Destinations › Israel › Jerusalem › Scams
Jerusalem, Israel
10 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Jerusalem, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Drivers refusing the meter for Old City and airport runs, quoting fixed fares well above the metered rate.
Shops reached via a guide's recommendation selling 'blessed' or 'antique' religious items with fabricated provenance at many times their value.
Unlicensed 'guides' in the Old City attaching themselves to visitors near the gates, leading them through public routes and demanding substantial payment afterwards.
Restaurants in the Old City adding unordered mezze dishes to the table and charging for them.
Unofficial sellers offering site entry and 'priority access' that duplicates free or standard admission at a markup.
Fake charity and 'church restoration' collectors working the pilgrimage routes with laminated documentation.
Shortchanging at market stalls and unlicensed changers in the Old City, exploiting multiple currencies in circulation.
Pickpocketing in the narrow, congested Old City market lanes and at holy site entrances during festival periods.
Imitation antiquities, olive-wood carvings and religious souvenirs sold as locally handmade when they are imports.
Guesthouse bookings downgraded on arrival during pilgrimage seasons with the original rate charged.
