Rhodes Insider Guide: 13 Local Tips for an Authentic & Hassle-Free Holiday

When visiting Rhodes, Greece, it’s essential to embrace the local culture and practices to enhance your travel experience. Here are some valuable tips to help you navigate the island like a local, ensuring you save money and enjoy your stay to the fullest.

Tips for a Great Experience in Rhodes:

1. Use Cash: Locals prefer cash and often offer discounts for cash payments. This can lead to savings on your purchases.
2. Use Local ATMs: Withdraw cash (Euros) from Greek bank ATMs (e.g., Piraeus, Alpha Bank, Eurobank, Ethniki) to avoid high fees from multinational machines. Always check the fees and exchange rates before withdrawing.
3. Ask for Prices: Request a menu or price list wherever you go before you order or buy something. This helps avoid surprises and ensures you know what to expect.
4. Rent a Car: Rhodes is a large island, and if you want to explore its beauty, renting a car is the best option. It will save you both money and time, allowing you to discover hidden gems.
5. Drive Safely: Always keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially taxis, buses, and quads. Road safety is crucial for a pleasant driving experience.
6. Beach Access: Almost all beaches have an area without umbrellas and sunbeds, where you can lie down with your towel (and your own umbrella if you have one) for free. Use the ‘MyCoast’ app to find spots where you can enjoy the beach without paying for a sunbed.
7. Windy West Side: The west side of the island is almost always windy, making it ideal for windsurfing. If you’re interested in this sport, explore Google Maps to find over 15 great spots.
8. Stay Hydrated: From June to August, temperatures soar, and crowds gather. Always carry water and fruit. You can also find cold drinks, snacks, and refreshments at the numerous kiosks along the streets.
9. Sun Protection: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to avoid burns, especially during peak sun hours.
10. Avoid Tap Water: Drink bottled water unless you have a proper filtration system or have been assured that the tap water in your accommodation is safe to drink.
11. Experience Local Festivals “Panigiri”: Enjoy local festivals known as “panigiria” in the villages, especially in July and August. These events offer great food, drinks, and authentic souvlaki.
12. Dine in Villages: Visit village tavernas for homemade local dishes and an authentic Greek experience. This is a great way to taste traditional cuisine and support local businesses.
13. Trust your Hotel: Almost all small and medium-sized hotels offer a variety of services through trusted partners, such as excursions, car rentals, cruises, and taxi services . Each hotel owner has carefully selected the best options to ensure an excellent experience for their guests.
    

By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy all that Rhodes has to offer while immersing yourself in the local culture.