How to avoid taxi scams

Airports and train stations.

Major transit points are big meeting locations for dishonest taxi drivers. Plan ahead: before reaching your destination, ask your hotelier to recommend an airport shuttle bus service or get informed about public transportation in the city. This way, you can avoid being conned for the simple fact that you are not familiar with routes and prices of the city.

Choose a marked cab.

There should be a company logo and a phone number on the car. Also, in most cities, taxi stands are marked on the map, there you will find most possibly a 'honest' ride. If you are at your hotel or at a restaurant and need a ride to another place, ask the staff to call a taxi for you from a trusted company.

Establish an estimated price upfront.

Ask hotel staff or any other local you have contact with, for an estimated taxi fare from point A to point B. You can also ask the driver before getting in the car, if you feel like he asks too much, just find another cab.

Pay with small bills.

Cabbies can be very handy at replacing your €50 note with a €20. State the denomination loudly when you hand the bill or try using smaller bills. Always count your change.