Minsk Safety Guide

Taxi Meter Trick (Medium Risk) - Unofficial taxi drivers at Minsk National Airport or city center often claim their meter is broken and insist on a high flat rate (up to 50 BYN) for short rides. Use only official taxi stands and always insist on using the meter or consider using ride-hailing apps like Yandex.Taxi or Uber.

Money Exchange Scams (High Risk) - Some exchange booths, particularly near the train station or tourist attractions, may offer extremely unfavorable rates or charge hidden fees, resulting in you receiving significantly less local currency. Always exchange money at official banks or authorized exchange offices and check the rates beforehand.

Street Charity Con (Medium Risk) - You may encounter individuals appearing overly friendly or emotional, often soliciting donations for fictitious charities, especially in crowded areas like Oktyabrskaya Square. Politely decline and avoid engaging, as they may use mobile payment requests or pressure tactics to manipulate tourists.

Fake Guide Scam (Medium Risk) - In areas like the Upper Town, you might be approached by self-proclaimed guides offering to give tours for a fee while lacking any official credentials. Always book tours through reputable agencies and verify their credentials before agreeing to any services.

Restaurant Bill Trick (Medium Risk) - Some cafes may add unexpected charges to your final bill, especially for service fees or items you didn’t request, often in tourist-heavy areas like Independence Avenue. Check your bill carefully and don’t hesitate to question any charges that seem unexplained.

Market Overcharging (Low Risk) - At outdoor markets such as Komarovsky Market, vendors may initially quote inflated prices to tourists for local products. Always negotiate prices and pay close attention to local price ranges to ensure you're getting a fair deal.

Public Transport Scams (Low Risk) - In the metro system, there may be individuals attempting to sell unauthorized tickets or offering help in a way that ultimately leads to confusion and an overcharge. Always purchase tickets from official kiosks or ticket machines and be wary of unsolicited assistance while navigating the metro.