Question 1

What is the "Carpet Shop Friendship Scam" scam in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Tourists are befriended by a local who offers a free guided tour of the Grand Bazaar area, then steers them into a family carpet shop. Intense psychological pressure, inflated prices, and claims of rare collectible value push tourists into purchases worth thousands of dollars. Decline unsolicited offers of free tours from strangers near the bazaar. If you want to buy a carpet, research market prices beforehand and visit shops independently. Never feel obligated to buy because of hospitality shown.

Question 2

What is the "Nightclub Hostess Overcharge" scam in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Men are approached near Taksim Square and invited into a bar or nightclub by a friendly stranger. Once inside, hostesses order rounds of expensive drinks and the bill climbs to hundreds or thousands of dollars. Bouncers block the exit until full payment is made. Never enter a bar or club recommended by a stranger on the street. Research venues independently before going out. If trapped, insist on an itemized bill and call the tourist police at 0212 527 4503.

Question 3

What is the "Grand Bazaar Carpet Scam" scam in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Carpet sellers in the Grand Bazaar invite tourists for tea and present carpets as "investment pieces" that will increase in value. Prices are astronomical and the carpets are often machine-made despite being sold as hand-knotted Turkish originals. A hand-knotted Turkish carpet is a significant purchase — research before buying. Count knots per square inch (20+ is hand-knotted). Never buy a carpet as an investment. Factor in import duties and shipping when considering "bargain" prices.

Other Tourist Scams in Istanbul

Carpet Shop Friendship Scam

Nightclub Hostess Overcharge

Grand Bazaar Carpet Scam

Experienced a scam here?