best greek islands for solo female travel

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12 Best Greek Islands For Solo Travel – Safe, Social & Stunning!

• January 4, 2023

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The Greek islands are some of the safest and best places on Earth for solo travel! Big words, I know, but the Greek islands are really something special. They’re the best place in Greece for solo travellers!

I spent two weeks solo travelling in Greece this September, and, let me tell you, I had the time of my life. I’m already planning my trip back to see even more of them!

Having travelled to over 35 countries, most of them as a solo female traveller, I know what I’m talking about when it comes to the solo female travel experience.

From sun-kissed beaches to epic coastal hikes, towering bowls of Greek salad to ancient temples, the Greek islands have it all.

The best part about travelling solo here? You can cater your itinerary to your own needs. No need to trudge around a museum you’re not interested in or go to a boring bar just to please your travel partner!

So, whether you’re a seasoned solo traveller or a total solo travel newbie, you’re probably wondering what the best Greek islands for solo travel are. Here are my top picks!

Table of Contents

Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel

For a laid-back solo trip, head straight for the island of Naxos. This is the largest island in the Cyclades, so there’s plenty of room for you to get off the beaten path and have a solo adventure.

The Cyclades Islands are the best Greek islands to visit in September, which is when I visited, because things stay open there until October. Some other Greek islands start shutting down by mid-September.

Want to know where to start with planning your solo trip to Naxos? You can find (and steal!) my 2-day Naxos itinerary here .

If you’re into history, archaeology, or Greek food (or all three!) you’re going to love Naxos. Naxos cheese is out of this world, and the island is littered with awe-inspiring ancient ruins.

Oh, and did I mention the beaches?

There’s so much to see and do on Naxos that you won’t even notice that you’re travelling solo!

There isn’t a hostel in Naxos, but I came across plenty of other solo travellers at the budget hotel I stayed at , so I can recommend it!

It’s located in Naxos Town, the perfect place to stay on Naxos if you want to be close to beaches, bars, restaurants and ruins all at once.

From Naxos Town you can join this full-day tour that takes you to tiny hilltop villages untouched by time, secret beaches, and some of the island’s top archaeological sites, such as the Temple of Demeter.

I also met another solo female traveller on this tour who I hung out with for the rest of my stay on Naxos.

Another great way to meet other travellers on Naxos is on a Naxos boat tour. I’ve written a full guide to Naxos boat tours, weighing up the pros and cons, but I’ll let you in on a little secret – it’s this one!

The fascinating island of Rhodes is a treasure trove of epic ancient Greek sights. If you’re a history buff, head straight to Rhodes on your solo trip!

Rhodes Town has a couple of epic hostels that have very high standards – perfect for flashpackers who don’t want to rough it but still want to socialise. 

In Rhodes Town, head straight to the Old Town to wander the mediaeval Street of the Knights of Rhodes, a remnant of the time the island was occupied by the Knights of St John during the Crusades.

Another top attraction in Rhodes is the impressive 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters, which is now a local history museum.

Hopping over to the village of Lindos, you can’t miss the Lindos Acropolis, the ruins of a 4th-century BC temple to the goddess Athena Lindia. If you’re an avid solo hiker, head out on the popular hike up to the ruins from the village, which is a 2.2-mile round trip. 

Want to get out on the water? There are a tonne of relaxing boat trips around Rhodes’ coastline, but you’re also able to take a day trip via boat to the neighbouring island of Symi.

3. Santorini

Nope, the jaw-dropping Greek island of Santorini isn’t just for couples. In fact, in my experience, Santorini is easily one of the best Greek islands for solo travel, and it’s definitely worth visiting ! It’s a popular Greek island for a reason.

I was concerned that as a solo traveller I would stick out like a sore thumb amongst all of Santorini’s honeymooning couples, but to my delight that wasn’t the case at all!

It’s very easy to get around Santorini by yourself using public transport, it feels very safe to walk around here (even in the dark), and I had no problem getting a table for one at restaurants. Even with all of the couples. It’s my top pick for best Greek island for solo female travel.

Base yourself in the town of Thira to be central to all the action and have the rest of the island at your fingertips.

Thira’s bus station is the main bus terminal on the island and can get you pretty much anywhere on the island promptly, safely, and for just a couple of Euros.

I highly recommend this island to solo travellers because it’s much easier to visit Santorini on a budget when you’re travelling alone.

There are a couple of different hostels in Santorini in case you want to meet other solo travellers, but I stayed here and HIGHLY recommend it! 

One of my favourite Greek islands for solo travel is Paros, in the Cyclades Islands. If you’re looking to get social and hang out with other solo travellers, you’ll have no problem meeting people on Paros!

From the buzzing port town of Parikia to the glamorous party scene of Naoussa, this island packs a punch and there’s something to do no matter what you’re interested in!

Fill your Paros itinerary with time spent wandering the beautiful Old Towns, lounging on the beach and hiking the Byzantine Road to see the highlights of this wondrous island.

Since there’s a backpacker hostel on Paros this Greek island attracts many solo budget travellers. I stayed at the hostel in Paros and its social vibe meant that it was suuuuper easy to get chatting with others.

If you stay at the hostel, you automatically have a group of friends to hang out with, and there are plenty of events run by the hostel that you can join.

Even if you’re not interested in staying at a hostel you’ll have a fabulous time in Paros. There are tonnes of great boat tours like this one that’ll take you around Paros’ coastline. You’ll easily get chatting to others!

Corfu’s Pink Palace Hostel has been home to partying solo travellers since what feels like the beginning of time, making Corfu one of the very best Greek islands for solo travel if you’re looking to dance the night away.

Located in the Ionian Island group, up in the north-western corner of Greece, Corfu is actually super close to Albania. You can catch a ferry from Corfu to the Albanian beach town of Saranda in just 30 minutes!

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try out solo travel in Albania for the day, Corfu is the island for you!

Aside from partying and taking a day trip to Albania, there are plenty of fun things to do for solo travellers to Corfu.

Start your solo trip with a stroll around Corfu’s world-class Old Town and then explore the Venetian Fortress, which is located on a tiny island at the base of the Old Town.

Feeling adventurous? Then explore the Blue Caves surrounding the island or go snorkelling in Corfu’s crystal clear waters. This island is full of unforgettable experiences!

Crete is the largest Greek island of them all, and it’s crammed full of incredible scenery and memories just waiting to be made!

There are numerous towns in Crete and numerous airports, but I recommend staying in Chania, the most beautiful town (in my opinion!) in Crete.

Whilst in Chania be sure to explore the Venetian Harbour at Chania’s Old Town and check out the Firka Venetian Fortress before taking time to sunbathe on the blissful Nea Chora Beach and the dreamy Koum Kapi Beach!

Over in the other main town of Crete, Heraklion, don’t miss the ancient Palace of Knossos. You can take a day trip here from Chania by taking the public bus, and the journey takes around 2 hours.

It’s totally safe to use public transportation in Crete as a solo female traveller. Hooray!

Another one of the top places to visit in Crete is Rethymno, a town filled with ancient history and archaeological sites. A highlight is the Fortress Citadel, which costs just a few Euros to enter and is ideal to walk around by yourself to explore.

The bus from Chania to Rethymno takes around 90 minutes. 

The upscale island of Milos is one of the best Greek islands for those looking to solo travel without roughing it in a hostel. That’s mainly because there aren’t any hostels here!

Instead, Milos is the place you visit if you’re looking to treat yourself to a private room and spend some time relaxing.

The main selling point of a solo trip to Milos is the otherworldly beauty of its beaches.

They’re absolutely spectacular! Kleftiko Beach, Sarakiniko Beach and Paliochori Beach are some of the best in the Greek islands, and exploring these by yourself means you get to linger there for as long as you like. 

To escape the heat in Milos don’t miss the Mining Museum, a small but fascinating museum highlighting Milos’ rich mining history and heritage, which dates back to 7,000 BC! Entry to the museum costs €5.

In the main towns of Plaka and Adamas there is a range of local taverns to choose from for mouth-watering Greek food.

It’s also not unusual to see solo diners here, so there’s no need to fear going to a restaurant alone. 

The charming island of Hydra is close enough to Athens that you can visit it on a day trip. This makes it one of the best places to dip your toes into solo travel on the Greek islands! 

Hydra is the type of place where it feels like time has stood still for hundreds of years. There are no vehicles allowed on Hydra. That’s right – no cars, buses or motorbikes. Your only methods of transportation are walking or taking a donkey ride.

If you’re looking to get away from it all, Hydra is the place to do it.

There are no hostels on Hydra, meaning it’s best to visit on a day trip if you’re on a tight budget. During your time on the island, head out on a solo hike to admire some of the best views and check out a few beaches.

If you’re into history, never fear – there are a couple of brilliant historical attractions for you on Hydra island.

Kountouriotis Mansion is the former home of a wealthy shipowner and is well worth a visit, as is the Archives Museum, which has artefacts from the Greek Revolution amongst other historical events.

If getting away to an unspoilt paradise sounds good to you, Paxos is the place to go! Paxos was once almost completely unknown to tourists, and although it’s now growing in popularity it’s still very quaint and unspoilt.

If you think of paradise, chances are it looks just like Paxos.

Paxos is one of the best Greek islands for singles if you’re looking for alone time. That’s because there aren’t a whole load of other tourists on the island, so you’re able to take time to yourself guilt-free. 

The most popular way to visit Paxos is on a day trip from Parga or Kerkyra, but for a relaxing getaway it’s worth lingering here for a few days.

Spend your time hunting for secluded coves and hidden beaches, devour authentic local food and trek to Tripitos Arch, the most famous natural landmark on the island.

A solo trip to Paxos is all about relaxing and enjoying time truly solo. I therefore think it’s the best Greek island for older singles. It’s one of the best untouched Greek islands!

Ios is one of the best Greek islands for backpackers, and its party scene is famous amongst young Europeans, who flock here every summer!

There’s only one place to stay on Ios if you’re a young solo traveller looking for a good time – the beloved Francesco’s . 

It’s important to know that although Ios does have a few tourist attractions worth visiting, the main reason to visit Ios is to party.

Sure, it has beautiful beaches and stunning natural landscapes, but most other islands also have that.

The parties are what put Ios on the map.

Although Ios is a party island, it’s certainly not been ruined by the partying. As I said, Ios is still totally beautiful!

For this reason, Ios is one of the best Greek islands for young travellers and those solo travellers who are looking to balance partying with lounging on world-class beaches to sleep off the hangover.

11. Mykonos

Like Santorini, Mykonos has a reputation for being saturated with honeymooning couples, but, provided you’re not recovering from heartbreak (the couples are pretty inescapable), you can have an incredible time alone in Mykonos!

Since Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands in the world it attracts solo travellers from lots of different countries.

After all, people refuse to travel thousands of miles to see Greece just miss out on one of the best Greek islands because they’re travelling solo!

This means it’s really easy to meet other people travelling alone here, and you’ll find yourself a group of travel friends in no time.

Mykonos is world-famous for its windmills, which you’ll find scattered around the island just beckoning you to whip out your camera!

Aside from the windmills, Mykonos is also home to some of the wildest parties on the Greek islands, and luxury accommodation. 

Even as a backpacker staying in one of Mykonos’ hostels , you’re going to end up spending a lot of money here. Mykonos is probably the most expensive Greek island to visit!

There are still plenty of free things to do on Mykonos, though – hit the beaches, watch the world-famous sunset from Little Venice, and wander the stunning streets of Mykonos Chora (for a postcard-perfect view of Greece!).

If you’re looking to go on your first solo trip, Kos is a great place to start.

The island isn’t overrun by any one type of traveller (unlike Mykonos with the honeymooners and Ios with the young partygoers) so you’ll blend in seamlessly and be welcomed with open arms by the locals in Kos.

Sure, if you’re looking to party, you can certainly do that in Kos, but during the daytime you can easily find peace and quiet – it’s not a 24/7 party.

For this reason, Kos is the perfect place to get used to travelling alone whilst exploring a new destination. 

Base yourself in Kos Town to be close to all of the iconic Greek and Roman landmarks, and be sure to explore the Neratzia Castle during your trip.

This 15th-century castle sits just to the north of the Ancient Agora ruins, which date back to the 3rd century BC. There’s just so much history here!

Kos has some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the Greek islands, with the 10-kilometre Tigaki Beach taking the star position. Want to find a beach with something unusual to do?

Then head straight to Agios Fokas, where you’ll find a sea pool that has natural hot springs. It’s one of the coolest natural landmarks on the island!

FAQs about Solo Travel in the Greek Islands

Which Greek Island is Best for Solo Travellers?

In my opinion, Santorini is the best Greek island for solo travellers. It’s super easy and safe to get around the island with public transport, it’s possible to visit Santorini on a budget , it’s downright BEAUTIFUL and there are plenty of other solo travellers there to hang out with. What’s not to like?

How Many Greek Islands Should I Visit?

As many as you can! Each Greek island has its own unique feel, and the best way to delve into Greek Island culture is by visiting a few of them. In my experience, you should visit three Greek Islands plus Athens for a two week trip to Greece. If you’re pressed for time, though, even one Greek island is better than none!

Best Time to Solo Travel on the Greek Islands

The best time to visit the Greek islands as a solo traveller is the shoulder season months of April and September. At this time of year the weather on the Greek islands is still fabulous but without the extreme crowding of the summer months. You’re also less likely to be surrounded by families with kids at this time of year.

By travelling to the Greek islands in the shoulder months you’ll find it easier to get a table for one at restaurants and get a bed at a hostel without having to book months in advance. Lots of people like to solo travel to the Greek islands in April and September!

Is It Safe to Solo Travel in the Greek Islands?

The Greek Islands are very safe to travel solo. In fact, this was one of the destinations I have felt safest whilst solo travelling, and I have been to over 30 countries! 

I have heard that catcalling or unwanted attention from local men (not in a threatening way, just an irritating way) can be a problem for solo female travellers in Greece, but this was not something I ever personally experienced. Yay!

The biggest danger to you on the Greek Islands is heatstroke and dehydration, so be sure to cover up, wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and stay out of the sun between 12 and 3pm in the summer months when it gets very strong!

Which is the Safest Greek Island to Visit?

This is a tricky one: to be honest, pretty much every Greek island that people go to on vacation is safe. My top picks for the safest Greek Islands to visit, though, would be Santorini, Paros and Rhodes. 

By picking the smaller islands without huge party scenes, you’re likely to avoid pretty much any trouble out there – whether that’s political protests or just unruly clubgoers. 

Of course, though, even the larger islands and party islands are still very safe to visit for solo travellers. All of the Greek Islands on this list are safe for solo travel. There are no obvious Greek islands to avoid.

How Much Does it Cost to Stay in a Hostel in Greece?

Expect to pay around €25 per night, on average, for a bed in a dorm room at a Greek island hostel. On notoriously expensive islands such as Santorini and Mykonos, expect this to be more like €40+! Hostel prices on the Greek islands are far more expensive during July and August than at other times of the year.

Is Greece Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Yes! Greece is very safe for solo female travel, and it’s one of my top recommendations for first-time solo travellers. It’s been rated one of the safest countries in Europe for tourism, according to a 2022 study by Forbes Advisor.

You can read my comprehensive guide to solo female travel in Greece for more information, but rest assured: you’ll feel very safe as a solo female traveller in Greece.

What is the Best Travel Insurance for Solo Travel in Greece?

The Greek Islands are very safe for solo travel, but that doesn’t mean you should visit without travel insurance. You can be as careful as possible, but sometimes just plain old bad luck happens to us.

From the airline losing your luggage, to catching a sickness bug and needing to visit the doctor, travel insurance has got you covered. 

For my readers I recommend SafetyWing . This is probably the most popular insurance in the world for adventurous solo travellers. It also covers a ton of fun activities so you can go hiking or snorkelling with no worries.

Click h e re to get a quote from SafetyWing!

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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Which Are The Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel?

All of the Greek islands are amazing in their own way, but which are the best Greek islands for solo travel?

I’m of the opinion that there’s no such thing as a bad Greek island for independent travel. In fact, it’s my firm belief that Greece is one of the best countries you can visit on your own. Greeks are ridiculously hospitable and friendly. And on a practical level, the tourist infrastructure is well-developed – it’s easy to get around and most younger Greeks speak English.

A summer spent island hopping in Greece is surely one of the world’s greatest pleasures.

If you’re apprehensive about solo travel in Greece though, there are some go-to island choices where you’ll find everything you need for a stressfree solo trip – including hostels, cheap rooms/dorms, easy flight or ferry connections, friendly beach bars, a youthful nightlife scene, good public transport, and a range of activities and experiences suitable for solo travellers.

Of course, all of the islands on this list have tourist areas where everything is available for you, but also more remote areas for getting off the beaten track. This is arguably best left unplanned – just hire some wheels and ask a local to point you in the right direction.

Crete is the largest island in Greece so it’s no surprise it has something for everyone – and plenty for solo travellers.

The island is divided into 4 regions, each with a main city where you’ll find hostels and nightlife. 

Crete is home to fascinating historic sites and some of the best beaches (such as the famous lagoons of Elafonisi and Balos) and hiking in Greece. The north is developed and home of the best resorts for nightlife; you won’t have to stray far for a party or organised excursions. There’s a good selection of hostels available if you want to be sure of meeting other travellers – check out Intra Muros in Heraklion, the stylish  Cocoon City in Chania, and Rethymno Youth Hostel in Rethymnon.

Crete is a land of ancient myths and wild beauty. Once you’ve let your hair down, hop on a bus to the island’s remote south for some exploration.

Don’t miss trekking the Samaria Gorge; one of the best day hikes in all of Europe. It’s easy to arrange by public transport or organised excursion.

Cycladic beauty Ios is an ideal destination for younger travellers, being a well-established backpacker party zone popular with Australians and Americans travelling around Europe.

Gorgeous sandy Mylopotas is the beach club hotspot for laidback daytime partying. As the beach clubs wind down in the evening, head up into the Chora to continue the fun.

Ios has all the sugar cube villages, blue-domed churches and great beaches that you hope for from a Greek summer holiday, but at a lower price tag than ritzier cousin Mykonos. It’s easy to find budget accommodation, boat trips and ATV tours.

Those seeking a slower pace will find it throughout the rest of the island, which is less developed and more popular with families and locals. Ios is an island that’s well suited to independent travel.

For accommodation, check out Francesco’s  and Far Out Beach Club .

Iconic Santorini is the #1 destination of choice for many travellers heading to Greece for the first time. And it’s not just for honeymooners – solo travellers are well catered for too.

Believe it or not, some of the best low-budget accommodation in Greece is to be found on Santorini. The prime example is the gorgeous Caveland hostel, which is set in a converted winery in Karterados. In the summer it hosts yoga sessions and BBQ parties.

There are also some great value hostels in the black sand seaside resorts, such as Villa Kasteli and Youth Hostel Anna’s in Perissa. If you want something more central, try  Fira Backpackers  in the capital.

It’s easy to get around Santorini by bus, but ATV tours are also popular. And there’s a huge selection of fun experiences including lush sunset cruises, cliff-jumping, the Caldera hike, volcano tours and wine tasting.

Popular Mykonos is the home of glamour in the Greek islands, with a nightlife (and prices) to rival Ibiza.

Take one helping of upmarket boho-chic partying and mix it with gleaming white  Cycladic architecture  and fine sandy beaches and you get Mykonos.

Partying here is centred around Paradise and Super Paradise beaches and in Mykonos Chora. Of the two beaches, expect a more sophisticated vibe at Super Paradise and bigger beach parties at Paradise. Mykonos is one of the best islands in Greece for beaches  – check out x and x to escape the crowds.

Accommodation picks for solo travellers in the swanky new hostel MyCocoon has minimalist white Cycladic interiors, or for something a bit cheaper try lively Paraga Beach Hostel & Camping which is right on the beach, about 4km from town.  

Is busy Mykonos and Santorini seem too frantic for you, and you’d rather get away from the crowds and relax, consider a trip to Naxos.

The fine sandy beaches are some of the best in the country. Naxos Chora has charming backstreets filled with tavernas and wine bars, and a crumbling Venetian castle.

It’s hard to find accommodation in the old part of town, but just 5 minutes walk around the corner is the laid-back town beach Agios Georgios. There are plenty of cheap rooms in the streets behind the beach, which has excellent sunset views. Comfortable dorm beds are available at Soula Hotel , a stone’s throw from the beach.

There’s plenty to do for the outdoors lover including water sports (Naxos is a top windsurfing spot), hikes up Mount Zas, and day trips to the nearby Little Cyclades. Prokopios and Aghia Anna are the best spots for beach bums.

Naxos is one of the main hubs in the Cyclades island chain and so well-connected by ferry. It’s easy to combine it on an island hopping itinerary or use it as a base.

For its spectacular Crusader castles, ancient ruins, golden beaches, and labyrinthine Old Town, Rhodes is hard to beat as the vacation destination that has it all.

Rhodes is part of the Dodecanese chain and within spitting distance of the Turkish coast. So it’s an ideal destination if you’re looking to combine the two countries, or if you’re looking for an island to reach by plane (it has an international airport and plenty of domestic connections too).

Buzzing Rhodes Town, with its immaculate medieval old quarter and student population, has a plenty of good value accommodation. My personal pick is STAY Hostel , which is the best hostel I’ve stayed at to date.

Rhodes Town is well connected to the rest of the island. Take a day trip to pretty Lindos with its ancient Acropolis, or hop on a boat excursion to Anthony Quinn Bay.

Read More: Rhodes – An Island Guide

Once an unknown gem of the Cyclades island, Paros is becoming increasingly popular as an island destination to rival Mykonos and Santorini (or is easily combined with either).

There are a plethora of discrete cocktails bars, cute tavernas and boutiques to discover tucked away in its gorgeous whitewashed towns, Naoussa and Parikia, which are popular with weekending Athenians. The water here is a stunning shade of turquoise, and the beaches are top notch.

Head to Naoussa for low-key and sophisticated nightlife. Think chillout bars and blissful beaches. When it all gets too much you can hop on a boat to the tiny island of Antiparos, with its delightfully bohemian vibe.

There’s a hostel in Parikia – Paros Backpackers – as well as a number of guesthouses offering dorms or cheap rooms.

Corfu is undeniably one of the most different and interesting Greek island destinations, with its unique history, beautiful Old Town , and stunning lush and mountainous scenery.

It’s one of the greenest islands in Greece thanks to its northerly position and more frequent rainfalls, which also mean it’s a bit less blisteringly hot in high summer than the Cyclades, for example. There are many beautiful coves tucked away in its rugged coastline, and some excellent hiking.

There are no hostels in Corfu Town, where accommodation is limited. Instead, head to the numerous beach resorts which have been made over with bunks for solo travellers, such as Sunrock , Corfu Backpackers , or Maddelena’s .

There’s also the Pink Palace Hostel , which was once the most notorious party hostel in Greece. It’s calmed down a bit since then – you’ll see some families staying there to take advantage of the low costs – but if you’re travelling on a budget it’s still worth checking out for Spring Break vibes in the idyllic Agios Gordios. Lots of organised excursions and boat trips are available.

Read More: Corfu – Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

These days Zakynthos is mainly famous for one thing – the iconic Navagio Beach (or Shipwreck Beach, as its commonly known.

This photogenic bay with rusted wreck resting in its golden sands, flanked by cliffs, is a big draw for foreigners. It’s probably the third most famous image of Greece, after the Acropolis in Athens and the blue-domed churches of Santorini.

But Zakynthos (also known as Zante, its old Italian name) is much more Navagio Beach. It’s a popular island with holidaymakers thanks to its international airport, fantastic beaches and (in some places) thumping nightlife. 

Laganas is party central and popular with clubbers if that’s what you’re after. It can be carnage in peak summer. Head down the coast to Kalamaki for a more chilled experience (but still a short bus ride away from the action).

Don’t forget to leave the pool and explore the rest of the island – other beauty spots include Cameo Island, Gerakas viewpoint, Turtle Island and the cliffs of Keri. Away from the party zone, Zakynthos is a beautiful mountainous island – jeep safaris are a good way to explore the interior.

Zakynthos is lacking a decent hostel but you should have no problem finding cheap rooms or Airbnbs outside August. 

Mamma Mia fans looking for a solo break should make a beeline for the Sporadic island of Skiathos, one of the main filming locations for the ABBA extraordinaire.

Skiathos is a big island and known for its summer nightlife. It has a laid-back, youthful vibe with lots of beach clubs and plenty of action in the main town. The journey from Athens is not the easiest – involving a 2.5hr drive to the ferry – but most travel agents sell a through ticket which includes the bus journey. Alternatively, you can fly to Skiathos, which is the main island in the Sporades chain.

As you might expect from a filming location, Skiathos is stunningly beautiful and a perfect destination for long lazy summer days combined with fun nights out. It has pretty neoclassical architecture, fragrant pine woods and world-class beaches (you’ll want to check out Koukounaries, Banana Beach and Lalaria).

And the nearby island of Skopelos is nearby for more Mamma Mia location hunting (this is where you’ll find the tiny clifftop chapel). There’s also Alonnisos, the smallest island of the Sporades, which is a National Park and protected marine zone – perfect for a snorkelling trip.

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Solo Travel in Greece: Tips for Female Travellers

Greece was a country I had wanted to go to for years, and yet when I finally made my plans to visit, the advice that I was given wasn’t quite as positive as I hoped which, to be honest, surprised me as Greece is a popular travel destination and solo travel in Greece seems to be quite common.

