Is Viagogo Legit? A Comprehensive Review of the Ticket Platform

ByRyan Whitaker Updated on
Is Viagogo Legit

Overview of Viagogo

Viagogo, founded in 2006, is a global ticket resale platform based in Geneva, Switzerland. It operates in over 30 countries, offering tickets for a wide range of events, including concerts, sports, theater, and more. Viagogo promises secure transactions, making it a popular choice for those seeking hard-to-find or last-minute tickets.

How Viagogo Works

Viagogo acts as an intermediary between ticket sellers and buyers. Sellers list their tickets on the platform, and once a purchase is made, Viagogo verifies and ensures the delivery of the tickets. The seller receives payment only after the ticket is confirmed as delivered. Additionally, Viagogo offers customer support and dispute resolution services in some markets.

Pros of Using Viagogo

  1. Wide Selection: Viagogo offers tickets for a plethora of events globally, often including sold-out events.
  2. Secure Transactions: The platform boasts strong security measures to protect against fraud and guarantees ticket validity with their 100% Buyer Guarantee.
  3. Convenience: Various payment options are available, including credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
  4. Refund Policy: In case of issues such as event cancellations or invalid tickets, Viagogo promises a full refund, although this process may require customer follow-up.

Cons of Using Viagogo

  1. High Prices and Fees: Tickets on Viagogo can be significantly marked up, sometimes up to 50% of the original price. Additional service and booking fees often appear only at checkout, making the final cost much higher than expected.
  2. Customer Service Issues: Numerous users report poor customer service, including difficulty in obtaining refunds and resolving issues with invalid tickets.
  3. Ticket Delivery Concerns: Some customers have experienced late ticket deliveries, which in extreme cases resulted in missing the event.
  4. Hidden Fees: Besides the high markup, hidden fees at the checkout stage can be surprising and frustrating for customers.

Tips for Buying Tickets on Viagogo

  1. Buy Early: Purchasing tickets well in advance can help avoid inflated prices closer to the event date.
  2. Check Ticket Details: Ensure the tickets have detailed information such as row and seat numbers to confirm their legitimacy and readiness for delivery.
  3. Be Aware of Fees: Always check for additional service, booking, and delivery fees before finalizing the purchase to avoid unexpected costs.
  4. Understand the Guarantee: Familiarize yourself with Viagogo’s refund policy and be prepared to provide evidence if you encounter issues with your tickets.

Viagogo’s Buyer Guarantee

Viagogo’s 100% Buyer Guarantee promises that tickets will be valid and arrive on time. If not, customers are entitled to a full refund, including delivery fees. This guarantee provides a level of confidence for buyers, but it is important to note that some users have reported challenges in claiming refunds. Always read the terms and conditions carefully and document any issues thoroughly to ensure you can take full advantage of this guarantee.

How to Use Viagogo Safely

  1. Research the Event and Seller: Before purchasing, research the event and the seller’s reputation. Look for sellers with positive reviews and high ratings.
  2. Check for Authenticity: Verify the authenticity of the tickets by checking for any restrictions or requirements, such as age limits or specific entry conditions.
  3. Monitor Delivery: Keep track of the delivery status of your tickets. Contact customer support immediately if there are any delays or issues.

Understanding Viagogo’s Fee Structure

Viagogo’s fee structure can be complex, with various service, booking, and delivery fees added to the ticket price. These fees can significantly increase the total cost. It’s important to be aware of these fees upfront and budget accordingly. Compare prices from multiple sellers on the platform to find the best deal.

Common Complaints and How to Address Them

  1. High Prices: To avoid overpaying, compare prices across different sellers and platforms. Look for early-bird deals or discounts.
  2. Poor Customer Service: Document all interactions with customer service and escalate issues if necessary. Be persistent and provide clear evidence of any problems.
  3. Late Ticket Delivery: Monitor your ticket delivery status and contact customer support if there are delays. Ensure you have all necessary documentation to prove your purchase and delivery expectations.

Alternatives to Viagogo

While Viagogo is a popular option, there are other ticket resale platforms worth considering:

  1. StubHub: Known for its reliable customer service and user-friendly platform.
  2. Ticketmaster Resale: Offers a secure and straightforward ticket buying experience.
  3. SeatGeek: Aggregates tickets from various sources, providing a wide selection and competitive prices.

Conclusion

Viagogo is a legitimate ticket resale platform with a broad range of offerings and secure transaction processes. However, its high prices, hidden fees, and mixed customer service reviews suggest that buyers should proceed with caution. Thorough research and early purchases can help mitigate some of these issues, but potential users should be aware of the risks involved and consider alternatives like StubHub for potentially better experiences.

Additional Tips for Ticket Buyers

  1. Set Price Alerts: Use price alert features on ticket resale platforms to get notifications when ticket prices drop.
  2. Join Fan Clubs or Mailing Lists: Many artists and sports teams offer presale tickets to fan club members or mailing list subscribers.
  3. Follow on Social Media: Keep an eye on social media channels of your favorite artists, sports teams, or events for announcements about ticket sales and promotions.

How to File a Complaint on Viagogo

If you encounter issues with your tickets, follow these steps to file a complaint:

  1. Contact Customer Support: Use the online contact form in Viagogo’s Help Center for the quickest response.
  2. Provide Detailed Information: Include your order number, event details, and a clear description of the problem.
  3. Follow Up: If your issue is not resolved promptly, follow up with customer support and escalate if necessary.
  4. Document Everything: Keep records of all communications and any evidence supporting your claim.

Personal Experiences with Viagogo

Many users have had positive experiences with Viagogo, successfully purchasing tickets for sold-out events and receiving them on time. However, there are also numerous reports of negative experiences, including high fees, poor customer service, and issues with ticket validity. Sharing personal stories can provide valuable insights for potential buyers.

Final Thoughts

Viagogo offers a convenient solution for purchasing tickets to popular events, especially when primary sales are sold out. While it has its drawbacks, being informed and cautious can help you have a positive experience. Always research, compare prices, and understand the platform’s policies before making a purchase.

Hi, I'm Ryan Whitaker, originally from Flagstaff, Arizona, and a seasoned ticketing expert and key author at AllTicketGuides.org. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Arizona, where I developed a keen understanding of consumer behavior and market dynamics. With over 12 years in the ticketing industry, my depth of knowledge is unparalleled.
My social media platforms are a treasure trove of ticketing advice, attracting a broad audience interested in optimizing their ticket-buying experiences. Beyond my professional endeavors, I'm a dedicated marathon runner and enjoy exploring the outdoors. My analytical approach and dedication to the industry ensure that my contributions to AllTicketGuides.org are both informative and impactful.

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