Is Contactless Payment Usual on Rhodes at the Moment?

When planning a trip to Rhodes, one of the first questions you might have is about the availability and convenience of contactless payments. As of the last update in August 2023, contactless payments are widely accepted in Greece, making it a convenient and popular method of payment in many tourist areas. This makes your planning process a bit easier, especially since you'll be spending a week in Ixia.

Most restaurants, cafes, shops, and hotels in Rhodes accept contactless payments through various methods, including debit or credit cards and mobile wallets. In many places, you can make a transaction without needing to insert your PIN if you have a card issued in Greece. However, it’s important to note that this might not apply to cards from other countries. So, it's always good to check with the establishment to ensure they accept contactless payments.

Adding Tips to Contactless Bills

Regarding tips, the practice can vary from place to place. Sometimes, you can add a tip directly to your contactless payment when checking out. Other establishments may not have this feature, so it’s always best to check with the staff. In Greece, many locals appreciate cash tips, which means keeping some Euros handy for tipping purposes can be a good idea. If you're unsure, it’s always polite to ask the staff how they would like to receive tips.

How Many Euros Should You Take?

The amount of Euros you need to take depends on your spending habits, planned activities, and dining preferences. For a week’s stay, it is generally advisable to have some cash for smaller purchases and places that may not accept cards. A good estimate might be to have around 100-200 Euros in addition to relying on your card for larger expenses. This way, you can be prepared for any unexpected situations and still enjoy your trip in Ixia.

Additional Tips for Traveling in Rhodes

Cash Usage: While contactless payments are widely accepted, many places still appreciate cash. For example, discounts are more prevalent when using cash, and it’s generally good to have some Euros on hand for tips and smaller transactions. Always carry some cash, especially for tips, as it’s more appreciated by locals.

Restaurant Tips: In restaurants, you can add a tip directly to your card payment at checkout. However, not all establishments have this feature. If you want to be sure, always ask the staff how they prefer to receive tips. Many places in Greece, including restaurants, still appreciate a small cash tip.

Hotel Booking and Payment: If you booked your room through a payment system like PayPal, you are typically covered for your stay in Rhodes. Most hotels will provide you with the necessary details, such as the room rate and any additional charges, including meals, additional services, and purchases outside the hotel area. Be prepared to provide personal information like your name, ID, and other relevant details when checking in.

Local Customs: Commonly, hotels and restaurants in Rhodes will provide a receipt with all the extra charges, making the process transparent and smooth. It’s always good to understand and follow the local customs, especially when it comes to leaving tips and using cash.

With these tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared for your trip to Rhodes. Enjoy your stay in Ixia, and don’t forget to try the local ouzo, which is best consumed with food, not as a standalone drink.