Since my first visit in 2019 I’ve since been back 4 times.  From the capital city of Athens to the romantic island of Santorini , I fell head over heels in love with Greece and, based on my experience, would absolutely recommend it to other solo travellers, especially women. That being said, there were a few things I noticed along the way (good and bad) that I think other solo travellers should be aware of.

So, if you are thinking about solo travel in Greece, then this article is for you.

The Men Weren’t As Bad As I Was Warned (at Least in the Islands)

At least a dozen women told me to be careful of the men who could be pushy and aggressive. Granted, pushy men aren’t something that I (or any woman, for that matter) is a stranger too. However, for someone planning to travel solo in Greece, it wasn’t exactly what I wanted to hear. Used to it or not, nobody wants to be harassed.

At first, I brushed that note aside figuring I’d deal with it when and if it happened. However, after my miserable experience in Morocco , I actually did get a bit worried. I was sick of men chasing me, catcalling me, and saying inappropriate things to me in the streets. I was so on edge after Morocco that I worried if I faced more of the same in Greece, I’d have a meltdown. Those worries, however, were quickly washed away. In fact, the older Greek woman who sat beside me on my flight from Marrakech to Athens put me at ease when she told me what would happen; “The men, they are too lazy. Yes, you are beautiful and they will look, maybe smile and say hello, but they won’t chase you. They can’t be bothered to get off their ass in the islands.”

I laughed at her bluntness but, in the end, she was 100% right. I got some looks and smiles and a few men said hello but as long as I just smiled and kept walking, I was left alone. Nobody said anything rude like in Morocco, and nobody chased after me like they did in Italy. It was fantastic.

In all my time in Greece I’ve only ever had one uncomfortable minute when an old Greek man put his hand on my thigh while sitting beside me on a bench. Other than that, my only caution to women would be to be mindful of when posting to social media. Greek men are very quick to slide into your DMs if they see you are in the area based on your geotags. 

The Islands Are Very Safe For Solo Travel in Greece  

Athens may have a bit of a reputation but as far as safety goes in the Greek islands, I’d say it’s one of the places I’ve felt the safest travelling solo.

I was a bit apprehensive at first since Greeks eat so late. When I travel solo, I try to eat earlier so I don’t have to walk back to my accommodation alone in the dark. However, I also hate standing out as the obvious tourist eating alone in a restaurant, hours before the locals. My first couple of nights, I did eat early. But, as I grew more comfortable I’d push my dinner time until after sunset to keep with the local culture, and I was always fine going back alone. Granted, I never went anywhere that was further than a 10-minute walk from where I was staying, and in busy areas, but I had no problems walking back around 10-10:30pm.

I also always felt safe and secure in my accommodation (as always though, read reviews before you book) and wandering around in the day through the villages and to the beaches. For the most part, the locals were very friendly though in busier places (looking at you Santorini) I was basically ignored. Which, in my mind, can be a good thing when travelling alone.

As with everywhere else, you do need to be aware and practice typical caution but, based on my experience, the islands were all very safe for solo travel in Greece.

Solo Travellers in Greece Will (Sometimes) Stand Out

While I certainly wasn’t the only solo traveller in Greece, I definitely noticed that I did stand out in some spots. Specifically, a couple places in Santorini and Paros . There was nothing wrong with this, I didn’t feel uncomfortable, but it did get me a little bit of extra attention.

I think it’s probably because these places are known to be romantic and honeymoon destinations, so seeing a girl exploring and eating on her own is a bit odd for the locals. Especially since, a couple of times, I have splurged on higher-end luxury hotels for myself. I have no doubt that a few of the locals wanted to ask what I was doing alone but nobody pushed, just a couple casual comments confirming that I was, indeed, solo.

Really though, it ended up benefitting me. Greek restaurants already have a reputation for giving shots to customers after their meals or sometimes a little dessert treat, but my experience as a solo traveller in Greece extended past that. In some places I got an extra glass of wine “on the house” and one spot I noticed my dessert was a fancy chocolate dish instead of the little squares of cake that the people around me were served.

Maybe they were just being extra nice to the solo girl, maybe they had created stories in their head as to why I was alone (left at the altar? Dumped before vacation?) and felt bad for me, who knows. All I can say is it worked in my favour; I’m not one to turn down extra wine or chocolate. 

Hostels in the Greek Islands are Limited

In my 20s, I preferred to stay in hostels so I could easily meet other travellers and have people to explore or grab a meal with. However, as I was planning my first travels in Greece in 2019, I noticed that hostels are really lacking on the islands. Most of the major islands have at least one, but even then they tend to be very expensive considering you are paying for a bed in a shared dorm. I actually only stayed in one hostel in the islands ( Bedspot Hostel in Fira, Santorini, which I do recommend) and then I got a private room in an Airbnb or hotel for the other nights. It was definitely nice to have space to myself ( especially when I splurged on the luxury hotel in Oia ), but not having the hostel options also made it a bit trickier to meet fellow travellers on the islands since my other normal go-to for meeting people (free walking tours) weren’t an option either.

With that in mind, if you plan on doing some solo travel in Greece you’ll want to make sure you are comfortable really travelling on your own. Or, do some research ahead of time and choose places where there are actually hostels available so it’s easier to meet people. 

Final Thoughts on Solo Travel in Greece

Greece has, without a doubt, become one of my favourite travel destinations and I can’t wait to go back and explore more. I loved how safe I felt exploring the islands- it took away a lot of stress as a solo female traveller and really allowed me to enjoy the destination. That being said, compared to other countries around the world, solo travel in Greece wasn’t quite as easy in that some of the places in the islands didn’t seem to be really set up for the backpacker types. However, don’t let that stop you. Just keep the above tips in mind when planning and go. I promise you won’t regret it. 

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

24 Comments

Thanks for the article on solo travel in Greece. I’m finding that the older I get the more my travel plans are just me heading off into the great unknown, and it’s great to know what to expect in Greece. Well written and very useful info!

glad to help! 🙂

Thanks Hanna! This is so helpful… quick question, would you need to drive in Greece? How convenient is public transportation? I don’t drive (hope yo sort it out soon though ;)), and would like to travel there!

Driving gives you a lot more freedom but isn’t necessary (at least in the places I have been) there are public buses on the islands but just be mindful of the schedules as they are not always very frequent.

[…] Take some time to meander down the nearby street as well. In this area, you’ll find some cool street art, funky cafes, and boutique shops. I wandered around here a lot on my own and felt very safe as a solo female traveller in Greece.  […]

Great article – just booked a solo trip for April! Great tips.

YAY! I hope you have an amazing time and love it as much as I do!

Thank you so much for this Greece blog!! I’ll definitely take this into consideration. Also, the picture that you took with the bell which island is that?

Glad you found it helpful! And that photo is from Oia, Santorini!

Oh dear, wish I have read this blog before you got here (Greek 🙂 ) so I could put your mind at ease! Unless you get into some sketchy areas in Athens or very touristy spots in islands were people just get drunk and cause a fuss, Greece is perfectly safe for solo women. Just basic precautions that are valid everywhere, like don’t get in cars with strangers, and you are good to go! Hope you find your way back here some day and experience other things like climbing mountains and scuba diving 🙂

I’ll be back for sure 🙂

Hey Hannah, jusr wanted to comment and let you know your blog post was a huge help to me! Here I am, on my first day Greece, in the middle of Covid, as a solo female traveller and I felt a bit alone because like you said: there are not a lot of hostels on the islands (and the ones that were available didn’t have very good reviews) so I’m staying in a hotel and I was very anxious that I would not meet any people at all during my trip here. But thanks to your blog, I realized I could also just enjoy my time alone. The tip about meeting people through free walking tours was also really helpful, never thought of that!

So thank you!

Im so glad to hear that! Sorry you are feeling a bit lonely but I hope you do enjoy your time!

I am thinking about spending a week in Greece in August on a stopover. I was curious if you could give an update on your experience being there during Covid and solo? I haven’t seen much online about people’s experience traveling solo there during the pandemic. I would be going to Athens and Santorini. Any insight you could share would be so appreciated! 🙂

Hey Emily, I know this comment is for Amina but my friend Patrick is also currently there now. His IG is @germanbackpacker and he’s sharing his thoughts and experience which you may find helpful. It looks SO QUIET I’m crazy jealous!

Hi Hannah and Amina,

Hannah thanks for your article, very helpful!. Amina, just wondering if you could give me some insights into how it is in Greece over Covid period. I’ve flight vouchers from a cancelled trip to Greece from April 2029and want to use them. I looked at @germanbackpackers Instagram posts but they seem to be from a previous trip I think. Any advice would be greatly appreciated thanks😊

@Germanbackpacker is a friend of mine. He went in summer 2020 during COVID. Another one to look at who when in summer 2020 is my friend Gary- @JeSuisGary on Instagram.

Oh fab!, thanks a lot Hannah!😊

Hi! I was wondering who took your pictures? Were they strangers or did you have a tripod? I really want to do a solo trip, but I also want pictures of myself, but I’m scared someone will just take my phone and run. Also, did you usually sit in restaurants by yourself? I’ve done this before, but I just wanna know your thoughts and hear about your experience!

Hi Jennifer! For the photos I do a mix of my own and sometimes I hire local photographers too. Santorini I used a local photographer but if you get up early you could use a tripod too. Normally, early mornings in Europe are pretty quiet and just photographers out so I tend to feel much safer setting up and walking a bit away from my camera then. I have a post sharing my solo photography tips here: https://eatsleepbreathetravel.com/solo-travel-photography-tips-for-beautiful-travel-photos/ As for eating alone, I do it all the time when I travel. It doesn’t bug me. Some places I stand out more as a solo female but I’ll just bring a book and read as I eat

Hi I was wondering what kind of luggage you brought with you? And/or how did you travel to around especially beaches/hikes with your money/valuables? Hope to hear from you soon! Thanks!

I travelled with a carryon suitcase but for beaches and day adventures I have a small fold-up backpack that I use. It’s water resistant, very lightweight and has 2 zippers which means I can string a small lock through it. I link to it in this post: https://eatsleepbreathetravel.com/whats-in-my-bag/

I would like to start off by saying you give me inspiration and confidence to travel solo soon. With that, I would like to ask how do you meet other solo travellers? (besides staying at hostels, how? Are there forums for this?) Any advice on how to approach (or befriend) other solo travellers?

Hostels are great even if you don’t stay in dorms. There are lots of boutique hostels now that don’t have the busy party atmosphere but still have common areas to meet others. Other ideas are free walking tours or other guided tours like group day trips or even pub crawls. Solo travellers are often pretty common to see too, so if you see someone at a tourist site exploring alone say hi! I’ve done this before and had others do it to me and its resulted in a friend for the day.

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Top 11 Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel

Greece is one of the most idealized and famous countries in the world. Social media and movies like Mama Mia have brought the warm, colorful, and paradisiacal land to life.

So many people dream their whole life about visiting a place like Greece. If you ever have the opportunity to visit (and hopefully, reading this means you ’ re headed there), you should absolutely go.

Whether you ’ re traveling with friends or family or on a solo mission, this heaven on earth is worth exploring.

Greece has mesmerizing landscapes along with great food, sweet people, ancient history, and incredible culture.

Why Solo Travel?

Solo traveling is so good for the soul. You should do it at least once in your life, no matter how much it might scare you.

It ’ s a great way to build your independence, and you ’ ll never feel more empowered than you will when you ’ re navigating a foreign place all on your own.

Yes! There are pros and cons to so lo travel, but the pros outweigh the cons.

It ’ s a great way to build your immunity toward life and expand your perspective. Solo travel is the definition of freedom.

You will have the opportunity to do what you want when you want, and the entire experience will be gratifying and memorable.

Another reason solo traveling is worth it is that it ’ ll build your self-confidence. After the trip, you’ll have tons of stories to share with your loved ones at home, and during the journey, you’ll make new friends and connections.

Not only is solo traveling so important, but solo traveling around the greek islands is one of the best places that you can choose to wander alone.

11 Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel

Greece is a large country in itself, but it is also made up of several thousand islands, and a few hundred are inhabited.

This means that when it comes to visiting the Greek Islands, you have a ton of choices. Some islands are better party destinations, while others are more relaxed, laid-back places.

The great thing about there being so many islands is that you ’ ll have tons of options. Keep reading to learn more about the best Greek islands for solo travel.

The largest of the Dodecanese islands , Rhodes is one of the most easterly islands just off the coast of Turkey.

There is a lot to do on this island, including exploring the historic architecture, visiting the beautiful beaches, trying authentic food, going hiking, and more.

The island has been nicknamed the island of Knights and has a pretty interesting and rich past. On the island, you ’ ll find a large ancient fortress, medieval castles, defense structures, and lots of other historical architecture to catch your eye.

If you love history and ancient architecture, you ’ ll love visiting Rhodes. Making it one of the best greek islands for solo female travel.

Symi is a very picturesque island. It ’ s also a quiet destination if you ’ re looking for a slow-moving trip.

You can feel the community immediately, where all the locals know each other. When visiting this island, you ’ ll feel completely immersed in the culture and community.

If you want to visit an island that doesn ’ t need a whole lot of planning, this is your place.

Just show up, wander around, find a nice restaurant, and enjoy the views. That ’ s all that matters on this island. It ’ s pretty great.

Also known as Paxi, this island is another quiet one. It ’ s not overly touristic, which makes it feel more authentic and special.

It ’ s a great place to visit if you want to aimlessly wander the natural beauty. There isn ’ t much to do on this island which might be exactly what attracts you to it.

A vacation doing nothing can be a great reset.

This is a great option if you ’ re looking for a slow escape.

If you ’ re looking for the best food for your Greek adventures, this is the ultimate location. This island is a hidden gem so protect it sacredly.

The ancient capital city of Kastro is a must-see. There are no cars allowed here and the town consists of stairs and inclines. So you will get a great workout while staying here.

Visiting this place is not for the faint of heart, but if you ’ re in good physical condition, it ’ s cool to check out.

Back to the food, Platis Gialos has some of the best restaurants right along the beach. Lounge all day, and then grab a lovely dinner on the water.

7. Crete 

Crete is the largest island in Greece, so you ’ ll want to ensure you have enough time to explore it.

There are tons of attractions that make it great for solo travelers to meet new people and never be bored.

Also, there are plenty of hostels here where you can connect with fellow solo travelers. Crete is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and natural landscape.

It is also one of the best places in Europe to snorkel , so if that was on your list you will want to visit this island.

Chania is the main town of the island which is a great place to stay.

Here you ’ ll find all of the hustle and bustle of the island, but there are also sleepy mountain villages if you want to retreat for a quiet solo vacation.

Another well-known Greek island is Milos and it’s centrally located which makes it easy to travel if you want to bop around to different islands.

While Milos is relatively well known, it ’ s not nearly as popular as islands like Santorini or Mykonos, so you ’ re in for a more authentic experience if that ’ s important to you.

There are great hotels, hostels, and even public transportation, which makes it easy for solo traveling.

You will want to visit Sarakiniko Beach, also called Moon Beach because the landscape resembles the moon.

You ’ ll find smooth, white volcanic stone shaped by wind and water, which makes it look otherworldly.

This phenomenal spot has put this island on the social media map, and it has become much more popular in recent years.

Lefkada is known for its quaint villages and beaches. The most popular places to stay are Lefkada town, Nidri, Vasiliki, and Englouvi.

You ’ ll find beautiful little homes, impressive architecture, a string of boutique shops, restaurants, and delicious authentic Greek food.

Porto Katsiki is the most popular beach on the island, and it ’ s located right at the bottom of a steep white cliff.

The views from the top of the cliff overlooking the beach are gorgeous. The steep cliff and bright white sand against the stark turquoise-blue waters are extraordinary.

Lefkada is also known for its water sports, including kitesurfing, paragliding, and surfing. This is a great place to take lessons and learn a sport you ’ ve always wanted to try.

There are tons of activities that will keep you busy as a solo traveler on the Greek island of Lefkada.

Kasos is a small island, and it ’ s one of the most remote and untouched inhabited islands in Greece.

There are rarely tourists on this island, so if you ’ re looking for the most authentic experience, this is one of the best islands to visit.

Kasos is great if you want to be one with nature. The wild island has less than 1,000 inhabitants, and all are very welcoming to the limited number of guests that travel to this island.

Visiting Kasos will feel like time stops in its tracks and the world stops moving. Life is slow and easy.

There are small villages, gorgeous beaches, and delicious cuisine. It ’ s an amazing place to be alone and it’s very, very safe.

It ’ s also easy to get around the island. You can rent a scooter to get you everywhere; you can even get rides from other people.

Seriously, that is how safe the island is. Of course, you still shouldn’t get in the car with strangers, but you get the point.

Also, you ’ ll find that the prices on this island are much cheaper, so you can expect to save some money on accommodations and food here.

The dreamy island of Corfu is perfect for solo travelers. It has great beaches, lots of culture, nightlife, and of course, a gorgeous landscape to explore.

If you want a mix of everything, this is a great place to visit. There is a ton of history in Corfu town you can explore, nightlife to take part in, hiking opportunities, and of course, swimming and lounging on the beach are always a must.

As a solo traveler, you can stay right in Corfu Town, which is a great place to meet new people, and it ’ s centrally located for your additional adventures.

2. Mykonos 

Probably the most well-known island in Greece, Mykonos is a fan favorite and one of the best greek islands for solo travelers.

It ’ s a notorious party island and a great way to meet new people from all over the world.

There are many things to do in the main town of Mykonos, but if you want some privacy and solitude, you can find that outside of the city.

Mykonos Town is the most bustling part of the island. You ’ ll find many resorts, beaches, and quaint streets with iconic whitewashed architecture.

1. Santorini

Some might think that Santorini is too romantic for solo traveling, but that is just not true. Of course, you ’ ll find people on their honeymoon, couples, friends, and families, but you ’ ll also find lots of other fellow solo travelers.

The nightlife scene is one of the best reasons to visit Santorini as a solo traveler. You are bound to meet people and make friends if you choose to go out at night. Not only is it the best island in Greece, but also one of the best islands for solo travel in the world.

By day, you can do a ton of exploring, lounging, swimming, and sightseeing. Then by night, you can go out and have a good time, and you won ’ t feel so alone.

If you ’ re traveling alone, a good place to stay is in the capital, Fira.

Fira has great public transportation and lots of people you can meet. Santorini is a must-visit island in general, but it ’ s also a great Greek island for solo travelers.

Santorini is by far the most popular Greek island, so keep this in mind. It will be more touristy than other islands, but if you ’ re okay with that, it ’ s a wonderful island to visit.

Not sure weather you should are Mykonos vs Santorini? Both are great options, but find out what makes them different.

Conclusions

Greece is a great place to visit, both mainland Greece and the islands. However, if you ’ re planning to travel solo in Greece, you should check out some of the Greek islands which are great for solo traveling.

There is so much to see in this big beautiful world. Stop waiting for your partner, friend, or family member to be ready.

Solo traveling is so worth it, even if it feels uncomfortable. If now is the right time for you, whether or not anyone else is ready, go for it.

Especially as a woman, solo traveling can be scary, but it’s invigorating, and the Greek Islands are a safe place for women to travel solo.

As long as you ’ re paying attention to your surroundings and making smart decisions, you ’ ll be completely fine.

If you’ve ever wanted to travel solo, there is no time like the present to make it happen and the Greek islands just happen to be one of the best places to explore solo.

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Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel, What You Need to Know 2023

Are you planning a trip to Greece and wondering what are the best Greek islands for solo travel? You’re not alone!

I found myself wondering the exact same thing when I was planning my solo trip.

Sure solo female travel can be daunting, but fear not, the best Greek islands are waiting for you. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape or a wild adventure, these islands have got it all.

From the party scene of Mykonos to the spectacular sunsets in Santorini, there’s something for every solo traveler out there. So grab your sunscreen and get ready for some island hopping!

Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel

My top picks for the best Greek Islands for solo travel are Mykonos , Santorini and Paros . If you want a party island then I’d probably through Ios in there too – let me tell you why!

Now Greece (or just Europe in general) is not cheap. Especially if you happen to be from NZ like me and the euro is nearly double our dollar ha ha… Anyway point is, have a bit of money to spend here cause your money definitely doesn’t go as far as it does in countries like Bali or Thailand.

I would’ve loved to just disappear for a month on one of the lesser-known islands and spend my days exploring hidden beaches but the one big problem with the smaller islands is… there are no hostels. So really you haven’t got a lot of choice but to book a hotel or Airbnb.

You could get lucky and find yourself a good deal if you book well in advance but was I this organised? No. Also I’m a solo female traveller so when I do book an Airbnb or hotel room, there is no second person for me to split the cost with.

Therefore I resorted to hostels , and let me tell you, some of these weren’t even that cheap! I spent one night in a hostel that cost me $120 NZD (I know crazy right?!). It was pretty great though, I mean this was the view from the pool:

Why should Mykonos be on your list? Well let’s be honest, it’s Mykonos. Can you really travel all the way to Greece and not go here? This is the island that I flew into and actually spent most of my time in Greece.

I will warn you though, this island is going to be the most expensive out of the lot. Also, it’s touristy, very touristy. But it does have a special feel to it, and it also has great nightlife, it gets some pretty big names playing at places like Cavo Paradiso . 

Would I go back here? I’m not sure – probably only if I become rich and can afford to stay in an expensive hotel with a gorgeous view of the ocean ( Cave Tagoo anyone?!). But am I glad I went here? 100% and it can be done on a budget, there are hostels you can stay in here but it is going to be pricier than the likes of Santorini, Paros and Ios due to the island’s popularity.

If you do decide to include Mykonos in your itinerary I would only stay here for a few nights, three is plenty. It gives you time to chill at the beach clubs, have an awesome night out, explore the beaches and see the dreamy Mykonos town. 

Where to stay in Mykonos

A bit out of the way, the hostel will pick you up from the ferry though. This is the cheaper option out of the two and right by Tropicana and Paradise which are some of the good beach clubs to hit. If you want to party, I would stay here.

More expensive but right in Mykonos town where all the action is. The hostel environment itself isn’t too social so not the best place if you are looking to meet other travellers.

• Studio Eleni Not a hostel but a bed and breakfast that offers affordable private rooms and is in a great location

2. Santorini

Similar story to Mykonos, you can’t travel to Greece for the first time and not go to Santorini, you just can’t. When I sat there, with thousands of other people (not exaggerating here) watching the sun go down behind the gorgeous white buildings, it took my breath away.

Also believe it or not, it’s actually cheaper than Mykonos! Food and drink are more reasonably priced and the buses are cheap making it fairly easy to get around. I would recommend hiring a quad for a day though if you can! 

There are so many fun things to do on this island and exploring Oia town just feels like a dream. Would be even dreamier minus all the people but you just have to get up early in the morning for that! Or pay thousands for a crazy expensive hotel with a stunning view you’ll probably never forget… 

The beaches such as Red Beach and Perissa Beach are also a must. There is also White Beach which you can only access by boat, although it’s not the most stunning white beach you’ll ever see so easy to give that a miss (yes New Zealand beaches, I’m thinking of you!). 

Where to stay in Santorini

This is located down on Perissa beach which is the famous black sand beach on the island. This hostel is a great budget option, just keep in mind that you get what you pay for. 

Personally I didn’t stay here but this is the place to be if you want to stay in Fira town. Honestly I would probably choose to stay somewhere on Perissa beach over this. The only benefit of staying in Fira is that it is easier to get to Oia (where you want to be for sunset). Instead of catching two buses from Perissa, you catch one. 

• Caveland An incredibly cute and aesthetically pleasing hostel, just take a look at the pics and you’ll see what I mean! The location is great too, right in the heart of Santorini.

Oh I’m so in love with Paros. It was my favourite island out of the lot! I’ll definitely write a more in-depth blog post about why you have to go here because it really is a place that should be on everyone’s list.

Why did I love it? Well it reminded me of Mykonos but without the craziness of all the people, plus it was way cheaper. It’s a win-win! There is talk about this island becoming the next Mykonos though so I would try to get there ASAP before this happens.

This island has so much to offer, from the gorgeous beaches to the cute towns and fun nightlife. If you don’t travel here on your next trip to Greece trust me, you are missing out!

Where to stay in Paros

I was lucky enough to stay with family friends while I was here so I didn’t have to worry about booking accommodation here but there is a hostel you can stay at called Paros Backpackers .

Ios is another great Greek island for solo travel. Why? Cause it’s a party island! And this means a great atmosphere, friendly people and an awesome time.

As mentioned earlier, unfortunately, I didn’t make it here. I hadn’t been feeling well for a couple of weeks and just wasn’t getting better so decided to extend my time on Santorini and cut out Ios for some much-needed chill time.

I was planning on staying at Far Out Beach Camping which is a well-known beach club there and I knew if I went, I certainly wasn’t going to get any better. As you can probably tell from the photos it certainly goes off!

The accommodation itself was very cheap (by Greece standards) and I heard great things about it from other travellers I met while in Greece so if you have the time to add this place to your itinerary, do it!

This island will definitely be on the top of my list to visit when I’m next back in Greece. 

