How it works:
- Situation: the taxi market here is unregulated and taxis are legally allowed to set any price they want. As such, getting charged an exorbitant fare is technically not a scam if these rates have been prominently displayed on the back window. Note that some have been charged €200-1,000!
- Version 1: switching off the meter mid-way then charging you an inflated flat fare.
- Version 2: using a rigged meter.
Places to beware:
- Gothenburg
- Malmo
- Stockholm
- Uppsala
What to do:
- Avoid: taxis at tourist spots.
- Photo: take a photo of the car plate and driver’s license. Reliable taxi companies include Taxi Stockholm, Taxi Kurir, Sverigetaxi, etc.
- Overcharging: ensure meter is turned on, the correct taxi rate is used or research a fair price to negotiate with – check online fare estimators, your hotel/hostel staff or taxi booking apps (e.g. Taxi Stockholm, Taxi Kurir, Sverigetaxi).
- Longhauling: be very clear when communicating your destination. Check your phone’s GPS to see if you are headed in the correct direction, though detours may be taken to avoid jams.
- Alternative: GetYourGuide (best day tour platform in Europe) has 10+ transport options.
