Street Scams in Reykjavik, Iceland
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Reykjavik — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Mykonos, Barcelona, and Krakow.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
2
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in Reykjavik
How it works
Shops near the main tourist strip sell mass-produced "Icelandic" wool sweaters and puffin merchandise that are actually made in China. They are priced the same as genuine hand-knitted items but are far lower quality.
How it works
Although Iceland is very safe, pickpocketing does occur on the busy Laugavegur shopping street and around popular Reykjavik nightlife venues. Thieves target distracted tourists with valuables left in unzipped bags.
See all scams in Reykjavik
10 total warnings across all categories