Greek Island Travel Tips to Help Save You Money

• Probably the most important to save money while travelling solo in Greece is to avoid travelling in high season. Especially August. You’ve probably heard it a million times but prices are so. much. higher.
• Don’t forget to look at flying directly into Mykonos or Santorini. It could be the same price or maybe even a little bit cheaper, but even if it is that little bit more expensive it could be worth booking the flight and not having to spend money on booking a ferry. Ferries from Athens out to the islands are not cheap, expect to pay about 50 euros. Also they take foreeeever. One of the ferries I was on was supposed to take 4 hours, it took 6…fun times. There are fast boats but expect to pay more.
• BE ORGANISED. This one you definitely want to take note of, especially when travelling in the summer. If you’re on a budget and you want to stay in hostels make sure you book these in advance. I got caught out in Mykonos where all the hostels sold out and I had to end up paying a looot more than if I’d been more organised. One of the instances where ‘winging it’ came back and bit me in the bum.
• The bakeries are your new best friend for when your hostel doesn’t have any cooking facilities – spinach pie for 2 euros, hello!
• If you want to save money on accommodation you could try couchsurfing for a few nights. I did this while in Mykonos and it was an interesting experience that’s for sure, but a great way to see the island from a local’s point of view.

FAQ: Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel

Is Greece safe for solo female travellers?

I felt safe during my time in Greece and didn’t have any issues but whenever travelling alone, especially as a female, it’s important to stay vigilant.

When venturing out alone, it’s important to stay connected and share your itinerary with a friend or family member. Embrace the local customs and dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.

I always made sure I had a local SIM card with access to data whenever I was travelling alone, it helped give me a sense of security and anyone who knows me, knows that my sense of direction isn’t the best.

Engaging in conversation with fellow travellers and seeking guidance from locals will further enhance your experience and ensure a smoother journey. While petty crime may exist in tourist hotspots like Athens or crowded areas, exercising common sense and vigilance will help mitigate any risks.

Is Greece good for solo travel?

Yes! I think Greece is a perfect destination for solo travel because there is plenty of opportunity to meet other travellers and it’s just an all round a beautiful place so everyone seems to be in a great mood.

With its diverse landscapes, warm Mediterranean climate, and hospitable locals, Greece offers a plethora of experiences that make it ideal for solo travellers.

As a solo traveller in Greece, you’ll have the freedom to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, indulge in delectable cuisine, and forge meaningful connections with fellow travellers and locals alike.

Whether you’re seeking tranquillity on a secluded beach or craving the buzz of a lively taverna, Greece certainly caters to all tastes and preferences, you won’t be bored!

How many Greek Islands should I visit?

With over 6,000 islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, the options seem endless. While each island possesses its own unique allure, the number of islands to explore ultimately depends on your travel preferences and the duration of your trip.

For a taste of the Greek island experience, visiting two to three islands is a good starting point. Begin with iconic destinations such as Santorini, where whitewashed cliffside villages and stunning sunsets create a captivating ambience. Then, hop over to Mykonos, known for its vibrant nightlife and picturesque beaches. If time allows, include Paros or Ios.

For a more immersive island-hopping adventure, consider exploring five to seven islands but only do so if you’re staying for at least 2 weeks otherwise your trip will feel too rushed!

Add destinations like Rhodes, with its medieval charm, or Naxos, boasting serene beaches and ancient ruins. Discover lesser-known gems like Milos, renowned for its striking volcanic landscapes and hidden coves. Don’t forget to venture off the beaten path to experience the authentic island lifestyle and encounter the warm hospitality of the locals.

Ultimately, the number of Greek islands you visit is a personal choice. Whether you opt for a few or decide to explore a multitude, each island offers its own distinctive character, enchanting vistas, and unforgettable experiences.

When is the best time to travel to the Greek Islands?

In my opinion, summer is the best time to visit the Greek Islands because who wouldn’t want to swim in that beautiful blue water?!

For those seeking warm weather and vibrant island life, the summer months from June to August are ideal. Bask in the Mediterranean sunshine, dive into crystal-clear waters, and indulge in the lively beach parties and festivals that epitomize the Greek summer.

If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months, you can enjoy pleasant weather, explore the islands at a relaxed pace, and take advantage of discounted rates.

Winter, from November to March, offers a different experience, with a quieter atmosphere and a chance to delve into the local culture.

While some tourist services may be limited, you can still enjoy the natural beauty of the islands and immerse yourself in authentic Greek traditions. You will need to do your research though as some islands completely shut down during the winter season so bear that in mind.

Conclusion: Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel

There are still soo many islands I want to visit in Greece (have you seen pics of Milos?!) but next time I go back, I want to be able to afford to stay on the islands that don’t have hostels. So whether that’s in a couple of years or for my 30th birthday who knows! 

Or I could do as the locals do (if I’m brave enough) and just show up at one of the islands, go and grab a drink or a bite to eat at one of the nearest restaurants and start talking to the owners asking if they have any rooms or villas available.

I’m not joking…this is actually a thing – as I was told by my walking tour guide in Athens.

A lot of accommodation owners don’t have their properties listed on places like Airbnb because they just go off word of mouth. You can bet they’ll be a lot cheaper than anything else you’ll find on Airbnb too! 

If do decide to try this one day, I’ll definitely report back! 

• Solo Travel in Portugal – The Ultimate Female Travellers Guide • Porto Solo Travel Guide | Is Porto Safe for Solo Female Travellers? • 5 Best Hostels in Lisbon for Solo Travellers • Lisbon Solo Travel | The Ultimate Guide • How to nail your solo travel photography game…and not look awkward!

Sammy Green is the owner and creator of My Blonde Bucket List, your go-to guide for unforgettable journeys to the world's best beach and mountain destinations, including the likes of New Zealand, Canada, and Portugal. She does this by creating blog posts about the best tips and resources on how to make the most of your time in each destination. Having travelled to 24 countries (and counting) her goal is to inspire you to experience all the world has to offer, whether that be on your first solo trip or with your significant other.

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SOLO TRAVEL GREECE

You may think Greece is for couples, families, or maybe even for groups of party-going friends, but it’s actually a fantastic destination for solo travellers. Being by yourself may be a daunting prospect, but solo travel Greece is quite viable — even for solo female travellers.

With its well-trodden tourist routes, friendly and helpful locals and the chance to head out on an adventure (or even just to lounge around on its beautiful beaches), there’s not too much to worry about.

Greece is a fantastic destination for those who are travelling solo, with everything you could wish for: picture-perfect beaches, vibrant nightlife, history, and friendly people. Let’s take a look at some of the best spots for solo travellers in Greece.

When to visit Greece for Solo travel

Whilst Greece is home to some of the best beaches and most romantic sunsets on the planet there are many things to see and do year round.

Summer in Greece is in June, July and August and is the ideal time to spend at the beaches and waterfalls while Spring and Autumn are excellent for hiking and exploring Ancient Ruins, Caves and Archaeological sites as well as exploring winding alleys and excellent shops, galleries and other points of interest in towns and villages.

August is also the busiest and most expensive month of the year whilst many islands close their tourist ‘season’ down between late October until Easter each year.

As such many people say that May – June and September are the best times to visit Greece, when the weather is great as are the prices and the crowds.

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Solo travel Crete

Once home to an ancient pre-Hellenic civilisation, Crete is the legendary birthplace of Zeus — king of the gods — but is perhaps more popular today for being ringed by white sand beaches, surrounded by turquoise seas, and having a selection of small, charming towns to discover.

Alongside that, the rich nature of Crete is a big draw, with everything from lush valleys to soaring mountainsides to explore — something that provides the island with an essential environment for its gastronomic credentials. It also makes for some wonderful hiking trails.

Why go Solo or have a singles holiday in Crete?

Travelling solo to Crete is a breeze. If you’re in need of some well-deserved sunshine but you’re travelling solo, there’s nothing much to worry about if you’re travelling to Crete.

There is a wide variety of accommodation to opt for: there are social hostels (complete with female-only dorms) where you can get to know other travellers, family-run guesthouses where you’ll feel supremely welcome, and fully-fledged resorts with security and all-inclusive packages.

It’s a well-travelled island, and there’s something for everybody – whether you’re a solo traveller who likes to party or if you simply want to kick back on a beach with a book. Crete has it all.

Things to do in Crete

Hiking may seem a surprising addition to the things you can do in Crete , but the island’s mountainous interior makes for some bold and breathtaking treks.

For example, the Samaria Gorge is a world-class beauty spot that can be easily reached, and then explored to your heart’s content. Simply take the bus there, hike down, and catch the ferry back to civilisation.

Another side of Crete’s nature is, of course, the beaches. Just off the southwestern corner of Crete, Elafonisi is a dreamy destination for beach-lovers. It’s a protected nature reserve with paradise beaches to match – a must if you’re attracted to sun, sea, and sand!

Then there’s the history. Knossos has been called Europe’s oldest city; it was the centre of the Minoan civilisation and is famed for the myth of the Theseus and the Minotaur. Head here for ruins, museums, and daydreaming about ancient empires.

For more history, there’s the Heraklion Archaeological Museum — one of the best in the world for Minoan art and artefacts.

Further reading : Things to do in Crete

Where to stay in Crete

The two nicest towns to stay in Crete are Chania and Rethymnon. Both have old, car free quarters filled with traditional tavernas and cascading bougainvillea. Chania also has a beautiful Venetian Harbour.

These towns are perfect for solo travellers as you can walk to everything and you don’t need to worry about transport. Both have some nice beaches close by as well.

In Chania Porto Antico is a lovely boutique hotel with views over the harbour. Otherwise, these charming studios  (pictured) are just a short stroll away and have everything you could possibly need.

Cyclades Islands Solo

The Cyclades are an island group set to the southeast of the Greek mainland . It’s here where travellers come to from far and wide for a taste of that luxurious Greek island lifestyle, with the quintessential white and blue houses that typify Cycladic architecture. These make it a genuinely unique and very special place to visit.

At the centre of the Cyclades is Delos – an uninhabited island credited for being the birthplace of Greek gods, Apollo and Artemis.  It’s a historic, almost holy place. Surrounding it are a host of beautiful islands, ranging from the upscale and deluxe feel of Santorini to the wealth of culture and beautiful beaches on Paros or Naxos .

For a real feeling of authentic Greece, check out the main island of Syros, particularly in the Cycladian capital of Ermoupoli, which boasts fascinating architecture and beautiful 19th-century buildings.

Elsewhere on Syros, there’s a more laid-back beach destination in the form of Kini, a seaside village minus the booming nightlife you may find elsewhere in the island group.

Two other wonderful islands in the Cyclades that are perfect for Solo travellers are Sifnos , with its laid back beach villages and delicious food culture and Milos , home to some of the best beaches in Greece and the very charming small Fishermans huts called Syrmata – some of which are converted rentals!

Further reading: Paros OR Naxos?

Why go Solo in The Cyclades Islands

Santorini is an excellent destination in Greece for a solo female traveller. There is a wide range of hostels, guesthouses, boutique hotels and Airbnbs that mean you don’t have to stay in romantic villas — and which also means you can meet like-minded travellers looking for their own slice of the Cyclades.

Naxos also offers up a safe place to explore. There are charming tavernas, a wide selection of lodgings, and a hospitable atmosphere that puts you at ease.

Because they are well-visited islands in general, you’ll easily be able to join a group tour; you’ll come into contact with other independent travellers, and hopefully meet make lifelong friends along the way!

Things to do in The Cyclades

Santorini of course needs no introduction and is famous for its breathtaking sunsets and stunning caves hotels along the caldera.. The island is basically a half-submerged volcano, and the views across the caldera are magnificent — especially when the sun goes down.

Winery tours are also the order of the day in Santorini – your Instagram feed will thank you for discovering the picturesque churches and chapels dotting the island and there are many other things to see and do on Santorini as well.

On Naxos, away from the beaches, your first destination should be the Temple of Apollo, where ruins dramatically cut a striking silhouette against the sea. 

The ruins of the Temple of Demeter are equally impressive. From here, it would be amazing to catch a day trip to Delos , where wandering its ruins is like taking a step back in time. Otherwise Naxos is known for its excellent beaches and its local cuisine such as its world-class honey, herbs, cheese and potatoes!

Paros is a great compromise if you are short on time. It has all the elements of both Mykonos and Naxos and is situated right near them both. It has a wide variety of things to do and see and ticks all the boxes for all sorts of traveler, including people traveling on the own of course. No wonder if was voted Best Island in Europe in 2020!

Further reading :

Things to do in Santorini

How to get to Santorini from Athens  

Where to stay in the Cyclades Islands

If you haven’t been to Santorini it is definitely worth a visit and there are many places to stay catering to all budgets. You may soon tire however of the many honeymooners and couples indulging in romantic dinners and sunset cuddles so for a longer stay Naxos or Paros are better for singles.

Naxos has wonderful beaches and a very charming Old Town where you can stay in lovely lodging such as in these gorgeous rooms (pictured below) at one of our favourite family-run hotels in Greece. This is a central location in Chora and an easy stroll to everything. Very affordable too!

On Paros stay in either the Port Town of Parikia or the more upmarket ( and more expensive) town of Naoussa. Both are quintessential white sugar-cube Cycladic towns with many bars, shops, tavernas and numerous things to see and do.

Further reading : Where to stay in Paros

Solo in the Ionian Islands

While the Cyclades offer a more tranquil and, possibly, more pricey Greek excursion, the Ionian islands are known for their party hotspots as much as their family-friendly resort towns. Don’t let that put you off, though; there’s as much tradition and beautiful nature to explore on the Ionian islands as anywhere else.

Set just off the west coast of mainland Greece, the Ionians receive more rainfall than other island destinations in Greece, meaning their greenery and plant-life is particularly lush — worlds away from the rocky Cyclades.

The main hub for visitors here is Corfu , a well-known Greek holiday destination in the north of the island chain.

Boasting some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, it’s no wonder Corfu has become so popular.

The coastline of Corfu may be home to resorts and beaches, but inland villages remain pretty much as they always have been.

Another well-known island is Zakynthos . The nightlife in its main town, Zante, makes the island infamous.

Kefalonia is another Ionian gem. A 1953 earthquake left many of traditional and historic buildings in ruins, but that doesn’t mean it’s not interesting with highlights including famous Myrtos beach and the charming villages of Assos and Fiscardo which largely survived the quake.

The nature here is particularly stunning, with crystal-clear waters allowing plenty of opportunities for snorkelling and diving and exploring caves and coves.

Why go Solo in the Ionian Islands

The Ionian islands may be popular as a mainstream destination, but that doesn’t mean solo travellers should avoid them. In fact, the popularity of the Ionian islands means there’s a fairly well-established infrastructure for tourists and independent travellers to get around easily.

Locals are helpful and used to visitors and will go out of their way to help you if you need to ask a question or get lost. Depending on the accommodation you choose, you’ll be able to meet some people along the way.

Things to do in the Ionian Islands

There’s plenty to do on any one of the Ionian islands.

The relaxed Lefkada, connected to the mainland via a narrow isthmus, has a wide selection of beaches.

So many that it is most certainly a destination for beach-lovers. The town of Vasiliki, with its relaxed atmosphere, is all about eating delicious food along the seashore. There’s also the popular Porto Katsiki Beach, only reached by descending one hundred steps.

If you’re thinking of heading to Corfu, on the other hand, you must make sure to explore beautiful Paleokastritsa which is made up of a series of bays and coves full of lovely beaches and sae caves.

Ithaca is another beautiful and quite fascinating island and is very close to Kefalonia. Thought to be the home of King Odysseus the hero of the Trojan War, this picturesque town also boasts a monastery dating back to 1226.

Where to stay in the Ionian islands

All the Ionian islands are lovely but most are spread far apart and require a bit of effort to island-hop. As several are very big, most people choose just one or two and perhaps do day trips to others.

For solo travellers, Corfu Town is very interesting and affords day trips to the mainland, Paxos and Anti-Paxos as well as Albania. Book a studio with a magical view over the old town or with a stunning view of the sea for a holiday to remember forever.

On Kefalonia, the northern town of Fiscardo is one of the prettiest and is a magical summer holiday destination all on its own. Stay at these lovely waterfront suites for beautiful water views, right next to the tavernas and shopping and all the creature comforts.

Solo in the Dodacanese Islands

Composed of 15 islands and 150 smaller islets scattered around the southeastern Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese Islands are actually closer to mainland Turkey than Greece. So close that you can even take day trips to Turkey.

Historic by nature, the Dodecanese islands are scattered with medieval castles, Byzantine churches, and archaeological ruins.

There are, of course, a selection of beaches to kick back on, which is good news as these are apparently the sunniest islands in all of Greece!

Because of their nature, each island has something different to offer visitors. The largest of these islands is Rhodes , which is also home to the eponymous city of Rhodes, the historic capital of the island group.

There’s also Kos – not only popular for tourists but history buffs too, thanks to its archaeological sites and museums. Other islands, however, have a less developed tourist infrastructure.

These have less high-end resorts and crammed beaches that you may find on some of the more popular islands. Symi, for example, is well-rated for day trips from Rhodes.

People come to eat, explore the town, then leave on the ferry, but it’s a viable destination all in itself and is home to an annual music festival.

Why go Solo in the Dodacanese Islands

Like other places in Greece that see high visitor numbers, the Dodecanese islands have a well-established network of routes between popular towns and islands, with ferries and buses connecting them.

This makes getting around as a solo traveller a breeze.

Then again, for the more intrepid tourist, the lesser-visited destinations of the Dodecanese (Symi, for example) mean you get to get to grips with Greek culture, history, and traditions away from large numbers of tourists.

But if you want to meet people, Rhodes and Kos are good hotspots for mingling and socialising with other travellers.

Things to do in the Dodacanese

On Rhodes, the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights points to the town’s history as a bastion of the Crusaders. Throughout the town, there are many examples of the island’s knightly past.

Along with historical sights such as Neratzia Castle, the island of Kos also has a selection of beaches, like Therma Beach, which comes complete with hot springs.

Often-overlooked Symi boasts a fair variety of monuments, such as the Holy Monastery of Archangel Michael, which was rebuilt as the stunning structure it is today in 1798. It has a stunning Venetian Harbour lined with colourful restored neo-classical buildings, many converted to small hotels and apartments.

The setting, surrounded by olive trees, is spectacular.

Where to stay in the Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes is a good choice of base to explore the Dodecanese Islands as it has an International airport and regular ferry connections to many of the other islands as well as the Turkish mainland.

A charming room in the Old Town at an adults-only Guesthouse is the way to go here, unless you really want to be by at the beach, in which case I would stay at this hotel in Lindos for a splurge.

Otherwise, solo travellers love beautiful Symi and renting a harbourfront studio here ( pictured below) will produce stunning views at a very affordable price point.

Solo travel Athens

The Greek capital city is a destination in itself.

Once the centre of the Ancient Greek empire, today the city is still crowned by astonishing landmarks that denote its important past.

This bustling metropolis is awash with everything you’d want of a capital city: there are monuments and museums, cafes and restaurants, bars and live music venues to discover throughout the neighbourhoods.

The city is made up of different districts – from the cool to the upscale.

Plaka, for example, is a creative hub under the watchful gaze of the Acropolis , whereas artistic, multicultural Kypseli serves up a dose of cool hipster hang-outs, with some of the most interesting bars and restaurants around.

Why go Solo in Athens

Travelling solo in Athens is certainly doable. Although it can seem like a daunting place to visit, there’s a surprisingly friendly atmosphere with a welcoming hospitality scene to match.

One of the best reasons to travel Athens by yourself is the freedom you’ll have to explore at your own pace, as opposed to being part of a tour or doing what someone else wants to do.

And that can make all the difference between a great or not-so-great holiday.

Things to do alone in Athens

The Acropolis , over 2,000 years old, is the place to see Athens’ ancient history.

Here you’ll find the Temple of Zeus and the Pantheon, as well as museums, but there are also many other reasons to travel to Athens.

Simply finding a street-side cafe where you can sit by yourself and people-watch is a great way to pass time and f or those who love a bargain, Monastiraki Flea Market is not to be missed. Here you’ll find vintage clothes alongside traditional Greek souvenirs to take home.

Evenings in Athens can be spent in low-key bars or bistros, such as those in the bustling city centre, or in cool, contemporary Gazi with its music venues. Even if you only have one day in Athens you can pack a lot in, and a drink at one of the incredible rooftop bars is a must!

There are also many great day trips you can do from Athens like exploring the Athenian Riviera, the nearby Saronic Islands and even further afield such as the extraordinary Monastaries of Meteora (although do try and do this one overnight at least!).

Where to stay in Athens

There are many neighbourhoods in Athens that are worth exploring and staying in. Most are in the historic centre and the city is wonderfully walkable so whichever you choose is probably ok.

Plaka is one of the most touristic areas but has retained a lot of charm and is popular with Solo travellers as it is so close to everything and packed full of every amenity.

It is car-free in many parts and very clean and safe. Rent a studio that has a rooftop with stunning views of the Acropolis and you will never want to leave!

Further reading : Where to stay in Athens – Neighbourhoods & hotels including the airport, ports and Riviera

Greece tours for solo travelers

Sometimes it’s great to have someone else do all the planning and organisation so joining a tour in Greece can be a good solution. You can meet other travelers and know that your safety and convenience is a priority at all times.

Many solo visitors to Greece are often happy to explore the islands independently by ferry but join tours on the Mainland where driving is required. 

A 4 day tour of the ancient sites including Meteora, Mycanae and Delphi is very popular as is a 3 day tour of the Peloponnese including incredible Monemvasia and the Mani peninsula. 

It’s also fun to sail around the Saronic Islands near Athens – a fabulous day out and made more fun with a group of likeminded people and your own skipper and guide. Sailing and solo trips to Greece are a great combination!

We guarantee you will truly have the holiday of a lifetime!

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10 Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel

• July 24, 2021 April 4, 2024

A wonderful country, Greece is blessed with thousands of islands, around 200 of which are inhabited. These paradisiacal islands have been favorite destinations for couples, families, backpackers, and solo travelers. There are so many options, but here we will find out the best Greek Islands for solo travel.

Typically, you will find from the Greek Islands deep blue beaches and charming villages with white streets—a perfect combination for a lazy vacation. But when taking into account solo travelers, from this list, you will find islands for various activities. 

Are you more into parties, hiking, seeking ancient sites, exploring villages, or do you want to have slow beach days? Here, you have the best Greek Islands for solo travelers of any travel style.

Disclosure : This article features affiliate links, including Amazon.com. If you decide to buy through one of these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra expense to you. For more details, please see my disclosure policy .

Recommended by Jürgen & Martina from PlacesofJuma

One of the best Greek islands for solo travelers is Crete. It is the largest of all islands in Greece and so you should plan some time for an unforgettable trip! Countless attractions are waiting to be discovered and there are plenty of new people you can get connected with! Especially in the larger cities, like Chania and Heraklion, many hostels are just perfect for solo travelers.

Crete is worth visiting! There are breathtaking beaches, sleepy mountain villages, historic sites, and wild nature discovered. Among the most beautiful highlights are the beaches of Balos and Elafonisi, but also the less touristy beaches of the east side of the island are recommended if you want to swim and relax!

Chania, the main town, is worth seeing, especially if you love sightseeing. From there, you will find historic, colorful alleys, where you can take amazing photos! Also, the best option for accommodation like Royal Sun.

Another place to visit is the Venician-style monastery of Agia Triada. From Agia Triada Monastery, it is worth taking a detour to one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete: The Seitan Limani Beach.

If the hustle and bustle on the coast becomes too much for you, retreating to Crete’s mountain villages is best. You can still enjoy a wonderful authentic setting here, perfect for a quiet solo vacation.

Accommodation : Royal Sun

Lefkada is an Ionian Island in western Greece. The island is known for its turquoise beaches, water sports, green hilltops, and charming villages. You will find diversified things to do from Lefkada, even if you are a solo traveler.

The main places to see in Lefkada are the villages and beaches. The most popular places are Lefkada Town, Nidri, Vasiliki, and Englouvi. From villages, you will find typical boutique and souvenir shops, and restaurants to try our delicious Greek food. The most popular beach to see is Porto Katsiki, where you can admire the view of an iconic steep white cliff and deep blue water.

Other than the villages and beaches you can also visit the scenic Nidri waterfall, watch the sunset in Exanthia village or do some attractions like paragliding. 

Also, it’s one of the best Greek islands for solo travel, especially trying out wind- and kitesurfing. It’s a watersport that is a popular activity around Lefkada Island. Two main places to try out are near Lefkada Town Agios Ioannis and Vasiliki beach. The moderate winds are perfect for beginners to advanced surfers.

Other things to do as a solo traveler are to enjoy the nightlife in Nidri and Lefkada Town, join a Yoga class, taste local wine on farms, hike near Englouvi village, or just chilling next to the turquoise beaches. Lefkada Town is also the best place to stay, for example Niriides is a great choice.

Accommodation : Niriides

Mykonos 

Recommended by Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Mykonos is an island in the Cyclades chain and is great for solo travelers because it caters to a lot of different travel styles. If you are traveling solo and looking to meet people and party, Mykonos is a great option. Because it is a notorious party island and is popular with all kinds of people worldwide.

However, if you travel solo because you prefer your own company, Mykonos is also great. The main town of Mykonos is busy enough to explore without feeling conspicuous, and there are plenty of quiet spots on the island where you can find solitude. From Mykonos, you can visit nearby Delos, an uninhabited island with a huge collection of ancient Greek ruins.

Things to do in Mykonos include visiting one of its glamorous beaches, exploring Mykonos Town, which is famous for its windmills, and Little Venice, a row of houses right on the seashore. You can also admire the pure white Paraportiani Church near the harbor.

You could stay at Little Venice Villas to be close to the action – or even better, add Mykonos to an itinerary for island hopping in the Cyclades and sleeping on a boat!

Accommodation : Little Venice Villas

Recommended by Chrysoula from Greece Travel Ideas

Naxos island is the biggest in the Cyclades Island group. It is one of the best islands in Greece to visit as a solo traveler as it has many activities to do and is very safe. 

