Is Rhodes safe for Israelis? Fires, sea, roads and tips
Rhodes is one of Israelis' favourite Greek destinations. Its main risks are summer fires, roads and the sea, not violence.
- Rhodes is considered very safe for tourists; violent crime against visitors is rare.
- In July 2023 a large fire in the south-east led to about 19,000 people being evacuated.
- Before flying, check the National Security Council warning and the wildfire risk map.
If you are flying to Rhodes, follow a few simple rules: heed 112 alerts, take care on roads and in the sea, and watch your belongings in crowds.
Is Rhodes safe?
In short, yes. Rhodes is a long-established resort island, and most visits are uneventful. Safety guides describe Greece as one of Europe's safest countries for tourists. For the general picture for Israelis see is Greece safe for Israelis, and check the National Security Council's current level before you fly.
Wildfires
In July 2023 a large fire in the south-east, around Kiotari, Gennadi and Lindos, led to about 19,000 people being evacuated. Fire season runs roughly May to October, peaking in July and August. The dry, forested interior and south-east are most exposed; the big resorts such as Faliraki, Ixia and Kolymbia are on the north and east coasts. Check the civil protection risk map, follow any 112 alert at once, and read your insurance wording.
Roads, sea and scams
Rented scooters and ATVs cause many tourist injuries; helmets are compulsory and many policies exclude scooter accidents. See car rental in Rhodes. The west coast is windier and wavier than the east; never swim under a red flag. Watch your phone and wallet in the Old Town and busy beaches, and photograph jet-ski equipment before renting. Strikes can affect ferries, see strikes today.
Jewish life
The Old Town has the historic Kahal Shalom synagogue and there is a Chabad house: see Chabad in Rhodes and kosher hotels in Rhodes.
Emergency numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| General emergency | 112 |
| Police | 100 |
| Ambulance | 166 |
| Fire | 199 |
| Coast guard | 108 |
| Tourist police | 1571 |
FAQ
Is Rhodes safe for Israelis? Yes, in most cases. The main risks are summer fires, roads and the sea. Check the current travel warning before you fly.
Are there wildfires in Rhodes? There is a risk in summer, mainly inland and in the south-east. A major fire in 2023 led to wide evacuations.
What is the safest time to visit Rhodes? May, June and September–October: less heat and lower fire risk than July–August.
Is there a Chabad house in Rhodes? Yes, and the Old Town also has the historic Kahal Shalom synagogue.
