Is Rhodes Safe in January 2026?

Rental operators near Rhodes Town and Faliraki lease ATVs and quad bikes to tourists, then claim pre-existing scratches or mechanical faults are new damage caused by the renter. Bikes are often in poor condition before rental, but damage is photographed selectively and presented as proof after return. Deposits of €100–€300 are withheld in full even when damage is minor or pre-existing.

How to avoid: Photograph or video every angle of the vehicle before leaving the lot, including under the frame and existing scratches. Insist the operator signs a condition report noting pre-existing damage. Pay with a credit card that offers rental dispute protection rather than cash.

Some taxi drivers in Rhodes Town claim the meter is broken and quote inflated flat rates, or run a tampered meter that ticks over unusually fast.

How to avoid: Insist on a working meter before any journey. Use the Beat or Bolt app where available, or pre-book a taxi through your hotel at a confirmed rate.

Unofficial taxis and private car operators solicit passengers directly outside the arrivals hall at Rhodes Diagoras Airport, quoting flat rates to Old Town or Faliraki that are two to three times the metered fare. Some pose as official transfers by holding printed name signs. The official taxi rank is marked to the left of the terminal exit.

How to avoid: Use the official metered taxi rank directly outside arrivals — it is clearly signposted. Agree on a metered fare before entering any cab and confirm the driver will use the meter. The standard fare to Rhodes Old Town is approximately €25–€30.

Bars in the Old Town serve oversized measures of house spirits or wine without mentioning the price, then present bills far above what tourists expected for a "couple of drinks."

How to avoid: Always ask to see the price list before ordering. Check whether prices are per glass or per carafe. Verify the bill against posted prices before paying.

Restaurants near the Palace of the Grand Master present menus without prices or use attractive offers to seat tourists before revealing inflated bills including items never ordered.

How to avoid: Greek law requires menus to display prices. Walk away from any restaurant that cannot show you a priced menu before you sit. Check TripAdvisor before entering unfamiliar establishments.