The best area to stay as a solo traveler is Chora, Galaxy Hotel is a great place to stay. In Chora, there is the Temple of Apollo, also known as Portara which is great to visit during the sunset. There is also a castle with winding alleyways and pink bougainvillea, a great selection of souvenir shops, restaurants, and bars. 

In Chora, there is also St George beach, which is one of the best beaches on the island along with Agios Prokopios and Plaka which are only a short drive away. 

If you want to explore the island as a whole, then it is best to rent a car. Alternatively, you can take the bus from Chora to most places. 

Apart from the beaches, Naxos has some picturesque villages like Apiranthos and Halki, worth exploring. There are also many archaeological sites to see like the famous big statues of Kouros in two different locations around the island and the Temple of Demeter. Finally, Naxos is also great for hiking, watersports, and boat trips to secluded beaches and nearby islands.

Accommodation : Galaxy Hotel

Recommended by Rai from A Rai of Light

Located in the Ionian Sea, just off the west coast of the mainland, Zakynthos is sought after for its beautiful beaches with crystal clear water. It also allows the solo traveler to meet plenty of other travelers while exploring its unique landscapes, interesting history, and an abundance of things to do. 

Top sights include the Venetian Castle, Marathonisi, the Blue Caves, Navagio shipwreck beach, Dionysios Solomos, and the Port of Zakynthos. The combination of great weather and beaches makes beach hopping an essential activity, with the best among them being Porto Limnionas, Kalamaki, Agios Nikolaos, and Laganas.

Laganas is also where you will find the best nightlife on the island. This strip is notorious for its parties with bars and clubs that stretch for miles and offer great nightlife options. Casa Del Mar is a place you want to crash after the night out.

Zakynthos is easily reached by a direct one hour flight from Athens or by ferry from the port of Killini. It is recommended to spend at least 3 or 4 days here to get a good feel of the island and all that it has to offer with the best areas to stay being Argassi, Tsilivi, or even Laganas. This cheap island to visit makes for a wonderful holiday spot and should not be missed.

Accommodation : Casa Del Mar

Recommended by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best islands in Greece for solo travel is the island of Milos. Milos is an island that belongs to the Cyclades islands. Santorini, Paros, and many other islands are near it, and going to these islands as well is easy to do.

What’s great about Milos is that it will give you a very authentic experience of a Greek island. That’s because it is much less famous than, for example, Santorini or Mykonos. Fewer tourists go to Milos, and thus you can better experience local life here.

Milos is great to visit alone. There are many good hostels and hotels on the island, the public transportation network is great for exploring the island’s sights and is a safe place. Furthermore, many beautiful places are even better to experience when completely focusing on them by seeing them alone.

One of the best things to do in Milos is going to Sarakiniko Beach. This is a beautiful beach with a unique landscape that looks a bit like that of the moon. There is a smooth white volcanic stone that got its shape from the wind and water of the sea. Relaxing on the beach and listening to some songs from a beach playlist , would be perfect.

Another highlight of the island is Plaka. This is a village with lots of picturesque Greek houses that are wonderful to see! Also, Klima is a lovely fishing village that is worth visiting, where you can find many small colorful houses next to the sea. A great place to stay on the island is Milos Bay Suites.

Accommodation : Milos Bay Suites

Recommended by Dani from No Hurry To Get Home

Known as one of the best beach destinations in Europe, Corfu is a dreamy island perfect for solo travelers if you’re looking for a mix of beaches, culture, nature, and nightlife. For such a small island, Corfu has a little bit of everything, making it the perfect spot to head to if you want to do many different things.

As for what to do on your solo trip, a day spent beach hopping is a must (Porto Timoni is a must!). Another incredible activity is to spend a few hours exploring the historical goodness of Corfu Town and end the day indulging in its nightlife. If you’re feeling up for a hike, make sure to check out the Lakones Path Trail, which takes you on a circuit near Paleokastritsa through lush slopes of citrus and olive groves.

Even though there are many incredible places to stay in Corfu , as a solo traveler, the best spot to stay is in Corfu Town. Not only is it easier to meet fellow travelers to go on adventures with, but it’s also the easiest place to start exploring the island further as many transportation options are available. Porto Demo Boutique Hotel is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a luxurious respite further away from the crowds.

Accommodation : Porto Demo Boutique Hotel

Recommended by Elena from Passion for Greece

The little island of Kasos of the Dodecanese complex is one of the remotest, wildest, and few islands which remains largely untouched by tourism, tucked in the southernmost corner of the Aegean Sea, near Crete. Kasos, with less than 1000 inhabitants, is an ideal greek island for solo travelers, as all Kasiots are very welcoming and visitors can quickly and easily make new friends and become part of the community. 

Kasos is an island where time seems to be stuck in the bygone era, rhythms are slow and the living is easy, which also means that it is a very safe place to be alone. This tiny paradise is dotted with cozy villages, elegant white-washed churches, traditional cafeterias, paradisiac beaches, summer traditional feasts and festivals, and delightful cuisine.

It is very easy to get around the island, it’s recommended renting a scooter and you can always also ask someone for a ride, it’s safe! Additionally, prices on the island are very reasonable, for accommodation, food, and tours. Expect locals to treat you to a homemade dish or a local raki. 

An amazing accommodation option is the Theoxenia Kasos, located in a very convenient part of the island and they also offer fully-equipped apartments with breathtaking sea views, ideal for shorter or longer stays.

Accommodation : Theoxenia Kasos

It’s a Cycladic island that is located between the Naxos and Santorini. If you are into lively nightlife, then it might be the best Greek island for solo travel. Ios has had a reputation of being a party island for young people for some years.

From the island, you will find several party hostels (some quiet too) to connect with fellow travelers and explore sightseeings together. Worth exploring are the sights like Skarkos and Tomb of Homer, a couple of peculiar windmills, Odysseas Elytis Theatre, and turquoise beaches.

As mentioned, the main thing that attracts visitors to Ios is it’s famous and never ending nightlife. The most lively place is Chora where solo travelers can find beach bars, clubs, pubs, and bars to have fun till the early morning.

If you have enough for parties, then it’s like other Greek paradisiacal islands with picturesque villages and beaches to have a proper vacation. Francesco’s is a great place to stay as solo traveler.

Accommodation : Francesco’s

Recommended by Monique from Trip Anthropologist

There are many breathtaking Greek islands, but some are tiny, and there’s not a lot to keep solo travelers occupied after a few days. Rhodes is among the most famous Greek islands because it offers so much variety. Pristine beaches and rocky coves, exciting nightlife, and weeks worth of medieval and ancient history to explore. Enough is happening on Rhodes to keep a sole traveler happy for months!

In the heart of the island, you can find Rhodes Town with its Old Town. It’s listed on the UNESCO site because of the number of medieval fortifications. You can just stroll around full of cobbled streets with interesting shops, bars, and restaurants. Then there are some incredible historical sites, like the place where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood and the spectacular sites of ancient Lindos atop the acropolis, and the charming old town below.

Rhodes is famous not just for its history, but also for its beaches and the sheer number of available watersports. Sailing, diving, kayaking, sea paddling, snorkeling, cruises, and day trips are available from every main town. The beaches of Lindos, Pallas, and St Paul’s are a must to discover just how special this island is.

St Paul’s Bay View Suites has one of the most incredible views in Rhodes and is a favorite of solo travelers.

Accommodation : St Paul’s Bay View Suites

More posts about Greece and Solo Travel

• Greece Travel Guide
• Athens City Guide
• Lefkada Island Travel Guide
• Tips for Solo Backpacking in Europe
• Benefits of Solo Travel
• My First Solo Backpacking Experience

Read more about Greece:

20 Best Hikes in Europe – from walks to treks

14 Best quiet Greek islands to visit

8 Best cities in Europe for solo travel

Liked this article? Feel free and Share it!

Solo Travel In Greece: Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

By Haley Blackall. This guide to traveling alone in Greece contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Are you interested in learning about  solo travel in Greece ? Want to have a safe and fun trip exploring on your own?

Then you’re in the right place!

Greece, the land of turquoise water, white-washed buildings, and a culinary scene that’ll make you say “Opa!” more times than you can count, is the perfect place for a solo holiday.

If you’re contemplating solo travel in Greece, you’re in for an unforgettable journey. I spent two months on a Greece solo travel itinerary navigating from the bustling streets of Athens to the serene beaches of Milos. And let me tell you, Greece is a paradise for solo travelers, especially women. 

Whether you’re looking for the best islands in Greece for solo travelers or are wondering about the logistics of Greece solo travel, this guide has got you covered. 

Now, let’s delve into everything you need to know about solo female travel to Greece, from safety and costs to the must-visit spots.

⏳Short on time? Here are some quick tips for traveling alone in Greece: ✈️ Athens Airport Transfer: Book that here ☔ Safety: While Greece is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack  travel safety essentials . One top pick is the  She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include  Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments  and  Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . 🚗  Renting A Car: Discover Cars  (save up to 70% using their comparison tool!) 🚅  Public Transportation: Omio 🏨  Accommodation: This map  can help you pinpoint top-rated and budget-friendly accommodation in the Greek cities you’re visiting solo. It’s currently set to the Syntagma Square in Athens, but you can easily change it to your intended destination in Greece. 🎉  Experiences: Viator  (tours),  GetYourGuide  (tours), and  EatWith  (cooking classes & dining in local homes) 🏥 Travel Insurance: SafetyWing 📞 Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Confidently Travel Solo In Greece [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our solo travel Greece guide, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn everything you need to know to plan a safe and fun solo trip to Greece.

Is Solo Travel In Greece Worth It?

The short answer is yes, and here’s why: The country offers a vivid mix of experiences that are easily accessible and ideal for solo travel to Greece . 

Public transport is efficient, especially between the popular islands and main cities. The locals are generally hospitable and often go out of their way to help tourists.

Cultural sites like the Acropolis in Athens and the ancient ruins in Delphi are not just awe-inspiring but also well-organized, making it easy for those traveling Greece solo to explore.

Plus, the café culture is vibrant — ideal for those who want to people-watch or strike up a conversation with a local. 

Is Greece Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Safety is often a top concern for solo female travelers, and rightfully so. In my two months traveling solo in Greece, I found it to be a generally safe country.

According to the Global Peace Index , Greece has a high state of peace. Additionally, Travel Safe-Abroad considers Greece to be a safe country, and the chances of tourists being the victim of a crime are low.

Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist spots, especially in Athens, but violent crime is rare. Personally, I always felt secure walking around, even at night, although I did stick to well-lit areas and avoided sketchy neighborhoods.

Public transport, like the KTEL buses and underground subway, is reliable and generally safe. Just make sure to keep an eye on your belongings during busy hours. 

Taxis are also a popular mode of transport for a solo female trip to Greece, but always ensure they’re licensed. If you’re using a ride-sharing app like Beat or FreeNow, the usual safety rules apply. Check the driver’s rating and share your trip details with someone you trust.

Overall, solo female travel in Greece is amongst the safest in Europe .

Where Is Greece?

Greece is located in southeastern Europe, at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It shares land borders with Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. 

The country is famous for its extensive coastline, which is peppered with islands (approximately 6,000 of them!) though only about 227 are inhabited.

Greece is divided into several regions, each with its own unique charm. The mainland offers rugged mountains, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities like Athens. Then you have the islands, which are categorized into groups like the Cyclades, Ionian, Dodecanese, and more.

Each island group has its own distinct vibe, making it a diverse destination for any solo traveler. Personally, I’d recommend adding a Cyclades island hopping adventure to your itinerary; more on that below!

Getting To Greece

Getting to Greece is relatively straightforward, with most solo trips to Greece starting in Athens.

Athens International Airport (ATH) serves as the main hub for international flights, with several airlines offering direct flights from major cities worldwide. 

Once you land in Athens Airport, domestic flights to other cities and islands are frequent and usually affordable, especially if booked in advance.

If you are heading straight into Athens proper, board the underground subway (M3) and take the 40-minute trip to the city center (Syntagma Square) to start your solo travel in Athens.

Best Time To Take A Solo Greece Trip

When it comes to the best time for solo travel to Greece, it really depends on what you’re looking for. The high season, from June to September, offers the best weather but also comes with crowds and higher prices. 

I visited in mid-October just after the rush, and it was perfect; warm enough for solo beach days but not too crowded.

Shoulder Seasons

If you’re into cultural immersion and don’t mind cooler weather, consider going during the shoulder seasons in April-May or September-October. The temperatures are milder, and you’ll have more opportunities to interact with locals .

Plus, prices for flights and accommodations are generally lower, making a solo holiday in Greece that much more affordable.

Winter in Greece

For those who prefer avoiding crowds altogether, winter offers a different kind of beauty. Imagine exploring ancient ruins without the tourist rush or enjoying a more authentic experience in Athens.

However, note that many of the best Greek islands for solo travel shut down for the winter, so your options might be limited.

Getting Around Greece As A Solo Traveler

Navigating the country and islands is relatively easy, even for Greece solo female travel.

Public transportation in Greece

The public transport system in cities like Athens is efficient, with metros, buses, and trams connecting key points. 

For intercity travel, KTEL buses are reliable and cover most of the country. The KTEL website can be tough to navigate, though you can use an English language platform like Omio to research and book transportation around Greece.

Getting around Greece by ferry

Ferries are another popular option for getting around, particularly if you’re planning to explore the islands. I found the ferry system to be efficient and well-organized, making island-hopping a breeze. 

I booked my tickets in advance through Ferry Hopper , and it made traveling the Greek islands solo just that much easier. You can also use Omio to book ferry tickets.

Depending on your budget, you can choose from cheaper and slower ferry rides to fast and more expensive ones.

Book an organized Greek island sailing tour

I also tried out one of the solo sailing holidays in Greece for a few days, which was an incredible way to see the lesser-known islands at my own pace. Just make sure to plan your Greece solo itinerary carefully if you opt for sailing, as the winds can be unpredictable.

⛵ Click here for a list of top-rated Greece sailing tours !

Best Places For Solo Travel In Greece

Now that we’ve gone over some logistics of female solo travel in Greece, let’s talk about where to go, including:

Athens is the pulsating heart of Greece where antiquity mingles with edgy urban grit. It’s often the first stop for solo travelers to Greece, and it sets the tone for what the country has to offer.

Located on mainland Greece, the city is a sprawling metropolis, but its center is quite compact and walkable, making it ideal for those traveling alone — especially when you don’t have other people to split taxi fares with.

The Acropolis is the crown jewel, and it’s worth getting up early to beat the crowds. Standing alone in front of the Parthenon is a surreal experience. Don’t forget to visit the lookout for panoramic views over Athens’ mingled past and present. 

After descending from this historical high, I’d recommend losing yourself in the labyrinthine streets of Plaka , a neighborhood that invites aimless wandering. Here, cobblestone alleys are flanked by pastel-hued buildings and family-run tavernas where the moussaka is as authentic as it gets. 

If you are a foodie like me, I recommend partaking in an organized food tour of the city to start off your solo female travel in Athens. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the country’s cuisine and culture when traveling solo in Greece. A few top-rated options include:

• 🥘 The Award-Winning Food Tour of Athens: 6 or 10 Tastings
• 🐠 Greek Food Walking Tour in Athens
• 🌃 Athens Evening Food Tour
• 😋 Athens 4-Hour Cooking Class with Central Market Visit
• 🌿 Greek Cooking Class in Athens Including Rooftop Dinner with Acropolis View

For evening socializing, the neighborhoods of Psiri and Monastiraki offer an eclectic mix of artsy cafes and bars for meeting new friends and fellow travelers.

Monastiraki also offers many flea markets and street food stalls, so also make an afternoon stop here to see the contrast from day to night, especially around Athens’ main Monastiraki Square .

For a change of pace, Syntagma Square offers a slice of modern Athenian life. You can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard here too, a daily ritual for the city.

Before leaving Athens, do yourself a favor and hike up Mount Lycabettus . There and back only takes 45 minutes and you’ll be greeted with epic views of the capital, especially if you make the trek at sunset.

Looking for somewhere to stay on a budget? Here are some of the best hostels in Athens !

🏨 Athens Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Athens . 📸 Athens Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Athens .

Next on your epic solo Greece trip is the bucket list destination of Santorini — one of the most popular Greek islands. The stuff of postcards, those iconic white-washed buildings with blue domes are even more breathtaking in person. 

But beyond the Instagrammable vistas, Santorini offers a rich experience for the solo female traveler.

I arrived by ferry, and the first glimpse of the caldera — a volcanic crater now filled with the deep blue Aegean Sea — was incredible. I kind of had to pinch myself. In my book, it wins the award for best Greek island for solo travel.

From the ferry port, grab a bus ticket. The bus will take you up the side of the caldera to the main tourist hubs of Fira and Oia , both of which are perched on the edge of this caldera.

While they’re known for their sunset views, I found the early mornings to be magical. The streets are quiet, and you can wander through narrow pathways without jostling through crowds. 

One of my favorite experiences was hiking from Fira to Oia . The trail takes you along the edge of the caldera, offering stunning views at every turn. It’s a solitary experience that allows you to connect with the island’s dramatic geography. Make sure to avoid doing this trek during the heat of midday.

If beautiful beaches are more your scene, the island’s beaches are a geological wonder, thanks to their volcanic origins. Red Beach , with its towering red cliffs, is a must-visit, as is Kamari Beach , known for its unique black sand. 

🏨 Santorini Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Santorini . 📸 Santorini Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Santorini .

Continue Greek island hopping on Mykonos. It’s often dubbed the “party island,” but there’s so much more to it than its vibrant nightlife.

My first stop was Mykonos Town , also known as Chora . The area is a labyrinth of whitewashed houses accented by bursts of vibrant pink and red bougainvillea vines. 

It’s easy to spend hours here, wandering aimlessly and discovering hidden gems like Little Venice , where buildings practically kiss the sea.

That being said, Mykonos also offers some of the best beaches in Greece. I particularly loved Psarou Beach for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back vibe. It’s a great place to relax and perhaps strike up a conversation with a fellow traveler. 

If you’re into history, don’t miss the nearby island of Delos , a UNESCO World Heritage site. A short boat ride from Mykonos, Delos offers ancient ruins that rival those in Athens. It’s a perfect day trip and a way to balance the hedonistic pleasures of Mykonos with a dose of Greek culture.

🏨 Mykonos Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Mykonos . 📸 Mykonos Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Mykonos .

Paros struck me as the Goldilocks of the Greek Islands: not too big, not too small, but just right for a solo traveler.

The island offers a balanced mix of beach relaxation, nightlife, and cultural exploration, making it a perfect destination for those who want a bit of everything. 

Naoussa , the island’s main town, is a picturesque port filled with fishing boats and framed by tavernas. It’s one of the best places to travel in Greece alone.

I spent a few days here solo, dining on a mix of traditionally freshly caught octopus and trendy avocado toast and meeting up with fellow travelers for a bit of nightlife fun. 

What I love about visiting Paros, and especially the town of Naoussa, is that it offers a similar vibe to Mykonos’s Old Town, but at a more affordable price. 

For beach lovers, Golden Beach is a must-visit. It’s one of the longest beaches in the Cyclades and offers excellent conditions for windsurfing. I took a beginner’s lesson and had a blast, even if I spent more time in the water than on the board.

Paros also offers great accessibility to other neighboring Cycladic islands. I took a day trip to Antiparos , a smaller island just a 10-minute ferry ride away. It was a peaceful escape, with crystal-clear waters and fewer tourists, making it a perfect solo adventure.

🏨 Paros Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Paros . 📸 Paros Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Paros .

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands but is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. What I love about Naxos is its relaxed vibe.

The main town, also called Naxos , is a blend of Venetian and Cycladic architecture. The Portara (The Temple of Apollo), a marble doorway that’s all that remains of an ancient temple, is the town’s defining landmark. 

I walked out onto the peninsula during midmorning and found it to be a serene spot to reflect on my travels. That being said, the ideal time to visit the Portara is sunset, so make sure to get there about an hour before to grab a good spot.

To explore the inland villages of Halki (sometimes called Chalki or Chalkio) and Filoti I recommend renting a car for the day . Pass through arid landscapes dotted with Byzantine churches and serene olive groves. It felt worlds away from the beachside hustle and offered a glimpse into traditional Greek life. 

If you love a good hike, trek to the peak of Mount Zas for epic views of the island. A round trip should take about 2.5-3 hours at a leisurely pace.

Naxos offers a beautiful coastline in its southwestern region, with long stretches of golden sand beaches, perfect for a lazy day.

The most popular beaches are Agios Prokopios , where you can find more cafes and restaurants, as well as Plaka Beach for something quieter and more remote. These beautiful beaches can either be reached by rental car or through the island’s public bus (line 1).

Oh, and if you’re looking for the cheapest Greek island to visit during your solo female travel adventure, Naxos is one of the more budget-friendly options.

🏨 Naxos Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Naxos . 📸 Naxos Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Naxos .

Milos was the sleeper hit of my solo trip to Greece. Known for its otherworldly landscapes and unique rock formations, it’s an island that invites exploration.

Base yourself in the port town of Adamas , one of the best and most convenient areas to stay in Milos for first-time visitors .

I rented a car to explore the island , and it was one of the best decisions I made. The roads are well-maintained, and the island is small enough to navigate easily but diverse enough to keep you captivated. 

One of the highlights was Sarakiniko Beach , where the white volcanic rock formations create a moonscape that’s unlike any other beach I’ve visited. It’s a must-see, and going early helps you avoid the crowds — although there is nothing like sunning on the rocks at midday.

Another standout was the fishing village of Klima , with its colorful boathouses known as “syrmata.” I spent a peaceful afternoon here, just watching the fishermen mend their nets and the world go by. It felt like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into a slower, more traditional way of life that’s hard to find on the more touristy islands.

Milos offers a unique blend of natural beauty and authentic experiences, making it a perfect finale to any solo trip to Greece.

🏨 Milos Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Milos . 📸 Milos Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Milos .

Greece Solo Travel Map 

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a solo travel in Greece map. It has all of the places mentioned in this guide pre-plotted:

Click here for the interactive version of this map .

Tips For Taking A Solo Trip To Greece

Now that we’ve gone over where to go while traveling alone in Greece, let’s go over some important tips for having a safe and fun trip.

1. Keep solo travel safety in mind . While solo female travel in Greece is generally safe, it’s still wise to take precautions.

Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist spots like Monastiraki Square in Athens and on the subway. You might even opt for a crossbody bag that sits in front of you or pickpocket-proof clothing or a money belt .

Also, use licensed taxis and share your itinerary with loved ones. Additionally, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

2. Get a local SIM card. Staying connected is crucial, especially when you’re navigating unfamiliar places while alone in Greece.

A local SIM card gives you the freedom to use maps, translate phrases, and keep in touch with new friends or call emergency services. Some emergency numbers in Greece include:

• 112 (emergency services)
• 166 (ambulance)
• 199 (fire department)
• 100 (police)

There are travel safety apps that make calling for help easy while abroad, like TripWhistle Global SOS .

I recommend purchasing a Cosmote or Vodafone SIM Card. Or, if your phone uses an eSIM, you can install an Airalo eSIM before you arrive in Greece.

3. Make bookings in advance. Greece is a popular destination, and things can book up quickly, especially during high season between June and September. Book your accommodations and ferry tickets in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

4. Learn basic Greek phrases. While many Greeks speak English, knowing a few basic phrases can go a long way in making connections and navigating smaller, less touristy areas like the Greek islands.

5. Embrace “Greek Time”. The pace of life in Greece is slower than what you might be used to. Whether it’s waiting for a ferry or getting your meal at a taverna, patience is key. It’s all part of the experience, so embrace it. This will help you successfully travel solo in Greece.

Top Greece Tours For Solo Travelers

One of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit while meeting locals and making new friends during solo travel in Greece is to book a guided tour. A few top-rated tours in Greece include:

• 😍 Athens All Included: Acropolis & Museum + Cultural Guided Walking Tour (Athens)
• 🥘 The Award-Winning Food Tour of Athens: 6 or 10 Tastings (Athens)
• 🍷 Santorini Wine Adventure: 3 Wineries with 12 Tastings & Tapas (Santorini)
• 🥂 Classic Catamaran Cruise with Meal, Drinks & Transfers (Santorini)
• 🛥️ Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia + Guided Tour of Delos with Free Transfers (Mykonos)

➡️ Click here for a full list of Greece tours .

Costs Of Solo Travel To Greece

Greece can be both affordable and luxurious, depending on your travel style. Here’s a breakdown (in USD) to give you an idea of what to expect financially when planning your solo trip to Greece:

Accommodation. Hostels range from $20-$40 per night, depending on the location and time of year. Mid-range hotels can cost between $60-$120 per night, while luxury options start at $150 and go up from there.

This map can help you research accommodation in Greece. It’s currently set to Syntagma Square in Athens, but you can easily change it to your preferred solo travel destination in Greece:

Food. An important part of most solo holidays in Greece is the food. A meal at a local taverna will set you back around $10-$15. Street food like gyros or souvlaki costs around $3-$5. Dining in a more upscale, western-style restaurant can cost $20-$30 per meal.

This will also vary by destination. Mykonos Old Town will be more expensive than a remote village in Milos, for example, so keep this in mind when planning your solo trip budget .

Transport. Ferry tickets between islands vary but expect to pay around $20-$50 for shorter routes and up to $100 for longer ones.

This also depends on whether you want to take the slow or fast ferries. Public transport within cities like Athens is affordable, with tickets costing around $1.50 for a single journey. If you’re considering renting a car, prices start at around $30 per day.

Activities. Many historical sites have an entrance fee, ranging from $5-$20. Guided tours can start at $50 and go up depending on the length and exclusivity. If you’re into sailing, a day trip can cost around $100-$150.

