8 Destinations Where Tourist Violence Has Reached Alarming Levels

Travel should feel like an adventure, not a survival game.

Unfortunately, some of the world’s most beloved destinations have seen crime rates climb so high that tourists are finding themselves in genuinely dangerous situations.

Brazen beach robberies, cartel violence spilling into resort zones, and rising assaults have turned these eight locations into cautionary tales for anyone planning a getaway.

1. Tulum and Acapulco, Mexico

Once picture-perfect postcards of paradise, these Mexican gems have turned into crime statistics nightmares.

Tulum logged a shocking homicide rate of 83.9 per 100,000 residents between September 2024 and August 2025, with 46 murders recorded.

Acapulco, formerly Hollywood’s playground, witnessed 560 homicides in that same timeframe.

Drug cartel conflicts have bled into tourist zones, making even beachfront resorts feel less like vacation spots and more like danger zones.

Authorities urge extreme caution for anyone still booking trips here.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Pickpockets in Barcelona have turned theft into a competitive sport, apparently.

Incidents jumped 25% in the first half of 2024 compared to the year before, with hotspots like Las Ramblas and Sagrada Familia becoming prime hunting grounds for organized crime rings.

Tourists snapping selfies often find their phones, wallets, and passports vanishing faster than you can say “tapas.”

Distraction tactics are getting more sophisticated, from fake bird poop scams to staged arguments.

Keep your belongings zipped, your awareness sharp, and maybe skip the crowded sidewalks.

3. Paris, France

The City of Light has developed a darker side lately.

Violent robberies near landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées have surged by roughly one-third compared to 2022.

Travelers report being threatened with weapons, particularly in metro stations serving major attractions.

What used to be a romantic stroll down cobblestone streets now comes with the risk of encountering aggressive thieves who aren’t afraid to escalate situations.

If you visit, stay hyper-alert in crowded areas and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics.

4. Cancún and Riviera Maya, Mexico

Cancún’s all-inclusive resorts can’t shield guests from the cartel violence creeping closer to tourist areas.

Shootings near beach clubs in Tulum and Playa del Carmen have become disturbingly common.

In October 2024, the U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory for Quintana Roo, warning of increased violent crime including armed robbery and assault.

Even areas once considered safe haven’t been spared.

Resort security can only do so much when organized crime operates with brazen confidence.

Research your accommodation’s location carefully before booking.

5. Rome, Italy

Eternal City, eternal headaches for tourists trying to avoid scams.

Rome has seen a sharp rise in both elaborate cons and outright thefts targeting visitors.

Fake police officers demand to inspect wallets for “counterfeit checks,” while motorcycle-riding thieves snatch phones from outdoor diners at terrifying speeds.

Even seasoned travelers have fallen victim to these increasingly bold tactics.

Popular spots like the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps have become prime hunting grounds.

Stay skeptical of anyone approaching you with official-looking badges or urgent requests.

6. Bangkok, Thailand

Land of Smiles? More like land of scams lately.

Bangkok has witnessed a troubling uptick in crimes specifically designed to exploit foreign visitors.

Taxi-related scams have become disturbingly sophisticated, with some drivers working alongside accomplices to rob passengers, especially those arriving late at night from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Khao San Road, the backpacker hub, has seen a spike in drink-spiking incidents followed by theft.

Always use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, never accept drinks from strangers, and keep your guard up even in tourist-friendly zones.