You’re searching for last-minute concert tickets, and Viagogo pops up promising exactly what you need—but can you really trust it? With so many stories about ticket scams and unexpected fees, it’s natural to feel uncertain.
Whether you’re a die-hard music fan or planning a special night out, knowing if Viagogo is reliable matters. In this article, we’ll dig into Viagogo’s reputation, share helpful tips, and give you the insight you need to make a safe ticket purchase.
Related Video
Is Viagogo a Trusted Website? Your In-Depth Guide
When looking for tickets to a sold-out concert, a major sports final, or a top theatre event, Viagogo often appears at the top of online searches. It promises access to hard-to-get tickets for almost any event. But the big question remains: is Viagogo a trusted website? Let’s break down everything you need to know before you buy.
What is Viagogo?
Viagogo is one of the world’s largest online ticket resale platforms. It connects people who have spare tickets with those looking to attend concerts, sporting events, festivals, and more.
Unlike official ticket sellers, Viagogo acts as a middleman, charging buyers extra fees for listing and facilitating ticket transfers.
Short Answer: Can You Trust Viagogo?
Viagogo is a legitimate business with millions of users worldwide. Many buyers have safely purchased tickets and attended their chosen events without issue. However, the company’s reputation is complicated.
There have been thousands of positive experiences—but just as many negative stories about unexpected costs, delivery concerns, and event entry problems.
Bottom line:
– Viagogo is not a scam, but it is not always straightforward.
– You can get real tickets, but you need to shop carefully and understand the platform’s risks.
Breaking Down the Viagogo Experience
Let’s take a closer look at how Viagogo works and the most important aspects of the service:
1. How Viagogo Works
- Ticket Listings: Sellers list tickets they own for events around the world.
- Purchase Process: Buyers select tickets, pay the listed price plus additional fees, and receive tickets either immediately or closer to the event date.
- Ticket Delivery: Delivery can be digital, by email, through an app, or via physical shipping, depending on the event.
- Event Day: Buyers use the ticket to attend the event, trusting the ticket’s validity at the gate.
2. Benefits of Using Viagogo
- Access to Sold-Out Events:
Viagogo often has tickets to events that are otherwise sold out or highly in demand. - Global Marketplace:
It’s easy to find tickets for events all over the world from a single website. - Various Ticket Types:
You can sometimes find different seating options and price ranges. - User-Friendly Platform:
Searching for tickets is straightforward, and purchases are relatively simple.
3. Key Challenges and Concerns
While there are benefits, shopping on Viagogo comes with a number of potential pitfalls:
a. High Prices and Hidden Fees
- Ticket prices on Viagogo are usually higher than face value.
- Service fees and delivery charges can add a substantial amount to your total cost.
- Fees and final pricing sometimes only appear at checkout, so the price you see initially can be very different from what you end up paying.
b. Ticket Validity and Entry Issues
- Most tickets sold are authentic, but there is always a risk with resale sites:
- Tickets might have been sold multiple times
- Tickets could be cancelled or restricted by the event organizer
- Some buyers have been refused entry at events because their tickets were invalid, duplicate, or canceled by the original ticket issuer.
c. Ticket Delivery Uncertainty
- Viagogo may only send digital tickets close to the event date, which can be unnerving, especially if you are traveling.
- Physical tickets can be delayed in the mail, or sometimes lost.
- Customer support can be difficult to contact when issues arise.
d. Strict Refund Policy
- Viagogo’s “Guarantee” promises entry or a full refund, but the process can be lengthy and stressful if something goes wrong.
- Refunds are generally offered only if you are unable to attend due to the ticket’s fault—not for buyer’s remorse or event changes.
e. Lack of Transparency
- Sellers on Viagogo can be individuals or businesses, and you rarely know which.
- Details about the ticket’s location, row, or seat can be incomplete or vague before purchase.
Practical Tips for Using Viagogo Safely
If you decide to buy from Viagogo, there are ways to reduce your risk and increase your chances of a smooth experience:
1. Review the Details Carefully
- Check the event date, seat location, and ticket type before purchasing.
- Look for any restrictions or special requirements on the ticket.
2. Watch Out for Fees
- Add items to your cart and go through to the checkout page to see the final price, including all fees and shipping charges, before completing your purchase.