Miscellaneous. Don’t forget to budget for things like SIM cards, which can cost around $10-$20 for a month’s worth of data, and travel insurance, which varies but averages around $50 for basic coverage.

By planning ahead and prioritizing your spending, you can have an enriching solo trip to Greece without breaking the bank.

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Greece?

When visiting Greece solo, it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Traveling To Greece Alone: FAQ

Q) is greece safe to travel alone.

Yes, Greece is generally considered safe for solo travelers, including women; however, it’s always advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings.

Q) Is Santorini safe for solo female travelers?

Santorini is a safer Greek island and popular among solo female travelers. Just exercise common sense, especially in crowded tourist spots, to ensure a hassle-free trip.

Q) What are the best Greek islands for solo travelers? 

The best islands for solo travelers include Santorini for its stunning views, Mykonos for socializing, Paros for a balanced experience, Naxos for pristine beaches, and Milos for off-the-beaten-path exploration. If you’re looking for the most affordable island, Naxos is a great option.

Q) Can you get around the Greek islands without a car?

Yes, you can. The Greek islands have a well-connected public transport system, including buses and ferries, making it easy to get around without a car.

Final Thoughts On Solo Travel In Greece

Embarking on a solo trip to Greece is more than just a vacation. It’s an enriching experience that offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the vibey alleyways of Mykonos’s Little Venice to the expansive beaches of Naxos, Greece provides a diverse backdrop for all kinds of solo travelers. 

Whether you’re a solo female traveler seeking a safe and welcoming destination or someone looking to explore the best islands in Greece for solo travelers, this country has something for everyone. 

Navigating through Greece solo offers a unique sense of freedom and adventure, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to travel alone. So, if you’re contemplating Greece solo travel, don’t hesitate. Your perfect solo adventure awaits in this Mediterranean paradise.

What tips would you add to this guide on solo travel in Greece?

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About The Author

Haley is the founder of the global travel blog, Haley Blackall Travel . You’ll find in-depth destination guides, especially on Greek travel, amongst detailed itineraries and travel tips on many countries around the world. Follow her travels on Instagram .

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The World on my Necklace

A Travel Blog by Katie Chavez

Solo Travel in Greece: Tips For Female Travelers

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.

If you are planning to do some solo travel in Greece, this article discusses some tips for solo female travelers.

Greece is a beautiful country with stunning places to visit and friendly and helpful people. So, is Greece safe for solo female travelers? Yes, I definitely think Greece is safe for females traveling alone. I spent five weeks traveling solo in Greece in 2021 and it was one of my favorite solo trips.

However, you should always be cautious. Here are some tips to follow for solo female travelers in Greece.

Things You Need To Know As a Solo Female Traveler in Greece

It’s every woman’s dream to visit the stunning Greek Islands, especially Santorini, which is full of white-washed buildings and colorful flowers hanging outside the windows.

But before setting off on your journey, it’s a good idea to be prepared and to know the places you’d like to visit, the best time to visit Greece, where to stay in Santorini , and what means of transport you are going to utilize.

Best Places For Female Solo Travel in Greece

Greece has many beautiful places to visit, and trying to choose where to go can feel overwhelming. There is something for everyone including archaeological sites, museums, beaches, delicious and unique cuisine, and nightlife; you could spend months in Greece and not get bored.

The best part is you will meet other solo females on your trip, making it easy to make friends and find other people to travel with.

Some of the best places to visit include:

1. Greek Islands

Greece is not only suitable for couples, but solo female travelers will also fit right in. The most notable places for the female solo traveler are the Greek Islands. Some of the islands you must make a point of visiting include:

• Skiathos and the Sporades
• Corfu and the Ionian Islands
• Saronic Islands

Most people who visit Greece start their trip in the capital city of Athens. It is an exciting city that offers female solo travelers the chance to mingle with the locals and have fun.

Some of the essential places to visit in Athens include the museums and other neighborhoods such as Plaka, Monastiraki Square, and Anafiotika. 

Best Time For a Greece Holiday

If you are wondering about the best time to visit Greece, summer is ideal. However, since it’s summer, the place will be swarming with other tourists. Anytime between June and August offers all solo female travelers a chance to experience the incredible beaches in Greece.

If you don’t love crowds, you can visit in the shoulder season months of May and September, as there are fewer people, the costs are reduced, and the weather is still very pleasant without being so hot.

Accommodation in Greece

In Greece, there are all types of accommodation for solo female travelers on holiday from luxury resorts, boutique hotels, renovated village houses, hostels, and beach resorts. However, before booking do your research and vet the place by checking reviews or other people’s recommendations.

Alternatively, you can book a place for a day or two to get a feel for it, and if you are happy, you can choose to settle there for the rest of your holiday. The best part about staying in a vacation home is that a lot of Greek house owners leave homemade jams, olive oils, and fruits in their homes for their guests.

Here are the best places to stay in Crete from my recent solo trip.

Food to Try in Greece

Greece has a wide array of delicious and irresistible cuisine that every solo female traveler should try. Some of the food you must try while traveling in Greece include the classic gyro and souvlaki for lunch. They are healthy and garnished with extra-virgin olive oil.

Greeks eat their dinner quite late, starting from 8 pm or 9 pm. So make sure to eat a snack in the evening around four o’clock.

Greeks don’t have a habit of eating breakfast, but you’ll find them snacking on a sesame seed-sprinkled bread or custard pastry. However, Greek yogurt topped with honey is very popular.

Other foods include dolmades, Greek salads, feta cheese, tsipouro, moussaka, spanakopita, and so many different and delicious pastries. And don’t miss delicious Greek donuts, Loukoumades!

Transportation in Greece

You’ll have to find reliable means of transport as a female solo traveler. Public transport in Greece, including buses, is usually a great option. And the best part is that they interlink towns and cities. Larger cities in Greece have city buses too.

If you want to move larger distances, you should consider domestic flights and trains. Ferries are your best option if you are visiting the Greek Islands. The tricky part is you have to reserve your tickets in advance. You can buy tickets online.

Language Tips

You may be thinking that people in Greece only speak Greek, but you’ll find a lot of people fluent in English. But it wouldn’t hurt to learn some Greek words, like greetings.

Is it Safe to Travel to Greece as a Solo Female Traveler?

Yes, Greece is a safe place for females to travel solo as the residents are friendly and helpful. Just ensure you are equipped with a map, use common sense, and book a tour if you would feel more comfortable doing so.

Also, don’t wander the city alone at night, and keep your belongings close to you.

Final Words

Don’t put off your travel plans just because your friends have canceled on you. You can choose to travel to some safe solo female holiday destinations such as Greece. Before embarking on your trip, ensure that you have your itinerary ready and pack all the essential items.

Above all, tour the Greek islands, Greece’s capital city, Athens, quaint little towns, and museums. Bon Voyage!

If you liked this post, check out some of my other Europe content:

• Epic Places To Visit on a Crete Road Trip
• Where To Stay in Crete: The Best Options To See All of the Highlights
• How To Best Explore Cyprus By Car: 1-2 Week Itinerary
• The Most Beautiful Places To Visit in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus
• Things To Do in Richmond, London: A Quintessential English Village
• The Most Beautiful Parks in London For a Winter Stroll
• What Life is Really Like Living on a Houseboat in London
• The Best Markets in London
• The Most Beautiful Towns in Dordogne Region of France
• A Perfect Day Hiking the Amalfi Coast of Italy
• La Gomera: The Undiscovered Canary Island

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• Ask Me About Greece
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Experience Greece Inside & Out

• Solo Female Traveler? The Best Insider Tips to Visit Greece
• Greece Travel
• Experience Greece

A woman traveling alone? In the not-so-distant past, this would either be looked down on, something to be avoided, or considered downright crazy. And yet, according to studies, more than one quarter of all travelers are thinking of going it alone. Out of that, a whopping 84 percent are women. At the same time, according to a CN Traveller report, women travel more often than men and account for 56 percent of leisure travelers.

This means that girls are feeling safe, secure and ready to embark on a trip that is bound to change their lives forever. The good news ? Times are changing, mentalities are changing, a girls are being raised to believe they are equally as important in this world and have rights to speak up, demand, claim, and of course, travel .

Female Solo Travel – The Greece Experience

Undeniably, one of the world’s safest solo female travel destinations is Greece , and this not something new. Single women have been traveling alone to Greece since the ’60s , and the proof? You’ll find most of them married to Greeks living in bliss somewhere on the islands or mainland.

This feeling of safety and of being at home is what inspired Willy Russell to pen his 1986 play titled Shirley Valentine . The story centers on frustrated middle-aged British housewife who decides one day to just leave her “little life” in Liverpool and travel to Greece , where she ends up finding herself and true love… A film followed in 1989 shot on Mykonos and conveying the beauty, the excitement, and the humor of traveling alone as a woman in Greece.

But the safety in Greece is something I too can verify from experience . I moved to Greece as a single woman 30 years ago. I have traveled alone, lived alone, and walked alone in this country and its cities, villages, and islands and I can say totally say that I have never felt in danger or threatened in any way .

This said and having many solo female travelers share their concerns, TheGreekVibe . com looks at solo female travel to Greece and answers all your questions.

►  5 + 1 Reasons to Visit Greece ASAP

Q&a: female traveling alone in greece.

1. Is Greece safe for solo female travelers? 

It absolutely is. Greece has been welcoming solo female travelers for decades . There may be a few points to have in mind, partcualrly when visiting a village in the mountains   (see below)  but overall women who have visited Greece once, choose to do so again and again with many making it an annual self-discovery ritual.

2. What are the best places to visit as a solo female traveler in Greece?

I would definitely say that the best places to visit in Greece as a solo female traveler are mainly the islands and mainland destinations that are accustomed to tourism. The best choice for me are the small islands where women travelers are warmly welcomed into the local communities. These could be Donoussa, Paxi, Symi, Leipsi, Kimolos , Hydra, Spetses , Antiparos, Ios, and Tilos – to name a few. At the same time, some of the villages in Southern Crete or in Mani are still tightly knit and hospitable to foreigners.

► 5 Quiet Greek Islands to Visit if You Want to Relax

I do want to stress that wherever you do decide to stay, the locals are bound to welcome you , so much so, that you’ll probably end up getting food, vegetables and fruit from the garden, homemade wine offered to you, and plenty of pampering. One thing that’s important for any Greek to open up to you is for you to be open too . Greeks do not like secretive people . So be open, smile, answer their questions, entertain their curiosity, and you won’t regret it. You’ll go from  foreigner (“xeni”) to friend (“ fili “) in no time, and then the rewards are abundant. 

3. What’s the best way to travel alone in Greece?

This depends on your style and needs. The bus and ferries are great ways to get around in Greece. All forms of travel are absolutely safe. Maybe you want to rent a motorcycle and roadtrip your way across the country. That’s safe too as long as you take the common-sense precautions you would elsewhere.

For me, the best way is the bus. For instance, you can actually take a bus from Athens to Zakynthos or Kefalonia islands. What I love most about the bus is that you hop on, throw on your headphones with your favorite music, sink into the seat and look out the window: your Greek adventure has just begun . Just make sure to book a window seat!

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4. What’s a good solo travel itinerary for Greece?

There are literally dozens of solo itineraries one could recommend or make depending on style, interests, priorities, time available, as well as on whether you want to see the islands or the mainland.

One thing I do suggest always is to stay for one or two days in a Greek city where you can do some shopping, visit museums, get a taste of modern Greek urban life and immerse yourself in the local way of life and culture. From there, I would then recommend one or two seaside destinations . 

This said, I will suggest two which I feel cover the initial needs of a first time solo female traveler.

1. A two-day stay in Athens or Thessaloniki , where there are dozens of things to do and then head to one of the small islands mentioned above.

2.   One day in the seaside town of Volos , which is full of younger crowds and then head off to the villages of Mt Pelion . Once there, you can choose whether you want to stay in a mountain village of down by the sea.

5. Can I walk everywhere alone in Greece at night?

It’s safe to walk at night as long as you are in populated areas with bars, cafes and shops. As in all urban centers worldwide, it is good to be alert of your surroundings. If you feel uneasy or it’s very late at night with no cars or people, avoid walking. If you have no other choice, walk in the street where you are visible and avoid dimly-lighted areas. There are very few such areas in Athens. 

At this point I can’t stress enough how important it is to research well before booking accommodation. It’s better to pay a bit more for a room or hotel near the center of town (I am mostly referring here to Athens and Thessaloniki) rather than a cheap room or hotel in a seedy neighborhood where you can get to at night.

☞ A  map  of Greecewill definitely come in handy.  I recommend  you get this easy-to-read and detailed waterproof adventure map of Greece   by experts  NatGeo.  A great  tool !

6. I look foreign, does it make it less safe for me to travel or walk alone in Greece?

Absolutely not! As in all cases of travel, much of our experience depends on our own responsibility. Which means: be alert, be prepared, know when to say ‘no’, don’t be over-trusting, and practice common sense . Would you walk alone in an industrial area in your town? If not, then why do it in Greece or anywhere else for that matter. Meanwhile, don’t forget, Greece welcomes some 32 million travelers just like you a year . Some are bound to be blonde-haired and blue-eyed too.

7. Traveling alone and taxi sharing?

Even though this does not happen any more, particularly now with taxi apps like Beat, there still may be some independent cab drivers who want to pick up an additional customer. It’s better to say no. If they don’t accept get another taxi.

8. Can I eat alone in a restaurant in Greece?

Definitely! And if you’ve been staying in a small island village, it’s the best place to meet new people because that’s where everyone probably eats. The same applies for the café and bar. And that’s what makes the smaller islands like Donoussa, Anafi or Iraklia so much fun – you always know where to find everyone should you want to socialize. You’ll be seeing the same people you saw on the beach, later in the café, in the evening having dinner at the restaurant, and much later at the bar.

9. How about being a lone woman in a Greek bar?

Well, how about being a single woman in a bar anywhere? How would you go about it? The same applies in Greece too. Again it depends on what you’re there for. Are you just there for a drink? Do you want to meet people? Anything goes as long as you know your limits (alcohol or other). 

►What’s Greek ‘Kerasma’ All About?

Tips for girls traveling alone in greece, in the city.

• As in all of the world’s big cities, make sure you stay within the tourist/business district . It may be a bit more expensive but it pays off in the end because you can most of the times just walk back to your room instead of having to take a taxi.
• There are very few hotels in Athens or Thessaloniki that are located in dangerous neighborhoods. Actually there are very few neighborhoods that are “dangerous” as we would mean when referring to some neighborhoods in US cities, for instance.
• If you decide to aimlessly walk around – or what I call explore the city, which I definitely recommend you do, it’s the only way to truly experience a city – do it in the day time or the evening. Opt for night walking only to and from your entertainment venue. 

► Ask Me About Greece

On the island.

• Greeks tend to stare . Don’t let that put you off. It’s just part of the routine in small communities. Why? Because you happen to be something “new”. It happens to all of us, Greek or non-Greek. So ignore. Once you get to know people they will stop.
• If you decide to visit churches or monasteries, be a bit more conservative in what you wear, which basically means avoid wearing really short shorts or bathing suits. And if you want to participate in Greek holiday celebrations – like Easter – the same applies.
• Get to know the locals. Like I said before, a smile and openness really go a long way and can make your holiday to Greece a truly rewarding experience.  
• This tip applies to most places in Greece, but mainly on Crete. You are bound to be treated to a shot of raki or some wine . It is up to you to accept or politely decline. If you do accept, turn in the direction of the person who is treating you the drink and raise your glass with a smile. In many cases this would mean later accepting to get to know each other more. It’s your choice from there. Avoid mixed signals at all costs unless it’s your choice.

In the Mainland Villages (mountain or not)

• People in the villages on the mainland tend to be a bit more conservative. Think Chicago and Nashville. Much like that, mainland folks are less easier to approach but the same applies as on the Greek islands, be open. It may be a bit harder to integrate here. 
• If you chose to stay in mainland towns like Ioannina, for instance, or Larissa, I would recommend chosing one café to frequent where you get to know the people there. If you’re a single girl staying in a mountain village, just go with the flow of the locals. Get to know the hotel owner and the person at the bakery, and always greet people walking in the village paths with a “Kalimera” (good morning) or “ Kalispera ” (hello).
• Most of the villages in Greece, primarily those off the beaten tourist track continue to have so-called “ quiet hours” . This means that between 2pm and 5pm there is a siesta time when shops are closed, roads are empty, and people are inside. You can use this time to explore the village and get good photos. But have in mind that you’ll most likely be alone. 

A few more tips on solo female travel… by Maria

1) Make sure you’ve planned your first night in Greece well. You know exactly where you’ll be staying and where that location is in relation to where you want to go.

2) Always protect your travel documents , passport, credit cards and money. Don’t expect that these will be safe in the hotel or room.

3) Notify your friends or family of your plans. 

So if your still thinking about visiting Greece. Just do it. 

► 12+1 Greek Food Products You Must Try

On a final note with regard to statistics and solo female travel :

✓72 percent of women in the US have taken at least one trip alone 

✓Overall, women travel solo more then men

✓Younger generations actually prefer to go it alone

✓32 million single American women traveled at least once over the past year and 1 in 3 traveled 5 times or more

✓The number of travel agencies offering woman-only travel has increased by more than 230 percent over the past few years

✓all the more solo travelers are thinking of joining group tours

✓More than half (59 percent) of solo female travelers would travel alone again in the next 12 months.

Useful Tools to Plan the Best Trip to Greece

These are some of the  trusted partners  I use when I travel in Greece and abroad.

🏩 Find a great place to stay and the best deals with  Booking.com

🛫 Book the cheapest flights and get the best airline ticket deals to Greece with  WayAway

⛴ Eager to book your ferry tickets for the Greek islands? The easiest way is with  Ferryhopper

🚘 Discover Greece in comfort with a car. Rent a car with the folks who do it best:  DiscoverCars

🏛 Go deeper into Greek culture with exciting sightseeing tours & activities with  Viator

🤿 Plan fun things to do & exciting adventures in Greece with the experts at  GetYourGuide

🛎 Find a cheap hostel and connect 🍻 with travelers like yourself visiting Greece with  HostelWorld

🛵 Explore Greece on bike, moped or motorbike: rent from with  BikesBooking

💵 Make sure to get help or compensation for flight delays & cancellations. Just ask the experts at  AirHelp   

♫ Concluding today’s post with a song dedicated to the Greek goddess of the girls, wilderness and fertility, Artemis , the twin sister of Apollo. Singer Alkistis Protopsalti performs “Artemis” – a song by Dimitra Galani and lyrics by Lina Nikolakopoulou.

Be well. Travel

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This is Why You Should Visit Mykonos After All

10 thoughts on “solo female traveler the best insider tips to visit greece”.

I went last summer. Mykonos not worth it, expensive and crowded. Ios was super fun, not as scenic but bars were so much fun. Milos was a dream. Not crowded, affordable and so beautiful.

Good for you, Alice. That’s why I explain that it is important to know what you’re looking for. Thankfully, Greece has islands and mainland destinations for every taste and every pocket. Glad you enjoyed your visit. Milos is very beautiful and ‘home’ to some of Greece’s best beaches. Happy Holidays!

Great article…im looking forward towards my 1st solo trip in Greece as soon as the ban on international is lifted. When is the best time to visit your beautiful country?

Thank you, Zanele. I am sure that you will enjoy the experience. Greece is ideal for solo travelers. The best time to visit Greece, is either early in June or in September. This year, due to Covid-19 and the uncertainty involved with regard to airlines and country rules, I would suggest September, when things will have cleared up, more people will be vaccinated, and the US will allow travel to Europe.

I had never thought of Greece as the ideal place to travel to if you’re on a solo trip. So glad I read this article though, now it’s put the idea in my head!

Great to hear! Yes, it’s a great place for solo travel. I think it’s ideal because locals make you feel right at home as long as you’re open.

I am looking for a pretty beach town in Greece for a single woman. Not too big or rowdy but also big enough to meet people and go to bars, beaches and explore.

Hello from sunny Greece, Yvonne. There several pretty beach towns on Crete which are very popular with solo travelers as it is easy to make friends. And of course, Crete has been welcoming solo travelers for years. I would suggest Crete because you have the options of bars, beaches and tons of options for exploration.I would stay in Chania, Rethymno or smaller still at Agios Nikolaos. Malia has a massive beach, and Spili is like the good old days, quieter. And a bit further away (and pretty hard to get to) Paliochora.

Good to know that Greece is a recommended destination for a solo trip! I did some solo trips but I haven’t done that in Greece yet. Thanks for all the tips 🙂

Well then, now you have all the information you need. Let’s cross our fingers for better days ahead. Thanks for reading.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel Athens (With Itinerary Included!)

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Digital Nomad GatG, History GatG, Island GatG

Are you wondering if going on a solo trip to Athens is safe? I spent a month in Athens, and I can assure you it's a fantastic destination for female solo travellers. Athens is such a wonderful city. This Greek capital is steeped in history, has numerous colourful neighbourhoods and is the ideal base from which to explore the rest of the country. 

If you're planning a trip to Athens, below are my recommendations for a 3 day Athens itinerary ideal for solo travellers. The reality is that Athens is so fabulous you could easily spend a week here. I hope this Solo Travel Athens guide inspires you to travel to this fantastic Greek capital. 

* Before you book your Athens solo travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Greece  

Solo Travel to Athens  

If you're wondering is Athens safe to travel alone? Although the neighbourhoods of Monastiraki, Omonia, Psyrri, and Mextaxourghio boast some of the city’s most colourful and alternative nightlife, don’t venture out late at night on your own, especially in poorly lit areas.

The boundary between “safe” neighbourhoods and “unsafe” neighbourhoods can be difficult for non-locals to distinguish, so just be careful at night and keep a close eye on your belongings.  

For the Athens solo female traveller, just because you travel here alone doesn’t mean that you'll stay by yourself. Athens is becoming popular as a digital nomad hub, and the best way to meet others is in one of the co-working cafes. Coco Hub has an online community that you can join and meet others either already in Athens or transiting through.  

For solo travel in Athens, just wandering the neighbourhoods of the city centre could amuse you for days, and the (air-conditioned) National Archeological Museum is especially good on hot afternoons. Athens also has fantastic nightlife, but grab a buddy from your hotel or hostel before venturing out alone into the early hours of the night.

During the summer months, make the most of the open-air cinemas (the films are in English) and the beach bars and clubs along Posidonos Street.

Athens City is an intriguing mesh of ancient remnants and contemporary vibes. As for things to do alone in Athens, you’ll definitely want to visit the Acropolis , and Acropolis Museum. This famous archaeological site is one of the tourist attractions in Greece and is home to the world-famous Parthenon.  

N.b. By booking through this page you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping.

3 Day Itinerary For Solo Travellers

Day 1 in athens – the acropolis.

Athens needs no introductions and is definitely worth discovering on your first few days in Greece, whichever time of year that you visit.

The city centre is built around its most impressively imposing landmark, the Acropolis, while the majority of its ancient ruins can be found within a walking distance radius around its base.

The ancient citadel was built in 448 B.C. and is located on the highest point of the city, as its name suggests in Greek. It houses the Parthenon, for which it is most known, as well as the Erechtheion monuments, famously featuring the Caryatids.

Make sure you check out the stunning Acropolis Museum but be prepared to spend a couple of hours as it is simply brimming with artefacts. Made almost entirely out of glass, it allows the natural light to move through the building as it pleases, creating the ideal setting for a spectacular display of ancient relics.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus is situated at the foot of the Acropolis rock and is an ancient theatre with fantastic acoustics, used until this day. If you are visiting in August, make sure you check the Epidaurus Festival, which brings world-acclaimed performances to its historic stage.

Your ticket to the Acropolis allows you free access to the nearby Ancient Agora (or marketplace), which was the focal point of civic life in ancient Athens.

The Ancient Agora of Athens lies on the other side of the Acropolis, and today, the Agora is a lovely and shady oasis in the middle of the city’s chaos and a great place to curl up with a book on a hot afternoon.  * Check rates and availability: Athens Acropolis & Archaeological Sites Ticket

The Agora was once the heart of ancient Athens. Inside is the Temple of Hephaistos, one of the best-preserved ancient temples from the Classical era, the Church of Holy Apostles, the Tholos (the headquarters of the council), and the Bouleuterion, a former meeting place. The Agora’s museum, inside the restored Stoa of Attalos, provides a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in ancient Athens.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is found across the road of Dionysiou Areopagitou, which is the main pedestrian street leading up the Acropolis from the main road.

Walk around the Acropolis from its metro station to go to Thiseio, down to Monastiraki, and then to the area of Anafiotika, which is one of the most picturesque locations with great local food. Spend the early evening here dining on some Greek cuisine and watching the passers-by. 

Then head to 360 Bar and treat yourself to a cocktail whilst admiring the Acropolis and the city below from the rooftop.  * Check rates and availability: Athens Acropolis & Archaeological Sites Ticket

Day 2 in Athens – Monastiraki

Explore Athen’s urban side. From derelict, neoclassical buildings, picturesque open-air bars and eateries and street art practically everywhere, Athens has a truly authentic vibe. To really understand what makes the city’s heartbeat, visit its colourful neighbourhoods.

Monastiraki Square is a hub of activity, connecting the historic areas of Plaka and Thiseio that are found directly below the Acropolis. In Monastiraki Square, there are plenty of cafes, and it’s a vibrant area to just sit and people watch. Walk past Agios Eleftherios, a small Byzantine church that contains the stone from Galilee where Jesus is said to have changed water into wine.

