My Solo Trip to Athens, Greece: An Unforgettable Adventure

Adventures, Europa24 August 2024
solo trip athens

Athens, Greece had always been a place I wanted to visit. The city is steeped in history, and I couldn’t wait to explore it on my own. Traveling solo gave me a special freedom, allowing me to discover every corner of the city at my own pace.


Arriving in Athens

My journey to Athens, Greece began with a direct flight from Rome. Athens International Airport, Eleftherios Venizelos, is well-connected to the city center. I took the metro, which brought me straight to Monastiraki, the heart of Athens, in about 40 minutes. Traveling alone gave me the chance to take in the views through the window, observe the locals, and feel like I was already a part of the city’s rhythm.

Where to Stay in Athens

As a solo traveler, I chose a small hotel in the Plaka district. Plaka is one of the oldest and most charming areas of Athens. Its narrow streets, filled with tavernas and souvenir shops, are perfect for strolling around and discovering something new at every corner. I always felt safe, even at night, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.

If you’re traveling alone, I recommend staying in central areas like Monastiraki or Syntagma. These neighborhoods are not only safe but also close to the main attractions, such as the Acropolis and the Archaeological Museum.

What to See in Athens

Of course, no visit to Athens, Greece is complete without a trip to the Acropolis. I decided to wake up early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the site in peace. The view from the top is breathtaking, especially at sunrise, and walking among the ruins of the Parthenon was an unforgettable experience. Being alone gave me the time to stop, reflect, and imagine the ancient history that unfolded there thousands of years ago.

Another must-see was the Acropolis Museum, located just a short walk from the archaeological site. This modern museum is a true gem, filled with artifacts and ancient relics that tell the story of the Acropolis and ancient Greece.

For solo travelers, I also recommend a visit to the National Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the city center. It’s the perfect place to relax, read a book, or simply rest after a long day of walking.

Where to Eat Solo in Athens

Eating alone in Athens, Greece was easier than I expected. Local tavernas are very welcoming and offer typical dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita (a spinach pie). Many tavernas have outdoor seating, which is perfect for watching the daily life of Athens while enjoying the delicious local food. One of my favorite spots was a small restaurant in Psirri, a neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife and streets full of artistic graffiti.

Useful Tips for Solo Travel in Athens

  1. Getting Around: Athens has a well-organized public transport system, with metro, buses, and trams covering most of the city. Personally, I used the metro for most of my trips and found it safe and efficient.
  2. Safety: While Athens is generally safe, as a solo traveler, it’s always important to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Monastiraki and the metro.
  3. Interacting with Locals: I found the people of Athens to be very friendly and helpful. Even if you don’t speak Greek, most people speak English, so I had no trouble communicating, especially in restaurants and tourist spots.
  4. Day Trips Outside the City: If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to Cape Sounion to see the Temple of Poseidon or to Delphi, an important archaeological site.

Traveling solo to Athens, Greece was an incredible experience. The city offers the perfect combination of history, culture, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere. I felt completely at ease throughout my entire trip, and I cherished every moment of my solo exploration.

If you’re thinking of taking a solo trip, Athens is the perfect destination: welcoming, safe, and full of things to discover.

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