Question 1

What is the "Predatory Kantor Currency Exchange" scam in Gdansk?

Accepted Answer

Several currency exchange booths (kantors) in Gdansk's tourist center deliberately display only a single, favorable-looking "sell" rate while hiding the far worse "buy" rate in tiny print. One well-documented exchange on Ulica Dluga charges rates 25–30% below the fair market rate for tourists selling foreign currency. Booths labeled "change" in English rather than "kantor" in Polish and those with flashy yellow-orange signage are the most commonly reported offenders. Tourists typically realize the loss only after the transaction is complete. Only use a kantor that displays TWO rates (buying and selling) with a spread of no more than 0.10 PLN on major currencies. Check the current rate on Google before approaching any exchange. Avoid all exchanges in the Old Town and at the airport; shopping centers and bank branches offer fair rates. Never exchange at a booth labeled "change" rather than "kantor".

Question 2

What is the "Short-Changing in Busy Market Areas" scam in Gdansk?

Accepted Answer

In the busy tourist markets and souvenir areas of Gdansk, cashiers and market vendors sometimes give incorrect change to tourists unfamiliar with Polish zloty (PLN) denominations. The confusion between similar-looking 1 PLN and 2 PLN coins, and between 10 PLN and 20 PLN notes, is frequently exploited. The error is almost always in the seller's favor. Familiarize yourself with PLN coin and note denominations before shopping. Count your change carefully before moving away from the counter. Use card payment where accepted to avoid change disputes.

Money & ATM Scams in Gdansk

Predatory Kantor Currency Exchange

Short-Changing in Busy Market Areas

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