Is Rhodes safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Rhodes is a safe island with low crime. The realistic risks are petty theft in busy areas, overcharging in tourist strips, drink-related problems in party resorts such as Faliraki, road accidents, and summer heat and wildfires. Most visitors have no problems.
The real risks
Touts and overcharging
In the Old Town on Sokratous Street and Ippokratous Square, touts steer you to overpriced restaurants. Choose places yourself and check menus.
Party resorts
In Faliraki, watered-down cocktails and bills with extra drinks occur. Pay as you go and watch your drink.
Road safety
Quad bikes and scooters are involved in many accidents. Wear a helmet, drive carefully and avoid riding after drinking.
Heat and wildfires
July and August reach 35-37°C, and wildfires can occur in summer. Follow local alerts and evacuation instructions.
Petty theft
Bags on beaches and in rental cars. Keep valuables in the hotel safe.
Areas and times to take care
Rhodes Town, the Old Town and the villages are safe day and night. Faliraki's nightlife strip can get rowdy late at night in summer; watch drinks and belongings there. Quiet beaches are fine by day.
Getting around safely
KTEL buses are safe and cheap. Taxis are metered but expensive over long distances; agree the fare for long trips. Rental cars are the easiest way to explore; roads are good but winding in the south and west.
Solo and women travellers
Rhodes is comfortable for solo women, including the Old Town at night. Usual precautions with drinks apply in party resorts.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is generally safe, though many people prefer bottled water. The summer sun is intense; drink plenty of water and avoid the midday heat at Lindos. The general hospital is in Rhodes Town. EU visitors should carry the European Health Insurance Card.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Rhodes safe?
Yes. Watch for touts and overcharging, take care on scooters and quads, and follow wildfire alerts in summer.
Can I drink tap water in Rhodes?
It is generally safe, though many visitors prefer bottled water.
Is Faliraki safe?
Generally yes, but the nightlife strip can be rowdy; watch your drinks and bills.