Rhodes Safety Guide
Is Rhodes Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Rhodes and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Rhodes crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Rhodes, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, Rhodes is remarkably safe during daylight hours. Basic awareness is all you need. The safe environment extends into the evening hours, with a well-monitored nightlife scene.
Robberies and Theft:
Armed Robberies:
Assaults:
Corruption: low
Drug Issues:
Beggars:
Vandalism:
Theft from Cars:
Car Theft:
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Taxi Meter Trick (Medium Risk) - Unofficial taxis, especially around the airport and popular tourist spots like Mandraki Harbor, may claim their meters are broken and charge a flat, inflated rate instead. Always use official taxi stands and demand the meter to be turned on to ensure you're charged correctly.
Hypermarket Card Scam (Medium Risk) - In busy supermarkets or souvenir shops, a staff member may ask for your card to "help" with a payment issue, while they secretly divert funds for personal gain. Keep your card safe by only using it when you know the vendor is legitimate, and always handle your payment privately.
Street Performer Deception (High Risk) - Groups of street performers in areas like Old Town may engage you with tricks, but their primary aim is to get you to pay while distracting you from your belongings. If you wish to enjoy the performance, stand back and keep your bag close to avoid being pickpocketed.
Fake Currency Exchange (High Risk) - Street vendors near tourist locations often offer to exchange your money at significantly favorable rates but might hand you counterfeit bills instead. Use only authorized currency exchange offices, especially around Syntagma Square, where rates are competitive and safe.
Inflated Menu Prices (Medium Risk) - Restaurants in high-traffic areas like Lindos may present menus with different prices than those charged upon ordering, exploiting tourists’ unfamiliarity. Always ask to see a menu with clear prices before ordering and verify any discrepancies before proceeding.
Souvenir Overcharging (Medium Risk) - In market areas such as the Medieval City or shops near beaches, sellers often inflate prices, assuming tourists won't bargain. Engage in price negotiation and research fair prices for common items like olive oil or local crafts to avoid being overcharged.
Photo Scams (Low Risk) - Some photographers near popular landmarks, such as Acropolis of Lindos, may take your photo and then request payment afterwards, claiming it’s a service. Politely decline any unsolicited photo offers or be clear about any expected payment before agreeing to be photographed.
Hypermarket Card Scam (Medium Risk) - In busy supermarkets or souvenir shops, a staff member may ask for your card to "help" with a payment issue, while they secretly divert funds for personal gain. Keep your card safe by only using it when you know the vendor is legitimate, and always handle your payment privately.
Street Performer Deception (High Risk) - Groups of street performers in areas like Old Town may engage you with tricks, but their primary aim is to get you to pay while distracting you from your belongings. If you wish to enjoy the performance, stand back and keep your bag close to avoid being pickpocketed.
Fake Currency Exchange (High Risk) - Street vendors near tourist locations often offer to exchange your money at significantly favorable rates but might hand you counterfeit bills instead. Use only authorized currency exchange offices, especially around Syntagma Square, where rates are competitive and safe.
Inflated Menu Prices (Medium Risk) - Restaurants in high-traffic areas like Lindos may present menus with different prices than those charged upon ordering, exploiting tourists’ unfamiliarity. Always ask to see a menu with clear prices before ordering and verify any discrepancies before proceeding.
Souvenir Overcharging (Medium Risk) - In market areas such as the Medieval City or shops near beaches, sellers often inflate prices, assuming tourists won't bargain. Engage in price negotiation and research fair prices for common items like olive oil or local crafts to avoid being overcharged.
Photo Scams (Low Risk) - Some photographers near popular landmarks, such as Acropolis of Lindos, may take your photo and then request payment afterwards, claiming it’s a service. Politely decline any unsolicited photo offers or be clear about any expected payment before agreeing to be photographed.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types