# Shoe shine scam in Istanbul – is it still a thing?

Place: [İstanbul](https://dccreationstravel.com/tag/istanbul)  
Topics: safety, scams  
Asked by ali.reza on 10 November 2026  
0 votes, 9 answers, 37 views  
Page: https://dccreationstravel.com/questions/185-shoe-shine-scam-in-istanbul-is-it-still-a-thing

Read about someone "dropping" a shoe brush in front of you. What else should I watch for?

## 9 answers

### Answer by isla_m · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

Yes still happens around Sultanahmet and Taksim. Just keep walking.

### Answer by rosie_c · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

Also beware of friendly guys inviting you to a bar. Classic scam with a huge bill.

### Answer by piotr.w · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

Taxis: insist on the meter or use an app.

### Answer by olga.s · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

Check your change carefully, especially with similar looking notes.

### Answer by camila.h · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

Generally very safe city though, don't let it ruin your trip.

### Answer by elif_k · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

Strangers offering to "show you a shortcut" to the Grand Bazaar might take you to a carpet shop.

### Answer by gemma_h · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

Pickpockets in crowded trams. Bag in front.

### Answer by mike_travels · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

Honestly people are mostly super kind. Just the usual big-city stuff.

### Answer by valentina_r · score 0 · 10 Nov 2026

I got the shoe brush trick. Picked it up, gave it back, said thanks and walked off. No problem.

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