Question 1

What is the "Friendly Greek Bar Invitation" scam in Athens?

Accepted Answer

Near the Acropolis and Syntagma Square, a well-dressed local strikes up a friendly conversation and eventually invites the tourist to a bar "where locals go." The bar serves overpriced drinks — sometimes with uninvited female company added to the tab — and applies enormous bills running into hundreds of euros. The new friend disappears before the bill arrives, and staff may become aggressive or physically intimidating if the tourist refuses to pay. Enjoy conversations with locals but be cautious about following new acquaintances to venues you do not know. Look up the bar on Google Maps first. Never let a new friend order on your behalf.

Question 2

What is the "Tourist Restaurant Overcharge in Plaka" scam in Athens?

Accepted Answer

Restaurants in the Plaka district target tourists with inflated menu prices, unrequested starters, and cover charges. Some quote prices in euros verbally but convert to a higher amount when the bill arrives. Review the full written menu with prices before sitting down. Avoid restaurants where staff aggressively tout outside.

Restaurant Scams in Athens

Friendly Greek Bar Invitation

Tourist Restaurant Overcharge in Plaka

Experienced a scam here?