Overlooking the square is the Turkish Mosque which was originally built in the 18th century and has since been restored. You can also see the ruins and columns of Hadrian’s Library.

The complex was built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 A.D and housed teaching and reading rooms with a pond, gardens and porticoes where people could reflect on what they had learned. 

Monastiraki is a nice area to just leisurely stroll around and do a spot of shopping at the main flea market, then stop for lunch at one of the many traditional tavernas where you can admire the view of the Acropolis as you dine.    

Opposite Monastiraki is Psyrri, a gentrified district where you will find a huge variety of bars, taverns, sweet shops and meze places to sample the local cuisine. It’s also a district of street art with a gritty flair and bustling night scene that attracts hipsters and those seeking fashionable bars.

Just walking around its streets, you’ll be greeted with an open-air gallery of colourful street art. Make sure to see the Kerameikos ancient cemetery here, where you can see the Sacred Gate and part of the Themistoclean Wall. This is the area that I stayed in, which is just a 5/10 minute walk to Monastiraki.  

On your solo trip to Athens, at night, head up to the hill to join the others that come here to watch the sunset over the sea. You can walk up the hill from Psyrri. The walk down the hill is just gorgeous, with the view of the city below. Not only is the view stunning, but you can spot the roof terraces that have swimming pools as you walk down.  

Day 3 in Athens – Discover the Athenian Riviera

With a huge coastline that covers about 70 km, venturing south of the centre promises plenty of time spent on a city beach as well as some sightseeing too.

You can rent a car and drive down the coast. Or, if you prefer to take public transport, you can take the metro and the tram line that culminates in the seaside region of Voula.

For an Athens beach holiday, from Athens centre, you go past the coastal, residential area of Faliro, Kalamaki and Alimos, Glyfada, Voula and then Vouliagmeni.

There are beach facilities dotted along the coast, but the one that I recommend to spend a day at the beach is in Varkiza, which can also be reached on the122 public bus, which you can take after you get off from the Elliniko metro station from central Athens. The bus goes further than Varkiza, to Saronida, which is a popular summer resort town about 43 km from Athens.

At Varkiza, you pay €7 to enter the beach area; then, you can choose a sun lounger to sunbathe on for the day. There is a lifeguard and a shop for snacks and drinks. Another great beach spot is Vouliagmeni, a thermal lake with sandy beaches and bays. There’s a restaurant and bar here and even thermal springs. 

Day 4 in Athens – The Saronic Islands

Skala beach in Agistri

During your vacation to Athens, Greece, if you are planning on staying longer here. Athens is the gateway to the islands, the closest being the Saronic Islands . I spent 2.5 weeks exploring these islands and recommend them for solo travel. If you’re unsure which one to visit, here’s a quick summary of them all.  

Just 45 minutes from Pireaus is the small island of Agistri. If you’re searching for somewhere small and beautiful, this island is a perfect choice, and it’s as peaceful or as loud as you want it to be, depending on which side of the island you stay.  

Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Agistri is the island of Aegina. Aegina is one of the most well-known Saronic islands. Its export is pistachios, and there are pop-up stalls and shops near the port selling pistachio oil, butter, sweets and anything and everything that can possibly be made from pistachios.

This was the first island that I stayed on, and it honestly is one of my favourites. There’s something magical about it, and the fact that there isn’t any transport makes it even more special (just one dust cart you hear in the mornings). The only other noise you’ll hear are the sounds of donkeys and the cats (or which there are many) that will befriend you as you sit al-fresco dining for one.  

With its Venetian mansions, Spetses feels elegant with its boutiques and glamorous town. Spetses is 15 miles long and has a rich maritime past.

Spetses was named ‘spice island’ by the Venetians after the aromatic smells. There are old footpaths across the island that take you on a path of discovery past small chapels and villages and across the green hilltops.  

Poros in Greece

I loved this island and immediately felt at ease here. There’s just something about being on an island and seeing the mountains of the mainland in the distance. And Poros is so close to mainland Greece that you can take a small ferry across to the Peloponnese for just one Euro. Poros is 33 square km and is actually made up of two islands both with different landscapes.

* Read: Greek Islands Hopping in the Saronic Islands

Where To Stay in Athens

Athens has accommodation for all budgets. Choose a hostel or guesthouse if you’re backpacking in the city or on a tight budget. You can find studios and apartments as well as 3 to 5-star hotels with a pool or a view of the Acropolis. Because I stayed for a month, I choose an apartment through Airbnb. Below are my recommended places to stay in Athens. For all other accommodation, click through this link.   * Check rates and availability for all Athens accommodation  

City Circus Athens Hostel

If you’re backpacking in Greece and on a budget, City Circus Athens is a great hotel. Located in the Psirri area, near Monastiraki Metro, you’re in the heart of the city, near bars and restaurants and walking distance to the Acropolis.

The staff are really helpful, and there are common areas to meet others to go sightseeing with. Choose from a bed in a 4-bed female-only or mixed dorm room or upgrade to a classic double or comfort double room.   *  Check rates and availability: City Circus Athens Hostel

A for Athens

As for enjoying the captivating ambience of the ancient rock at night, why not choose to stay at a hotel with an Acropolis view?

A for Athens is located in the vibrant area of Monastiraki with a stunning view of the Acropolis from the rooftop bar and the terrace with panoramic views where you can enjoy a morning coffee and a superb breakfast (that’s included in the rate) whilst gazing at Athens’ most iconic landmark.

Choose from a standard double or twin room, a deluxe double room or a junior suite with an Acropolis view or a blue suite with an Acropolis view.   * Check rates and availability: A for Athens

Getting Around Athens

The centre of Athens is walkable, so you can see the Acropolis, the flea market and the main shopping area on foot. For all other areas, jump on the metro.

A one-way ticket will cost €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes. The metro goes to Piraeus port, but you can also take bus numbers 040 and 500. You need to buy a ticket beforehand, which you can purchase at metro stations. Find out more . 

Express buses run from Athens Airport to Syntagma Square. Taxis are affordable but for ease, there is also Uber in Athens. It’s really to download, and when you use the app, expect a yellow taxi to turn up.  

For those seeking something a little bit different, there’s also an Athens happy train that goes around the centre to the city’s most famous monuments and sites. The colourful red train starts from Constitution Square and runs from 09:00 am to 09:00 pm. Tickets are €5, which you pay on the train, and you can hop on and off as much as you like.  

I hope that this short guide has inspired you to visit Athens. It's a wonderful city and great for solos. If you're planning to see more of the country on your visit, you can find my Solo Travel in Greece guide below. 

Read more about Greece

• Solo Travel in Greece
• Santorini Solo Travel
• Saronic Islands
• Best Greek Islands in October (& September!)

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2 thoughts on “ Solo Travel Athens (With Itinerary Included!) ”

Is Athens and Santorini safe for a first time solo female traveller

Yes, definitely for Athens. I haven’t yet been to Santorini but it has been recommended by our solo female community who contributed to the article so I would say yes too. From my experience solo in Greece, everywhere I have been is perfectly safe. Are you a member of our Girls about the Globe Facebook group? I recommend joining and asking the same question in there too. Have an amazing time! Lisa x

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Explore the Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Is the busyness of life weighing you down? Do you crave adventure? Are you hoping to explore interesting ancient ruins and take in the beauty of pristine beaches? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then why not consider traveling solo in Greece?

The Greek islands offer unforgettable experiences, especially for those who prefer to travel alone. However, with 6,000 islands and islets to explore, knowing which ones to explore can help you streamline your vacation and make the most of your time.

We have curated a list of the best Greek islands for solo travel to ensure that you are able to identify islands that best cater to your interests and preferences. Here, we’ll talk about spots to visit if you’re a female traveler, islands that offer the most thrill and adventure, and so much more. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

1. Top Greek Islands for Solo Travel

The Greek islands are the perfect place for those who crave solitude and adventure. With so many places to see, you will be spoiled for choice!

In this section, we’ll talk about some of our personal favorites. Be sure to take your personal preferences and budget into consideration when deciding which islands to visit.

Without further ado, here are some of the best places in Greece for solo travel:

The island of Paxos is located in the Ionian Sea. It is known for its small population, slow commercial activity, and natural landscapes. These attributes make it the perfect place for solo travelers hoping to get inspiration for their next art project or escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Why Visit Paxos?

Paxos provides a peaceful and cozy setting that is ideal for lone travelers looking for privacy and leisure. The island offers a tranquil getaway from the stress of daily life with its immaculate beaches, glistening waves, and untainted natural splendor.

You can take your time exploring the island, stopping to explore picturesque villages, secluded coves, and hiking paths. Savor local seafood and regional specialties while indulging in leisurely dinners at waterfront tavernas, which offer stunning views of the sea.

Solo travelers often find Paxos’s laid-back vibe and amiable people to be incredibly pleasant.

Things to Do at Paxos

Make the most of your stay with these activities:

• Explore the colorful villages and discover local cuisine.
• Visit the Blue Caves to see unique rock formations.
• Learn more about the Olive Groves, where produce is grown for oil manufacturing.
• To be inspired by unique architecture, then travel to the Church of Ypapanti.
• Take a boat trip to travel into secluded coves and hidden beaches.

Kos is located in Greece’s Dodecanese Islands. It’s a fantastic place to go if you want to experience rich culture and history.

Why Visit Kos?

This island entices tourists with a captivating combination of natural beauty, heritage, and a lively environment. You can see historical attractions, such as the Kos Town’s Castle of the Knights and the Asklepion, where Hippocrates formerly practiced medicine.

Beyond the ancient sites, there are also other enticing landmarks to see, delicious food to try, and a bustling nightlife where you can let your hair down and mix with locals and other solo travelers.

Activities to Try While You’re on the Island

Here are some of the things you can do to keep yourself busy while touring this island:

• Take a day trip to Turkey. Take the ferry and head to this country to see more sights.
• Try water sports. Because the weather conditions often involve windy days, this island is the perfect place to learn a new water sport.
• Relax in the thermal springs. On the southeastern coast of Kos, you’ll find hot springs, where you can enjoy some self-care in waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties.
• Experience the nightlife. Discover the exciting nightlife on the island, which offers a wide variety of bars, clubs, and beach celebrations. Savor cocktails at bars by the water, party all night long at Kos Town clubs, or unwind to live music at coastal locations.

Corfu, which is also referred to as the “Emerald Island,” is distinguished by its untamed mountains, beautiful surroundings, and charming hiking paths. It is situated off the northwest coast of mainland Greece in the Ionian Sea.

Why Visit Corfu?

The Emerald Island draws tourists with its gorgeous scenery, fascinating past, and lively culture. Discover the quaint Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its medieval fortifications, winding lanes, and Venetian architecture.

Unwind on immaculate beaches with lush cliffs and crystal-clear waves. Visit archeological sites such as the Achilleion Palace and the historic town of Kerkyra to learn more about the island’s interesting past.

Solo travelers who want to take in Corfu’s timeless beauty and charm will have an amazing Mediterranean experience, whether they are looking for peaceful relaxation, adventures in the sun, or a taste of the local culture.

Things to Do On the Island of Corfu

When on this island, here are some of the activities you can do to make the most of your trip:

• Experience a traditional festival. While on a journey of self-discovery, experiencing new cultures can make a world of difference. There are immersive cultural festivals that you can celebrate along with the locals to make the most of your stay on the island.
• Learn more about the history of Corfu. Visit historical places such as Achilleion Palace, constructed by Austrian Empress Elisabeth, and the historical city of Kerkyra to learn more about Corfu’s rich past.
• See Corfu Town. Admire the Venetian architecture, historic buildings, and vibrant marketplaces of Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you meander through its picturesque streets. Don’t miss the magnificent Old Fortress with its sea view and the famous Liston promenade.
• Visit Mount Pantokrator. To see stunning vistas of Corfu and the waters of the Ionian Sea, drive or trek to the top of Mount Pantokrator, the island’s highest peak.

Beautiful Zakynthos is an island in the Ionian Sea that is well-known for its immaculate beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery. Thanks to its relaxing lodgings, a plethora of outdoor activities, and stunning views, it is a great place for travelers who prefer to see the world on their own.

Why Travel to This Island?

Known as the “flower of the Levant,” Zakynthos enthralls visitors with its untainted beaches, lively culture, and stunning natural surroundings.

Discover the stunning Navagio Beach, which is flanked by towering cliffs, turquoise seas, and a famous shipwreck. Along the island’s rocky shoreline, you can find secluded coves and caverns that are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving excursions.

In quaint villages such as Alykes and Keri, you can enjoy traditional wine and food while receiving genuine Greek hospitality. You can learn more about the island’s heritage by visiting the Byzantine Museum and the Venetian Castle in Zakynthos Town.

Alternatively, take a boat trip to observe the critically endangered Caretta-Caretta sea turtles in their native environment. Regardless of your intended pursuits while holidaying on this island, Zakynthos is sure to offer something you will enjoy.

Activities to Do While on This Island

Do these things while on the island of Zakynthos:

• Visit Shipwreck Beach to get some great photos of the printing beach and the remains of a sea vessel.
• Experience the beauty of the Blue Caves, accessible by boat.
• Go turtle spotting at Laganas Bay, where you can learn more about endangered sea turtles.
• Explore the Keri Caves on the southwest part of the island and swim in the waters to get a closer look at the natural rock formations.
• Go on a wine-tasting adventure and learn more about traditional wine-making processes.

A jewel of the Ionian Sea, Lefkada is the westernmost Greek island. It has gained fame because of its magnificent blue waters, variety of water sports, lush slopes, and charming villages.

Reasons to Visit Lefkada

Lefkada has plenty of things to keep single travelers occupied. Popular places to visit include the following:

• Lefkada Town

There are also other activities to keep yourself busy. Whether you are hoping to find a comfortable spot for self-reflection or activities to help you make the most of your stay, Lefkada is sure to be a memorable holiday destination.

Things to Try While Visiting This Island

Here are some of the best things to do while on Lefkada:

• Indulge in your favorite water sports.
• Relax on one of the pristine beaches.
• Learn yoga or try wine tasting.
• Attend a cultural event to learn more about the locals.
• Go sailing to see the island from a different perspective.
• Visit the town of Agios Nikitas and nearby beaches.

This Greek island is located in the northwest Aegean Sea. It is yet another fantastic option for those craving a unique experience.

Why Travel to Skiathos?

Many solo travelers are drawn to Skiathos by its immaculate beaches, rich natural landscapes, and lively atmosphere. Discover the breathtaking coastline of the island, which boasts more than 60 beaches to pick from. Notable beaches include Koukounaries Beach and Lalaria Beach, which are renowned for their golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

You can explore Skiathos Town’s quaint streets, which are home to a charming port, classic tavernas, and a bustling nightlife. Visit sites such as the Evangelistria Monastery to learn about the rich cultural legacy and history of the island.

What to Do While You’re There

Here are a few activities to try during your stay on the island:

• Experience the nightlife. Skiathos is known for its vibrant nightlife, so get out after dark to meet new people and party until the sun comes up.
• Go hiking. Take in breathtaking sights as you walk along hiking paths to experience this island on foot.
• Visit monasteries and churches. You can learn more about the religious history of the island by stopping to see these monumental buildings.

2. Must-Visit Greek Islands for Solo Female Travelers

Traveling solo as a female can be incredibly daunting. The world can be a scary place for women who seek adventure on their own terms. Safety was at the top of our priority list when identifying the best Greek islands for solo female travel.

However, we made sure that there were enough entertainment and breathtaking views available at these tourist destinations so that you still have a fantastic time while island hopping in Greece. Here are our top picks that you should definitely explore on your next solo trip:

Rhodes Island

One of the best islands to visit if you are a female traveler is Rhodes Island. Located off the coast of Turkey, it offers a plethora of activities to keep you busy for the duration of your trip. The island has an airport, making it a great place to begin your journey if you do not plan to visit mainland Greece.

Why Visit This Island?

Rhodes Island is the perfect destination for solo female travel because it offers access to a rich cultural heritage, and because of its history, there is no shortage of ancient sites to visit. The best part is that this island is safe, and the locals are friendly, which can make your trip that much more memorable.

Plus, the tourist-friendly infrastructure means that you won’t have trouble getting from one destination to another.

Activities for Solo Travelers on Rhodes Island

There are a number of different things you can do while visiting this island. Here are some of our favorites:

• Enjoy the many beaches. Greek islands have some of the best beaches, and this one is no different. You can head to Kallithea, Saint Paul’s Bay, or Tsambika to bask in the sunlight or enjoy the waves.
• Go on a wine-tasting tour. You can make a day or half-day trip of this and try some of the locally-made wine for yourself.
• Explore the clock tower. This island is home to a magnificent clock tower that you can climb to the top of for breathtaking views and great photographs.
• Visit the ancient sites. As we have already mentioned, Rhodes Island is famous for its rich history. Whether you choose to explore the Rhodes Medieval City, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or check out the windmills of Mandraki, there is lots to see on this island.
• Try traditional Greek cuisine. What better way to experience the culture of the land than by trying out local eateries? We highly recommend giving Melekouni, a traditional dessert, a try.

Situated in the Aegean Sea, this island is yet another fantastic place for female solo travel. There are breathtaking views, gorgeous landscapes, and volcanic beaches on the island that you can explore.

Reasons to Visit Santorini

Santorini, well-known for its characteristic whitewashed buildings and spectacular sunsets, is an ideal vacation spot for female tourists traveling alone. Savor regional wines at vineyards set atop volcanic cliffs, stroll through the charming villages of Oia and Fira, and unwind on one of the pristine beaches.

Because it is a smaller island and has widespread appeal among tourists, Santorini is easy to explore and offers a wide variety of services and lodging options for solo travelers.

Activities to Try While on the Island

Below are some of the best activities to try on your next solo Greece trip:

• Explore the ancient city of Akrotiri. Experience a trip back to the past at the Akrotiri archeological site, sometimes known as the “Minoan Pompeii.” Discover the strikingly intact remnants of this historic community, which was covered in volcanic debris in 1600 BCE.
• Take in the red cliffs and volcanic sands. If you’re hoping to see a beach that’s a little different from what you’re used to, then you should definitely make a trip to Red Beach. The natural beauty is sure to make for a unique experience and excellent photographs.
• Go on walking tours. What better way to take in the fresh air and landscapes than by traveling on foot? You can hike from Fira to Oia along scenic trails that are sure to take your breath away.
• Take a load off on Kamari Beach. If you want to set aside a day of rest from your Greece solo female travel, then why not do it on Kamari Beach? There are bars and other attractions nearby to make your day less boring.

Mykonos is part of the Cyclades Islands. Simply hop onto a ferry ride to take your solo trip to the next level and experience the culture, sights, and scenes of more than one island.

Why Visit Mykonos?

Travelers are drawn to Mykonos Island by its alluring combination of exciting nightlife, stunning scenery, and an intriguing cultural past. Known for its refined atmosphere, Mykonos offers top-notch nightclubs, beach events, and bars suitable for people from different walks of life.

Travelers can also see the island’s quaint, whitewashed villages, narrow alleyways covered with bougainvillea, and recognizable windmills that gaze out over the Aegean Sea. Beach enthusiasts will also find Mykonos to be a paradise, with immaculate beaches providing chances for relaxation, swimming, and water-based activities.

The island’s historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Delos Archaeological Site, will appeal to history enthusiasts. Whatever your style of travel—excitement, leisure, or historical immersion—Mykonos offers a Mediterranean experience like no other.

What to Do While on the Island

Here are some of the things you can do as a solo traveler on the island:

• Experience the remote villages by booking a tour.
• Watch the sunset while sipping champagne on a cruise.
• See the iconic windmills.
• Join a hiking group and see the island on foot.

Solo trips can be quite expensive, which is why finding an island that offers affordable accommodation, food, and more is essential. Naxos is high up on the list of options. The island also doesn’t disappoint in terms of experience. There is a lot to see and do here.

For lone female travelers seeking to recuperate and refuel, Naxos is the perfect place because of its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty.

You can discover historic sites like the Portara and the Temple of Apollo, go on hikes through picturesque scenery, and savor delectable Greek food in tavernas by the sea. The kind residents provide solo tourists with a sense of security and inclusion by making them feel like members of the community.

What to Do on Naxos

Here are some of the things you can do while touring the island:

• Windsurfing. If you want to experience the thrill of wind or kite surfing, then you can definitely try this on Naxos.
• Visit one of the many ancient sites. To immerse yourself in the culture and rich history of the island, you can visit one of the many attractions, such as the Temple of Demeter and the ancient city of Naxos.
• Explore the picturesque villages. If you are interested in traditional architecture, why not travel to one of the unique villages on the island?
• See the Portara. Admire the famous Portara, a huge marble gate that is located close to the entrance to the harbor. It is thought to be a portion of an incomplete temple devoted to Apollo, providing expansive perspectives on the surrounding islands and the sea, particularly around sunset.

3. Ideal Greek Island for Solo Females: Crete

Suppose your goal is not to go Greek island hopping. In that case, you’ll need to find one place that offers everything you could need. This is precisely what you get when you visit Crete.

As the largest and most populated island in Greece, there is a lot more to see here. Whether you want to explore the remains of ancient civilizations or relax on one of the island’s breathtakingly beautiful beaches, you can find exactly what you are looking for by adding Crete to your Greece solo travel itinerary.

Why Crete Is Our Number One Recommendation for Solo Female Travel

Crete provides a wide variety of experiences for solo female travelers. Those visiting the island alone can discover historic sites, climb through breathtaking gorges, and savor delectable cuisine everywhere they go, from the busy streets of Heraklion to the tranquil shores of Elafonisi.

Visitors will always feel at home in Crete because of its welcoming atmosphere and the strong sense of community. Moreover, it is often described as the cheapest Greek island, making it the perfect place for solo travel if you’re on a strict budget. Everything from accommodation and food to transportation is affordable here.

Perhaps the main reason we chose Crete as the best Greek island for solo travel is because of the safety it offers tourists. Crime rates are low on the island, and local communities place great emphasis on hospitality.

These are just a few of the reasons why Crete is the best Greek island for solo female travel.

Things to Do on the Island of Crete

Here are some of the top activities to try while on this island:

• Go on a memorable wine-tasting tour to get a feel for local beverages.
• Enjoy a lazy day on one of the island’s many beaches. We highly recommend checking out the pink sandy shores of Elafonisi.
• Experience Samaria Gorge on foot.
• See the ancient ruins at the Palace of Knossos.

4. Solo Travel in Greece: Best Places to Explore

Now that we have covered the places you should visit while in Greece, let’s talk about the attractions you should see. After all, your choice of island or islands will be based on the experience offered. In the next section, we will provide a list of the best places to see while touring the Greek islands.

Your trip to the Greek Islands would simply not be complete without exploring some of the stunning beaches. While all of them offer hours of enjoyment, some stand out from the rest. Let’s look at some of the most popular attractions.

• Elafonissi Beach on the Island of Crete. If you have ever wanted to see a beach with pink sands and turquoise waters, then this is definitely the one to visit. Plus, the unique natural landscape makes it a wonderful option that’s worth adding to your bucket list.
• Navagio Beach on Zakynthos. Are you hoping to get some great photographs while traveling solo? In that case, you have to visit Navagio Beach. With golden sands, crystal clear waters, and a shipwreck, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
• Myrtos Beach on Kefalonia. This beach offers views of stunning mountains and bright blue water.
• Red Beach on the Island of Santorini. If you are still looking for reasons to visit Santorini, then this should be it. The red volcanic sand and cliffs make for a unique sightseeing experience.

Ancient Ruins

Seeing evidence of ancient ruins can be a grounding experience, especially if you are on a journey of self-discovery. These sites are a window into times gone by and help us understand how civilizations in the past lived. You, too, can experience the best ancient ruins the Greek Islands offer.

• The Palace of Knossos on the Island of Crete. This monumental site is believed to be associated with the myth of the Minotaur and King Minos. With unique architecture, it’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for inspiration.
• Acropolis of Lindos on Rhodes. Picturesque views are what you can expect when you visit the Acropolis of Lindos. Here, you can also see the Temple of Athena Lindia, with stunning columns that provide insight into ancient history.
• The Temple of Apollo on the Island of Naxos. See the famous Portara, a colossal marble gate that is thought to have been a part of an old temple honoring Apollo. It provides breathtaking views of the setting sun.

Traditional Villages to See

When traveling solo, it is important to explore the culture and familiarize yourself with local architecture. By visiting traditional villages, you can do just that. The Greek Islands boast a number of beautiful towns that you can explore. Here are some of the most popular:

• Chora in Mykonos. Featuring a vibrant nightlife, towering windmills, and whitewashed buildings, this town on Mykonos is definitely worth seeing.
• Pyrgos in Santorini. When you visit this village, you can expect to see a medical castle, stunning views, and labyrinthine alleys.

5. Ultimate Greek Island for Solo Adventurers: Paros

Paros is located in the Aegean Sea. It offers stunning, diverse natural attractions and a host of activities for solo travelers to engage in. In our opinion, it is the best island for those who seek thrill and adventure.

Why Paros Is Great for Those with a Taste for Adventure

We highly recommend adding Paros to your solo travel itinerary because of the many great perks it offers. This includes the following:

Rich Cultural History

You can explore countless archeological landmarks, Byzantine cathedrals, and charming towns on Paros, an island rich in history and culture. Discover the historic Church of 100 Doors (Panagia Ekatontapyliani), see the historic marble quarry of Marathi or meander along the quaint streets of Naoussa and Parikia.

A Plethora of Outdoor Activities to Try

Thrill-seekers often look for destinations where they can try out a wide range of different activities, and Paros is one such place.

