countries in Europe. There are cheaper ways to exchange for the Croatian Kuna while in the country, most notably an international ATM. While International ATMs will charge you a fee, it is lower than the fee that money exchange shops charge.

When it comes to currency, you should know that other European countries will not exchange Kuna for their own money. Spend it all before you leave or it will be a waste. Luckily, the American dollar goes a long way in Croatia. Really, there is no need to even obtain local currency since you can use your credit card everywhere you go.

Avoid the Bulldog Pub at Bogovicena 6

Plenty of great pubs exist in Zagreb, but this is one to avoid. It knows that a large number of tourists are visiting it and overcharges them as a result. There are better pubs with an equal selection in the city.

Editor’s Note:  The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about tourist traps to avoid in Zagreb.