Tourist Traps in Venice - Fake Handbags, Street Sellers

Almost all major cities around the world have street sellers who prey on the unsuspecting and sell cheap knock offs just to make a quick buck. They are particularly prone to targeting tourists, and those in Venice are no exception.

Many street sellers in Venice are not people who can easily be ignored. They are persistent and will often follow tourists until they agree to buy something or will at least talk to them. Stay strong and resilient, and keep on walking.

Campos or street squares in Venice are where most street sellers like to set up shop. There are plenty of legitimate shops in these areas, so don't be fooled by a man on the street advertising authentic Gucci and Prada bags at a low price.

At a glance, cheap knock offs look like the real deal. It's one thing if you're fine with this (but don't ever let yourself be duped into paying designer prices), but if you're like many people this is a deal breaker. Fake bags usually can be recognized by mismatched patterns on the seams, spots of poor coloring, cheap-feeling zippers and general signs of hasty craftsmanship.

Handbags aren't the only items being sold on the street. Belts, hats and other cheap clothing items are often marketed as designer ware, but tourists should also beware buying things like phone cards and prepaid gift cards. All too often, the seller is long gone by the time the unsuspecting buyer realizes these are empty and useless.

Editor's note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about fake handbags in Venice.