Adventurers can engage in a variety of outdoor sports in Paros, such as surfing, sea kayaking, windsurfing, hiking, kiteboarding, rock climbing, and more. This island is a dream come true for lovers of the great outdoors and water sports because of its perfect shoreline and windy climate.

See and Experience Different Terrains

Paros has a varied and breathtaking terrain that is just waiting to be discovered, with everything from golden sandy beaches to steep mountains and lush valleys. You can take leisurely strolls on the many beaches, discover secret caverns, or go on breathtaking hikes to enjoy a time of solitary reflection and self-discovery.

Local Communities Are Friendly and Welcoming

There is nothing worse than landing in a foreign place only to be treated like an outsider. When you’re exploring the world alone, this can make the experience extremely uncomfortable. Fortunately, this is simply not the case in Paros.

The locals show great hospitality to tourists, so you can enjoy your time on the island to the fullest without having to worry about feeling out of place.

Traveling Is Convenient

Ferries and boats are available to take you on tours and help you get to other nearby islands. What’s more, Paros has its own airport, so if you’re hoping to make this your primary stop, you won’t go wrong. It is also well connected to others nearby, so you can island hop without having to spend a fortune.

Delightful Cuisine

When you visit this Greek island, you can indulge in a wide selection of local cuisine. There are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars around the island, so you can enjoy stunning views along with delicious meals.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for relaxation, picturesque views, stunning attractions, adventure, and more, the Greek Islands are the perfect place to visit. With thousands to visit, you are sure to find destinations that help you reach your goals on your journey to self-discovery.

Using the information provided in this guide, you are on your way to planning a foolproof itinerary that ensures that you do not return from your trip the same way you left.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what is the cheapest greek island.

Crete is probably the most affordable island to visit. Others, such as Naxo, Tinos, Corfu, and Andros, are also great options to consider if you are traveling on a budget.

2. Is Greece safe for solo holidays?

Yes, the Greek islands are generally safe for tourists. They are safer than many other popular tourist destinations around the world. However, you should still be careful with your belongings, as criminals are everywhere, and to save yourself any trouble while touring the area, make sure you take the necessary precautions.

If you want to explore a particular attraction or area but do not feel safe doing so, try booking a tour with a reputable company. In particularly dangerous places, it’s always best to be with other solo travelers. Plus, this is a great way to spark new friendships.

3. What is the cheapest way to island hop in Greece?

Riding the ferries is undoubtedly the most affordable way to get from one island to another.

4. How do I choose between the different islands?

Selecting the islands to visit while traveling solo might not be easy. You might want to see them all. However, keep in mind that there are 6,000 Greek islands, so you might want to limit your solo trip to places you are most excited to visit. Moreover, consider your budget, as island hopping comes with additional travel costs.

5. How many days should I set aside to explore the Greek Islands?

While this will ultimately depend on your itinerary, preferences, and budget, we recommend spending 7-10 days on the islands of your choice. However, keep in mind that the more islands you wish to see, the more time you will require for travel and exploration.

About  Peter C.

Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad.

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Home > Solo Travel In Greece: Tips For The Mainland & Greek Islands

Solo Travel In Greece: Tips For The Mainland & Greek Islands

Written by our local expert Gabi

Gabi is an award-winning writer who lives on the Island of Crete in Greece. She is an expert in Greek travel and writes guides for the everyday traveler.

Embarking on your solo adventure to Greece? This guide is your go-to resource, packed with essential tips, safety advice, and the best spots for solo explorers.

Dive into the vibrant life of Greece, from its stunning beaches to historical treasures. Whether it’s your first solo trip or you’re a seasoned traveler, Greece offers a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Discover the cheapest Greek islands, enjoy the solitude of beautiful beaches, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions. Make the most of your solo journey in Greece, a trip that promises to be as enriching as it is exciting.

The most important thing you want to know is if Greece is a safe destination for solo travelers, especially for female travelers. It is!

Greece is very safe for those traveling solo. As with any other destination, traveling solo means keeping both eyes open, especially at night, as there won’t be anyone else looking out for you; however, you can relax, especially on the islands. Paying proper attention will be enough.

When it comes to more important and overpopulated cities, such as Athens or Thessaloniki , things can get a bit more complex, especially at night or in very crowded tourist sites (for instance, the Acropolis). 

Keep a close eye on your belongings, and everything will be fine. At night, and especially for solo female travelers, it would be better to avoid station areas or neighborhoods such as Omonia, Psyrri, and Mextaxourghio.

However, it is also fair to say that I’ve wondered about these three neighborhoods on my own at night, and I have never had a bad experience.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

What To See In Greece As A Solo Traveler

Everything.

The country allows you to see so many things that you will be overwhelmed when choosing where to go and what to do. It all depends on your likes and dislikes. Whether you like to  explore archaeological sites and museums or are a party animal , Greece has you covered. 

The same goes for beach days , water sports, quiet island life , sailing, and eating delicious Mediterranean food . Whether you want to remain on your own the whole time or meet new people, Greece will make it easy.

Best Time To Visit Greece On A Solo Trip

Greece is a beautiful summer destination, gathering some of the best beaches in Europe, so the period between June and August offers the best opportunity for beach time and a bit of sun tanning.

When visiting the cities, any time of the year will do, so it is possible to check Athens in April or October, and even at Christmas , prices won’t be very different as during the rest of the year, but attractions will be emptier. However, summertime is also the time when everybody visits! That means only two things: higher prices and overcrowded places. 

Visiting the Greek islands during May and September right before and after the summer offers better fees, fewer crowds, and still excellent weather — so it’s really a win-win situation. 

Bigger islands can be a good destination all year round, but the smaller islands tend to be hard to reach as many ferry services are suspended.

If you are interested in activities other than swimming and sunbathing, you can head north and discover the mountains and ski resorts . Greece is a mountainous country with stunning forests, rivers, and tons of winter sports to enjoy , so it is not just a summer destination!

Here’s our in-depth guide to understanding the seasons in Greece!

Moving around solo in greece.

Solo travel in Greece is easy with public transport, both for the mainland and the best islands. 

Bus Travel In Greece

The general transportation network (Ktel) is the best way to move around. There are no trains on the islands, so this is the only means of public transport you will use on the Greek Islands , but the service is also convenient, cheap, and reliable for getting around the mainland without needing to hire a car.

The service is safe and comfortable, and buses will take you to many places.

Taxis are not as expensive as in other European destinations, but they have extra fees for lugging bags or night travel . Always discuss the use of the taximeter in advance, and for additional safety, use the radio taxi services.

There is nothing like touring Greece on your own with a car . This applies to the islands where life is more relaxed. However, I would never suggest travelers drive in cities such as Athens or Thessaloniki – traffic is chaotic, and Greeks are not keen on respecting traffic rules. Car is the perfect means of transport for bigger islands such as Corfu, Crete, or Rhodes, where there are many off-the-beaten-track destinations that you cannot reach by bus. In these cases, a car is the best solution to discover unexplored places in Greece.

Ferry Travel

This is the chosen means of transportation in a country with many islands that live off tourism, many of which do not even have an airport. Some islands are close, so a ferry ride makes seeing multiple islands easy and affordable. If island-hopping is in the plans , check and book tickets in advance, especially if traveling in August. Also, be sure to check in advance that ferry routes travel between all your intended destinations; sometimes, combining two different island groups is impossible because there are no ferries connecting them, or at least not enough.

Local companies, including Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, and the Cretan Sky Express, offer domestic flights to destinations including Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Crete, Kos, Mykonos, Paros, Rhodes, Zakynthos , and many more. Always check in advance for better fees and seasonal offers.

Here are all the Greek islands with airports

Brands we use and trust, travel solo in athens .

It is fair to say that most Greek trips start (and often end) in Athens, the capital of Greece . The city is an exciting place where traveling solo is more than possible and which allows for tons of fun and (if you want) plenty of opportunities to mix and mingle with the locals.

When in Athens, check the important landmarks, including the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museums, and the different central neighborhoods, including Plaka, Anafiotika, and the central Monastiraki Square, and check the change of the guard in Syntagma.

Moreover, Athens has fantastic nightlife, excellent hotels , exciting restaurants, open-air movie theaters (in summertime), and pubs to enjoy too.

Best Greek Islands For Solo Travel

When visiting in the peak of the summer season, all islands are excellent solo travel destinations, honestly all of them. You will not have problems finding entertainment, eating out, or choosing affordable accommodation (provided you book in advance).

The typical kind of accommodation in Greece that’s more suitable for solo travel has always been the studio, a one-room apartment with a small kitchenette and a bathroom. 

However, during the last few years, Greece has seen a massive number of solo travelers; therefore, hostels and shared accommodations have become increasingly popular on the islands. This will make things easier  if you are backpacking Greece on your own.

Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Zakynthos & Corfu

If you’re visiting off-season, the bigger islands are more tourist-friendly because they have more to offer since many locals also live there all year round. You will find places to stay, eat, and entertainment more easily all year round. This is the case with islands such as Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Zakynthos, and Corfu; they have so much to offer that they are good to visit any time of the year. 

However, if you prefer popular islands such as Mykonos, Paros, or Santorini, or lesser-known and smaller islands , such as Sifnos, Serifos, or tranquil Patmos , then the time to visit is in summer. Except for Santorini , which is crowded all year round!

Use our guide to the island groups in Greece to start narrowing down your plans.

Solo travel in crete.

The biggest Greek island is a fantastic destination for solo travel. The local population is known all over Greece for being exceptionally hospitable, offering a warm welcome to visitors. It is safe for female travelers, and its principal towns are open and alive all year round.

Depending on the kind of traveler you are, visiting different points of the island can be done either on your own, renting a car , or trusting the extensive bus network. The island is relatively big, and visiting both the eastern and western coasts can take plenty of time.

Crete is also located relatively south of the Aegean , so the summers tend to be longer, allowing pleasant swimming sessions also in off-season months such as May and October. Prices are pretty affordable when compared to Santorini or Mykonos, so there is no better destination when it comes to budget travel either.

Crete offers plenty of things to do for every kind of traveler, from interesting archaeological sites to stunning beaches and gorgeous old towns to discover. It is home to fantastic mountain ranges, perfect for outdoor exploration and winter sports.

Traveling solo to Crete is simple. There is plenty of accommodation , including hostels in the most important towns, but also guesthouses traditionally run by families… trust me, they will go out of their way to help and make you feel welcome, especially when they know you’re traveling solo. If you prefer old-time hospitality, I’d like those more than any hostel in the world. And if you want to indulge, there are also plenty of all-inclusive resorts .

When it’s time to decide where to stay in Crete as a solo traveler, I prefer the cities of Chania and Rethymnon, with their unique and charming old towns, traditional harbors, tavernas, and stunning (and very safe) nightlife too. Beaches are excellent in both areas, and there are plenty of day trips available (even to the capital, Heraklion) to explore even more.

Solo Travel In Corfu

The most important island in the Ionian Sea is Corfu , and it is a big place to explore and a great solo travel destination in Greece. Corfu is a green island with a landscape that is entirely different from what you’ll find in Crete or even the Cyclades . 

Besides, it boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean spread along its coastline and is home to dozens of resorts and pristine beaches. However, exploration is also a thing to do, and the green mountainous villages of the inland villages are a perfect place to discover, with their stunning fortresses, tons of monasteries , and small chapels.

Like Crete, Corfu has a wide  variety of hotels , studios, and all-inclusive resorts too in every town. Suppose you’re wondering which are the most solo traveler-friendly areas to stay in. In that case, I’d recommend the Old Town of Corfu because it has important nightlife and offers easy access to any resort or coastal town you want to visit; most excursions depart from here. The airport is just a stone thrown away. 

Another chosen destination on the island is the beautiful Paleokastritsa, which comprises a series of sea coves with pristine green waters, clear sand, and striking green scenes all over the area.

When it comes to local hospitality, Corfiots are helpful and very welcoming, doing everything they can to give a hand to help with questions or if you get lost.

Note: Lefkada and Zakynthos are better options for solo travelers in the Ionian Sea if you want nightlife and partying. Check our guide to the Ionian for more things to do and general information about the islands in the region. 

Solo Travel In The Cyclades Islands

The most famous Greek Islands are definitely the Cyclades , a group located in the southeast of mainland Greece. The Cyclades are home to the quintessential whitewashed landscapes of tiny squared houses, blue-domed chapels by the sea, and tons of blossomed bougainvillea flowers – your typical Greek postcard has probably already seen a million times. And yes, they are certainly a great place to visit.

The best idea when traveling solo is to do some island hopping . It is easy and affordable to go from one island to the other by ferry, and it lets you discover more than one destination during the trip. 

A place that you don’t want to miss is Santorini . Despite being crowded, it is really a unique Greek destination, solo traveler-friendly, especially for women, with dozens of affordable hotels on the south coast guesthouses and hostels.

However, suppose you prefer a more off-the-track vibe. In that case, you will get that and more in Naxos , a pretty familiar island that is reasonably big and has plenty of opportunities to explore: mountains, beaches, incredible gastronomy, and tons of archaeological sites and cultural activities.

Paros is a great Cycladic Island , full of the fun nightlife and typical landscapes, but at a quarter of the price you’d pay in Mykonos or Santorini, so it is a great solo travel destination if you’re on a budget.

Hardcore party lovers will find that Ios and Mykonos have all they are looking for, including tons of discos and beach bars to party at.

Travel In Greece Alone To The Dodecanese Islands

The several islands in the Dodecanese are excellent destinations for solo travelers. There are several big islands to explore and a few small islands that are safe and perfect if you need a relaxing solo vacation.

Most of these islands have intriguing and exciting historical sites to visit: Venetian chapels, Medieval castles, Byzantine churches, and dozens of archaeological ruins . And then, of course, the beaches, among the warmest and sunniest in all of Greece, with more sunny days than anywhere else in the country.

The largest island in the Dodecanese is Rhodes , with incredible opportunities for historical and cultural visits, impressive old towns, medieval castles, and stunning bays, some of them famous for water sports. 

Not far from Rhodes, the popular island of Kos is another destination for those interested in cultural activities, archaeological sites, superb museums, and the discovery of the country’s ancient history. Besides, Kos is such a popular destination that you could think of many accommodation opportunities, from refined luxury resorts to boutique hotels and more simple deals, including studios and small family-run hotels.

Why choose this island cluster? These islands are popular, so they offer a well-established and safe variety of routes to explore different points on the island. Several daily ferry connections allow visitors to island-hop easily – getting around as a solo traveler is very simple.

Greece Solo Travel Tips

• Locals are hospitable and reliable and do not hesitate to ask for help, even in your language, when in need
• Join organized tours for excursions and cultural visits. It will allow you to make new friends, and you will also end up cutting costs
• More and more expats live  in Greece than you imagine, especially on the bigger islands, so you won’t need to feel alone if you want to connect with people speaking your language. However, English is spoken and understood almost everywhere; language won’t be a communication barrier
• Credit cards are accepted all over the country, but as we say in Greece, cash is king . Paying cash for tours and souvenirs can even earn you a good discount
• For women: men will look and sometimes be too polite and attentive to your taste; however, they won’t go further than a look, maybe a smile, and say hello; they won’t chase you

Language Tips For Solo Travel

If you’re still worried about the language (Greek is a very different and challenging language to speak and understand), you can learn some useful words and phrases to make your life much easier. Although almost everyone speaks English in most parts of Greece, it is a nice touch to learn a few words, and locals appreciate it. So, here are some basic, practical, and straightforward words to know before your solo trip to Greece:

Geia/Geia sas: Hello Kalimera: Good morning Kalispera: Good evening Kalinixta: Good night Ti kaneis? How are you? To which you reply, “kala, esi?” (I am good, and you?) Efharisto!: Thank you! Parakalo: You’re welcome, and also, please Signomi: I’m sorry/Excuse me Den katalaveno: I don’t understand Pou ine to…?: Where is the…? Pou pao sto…?: How can I get to…? Pou mporo na vgalo xrimata?:  Where can I withdraw money? Pou einai to ATM?:  Where is the ATM? Mboro na parageilo parakalo? Can I order, please? Poso kani?: How much does it cost? Yia mas!: Cheers! To logariasmo parakalo: Can I have the check, please …and in case of an emergency… Voithia! : Help!

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Solo Travel In Greece FAQs

Greece is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. However, it’s always important to take necessary precautions and stay vigilant while exploring the country.

What are some recommended solo travel destinations in Greece?

Some popular destinations for solo travelers in Greece include Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and the Saronic Islands .

Do I need travel insurance for a solo trip to Greece?

It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance when visiting Greece, especially for solo travelers. This can provide coverage for unexpected events like medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

Are there guided tours available for solo travelers in Greece?

Yes, there are guided tours specifically designed for solo travelers in Greece. These tours can offer a great way to explore the country while meeting like-minded individuals.

What are some of the best places for solo travelers to visit in Greece?

Some of the best places for solo travelers to visit in Greece include the Acropolis in Athens , the beaches of Mykonos, the ancient ruins of Delphi, and the picturesque town of Oia in Santorini.

How can I find accommodation in Greece as a solo traveler?

As a solo traveler in Greece, you can easily find accommodation options such as hostels, guesthouses, and boutique hotels. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Is it common to travel alone in Greece?

Yes, solo travel in Greece is quite common, and the country is welcoming to independent travelers. You’ll find many opportunities to meet other solo travelers and locals during your trip.

Find Word Your On Solo Trip To Greece

Wrapping up your solo travel to Greece will be an adventure you won’t forget. Whether you’re traveling to Greece alone for the first time or as a seasoned solo female traveler, you’ll find the country’s warm hospitality and rich Greek culture welcoming. From the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the serene beaches in Greece, each day promises a new discovery. Consider this your go-to travel guide for navigating Greece with ease and confidence.

Travel solo in Greece and uncover the best places to travel, from bustling Athens to the tranquil islands for solo travelers. A week in Greece allows you to soak in the traditional Greek way of life, explore beautiful beaches, and maybe even find your new favorite spot along the coast of mainland Greece. Remember, Greece is a popular destination for a reason: blending ancient history with modern vibrancy.

Your Greece trip will be enriched by Greece tours for solo travelers, offering a chance to dive deeper into the local scene. Travel insurance for Greece is a must, ensuring a worry-free journey.

When it comes to finding places to stay in Greece, options abound, from cozy hostels to luxurious hotels, making it good for solo adventurers of all types.

Embark on this journey, ready to embrace all that traveling to Greece alone has to offer. From solo travel in Athens to island-hopping, your Greece solo travel itinerary will be packed with unforgettable experiences. Greece awaits to show you its best, from traditional Greek hospitality to the best islands for solo explorers. So, start your solo travel with excitement and let Greece reveal its wonders to you, one day at a time.

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Greek Islands Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ greek islands tours for singles / solo travelers with 1,958 reviews.

Greece Sailing Adventure: Cyclades Islands

Did the 10 day sailing trip around greece! Had an amazing time. Lots of time spent on the boat, beautiful swimming spots and a great way to spend a short time at lots of islands. Spent most of the day out on the water and afternoon/nights exploring different greek islands. We had the most amazing skippers (George and Orestis). They mad the trip so fun and we’re full of information about Greece and the history. Definitely recommend this trip! Best skippers ever!

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Bewitching Greece with All Inclusive beach stay

Greek tour was absolutely perfect! Wanderful Holidays is the best agency I have ever worked with. Their level of communication is truly 5 stars. We were able to communicate with Erica and Alberto at any moment via WhatsApp and this made us feel extremely safe. We went to Athens, Santorini, Crete and we enjoyed the high level of service that we received in all cities. The food was amazing, transportation was always on time, and the overall price for 9 days is unmatched! I will definitely be booking with Wanderful Holidays for our next trip!

• Island Hopping

Athens, Santorini & Mykonos with 3 Guided Tours | SemiPrivate | 10 Days

Hotels could have been closer to the tourist areas

Greek Island Hopping | SemiPrivate with 4* Hotels | 11 Days

Greece is a beautiful country with plenty of history. We have a great extra days in Athens visiting most of the historical places. Great shops and foods in trendy Plaka and Monastiraki. The island hopping to Mykonos, Naxos, Paros and Santorini was perfect though the ferry queuing was a challenge but manageable. An extra day in Santorini could have been better as the wooden boat tour time consumed the full day activity. The itinerary description was perfect, guided us through all the way to the last day of the tour.The pick-up and transfers were prompt. Thank you!

Treasures of Crete

Everything was well coordinated. Dimitri, the coordinator, was always reachable. He answered all our questions and planned the transfers from and to the airport at times suitable to our plans. The hotel was quiet but close to the water. No detail was left untied. We had a great time!!!

Best of Greece

What an incredible trip to remember! Greece is such a beautiful country and my wife and I had so much fun exploring and experiencing the culture and extravagance. The view from our hotel in Mykonos was beyond stunning. The trip did have a few hickups but I really appreciated the quick and efficient communication from Tourradar to correct the problem or issue. They did not give excuses for the companies they booked through for transport or tours and really had our back. They also asked and listened to feedback and expressed their appreciation for it. Will definitely considerer using them again in the future!

Sailing Greece - Santorini to Santorini

It was not what I expected, but the experience and the care I received from the skipper Max was exceptional. There's no question that it was an adventure. I would recommend it to people who want to learn to sail and don't care about the amenities or sightseeing the ruins as much as the water experience. My children are taking a similar trip this Friday to the Galapagos Islands.

Athens to Santorini

The customer service experience before the trip was terrible! However, when on the trip our lead, Georgia, was absolutely incredible. She showed us parts of Greece that the locals would know. It was clear that she had a genuine interest and passion in doing what she was and had great pride in Greece. If you could get your customer service taken care of you would have a fantastic tour service.

Sailing Greece - Mykonos to Santorini

Captain Ciaran was the best!!

The Labyrinth of Crete

Everything was very well organised and the tours we made were very interesting or in beautiful nature. The guides were excellent, very kind, very helpfull and widely documented about history and special items in nature and agriculture. Darrel, the Safari driver had the real and right skills to drive on difficult paths. He was a lovely man, who told us really everything and again , he helped us with all kinds of things. My son, who is disabled , got all the help he needed, also from the passengers. The hotel was outstanding. The Sea was at our feet, the service was super and the food could’nt Be any better! For the tours we had to Be picked up in the other hotel “Creta Maris” . That was too far way for my disabled son. In the evening after a very busy day in 30° , we had to return on foot to our hotel which was really Difficult. Thomas,my son and me, we couldn’t visit the cave of Zeus. It’s far too difficult for a disabled person. I think you should have told us this, in advance. Now it was a disapointment. Our room in the hotel was too far from the dining room, again difficult for Thomas and it was quiet steep for him. But thes are little details , as we were so happy with this beautiful and relaxing journey! Congratulations Tourradar and Tui as well! Martine and Thoms

Sailing Greece - Santorini to Athens

What an awesome trip. I did the 14 days trip. My skipper Erwin de Wijs what an amazing skipper. Let us help with the sailing when we wanted to and rest when we didn't. Had some very strong winds which gave us some amazing sailing days. Also Erwin cooked us an amazing pasta and salad lunch one afternoon. What a great way to take in more Greek Islands, large and small. It was better than a cruise ship could possibly offer. Swimming at some of the small islands, and rest at some of the Islands Beach clubs, and a good taste of local food. This was a trip of a lifetime for me, g adventures, Erwin, made this trip exceptional.

Incredible Crete!

The tour of Crete was indeed Incredible due to two great gentlemen! RG and Kostintinos displayed the utmost professionalism and class as they drove us all through the island of Crete. They were very genuine and thoughtful to Michele and I throughout the entire trip. They both knew that we were eager to experience and learn about Crete. Michele and I wanted to see Crete through the eyes of the locals that’s reside there and RG and Kostas delivered! We went off the grid and had experiences with Epos Tours that we never could have planned ourselves. Kostas is a wealth of information regarding the culture and history of Crete. From the minute you meet these two men you will bond and have the best travel experience ever! Miss you both and thanks again!

Greek Island Hopper (10 Days)

The tour was quite a good mix of organised and leisure time, but the last day could have been managed better. We arrived at Oia about half an hour before sunset, had no direction as to where to see the sunset from, and no time to experience this beautiful town. Very dissapointed in that.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos

We had a great time meeting lots of new friends who all got on from many nationalities. At a restaurant one evening another group asked if we were a family which is how we ended up but without the disputes! Our skipper, Rita displayed wonderful leadership & sailing skills telling many interesting stories. Twice we has difficult dockings in strong crosswinds & other boats were messing it up big time but Rita nailed it both times & I was informed she received applause at Mykonos from the people on the dock. She also spent lot of time producing a video of our trip that she gave to us all. If your other CEO’s are half as good as her you have a very good team. Please note that you may only use my first name publically for this review, Peter!

