Question 1

What is the "Stradun Friendship Bracelet Upgrade Scam" scam in Dubrovnik?

Accepted Answer

Street vendors on Stradun, Dubrovnik's main limestone boulevard, first offer a "free" beaded bracelet as a goodwill gesture. Once it is on your wrist, the vendor demands payment and becomes aggressive if you refuse. A second vendor nearby may then approach to mediate, distracting you while an accomplice targets your bag. Refuse any item placed on your person by a stranger. Keep hands in pockets or hold your bag in front of you. If a bracelet is forced onto your wrist, remove it immediately and walk to the nearest open shop.

Question 2

What is the "Pile Gate Friendship Bracelet Scam" scam in Dubrovnik?

Accepted Answer

Touts positioned at the Pile Gate entrance to the Old Town approach tourists by placing a rope or woven bracelet on their wrist without asking, then insisting it is a gift before immediately demanding payment of 5 to 15 euros to remove it. Refusal to pay triggers aggressive pressure or deliberate obstruction of the narrow gateway. The same operators work along Stradun (Placa), the main pedestrian street inside the walls, particularly near the Onofrio Fountain. Keep both hands occupied or in your pockets when passing through Pile Gate. Firmly say no thank you before anyone makes physical contact with your wrist, and continue walking without slowing down. If a bracelet is placed on you, you have no legal obligation to pay — walk away.

Street Scams in Dubrovnik

Stradun Friendship Bracelet Upgrade Scam

Pile Gate Friendship Bracelet Scam

Experienced a scam here?