Pre-Trip Essentials: Rhodes Town

Detailed Planning Steps

A phase-by-phase guide to ensure everything is covered before you depart.

Strategic Travel Timeline

Follow these steps for a smooth trip from start to finish.

-6 Months Ahead

Passport & Visa

Validity for Schengen area; apply for visa/ETIAS.

Flights & Stays

Book flights for better rates; accommodation in Rhodes Town.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage for medical needs, cancellation.

-2 Months Ahead

Health Checks

Doctor consultation for vaccinations; health history review.

Driving & Tours

International Driving Permit; book major tours/excursions.

Language Basics

Start learning basic Greek phrases for interactions.

-4 Weeks Before

Reservations

Confirm all flight, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Financial Prep

Inform bank/credit card companies of travel plans.

Packing Basics

Assemble packing list; universal adapter, sunscreen, shoes.

Accommodation & Transport

Secure your stay and movement on the island.

Essential Bookings

Flights for high season require early booking.
Accommodation in advance for popular hotels.
Popular ferry routes (Symi or Piraeus) benefit from early reservations.
Car rentals are useful, especially during high season.

Research & Home Care

Deepen your knowledge and secure your home.

Pre-Trip Readings

Read up on the history of the Knights of St. John.
Old Town exploration is enhanced with background.
Familiarize yourself with the island's geography.
Review the main attractions.

Travel Preparation Checklist

Last-minute checks for peace of mind.

Digital Copies

Print or save digital copies of essential documents.
Include passport, visa, insurance, and reservations.
Store on your phone or in cloud storage.
Keep accessible for travel.

Medications

Pack all prescription medications.
Keep them in their original containers.
Bring a copy of your prescription.
Assemble a basic travel first aid kit.

Electronics

Charge all your electronics.
Charge all power banks.
Include an universal travel adapter.
Headphones for entertainment.

Planning Priority

Booking flights and accommodation well in advance, especially for high season, is for better rates and availability.

Arrival Readiness

Smooth transition from arrival to settlement.

First Steps

01
Clear immigration and customs procedures at Rhodes International Airport (RHO) or Rhodes Port.
This initial step clears your entry.
02
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.
Baggage retrieval is next.
03
Locate your pre-arranged transport, or proceed to the taxi stand or public bus stop outside the terminal/port.
Find your onward journey.

Orientation & Setup

Locate your accommodation on a map.
Use either a physical map or your phone.
Identify the nearest ATM to withdraw Euros.
ATMs usually offer better rates than exchange offices.
Find a local supermarket for basic supplies.
Especially useful for self-catering options.

Initial Essentials

Currency & SIM

Withdraw Euros from an ATM at the airport or in town.

Purchase a local SIM card from a phone shop if planned.

Airport Transfer

Use a taxi or the public bus service from Rhodes Airport (RHO).

Travel to Rhodes Town's central bus station.

Local Transport

From the central bus station, a short walk or taxi to your accommodation.

Consider your luggage and distance.

Upon Landing

Efficiently navigate immigration, baggage, and transport upon arrival to quickly settle into Rhodes Town.

Departure Procedures

Ensuring a relaxed exit from Rhodes.

Shopping & Refunds

Plan time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
If large/fragile items, inquire about shipping services with the vendor.
Non-EU residents may be eligible for VAT refunds on certain purchases.
Ask for a "Tax Free" form at the point of purchase.

Return Trip & Docs

Confirm your flight or ferry departure times the day before.
Allow ample time for transfer to the airport or port.
Aim for 2-3 hours before international flights; 1-1.5 for ferries.
Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible.

Pre-Departure Logistics

Final checks before leaving Rhodes.

Home Security

Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Arrange for pet care if needed.
Arrange for plant watering if needed.
Pause mail or delivery services.

Departure Transport

Pre-arranged transport for groups.
Taxis for direct airport routes.
Public bus from central station to airport.
Keep passport/tickets accessible for a smooth process.

Smooth Exit

Reconfirm all departure details and allow sufficient time for transfers, check-in, and security.

Consider souvenir shipping and VAT refunds if applicable.

Pre-Trip Essentials