Chapter 1 of 7
Keep belongings secure in crowds, cars and at the beach
When you're in a packed place like Rhodes Old Town or on a busy bus, keep your bag zipped and your wallet and phone out of easy reach. I never carry all my cards and cash in one place. It’s also smart to have a photo of your passport on your phone, but remember it’s not a substitute for the real thing if an official asks for ID.
My rule for the beach is simple: never leave phones, wallets, or keys unattended while everyone goes for a swim. Either take turns watching the bags or, better yet, lock valuables in your hotel safe.
If you have a rental car, don't just try to hide your stuff under a seat. Take it with you. An empty-looking car parked in a well-lit spot is your best bet, though nothing is ever 100% foolproof.
Chapter 2 of 7
Walking at night and travelling solo
I often walk around in the evenings and feel perfectly safe, and I want you to feel the same. Just be sensible. Stick to well-lit streets where there are other people, and always know how you're getting back to your hotel before you even head out. If a shortcut feels a bit too quiet or you're lost, just grab a taxi instead of wandering.
People hear 'Faliraki' and think only of nightlife, but that doesn't mean you should avoid the whole resort. Your best guide is your gut feeling. If a place feels off—too much heavy drinking, arguments, a tense vibe—it's time to leave. That's true anywhere, not just in Rhodes.
- Never leave your drink unattended and look out for your friends. Don't let someone who's had too much find their own way home.
- If you're travelling by yourself, especially as a solo woman, let someone back home know your plans and keep that phone charged.
- If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable, walk into the nearest hotel or bar and ask the staff for help. Call the police if you feel you're in danger.
Chapter 3 of 7
Avoid unclear prices and unwanted offers
I want you to be aware of two classic tourist situations. Around Mandraki Harbour, you might be offered a 'free' friendship bracelet. My advice is to say a firm 'no, thank you' and keep walking before they can tie it on your wrist, which is when they'll demand money. You don't owe them a conversation.
The second is in some bars, particularly in the Old Town, where you might be offered giant beers or cocktails without a clear price. Always ask for the size and the exact price before you say yes. If the menu is vague or the staff are too pushy, I'd just find another bar. By law, you must get an itemised bill, so always check it.
A pricey meal isn't a scam if you knew the cost upfront. If you want more detail on this, I have a whole page on Rhodes tourist scams and misleading prices.
Chapter 4 of 7
Take roads, swimming and wildlife seriously
Honestly, the biggest safety risks in Rhodes have little to do with crime. They're about underestimating the natural environment. And if you're exploring our rocky coves, you should also read my advice on which shoes work in Rhodes.
Roads and hired vehicles
Never assume a car will stop for you at a crossing; wait until it has actually stopped. If you rent any vehicle, you must have the right licence and insurance. Please don't treat a quad bike or scooter like a harmless toy. Get a proper briefing and always wear a helmet. For all the rules of the road, see my driving in Rhodes guide.
Swimming and animal contact
You must obey beach warnings. A red flag means do not go in the water. Period. Never dive into water if you don't know its depth. Around pools or the sea, keep young children within arm’s reach at all times, even if there’s a lifeguard.
Don't touch unfamiliar animals, on land or in the sea, and watch where you're stepping on rocky shorelines. If you're hiking, wear proper closed-toe shoes. See my specific guide to wildlife precautions in Rhodes for more.
Mosquito bite prevention
Pack repellent and use it according to the instructions. My method is to apply sunscreen first, wait for it to dry, then apply repellent. Screens on windows and wearing long sleeves can also make a big difference. Don't assume a breeze will protect you; my mosquito prevention advice for Rhodes gives you the full strategy.
Chapter 5 of 7
Prepare for heat and follow emergency alerts
Please take the summer heat seriously. It’s not just 'a bit warm'; it can be dangerously hot, especially if you're walking around historic sites for hours. My advice is simple: carry water, use sun protection, and don't plan tough hikes in the middle of the day. Check the Rhodes weather guide when planning, and the daily forecast before you go out.
In the rare event of a major incident like a wildfire or earthquake, this guide is not what you need. You need to enable emergency alerts on your phone and follow all instructions from the local authorities immediately. Don't go near a fire for a photo.
I recommend keeping your passport, essential medication, money, and a phone charger somewhere you can grab them quickly. Check your government’s official advice before you travel, and trust local alerts while you're here. My website is for planning; official alerts are for real-time safety.
Chapter 6 of 7
Know how to get medical or emergency help
Put this in your phone right now: 112 is the number for any emergency in Europe. For an ambulance specifically, you can also call 166. Give your location clearly. Don't waste time looking for a clinic if you think it's an emergency—just call.
For anything less urgent, your hotel reception is the best place to start; they can point you to the nearest open pharmacy. Remember that pharmacies have rotating hours ('on duty' hours), so one might be closed while another across town is open late.
Always carry your travel insurance details and your EHIC card if you're eligible. The EHIC is for necessary state healthcare, but it's not a replacement for good travel insurance. I've written a detailed guide to pharmacies and hospitals in Rhodes that explains how to find the right help.
Chapter 7 of 7
Your quick safety check before heading out
Before you leave your hotel, just run through this quick mental checklist. It’s what I do. Match your mindset to your plan for the day.
If you have more specific questions about practicalities on the island, I’ve probably answered them in my main Rhodes practical travel questions hub.
- Town or beach: Are my valuables secure? Who is watching our bags while we swim?
- Evening out: Is my phone charged? Do I have a clear plan to get home?
- Outdoor activity: Have I checked the weather, the warnings, and my own fitness level?
- Any outing: Do I know my hotel's address? Can I call 112 if I need to?
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Frequently asked questions
Is Rhodes safe to travel to right now?
My website gives you evergreen advice for planning; it's not a live news feed. I always tell people to check their own government's official travel advice for Greece before flying (for UK visitors, that’s GOV.UK). Once you're here, make sure emergency alerts are on your phone and always follow what the local authorities say, particularly during the summer wildfire season.
What is the crime rate in Rhodes?
I don't quote a crime rate for Rhodes because I haven't found an official, reliable one published just for the island. In my experience, the official travel advice for Greece is accurate: it's generally safe, and the main issue is petty theft in busy tourist spots. The precautions I've listed on this page are your best defence against that.
Are there areas of Rhodes tourists should avoid?
In my opinion, no. There are no entire resorts like Rhodes Old Town, Lindos, or Faliraki that I would tell you to avoid completely. It's all about judging your immediate surroundings. If you see a confrontation, walk away. If a street feels too dark and deserted late at night, take a different route. And if an area is closed by officials, respect the instruction.
Should I carry pepper spray for personal safety?
My advice is simple: don't bring it. Greek law (Law 2168/1993) is very strict on weapons, including chemical sprays. It's also on the prohibited list for all flights, so you can't bring it anyway. This isn't formal legal advice, but in my practical experience, choosing safe routes, using licensed taxis, and asking for help from staff or police are far more useful strategies here.
Is Rhodes suitable for a family holiday from a safety perspective?
Yes, absolutely. I believe the real safety concerns for families in Rhodes are practical, not criminal. You need to be vigilant about the strong midday sun, supervise children constantly near water, and be careful on roads without pavements and on the slippery stone steps you'll find in Lindos and the Old Town. Keep kids close, plan around the heat, and have 112 saved in your phone.
Is Rhodes safe for solo travellers?
Yes, I think it is. The advice is the same as for anyone. In crowded places, keep an eye on your bag. Before a night out, know how you're getting home. Use licensed taxis if you're out late. If you're going for a swim or a walk somewhere remote, tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back.