Venice is one of the most enchanting cities in the world, and for the vast majority of visitors it feels very safe. Violent crime is extremely rare, but like any popular destination, there’s one nuisance travellers should be aware of: pickpockets.
Bus this shouldn’t be stressful, awareness is all it takes to stay protected while exploring Venice and being prepared helps you relax and actually enjoy your trip.
Not constantly checking your bag or second-guessing every crowded square.
Avoiding Pickpockets in Venice
In this guide, I would like to show you some of the most common mistakes tourists make and how to spot the typical red flags so you can keep your belongings secure.
Venice is no different from cities like Paris, Rome, or Barcelona in this sense: crowds draw opportunists. Knowing where and how pickpockets operate means that there is a better chance that you’ll spot them before they spot you.
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However, it can be tricky to spot individuals who are masters at blending in with the crowds and know the streets like the back of their hand. Get one step ahead below.
Where Pickpockets are most common in Venice
- Crowded areas: Venice’s most iconic spots are also its busiest — the perfect cover for pickpockets. Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and the narrow lanes leading to them are classic hotspots. Vaporetto stops along the Grand Canal (Rialto, San Tomà, San Marcuola, Ferrovia) are also prime places for a quick snatch. Other crowded areas to keep your attention high (and your bag/purse safe) are Piazzale Roma and Santa Lucia train station are Venice’s busiest entry points, with thousands passing through daily.
- Public transport: The vaporetto is efficient but gets packed, especially during peak hours and tourist season. Lines 1 and 2 are the busiest, so if you board one of the vaporettos that cover these routes, and it’s particularly crowded, keep your belongings close. Boarding and disembarking moments are particularly risky, since attention is often elsewhere.
- Tourist hot spots: Busy attractions and events are where pickpockets thrive. From local festivals like Redentore to global events like Carnival and the Biennale, big gatherings give them perfect cover. Even outside the historic centre, transport hubs like Mestre train and bus stations can be hotspots, since travellers are often distracted with luggage and tickets.
This awareness puts you one step ahead and makes a huge difference in keeping your belongings safe. That way, you can relax while keeping your belongings safe.
Are you concerned or simply want to know more about staying safe in Venice?
I invite you to read my dedicated Venice travel safety guide for more useful tips.
Places where pickpockets have been seen and/or caught in the past:
- Near Accademia Bridge and Gallerie dell’Accademia;
- Campo Santi Filippo e Giacomo;
- Rialto Bridge;
- Campo Sant’Anzolo;
- St. Mark’s Square;
- Riva degli Schiavoni (Ponte della Paglia);
- Santa Maria del Giglio;
- Campo San Luca;
- Piazzale Roma;
- Near La Fenice Theatre;
- Campo Manin;
- Salizada S. Lio;
- Mercerie (busy shopping street).
*List non-exhaustive
Keep reading, because next I am going to show you some of the ways pickpockets in Venice operate and after give you some tips on how to protect yourself.
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How Pickpockets in Venice Operate
Like in most European cities, pickpockets in Venice rely on subtle tricks rather than force, although they have recently started using pepper spray as an escape tecnique. The key to avoiding them is recognising their strategies.
1. Distraction techniques
Pickpockets often create a moment of confusion. They may bump into you, spill something, or ask for directions while an accomplice takes advantage of the distraction. Sometimes even a staged “accident” like dropping coins is used to divert your attention. In most cases, you won’t realise this until after the fact.
2. Working in groups
It’s rare that pickpockets work alone. Usually, one person distracts while another does the stealing. A third might act as a lookout. By the time you realise what’s happened, the group has already scattered. You’ll be the last to find out!
3. Targeting moments of inattention
The easiest moment to strike is when your focus is elsewhere: taking photos, watching a street performer, talking with your travel companions, buying tickets, or trying to board a busy vaporetto (water bus) so bear this in mind. Pickpockets know these moments well they will wait for the perfect opportunity to strike.
4. Blending in as fellow tourists
Pickpockets typically dress and act like travellers themselves, carrying maps, cameras, or even pretending to be confused visitors. This lowers suspicion and lets them get close without being noticed. It’s why it’s important to pay attention to behaviour (like someone crowding too close) rather than appearance.
How to Protect Yourself
The good news: avoiding pickpockets is simple. With a few smart habits, you’ll be much less likely to be targeted and be more prepared than most tourists if you are.
1. Wear an Anti-theft bag that has secure zips
A crossbody bag or money belt designed for travel safety makes a big difference. These are some features you want your bag to have to be extra safe: lockable zippers, slash-resistant straps, and compartments that sit close to your body.
If you need to store more items, one option I use is the Pacsafe anti-theft Petite backpack, which is discreet but effective. I also recommend leaving valuables you won’t need during the day in the hotel room’s locker for extra peace of mind.
2. Don’t keep wallets/phones in back pockets
It may sound obvious, but many travellers still do it. Back pockets are the first place a thief will try, so avoid giving them the chance.
Keep valuables in a zipped front pocket or, better yet, inside your anti-theft bag. If you care about photos and videos saved on your phone, consider backing them up before your trip so you won’t lose them in case your phone gets stolen.
3. Be alert in crowds without being paranoid
Awareness is your best defence. When moving through crowded areas, keep a hand on your bag and be mindful of anyone getting unusually close. That said, don’t let vigilance spoil your trip, once you’ve taken precautions, you can relax and enjoy yourself. See my 3 days in Venice itinerary to get some tips on where to go.
What to do if you’re Targeted
Even with preparation, thefts can happen. I can’t guarantee you won’t be targeted but knowing what to do next will save you stress and help you recover quickly.
1. Stay calm and go to the nearest police station
Venice has both Polizia di Stato and Carabinieri stations, and officers are used to helping tourists with theft reports.
If you can’t reach a station right away, you can also call the local emergency numbers: 113 (Polizia) or the general European emergency line 112.
If you’re unsure, ask a local, a business owner closeby, or your accommodation for directions. They are used to helping tourists with theft reports. In these cases, learning a few basic Italian phrases from this book can help you to communicate.
2. Report the theft
A police report is essential for insurance claims. Even if you don’t expect to recover your items, filing the report ensures you have proper documentation for your travel insurer. If you haven’t already, remember to get the right type of travel insurance before your trip, so if anything happens, you can get compensated.
3. Call your bank to block cards immediately
If your wallet or bag is stolen, contact your bank right away. Many banks have international emergency numbers for cancelling cards and issuing replacements.
Write the number down or simply memorise it so you can act fast. If your phone is stolen, use online banking via another device or ask your hotel reception for help.
I recommend a phone case like this one for ensuring your phone is safe at all times.
Venice Pickpockets: Final Reassurance
Pickpockets are a nuisance, not a danger. They rely on stealth, not confrontation, and with a bit of awareness you’ll likely never encounter them at all.
Most visitors leave Venice with nothing stolen, only wonderful memories of canals, palaces, and spritz by the lagoon.
So take sensible precautions, stay aware in crowded places, and then forget about pickpockets altogether. Venice is waiting for you to enjoy it!
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