3. Consider Timing
- Buy as early as possible to allow time for delivery and resolving potential issues.
- Don’t leave purchases until the last minute if you can avoid it.
4. Use Secure Payment Methods
- Pay with credit card or PayPal for extra consumer protection.
- Avoid paying directly with bank transfer.
5. Double-Check Delivery Information
- Make sure you provide an up-to-date email address and shipping address.
- Watch your spam folder for electronic ticket delivery (sometimes emails can be filtered by mistake).
6. Prepare for Event Entry
- Bring printed copies of your tickets and all correspondence to the event.
- Arrive early so you have time to resolve any ticket issues at the venue.
7. Read Recent Reviews
- Search for up-to-date Viagogo reviews online about your event or the overall service.
- Take note of any recurring problems reported by other buyers.
Cost Tips: Saving Money and Avoiding Extra Charges
Ticket reselling can get expensive quickly. Here’s how to avoid unpleasant surprises and minimize costs:
Understand All Charges Up Front
- Expect final costs to be much higher than the ticket’s original price.
- Prices often include:
- Service fees per ticket (sometimes up to 30% or more)
- Ticket delivery or shipping fees (especially for physical tickets)
- Foreign transaction fees if paying in a different currency
Compare Before Buying
- Always compare Viagogo prices with those of official ticket sellers and other major resale platforms.
- Some venues have official exchanges or fan-to-fan sales that offer better guarantees and lower fees.
Choose Electronic Tickets When Possible
- Opt for e-tickets to avoid shipping fees and last-minute delivery worries.
- Electronic delivery is usually more reliable than post or courier service.
Watch the Exchange Rate
- If tickets are priced in a foreign currency, check for currency conversion and international transaction charges on your payment card.
Real-World Experiences: What Reviewers and Buyers Say
The reality is mixed. Here’s what actual buyers often report:
- Positive Experiences
- Fast delivery and smooth event entry
- Access to otherwise unavailable tickets
- Easy website navigation
- Negative Experiences
- Unexpectedly high fees and final costs
- Tickets arriving last minute or with unclear information
- Difficulty getting refunds or reaching customer service in the event of a problem
- Some cases of denied entry at the venue
Most complaints revolve around customer service, late delivery, and problems with ticket authenticity. Many satisfied users never have an issue, but some do face significant headaches.
Should You Use Viagogo?
- If you urgently need tickets to a packed event and are aware of the risks, Viagogo can work for you.
- If you prefer less stress, lower risk, and want to avoid overpaying, try official ticket sellers or event-endorsed resale platforms first.
- Use Viagogo as a last resort, not your primary option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Viagogo a scam or a legitimate company?
Viagogo is a legitimate company that connects ticket buyers and sellers worldwide. It is not a scam, but buying tickets here involves risks, especially regarding ticket authenticity, delivery, and extra fees.
2. Are tickets bought from Viagogo always valid?
Most tickets bought from Viagogo are valid, but there is no 100% guarantee. Issues can arise, such as tickets being resold multiple times or canceled by the event organizer. Always read the event’s resale terms and be prepared for some risk.
3. Why are Viagogo’s prices higher than official sellers?
Viagogo is a resale platform, meaning tickets are sold by people who already own them—often at a premium. Additional service and delivery fees increase the final price as well.
4. What should I do if my tickets are not delivered or are invalid?
Contact Viagogo customer support immediately and provide all details. The company’s guarantee promises a refund or replacement, but the resolution process may take time. Paying by credit card can help with chargebacks if necessary.
5. Can I get a refund from Viagogo if I can’t use my tickets?
Generally, refunds are only given if event organizers cancel the event or if your ticket does not work due to seller error. Viagogo does not offer refunds for personal reasons or schedule changes.
Conclusion
Viagogo offers a way to buy tickets to sold-out and high-demand events, but the experience can be hit-or-miss. You might find the tickets you want and enjoy your event without a problem, or you might run into high prices, late delivery, or ticket validity issues.
Approach Viagogo as a backup plan, know the risks, and follow the best practices above for a safer purchase. Always look for official channels first and use Viagogo wisely if you decide to proceed.
Remember, every ticket journey is unique. Stay informed, shop smart, and enjoy your next event!