Charles Esther
The first sundowner of the evening is always a holiday highlight.
But not if you’re paying through the nose for it.
One of Greece’s most picturesque destinations, the ancient Old Town of Rhodes, is now under scrutiny after reports of overcharging surfaced on Google and TripAdvisor.
This popular tourist area, with its winding medieval streets and lively bar scene, has become notorious for serving overpriced drinks and misleading customers.
A recurring complaint revolves around the infamous “Rhodes Boot” – a boot-shaped glass that holds up to two litres of beer.
Visitors say they ask for small or medium beers, but are served the massive boot instead.
Regardless of whether they finish the drink or not, they are still charged upwards of €10 (£8.40).
Bars across the Old Town, including the Chevalier Shisha & Cocktail Lounge Bar in the main square, have received multiple negative reviews.
Despite some positive feedback, unhappy patrons have shared disturbing stories about receiving second menus at checkout with higher prices than advertised.
One review mentioned being charged €32 (£26) for two small cocktails that were initially advertised for €20 (£16).
The lack of clear pricing has caused frustration among tourists.
Another review warned future visitors, stating that large cocktails come in giant fishbowls priced at €35 (£29.40), while large beers in the Rhodes Boot cost €18 (£15).
At The Gate, another busy venue in the Old Town, customers reported similar issues.
A group of four claimed they were charged €60 (£50) for just a medium beer, a cider, and two frozen daiquiris.
The cocktails were described as “the worst I have ever come across,” with claims that they contained no detectable alcohol.
The venue’s drink menu reportedly lacks pricing, with one reviewer saying they were charged €5 (£4.20) for a sparkling water.
This establishment has only received two stars out of five on Google, from over 150 reviews.
Nearby, Rendez Vous Bar has been flagged for its ambiguous pricing.
It currently holds just 1.9 stars on TripAdvisor.
A tourist visiting last month described paying €15 (£12.60) for two soft drinks, calling the staff “cold and unpleasant.”
At the Panorama Café & Bar, complaints included watered-down drinks made from one tonic bottle split into two glasses, costing €9 (£7.58).
Some described the taste as “rancid water.”
Lithos Cocktail Bar, just a short walk away, shows the same pattern.
One guest said they were served two large Rhodes Boots despite asking for small and medium beers.
They were told, “we don’t do small beers,” and handed a €20 (£16.80) bill.
Back in 2022, a review warned visitors that menus lacked prices and the final bills were shockingly high.
Two cocktails reportedly cost one group €70 (£58).
The drinks were described as watered down and low quality.
Even with scenic views, tourists said the service did not match the atmosphere.
While Greece is in the spotlight for overpriced drinks, a similar scam is brewing in Italy.
This time, it targets one of the country’s most beloved treats – gelato.
Tourists are being warned to be vigilant when buying gelato, especially in cities like Rome.
Reports suggest that some shops are selling cheap imitations instead of authentic Italian gelato.
Classic gelato has a denser texture because it is churned slowly, incorporating less air.
If the colours look too bright, it’s likely the product is artificially coloured and not genuine gelato.
Real gelato is pale and made without synthetic dyes.
Experts also recommend checking Google and TripAdvisor for reviews before purchasing.
One highly-rated shop is Vivoli in Florence, known for traditional gelato and a new viral hit – the Gran Crema Caffè Vivoli.
This €6 coffee dessert is a twist on the Italian affogato, combining hot espresso with smooth vanilla gelato.
It’s now drawing crowds and queues outside Florence’s oldest gelateria.
Whether you’re indulging in cocktails in Rhodes or gelato in Rome, it’s essential to stay alert this summer.
Check reviews, ask for prices in advance, and always be cautious when menus are unclear.
Your wallet – and your taste buds – will thank you.
