Vienna
Austria's elegant capital, known for imperial palaces, classical music, and charming cafes.
Police
133
Ambulance
144
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
Pickpocketing and Bag Snatching
The most common crime in Vienna. Thieves work in teams using distraction techniques like bumping into you, asking for directions, or dropping something to divert attention while stealing wallets, phones, or bags.
Wear bags cross-body and keep them zipped. Don't keep valuables in back pockets. Be wary of sudden physical contact in crowded areas.
Fake Police Scam
Individuals in plain clothes or poorly-fitting uniforms approach tourists, flash fake IDs, and claim to be police investigating counterfeit money or drugs. They ask to see your wallet to steal cash.
Never hand over your wallet or passport to plainclothes officers. Legitimate Austrian police wear full uniforms. Offer to walk to the nearest police station.
Mozart Concert Ticket Touts
People dressed in historical Mozart costumes aggressively sell concert tickets on the street. Tickets are often for low-quality, overpriced performances or completely fake.
Purchase tickets only from official box offices, reputable online vendors, or your hotel concierge. Avoid all street vendors.
Fake Petition/Deaf-Mute Scam
Scammers approach tourists with clipboards asking for signatures and donations for fake charities. While you sign, a partner pickpockets you or steals items from tables.
Ignore them completely and walk away. Don't stop, sign anything, or let them near your belongings.
Taxi Overcharging
Drivers refuse to use the meter, claim it's broken, take long routes, or demand inflated prices, especially from the airport. They may claim card machines are broken.
Use Uber/Bolt or pre-booked transfers. If using street taxis, confirm meter use and route before entering. Insist on card payment.
ATM Skimming
Skimming devices are placed over card slots to steal data, and hidden cameras record PINs. Scammers may also offer help at broken ATMs to distract and steal.
Use ATMs inside bank lobbies during business hours. Cover the keypad when entering PIN. If an ATM looks tampered with, leave immediately.
Restaurant Overcharging
Restaurants near attractions may have two menus (locals vs tourists), add unrequested items, or include mandatory unadvertised cover charges.
Check reviews before sitting down. Ask about cover charges beforehand. Always review your bill carefully.
Safe Attractions
Schönbrunn Palace
Former imperial summer residence with beautiful gardens
Belvedere Palace
Baroque palace complex housing Austrian art
St. Stephen's Cathedral
Gothic cathedral and Vienna's most important religious building