Culture & Etiquette

A few tips to enjoy the islands like a local — and to respect their heritage.

Churches & monasteries

  • Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered for everyone. Some monasteries lend wraps or skirts at the entrance, but don’t count on it — bring a light scarf.
  • Speak quietly, don’t sit with your back to the altar, and ask before taking photos — some churches don’t allow photography inside.
  • A service may be taking place: enter discreetly or come back later.

At archaeological sites & museums

  • Don’t touch, climb or sit on ancient remains, and never take stones or fragments: it is illegal, even for small pieces.
  • Personal photography is generally allowed; follow the signs, as flash or tripods may be restricted. Professional photography and filming require a permit.
  • Drones need a permit from the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority.
  • Only certified tourist guides may guide groups inside sites and museums. Ask to see the official ID card — see “How to recognize us” on our home page.

Everyday life

  • Greetings: a smile and a kaliméra (good morning), kalispéra (good evening) or efcharistó (thank you) go a long way.
  • Tipping is not obligatory but always appreciated: round up the bill or leave around 5–10% in restaurants and cafés for good service; round up the fare in taxis.
  • Meal times are late: lunch from about 14:00, dinner from 20:30–21:00. In villages, the early afternoon is a quiet time — keep noise down.
  • Water is precious on the islands: please use it sparingly.

Celebrations

  • Easter is the most important feast of the year, often on a different date from Western Easter. Expect candle-lit processions on Good Friday and midnight celebrations on Saturday night.
  • 15 August (Dormition of the Virgin Mary) is celebrated with village festivals (panigýria) across the islands.
  • On national holidays (25 March, 28 October) you may see school and military parades.

Need a guide?

Our members can tell you
the stories behind every custom

Office Hours

Summer (Apr – Oct)
Mon & Thu: 08:30 – 14:30 & 17:30 – 19:30
Tue, Wed, Fri: 08:30 – 14:30
Saturday: 09:00 – 12:00
Sunday: Closed

Winter (Nov – Mar)
Wednesday: 09:00 – 11:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 12:00

Members

Contact Info

Address: 1 Karpathou, 85100 Rhodes, Greece
E-mail: xenosrho@otenet.gr
Telephone: +30 22410 27525
Mobile: +30 698 461 0163 (WhatsApp, Viber)

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