Chapter 1 of 7
Check restaurant and drink prices before ordering
Especially in the busier parts of Rhodes Old Town, I've seen this happen: a charming host invites you in, you order, and then the bill comes as a shock. Those giant 'beer boot' glasses are a classic example. You can't assume the price for a normal beer applies to a serving that's three times the size.
My advice is always to read the menu before you order anything, even if a friendly server is recommending a 'special' that isn't listed. A warm welcome is typical here, but a refusal to show you a menu or give you a clear price is a major red flag. I'd just find somewhere else.
- For oversized drinks, I always ask for the exact serving size and the total price, not just the cost of a standard drink.
- When ordering seafood sold by weight, insist on knowing the price per kilo, the exact weight of your fish, and the final cost before they cook it.
- Ask if things like bread, water, or starters brought to your table are complimentary or extra. You have every right to decline anything you don't want to pay for.
- If you're shown different menus or offers, make it crystal clear which prices apply to your order.
Clarify what a bar promotion includes
Don't get caught out by bar promotions. A 'free shot' or a happy-hour deal isn't necessarily dishonest, but it might have conditions. I recommend asking exactly which drinks qualify, if you need to buy something else, and what the final bill will be. Never let a verbal promise stop you from checking what you're actually ordering.
If you're in a group, it's smart to confirm if a price is per person, per round, or for the whole lot. This is especially important when you're ordering pitchers or accepting a suggested upgrade.
Chapter 2 of 7
Decline unwanted bracelets without negotiating
You'll see this near Mandraki Harbour and the Old Town gates. It starts with someone offering a 'free' friendship bracelet. Once it's tied to your wrist, the friendly offer suddenly turns into a demand for payment.
My advice is firm: if you don't want one, just give a clear 'no', keep your hands to yourself, and keep walking. You don't need to stop, and you certainly don't need to get into a debate about whether it's 'really' free.
If one is already on your wrist, state clearly that you did not agree to buy it and ask them to remove it. Avoid getting into a physical struggle. If they become aggressive, your best move is to walk towards an open shop or restaurant and ask for help instead of staying in an isolated argument.
Chapter 3 of 7
Make the taxi fare basis clear before departure
Before I get into any taxi here, I give the exact destination and ask how the fare will be set. You need to know if it's a metered ride or a fixed price, and you should ask about any potential extra charges. A vague assurance that the fare will be 'reasonable' simply isn't good enough.
For a pre-booked transfer, I always save the written quote to make sure it matches the journey. It's also wise to confirm the payment method before you leave; don't just assume they take cards or that you'll need cash.
If the driver takes a route you don't recognise, don't immediately assume you're being taken for a ride—literally. Ask calmly about it. If there's an unexpected charge at the end, ask for an explanation. Always get a receipt and note the car's number if you feel you need to follow up.
Chapter 4 of 7
Know who is selling your excursion
A persuasive sales pitch on the street doesn't tell you anything about the quality of a tour. Before paying for any excursion, my advice is to find out the company's name, who is actually running the trip, and how to contact them. A street-side sales desk isn't a red flag on its own, but a seller who is vague about the operator's details is.
I insist on getting the key details in writing. That way, you have proof of what was promised versus what you actually get.
- Get written confirmation of the trip details, departure point, time, and any transfers.
- Check exactly what the price covers. Are food, drinks, equipment, or entrance fees included?
- Read the cancellation and refund policy, especially what happens if the company cancels on you.
- Always keep your booking confirmation, payment receipt, and any relevant messages.
Chapter 5 of 7
Treat souvenir prices as a comparison, not proof of a scam
Let's be realistic about souvenir shopping. You'll see different prices in different shops. Paying a few euros more for a magnet on a busy tourist street than you see it for later is disappointing, but in my book, that's not a scam—it's just retail.
I suggest you compare prices on similar items before you buy, especially for more expensive things like jewellery or ceramics where quality can vary hugely. If a seller claims something is handmade or local, ask them about it. Don't just take the shop's display at face value.
Check the item, confirm the final price, and ask about returns before you pay. And always keep your receipt. For more on typical on-holiday blunders rather than actual scams, have a look at my list of avoidable tourist mistakes in Rhodes.
Chapter 6 of 7
Handle an unexpected bill calmly and keep evidence
If you get a bill that looks wrong, my advice is to take a breath and check the details before you start accusing anyone of a scam. A simple mistake with the quantity or a misunderstood order can usually be corrected by the staff. By law, restaurants in Greece must give you an itemised bill, so always ask for one instead of just accepting a verbal total.
Regarding tips, I've written a whole guide on tipping in Rhodes, but let me be clear: a tip is always your choice. It should never appear as a mandatory charge on your bill.
- First, carefully compare the items and prices on the bill with your order and the menu.
- Politely point out the specific charge you disagree with and ask the staff or manager to explain or correct it.
- If you can do so safely, take a photo of the menu or advertised price. Keep this along with your bill and receipt.
- For a pre-booked service, contact the operator or booking platform with your confirmation and a clear summary of the issue.
- If an unresolved problem involves a credit card, you can ask your bank about their chargeback process, but know that a refund isn't guaranteed.
When pressure becomes threatening
If you feel threatened, your safety is the only thing that matters. Forget about the money and the argument. My advice is to walk away and find help from an open business or the local police. If you are in immediate danger, call 112. This is the emergency number and should not be used for a simple price dispute.
Chapter 7 of 7
Before you agree: a quick decision checklist
My whole approach to avoiding scams boils down to this: if you understand the deal and feel comfortable, go ahead. If anything feels unclear, pause and ask questions. If you're being pressured to decide immediately, just walk away.
Still have questions about practicalities for your trip? I've answered dozens more in the main Rhodes practical travel questions section.
- Do I know exactly what I'm buying or what service I'm getting?
- Is the total price, including any extras, perfectly clear to me?
- Do I know the name of the business and how to contact them if there's a problem?
- Will I get a proper bill, receipt, or written booking confirmation?
- Am I making this choice freely, without feeling rushed or pressured?
Sources and product information
Frequently asked questions
Should you avoid eating in Rhodes Old Town?
Absolutely not. I love eating in the Old Town. The key isn't to avoid the area, but to be a savvy customer. I choose restaurants that display clear prices and have staff who are happy to answer questions. If someone pressures you at the door, just smile, say no thank you, and compare a few menus before you decide.
Does paying cash mean a business is scamming you?
No, the payment method itself doesn't mean anything. Many perfectly honest small businesses here prefer cash. The important thing, in my experience, is to confirm how you can pay before you order, double-check the final bill, and always get a receipt, whether you use cash or a card.
Can you automatically get a refund for an expensive purchase?
I wouldn't assume so. There's a big difference between being deliberately misled about a price and simply feeling you overpaid later. If you were truly deceived or a service wasn't provided as agreed, you'll need evidence to make your case. Always keep receipts and document the problem, but a refund for what's essentially buyer's remorse is very unlikely.