Learn how locals scam tourists in Stockholm and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Stockholm crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Stockholm, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, you'll find Stockholm quite secure during the day. Still, take a moment to review our guide on common tourist traps. Evenings require increased attention, though main tourist areas remain generally secure.
Robberies and Theft:low
Armed Robberies:low
Assaults:low
Corruption:
Drug Issues:moderate
Beggars:low
Vandalism:moderate
Theft from Cars:moderate
Car Theft:low
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Ticket Inspector Scam (High Risk) - In the metro and public transport, scammers impersonate ticket inspectors demanding to see your ticket and then claim it is invalid and demand a fine, usually claiming it's a hefty fee (up to 1200 SEK). Always validate your ticket at the station or purchase one from official kiosks and keep it until you exit the system.
Unnecessary Currency Exchange (Medium Risk) - Some currency exchange booths, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Gamla Stan, may charge irresponsible fees and offer poor rates, often without clarity on the conversion process. Use ATMs or bank-affiliated exchange services to get reasonable rates without hidden fees.
Kiss and Fly Showers (Medium Risk) - At places like Arlanda Airport, fake porters will offer to help with your luggage to your taxi or terminal, then demand excessive tips (up to 500 SEK) for their 'service.' If approached, kindly refuse help unless it's from officially marked staff.
Restaurant Bill Tricks (Medium Risk) - In touristy restaurants, you might encounter additional charges for bread or water, sometimes not made clear at ordering. Always confirm if there's a cover charge or extra for items before agreeing to the meal.
Street Performer Gimmicks (Low Risk) - Artists on streets like Drottninggatan may trick you into paying for a performance by suddenly involving you in their act and demanding money afterward. Watch for clear signs of trick performances, and enjoy from a distance without engaging.
Shopping Fake Discounts (Low Risk) - In stores near major attractions, inflated prices are often marked with misleading 'discounts' that offer little actual saving. Check prices in local stores first or research online to ensure good deals before purchasing.
« Last night I flew into Stockholm. The first thing I saw when I came out of the subway was a social campaign about “going to school by bike,” and today I’m witnessing similar scenes on the streets of the city. There are so many women and children cycling here — it’s a mark of safety. Just to note, the percentage of women among cyclists in major cities is around 35%, but in Sweden, there is virtually zero road mortality. »
« Security at the royal palace. In Sweden, there’s a significant focus on gender equality, with women taking leading roles in various sectors. Women serve in the military, and the parliament is comprised of about 50% women. Any form of discrimination against women has been addressed—like the complete absence of urinals in men's restrooms because it's perceived as infringing on women's rights. When a child is born, the man is required to take parental leave while the woman goes back to work. So, you'll often see many men with strollers in central Stockholm, chatting about recipes.
The feminist movement found its roots in an incident from the 1970s when a parliament member was caught in a compromising situation while intoxicated and it ended up in the newspapers. She was influential and took it upon herself to initiate change, pushing through laws that prioritized women's rights. It’s quite a different world, and I personally wouldn’t want to live in such a reversed society. »
« This place gave rise to the term "Stockholm syndrome." (I have a picture from Wikipedia, we passed by yesterday and it was raining, so I didn't snap one). When a robber took hostages in a bank, a police psychologist identified his profile as non-lethal. After that, the police didn’t rush to free the hostages or meet the demands. They bought time. After six days with the captor, the hostages were completely on his side. »
The feminist movement found its roots in an incident from the 1970s when a parliament member was caught in a compromising situation while intoxicated and it ended up in the newspapers. She was influential and took it upon herself to initiate change, pushing through laws that prioritized women's rights. It’s quite a different world, and I personally wouldn’t want to live in such a reversed society. »