Med Sailing in Greece - Ionian Sea

So let me preface this by saying I have not gone on a sail yet and with Corona happening, have put my sail off another year. If the sail is half as good as the customer service I have received then it'll all be amazing. My review is long so if you want to skip the details just go to the last paragraph. My fiancée and I were supposed to get married in Italy this summer and after the wedding go to Greece with some of our friends and family for a sail. After looking at multiple offerings from various companies, Med Sailing had the best deals. We worked with Geoff (Fleet Manager) to find two boats that would work best for us. He answered a trillion questions we had about the best yachts and options for our sail and we booked two private yachts. We paid our deposit and waited. 1ST ISSUE. Uh oh, another person wants to be added to the sail, the boats we currently booked weren't the best option. Cue Geoff coming through in the clutch the 1st time. We spoke, I found a better option, Geoff made it happen and changed one of the boats to make the additional passenger fit. No-fuss, no-hassle, an email, and it was done. What a relief, we're going sailing! Or so we thought... A little over a month rolls by and here comes the 2ND ISSUE, COVID. My fiancée and I freak out a bit because where does this leave the trip now? We can't travel internationally yet, we had to postpone our wedding, restrictions are being lifted slowly but not quick enough for us to know if we could actually sail. The two yachts we booked through Med Sailing were from two different companies and one was willing to push our sail back to 2021 the other was unsure. Geoff talked to us and with the unsure company and they wanted the full price of booking for us to move the date to 2021. That is a reasonable request but Covids full unknown impact, especially on the economy (Will me or my spouse get laid off?) had me worried about committing another €2500 to a sail that was a year away. If necessary we could pay but having the flexibility to pay later was important to me in this unknown time. Cue Geoff coming in clutch the 2nd time. I explained to Geoff I would greatly appreciate the ability to pay later, and he talked with the company and with us to find a solution and got it done. We had both the yachts pushed back to a 2021 sailing date. The number of emails me and my fiancée have had with Geoff would drive any sane person crazy. Not on our end but on his. We have asked a trillion questions, have changed things, have questioned things, have requested things; We were not the easiest customers. I don't know how Geoff has responded so quickly, helped us so much, and kept a positive demeanor throughout it all but he has. Just knowing the company is willing to listen and jump through as many hoops as Geoff has to assist us shows me they really do care about their customers. I'm glad we did research and booked with them. I honestly don't know anything other than pricing about other sailing companies but I would bet it would be hard to find one with as good of customer service as Med Sailing. Thanks Geoff! *Will update with more info after actual sail*

What people love about Greek Islands Solo Tours

The best part of the tour was the communication with Rose, Wendy, Sam and Alberto. The promptness, clarity and helpfulness in their communication was impressive. Their role in organising transport etc was commendable. Many good wishes for their good work! My suggestions for some other aspects: 1. If a person opts for a group tour, at least inform them in advance that it will be not be a group tour if it so happens, rather than leaving it to them to discover when they find themselves alone on reaching the destination. 2. Select your hotels carefully keeping in mind that your customers are paying you money to have an enjoyable tour experience that a tourist looks for. If you give a hotel which is located at a completely secluded place and does not offer even the basic facilities, it spoils a tourist's experience to a large extent. 3. Prepare a standard guiding document for your various tours, like many good tour companies do. This type of document includes helpful suggestions on what to expect, what to pack, what kind of weather, what precautions to take, currency suggestions, location and shopping scenarios etc. If you have a ready and comprehensive document like this, you can share it with all your customers for a particular tour well in time. This will avoid their having to ask many questions individually. Good luck. Madhavi

Everything was perfect and well planed out since the start, just stick to the group and your schedule. Met many wonderful people. Dilimar was the best, so helpful and attentive all days of the trip. Thank you ❤️ A

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14 Safest Caribbean Islands For Solo Female Travelers

• The safest and best Caribbean islands for solo female travelers are the Cayman Islands, Grenada, Montserrat, Sint Maarten, the British Virgin Islands, Saint Lucia, Barbados, Saint Kitts, Bonaire, Curaçao, Aruba, and Anguilla.
• These safe Caribbean islands have safety levels rated as Level 1, which means travelers should exercise normal precautions.
• Travelers should take the usual precautions when traveling alone, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables out of sight. It is also recommended to dress modestly and respect local customs.

The Caribbean may have been one of the hottest destinations in the last year or two, and there are so many Caribbean islands perfect for solo travelers . That being said, for the solo female traveler, selecting a destination can still prove overwhelming. For those who may be reluctant to embark on a solo trip for safety reasons, here's a look at the safest and best Caribbean Islands for solo female travel.

Solo Female Travel Safety Scores are based on the Solo Female Travel Index . According to the Solo Female Travelers Club , a rating of 1 is the safest, while 4 is the least safe. Safety levels are according to the US Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs Travel Advisory Levels. These islands are reasonably safe; however, it is best to be extra mindful as a solo female traveler.

UPDATE: 2024/02/25 17:55 EST BY REENA JAIN

Two More Of The Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Female Travel

Going on a solo vacation is a dream for almost all female travelers. However, sometimes safety concerns come first. Fortunately, there are many tropical locations that are not only stunningly beautiful but also the safest Caribbean islands for solo female travel. We have expanded this list with two such gorgeous locations where solo female travelers can have a memorable trip while feeling safe and secure. We also sorted the list from the least safe to the safest destinations in the Caribbean.

13 Safest Countries For Solo Female Travel

The cayman islands, overall solo female travel safety score: 2.

The Cayman Islands are made up of three islands (Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman). Solo travelers who want to experience an adventure like no other should sign up for a swim with stingrays.

With a local tour, solo travelers will get to experience a few of the major attractions that have made Grand Cayman so popular all in one go (a swim with stingrays, sometimes with the starfish on Starfish Beach, and an up-close look at the Coral Garden’s reefs). Consider opting for the Starfish and Stingray City Fun Tour with Reef Snorkeling , which comprises three different spots.

• Official Language: English
• Currency: The Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD)
• Safety : Level 1 - "Exercise normal precautions"
• Overall Solo Female Travel Safety Score : 2

Overall Solo Female Travel Safety Score: 1.5

Grenada, also known as The Spice Isle, boasts a wide range of attractions, from stunning waterfalls to amazing dive sites. Grenada actually boasts the very first underwater sculpture park in the world: the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park , which costs around $129 per adult.

Solo female travelers who have an adventurous spirit will definitely get a kick out of this tropical island paradise that's also relatively safe. According to TripAdvisor , the top-rated hiking tours are:

• Seven Sisters Waterfalls Hike
• Private Fun Tour in Grenada
• Black Rock waterfall

Overall, seeing as Grenada is considered a safe Caribbean island for solo female travelers, women can feel much more reassured while enjoying the island's hikes and beaches.

• Official Currency: The East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
• Overall Solo Female Travel Safety Score : 1.5

18 Places In Florida That Feel Like The Caribbean

Montserrat, also known as the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean, is an island that might be known for its music (remember Hot, Hot, Hot!), but music is not the only thing this island has to offer.

Solo travelers visiting Montserrat for the first time should consider checking out the Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat Volcano Observatory , or Jack Boy Hill via a guided tour. For an even safer and more enjoyable trip, book a guided tour with a member of the Montserrat Tour & Taxi Association .

• Official Language : English
• Official Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$)

Overall Solo Female Travel Safety Score: 1.25

Is Aruba safe for solo female travelers? Absolutely! Often called the "Happiest Island," Aruba is a safe island known for its beautiful sandy beaches, turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, festivals, and delectable food. Already popular as a destination for all solo travelers, Aruba has taken added initiatives to ensure it is the safest Caribbean Island for solo female travelers.

With its proximity to the US, many female solo travelers find it a convenient destination for a quick trip. Aruba is safe with low crime rates, and it's not too big, so female visitors can get around quickly and see quite a lot of it, even during a short stay.

Additionally, the island is well-connected with plenty of transportation options, making it easy to get around and explore the island. They also have dedicated events for women, including golf lessons, wine seminars, and more. Plus, for an energetic adventure, consider booking an off-road on a half-day ATV safari at Andicuri Beach and snorkel at the Natural Pool ($90).

• Official Language: Dutch and Papiamento, although most locals also speak English and Spanish
• Official Currency: Aruban Florin
• Safety: Level 1 - "Exercise normal precautions"
• Overall Solo Female Travel Safety Score: 1.25 (4 out of 5 stars)

Aruba came as the 22nd safest country for solo female travelers (the highest in the Caribbean) on Travel Ladies' list of the safest countries for solo female travelers.

Sint Maarten

Overall solo female travel safety score: 1.

Sint Maarten is known for its breathtaking landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and picturesque views, as well as the famous plane-spotting beach, Maho Beach . St Maarten offers plenty to do in winter for snowbirders as well as an abundance of fun in the summer, such as exploring St Maarten's snorkeling spots where rich marine life awaits, so it's a superb year-round safe destination for solo female travelers.

That said, if a quirky attraction is something that should be on the itinerary, check out the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit . The exhibit is a popular attraction that features movie memorabilia, a Star Wars star, and interesting holograms.

With an overall solo female travel safety score of 1, Sint Maarten can easily boast of being one of the safest Caribbean Islands in the region.

• Official Language : English and Dutch
• Official Currency: Antillean Guilder (ANG)
• Overall Solo Female Travel Safety Score : 1

The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands has four large islands (Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke) and 32 small islands and islets. The islands are known for their breathtaking natural views and clear waters. Solo travelers who enjoy heading deep into nature will love going on one of the many hiking tours available.

According to TripAdvisor , the top-rated hiking tours are:

• Mount Healthy National Park Private Hike Tour in Tortola
• Private Hiking Tour in British Virgin Island with the Best 360 View
• Brewers Bay Eco Hiking Tour

The British Virgin Islands also boast an overall solo female travel score of 1 , which positions it as one of the safest islands for solo female travelers in the Caribbean.

• Official Currency: The United States Dollar (USD)

Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia is an island known for its spectacular landscape. From the impressive Pitons to hiking trails, nature lovers will undoubtedly enjoy exploring this island.

Want to explore with a guide? The best tour option on TripAdvisor, the Majestic Gros Piton Hike , provides bottled water, hotel pickup and drop-off, port pickup and drop-off, and a local Piton beer after the hike. Also, a safety score of 1 makes it one of the best islands for solo female travel in the Caribbean.

• Official Currency : The East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
• Safety : Level 1 - "Exercise Normal Precautions"

Beauty & Mystique Combined: Saint Lucia's 10 Most Stunning Destinations

Barbados is a small island in the Caribbean known for its gorgeous beaches and hospitality. Solo travelers planning on visiting Barbados for a summer getaway should take advantage of all the amazing things to do in Barbados , from exploring Harrison's Cave (which can be done on a tour) to tucking into delicious and authentic Bajan dishes .

However, is Barbados safe for solo female travelers? The answer is yes! The island is generally considered safe with a low crime rate, and the overall solo female travel safety score is also excellent, at 1.

• Official Currency: The Barbados Dollar (BBD)
• Safety: Level 1 - "Exercise Normal Precautions"

The Safest Caribbean Islands (That Are Family Vacation Worthy)

Saint kitts.

Saint Kitts might just be the Caribbean's best-kept secret . Known for its natural beauty, solo travelers who love outdoor adventures will have an endless supply of activities to try. Unafraid of heights? Try a zipline tour ; the ziplines will provide a whole new perspective on this beautiful island.

Nature lovers will also find expansive volcanic sand beaches, towering mountains to climb, and vibrant coral reefs to snorkel and scuba dive. Some of the tourists' favorite beaches on the island include Majors Bay, Frigate Bay, South Friar's, Cockleshell, Turtle Beach, and Sand Bank Bay.

• Safety: Level 2 -*Exercise Increased Caution"

Bonaire is an underrated island that deserves more attention. Bonaire is actually a top scuba diving destination ; the island is excellent for solo adventure seekers who love scuba diving and snorkeling. Many of Bonaire's best dive sites attract scuba and snorkel enthusiasts from all over the world due to the country's conservation efforts, which have enabled marine life to flourish.

Try the Clearbottom Mangrove Kayak & Snorkel tour by Royal Tours and explore Lac Bay’s mangrove. After the tour, it's time for a fruit punch and a Dutch Stroopwafel!

• Official Language: Dutch, although most locals speak Papiamento
• Official Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

Female solo travelers in Curaçao can enjoy a safe Caribbean vacation, thanks to its safety score of 1 . The island's north coast is quite rugged; however, the south side boasts stunning, calm crystal crystal-clear waters, where over 30 beaches create idyllic swimming and snorkeling areas without currents

It's not all just beaches and swimming, though; women who love exploring caves should check out Hato Caves . The cave is more than 300,000 years old and consists mainly of marine coral limestone, stalactites, and stalagmites. After the trail, check out the park; the trail features Indian petroglyphs that might be around 1,500 years old.

• Official Language : Dutch however, Spanish and English are widely used
• Official Currency : The Antillean Guilder (ANG)

It's only 15 miles long, but Anguilla boasts a rewarding itinerary for all travelers , solo or not. Stunning sunsets, delicious food, vibrant nightlife, luxury resorts, world-class snorkeling, and a relaxed island vibe draw in tourists from all over. In particular, some of Anguilla's most beautiful beaches are Rendezvous Bay and Shoal Bay.

Anguilla is also incredibly tranquil and safe and can easily claim to be the best Caribbean Island for solo female travel. The island is known for its low crime rate and friendly locals. Women should still take the usual precautions when traveling, though, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables out of sight.

Additionally, it is recommended to dress modestly and respect local customs. With these precautions in mind, Anguilla is an excellent destination for female travelers and has so many exciting locations to explore . A superb tour idea on TripAdvisor is the Night Kayaking with Liquid Phosphorescence Glow .

• Official Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (EC$)
• Overall Solo Female Travel Safety Score: 1 (5 out of 5 stars)
• Women Travelers Risk: LOW

Dominica is a charming Caribbean island home to the world's second-largest boiling lake , volcanic fumaroles, and bubbling mud springs. It also fits as a contender for the safest Caribbean island for solo females, with a safety score of 1 .

Female travelers with a penchant for adrenaline-pumping activities will find a lot to do here, from hiking and snorkeling to diving. Hang on; nature lovers will also have a great time here, as nature's beauty is at its best, with waterfalls, verdant mountains, magnificent beaches, and more.

A great TripAdvisor tour recommendation is the PH Whale Watch & Dolphin Cruise , ideal for spotting these creatures out in the wild. There are also plenty of historic sites to visit, such as Fort Shirley , as well as local cuisine to sample. All in all, this country has everything that can make a solo trip full of immersive experiences.

• Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)

Antigua & Barbuda

Looking for the best Caribbean island for solo female travel? Antigua and Barbuda, with a safety rating of 1 , are likewise a good fit. This Caribbean nation, which is made up of the two major islands of Antigua and Barbuda and several smaller islands, is an excellent option for a solo trip.

The sustainable islands of Antigua and Barbuda provide a plethora of activities and sights for solo female tourists to enjoy. Among the many things to do and see in Antigua and Barbuda , women on their own can visit historic locations like Nelson's Dockyard , enjoy sea sports like sailing and snorkeling, and discover gorgeous beaches like Dickenson Bay and Half Moon Bay. The lively markets on the island, such as St. John's Saturday Morning Market, provide an opportunity to experience the way of life there. Don't forget to try snorkeling in Stingray City , either!

Traveling alone as a woman can feel intimidating, but these solo female traveler-safe spots will provide peace of mind, so adventurers can enjoy the Caribbean.

More From Forbes

How to plan the best solo female trip to milan, italy.

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Milan is a smart, safe, and stylish destination for solo female travel in Italy.

Based on post-pandemic tourism data compiled by Italy’s tourist board , planning vacations to the the beloved Mediterranean country has never been more popular. While cities like Rome and Venice will always remain bucket list destinations, what should you do if you’re a solo female traveler looking for an Italian city that’s less crowded, safe, and just as beguiling?

Consider Milan. Italy's second-largest city has long been dismissed as the country’s design and fashion capital, but in reality, there’s far more to Milan’s appeal than Salone del Mobile and Miuccia Prada. From historic attractions to fantastic food, the city is an underrated gem. Plus, getting around is a breeze thanks to inexpensive public transportation, including Milano Centrale—which has several hundred domestic trains departing daily so you can explore even more of Italy.

Here, a handy guide on how to plan a safe and unforgettable solo female trip to Milan.

Where to Stay

Hotel NH Collection Milano CityLife pays homage to the church it occupies, 1934's Chiesa del Cristo ... [+] Re.

Anchored by three architectural masterpieces from Zaha Hadid Architects, Daniel Libeskind, and Arata Isozaki, CityLife is a mixed-use development that’s home to stylish shops, enticing restaurants, and as of 2022, one of Milan’s buzziest new hotels, Hotel NH Collection Milano CityLife . Spread across two structures including Chiesa del Cristo Re, a 1934 neoclassical-style church, the 185-key hotel offers a stay that’s removed enough from Milan’s city center to ensure peace and quiet, but close enough to access by foot.

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Hotel NH Collection Milano CityLife's exterior lounge and reception area

The gleaming all-white structure’s original facade, arches, and soaring columns were carefully restored to nod to Chiesa del Cristo Re’s previous life. The design ethos flows indoors to the main lobby, where seven-meter-high bronze elements resembling organ pipes make the mundane act of checking in a grand one.

Religion, however, isn’t the only source of inspiration for Hotel NH Collection Milano CityLife. The city’s fashion legacy is woven into the property’s signature restaurant and lounge Tailors. Lovely for an aperitivo—which in true Italian style arrive with salty nibbles like Taralli and potato chips—a sophisticated dinner of housemade duck ragu paccheri drizzled with Vacche Rosse Parmigiano Reggiano bechamel, or the daily breakfast spread, Tailors celebrates craftsmanship in the kitchen. When the sun’s out, zip up to the roof, where one of only two hotel rooftop pools in Milan and chic al fresco bar await.

NH Collection Milano Citylife has ten duplex suites outfitted with private terraces and hot tubs.

Though the guest rooms skew snug (as do many European hotels), they’re smartly laid out. On top of that: the low-slung beds are dreamy; the branded NH bathroom amenities incorporate sustainable packaging and formulas; and the ceiling-to-floor windows bathe the space in natural light for a more open feel. In the mood to splurge? Then reserve one of the hotel’s ten duplex suites . Cloaked in calming earth tones, they sport one-of-a-kind configurations and come with private terraces and hot tubs.

Federico Vaccari leads personalized tours of his hometown Milan in a beautiful restored vintage ... [+] Fiat 500.

If you’ve been to Milan before, and want to discover a lesser-known side of the city, book a private tour with Federico Vaccari . Over the course of three hours, Vaccari will scoot you around in a beautiful restored vintage Fiat 500 and reveal spots travelers rarely get to see, like Via Abramo Lincoln’s candy-colored houses. Since the car can only carry two passengers, it’s especially well-suited for solo female travelers.

For first-timers: no visit would be complete without seeing the Duomo, Milan's most famous cathedral, and enjoying expansive city views from the rooftop. Teatro alla Scala and Santa Maria delle Grazie, home of Leonardo Da Vinci's famous Last Supper painting, are other cultural landmarks worth scoping out. For retail therapy, head to Milan’s legendary fashion district Milan's Quadrilatero and Via della Spiga. Reserved for pedestrians, this glamorous strip showcases Italy’s biggest fashion houses such as Prada and Moschino. (Bring your passport to enjoy tax-free shopping.)

Where to Eat

A traditional Puglian snack of fried dough stuffed with cheese and tomatoes, Panzerotti is one of ... [+] Milan's most popular street snacks.

Despite being frequently overshadowed by Naples, Rome, and Bologna, Milan is a worthy dining destination in its own right. As of 2023, it’s home to 17 Michelin-starred restaurants like Rome, which run the gamut from Enrico Bartolini ’s innovating tasting menus to IYO , where modern Japanese fare with European flourishes take center stage.

Bice remains a city stalwart for classic Tuscan fare (Ossobuco alla Milanese, Ribollita) and Federico Delrosso’s timeless design, while Peck has attracted discriminating palates since 1883 with an extensive (and immaculately presented) selection of gourmet meats, prepared foods, cheese, sweets, and wines. Ciacco turns out high-quality, small-batch gelato in classic and experimental flavors like the Robiola-infused “Almost Cheesecake.” For a quick bite to go, Panzo has you covered with made-to-order panzerotti, a traditional Puglian snack of fried dough stuffed with melty cheese and tomatoes.

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A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

Athens Solo Travel Guide For First Timers: Tips + Map

Thinking of traveling alone to the capital of Greece? I have been to Athens, Greece multiple times on my own and consider myself a solo travel expert.

And if you were hoping to get help from a local , you are in luck! I have permanently relocated to Athenfs full-time!

Athens, the capital of Greece, is an exciting city with plenty to offer solo travelers!

But there are a few things you should know before you get to Athens. In this guide, I will get real with you and tell you what you can expect so there are no surprises.

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

My Solo Travel Experience in Athens

Athens truly has something for everyone, but I will tell you a little secret. The first time I visited Athens , I didn’t like it! Athens is a bit gritty and not all that visually appealing.

I visited Athens on my first solo trip ever and I wasn’t very impressed! Since that first trip many years ago I returned to Athens year after year and fell so in love with the city!

My experience living in Athens gives me an advantage over just your average traveler. I know the best places to eat and stay and what to do in this incredible and historic city.

I created this ultimate guide so that you will have all the information you need to make your solo trip to Athens a great one!

Why Is Athens So Popular?

Athens is most renowned for its historical and archaeological sites, which include the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora.

The great city also boasts numerous museums, street art, galleries, theaters, and other cultural attractions making it the ideal destination for solo travel.

Athens is home to some of Europe’s finest restaurants featuring delectable Greek cuisine, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

And for the outdoor enthusiast, Athens is surrounded by some stunning beaches as well as many nearby mountains ideal for hiking and mountain biking.

With so much to do and see, you can see why I traveled here over and over again.

💰 Best Solo Travel Athens Tip : Save time and money by purchasing tickets to the most important sites in Athens here! Tickets with Skip the Line to the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Museums !

Why is Athens Good for Solo Travel?

I find Athens a great destination for solo travel because of its relaxed atmosphere. It’s also an excellent destination for solo travelers due to the fact it is more affordable than other European cities.

Athens is full of other solo travelers, expats, welcoming locals, and so many attractions so you’ll never be bored.

Athens has plenty of public transportation options that allow you to easily explore the city’s many sights affordably.

Truly, I found Athens to be one of the most welcoming cities in Europe for solo travelers!

Is Athens Safe for Solo Female Travel?

Athens is generally considered safe for solo female travelers! I have first-hand experience in the city, and I never worry about my physical safety.

You can look on crime sites and see for yourself that violent crime is extremely low .

However, as with any destination, it is important to remain aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Athens solo female travellers should keep their valuables close at all times and avoid traveling alone late at night.

Just like in other major cities, you want to keep your wallet close. There are several nifty products on the market now that help hide it.

One day on a very busy shopping street in Athens I was being pretty careless and I got my wallet taken from my purse without me knowing.

Pickpocketing is on the rise in just about any major city, so don’t let my story deter you.

With a bit of extra caution and common sense, solo female travelers can easily explore Athens safely and without worry.

Things To Avoid Alone in Athens

Solo travelers should always take extra precautions while exploring the busiest tourist areas in Athens. Pickpockets are on the rise in almost every major city.

I don’t say this to scare you off, just be smart. Chances are you won’t have any trouble.

After I had my wallet stolen out of my tote bag, I upgraded my travel style to include using a money belt and anti-theft scarfs .

When exploring Athens alone , it’s wise to stay clear of less populated areas late at night and to be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours, as these could be ploys for scams.

Athens is generally a very safe city, it is best to always trust your instincts when traveling alone. By following these safety tips, solo travelers can enjoy a worry-free stay in Athens.

5 Great Tips for Exploring Athens Alone

1. Learn some basic Greek phrases to help you get around the city and interact with locals. A little goes a long way here!

2. Make sure to look up all of the ancient sites, museums, and other attractions in Athens before your visit so you can plan your solo trip itinerary accordingly. Whenever possible, book a tour or get a skip-the-line pass .

3. If you’re traveling alone at night, make sure to take extra precautions and stay in well-lit, populated areas. When I am traveling solo I don’t have more than one alcoholic drink .

4. Purchase a public transportation pass to make it easier to explore the city and save money on taxi rides.

5. Take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities available in Athens such as hiking, kayaking, sailing, and snorkeling. These activities are a great way to explore the city and meet new people.

Is Athens worth visiting alone?

I found that visiting Athens city was better to visit alone than with other people. When there is so much to explore in the city centre of Athens it is nice to do it at your own pace.

Solo travel means no compromise! You can explore this wonderful city and all the sites just as you want to!

I prefer to travel solo in Athens and save the group trips for resorts where there isn’t that much to do but chill at the beach.

✈️ Are Ready to Travel Alone?: Take The Solo Travel Readiness Quiz!

Getting Around Athens Solo

If you are new to solo travel and the idea of using public transport seems a little daunting, I get it.

Rest assured, using public transit in Athens is safe and easy. The Athens Metro is a great way for solo travelers to get around. The city is also served by a network of buses and trolley lines that cover the entire city.

Additionally, there are many taxis available throughout Athens, although they can be expensive if you’re traveling long distances.

🚕 SOLO TRAVEL TAXI TIP: Most taxis DO NOT TAKE CREDIT CARDS . Always ask before getting in the taxi or have plenty of cash on hand.

For those looking for a cheaper alternative, the city also has an extensive bike-sharing system that allows visitors to easily explore Athens on two wheels.

With so many transportation options available, solo travelers can easily get around Athens without any hassle.

📲 Downloadable Map of Athens

📍 Download the FREE Google Map with the Major Sights Pre-pinned and ready to use!

📍Get the PREMIUM Google Map with over 60 + pinned locations of the best restaurants, rooftops, cafes, sights, transit hubs, and more!

👩🏻‍💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary !

Tips for Arriving at Athens International Airport

If you are flying into Athens airport at night, I would recommend you arrange an airport transfer to take you to your hotel.

As a solo female traveller, my priority is to create the least stressful experience when arriving at my destination.

If you arrange for transportation ahead of time you can rest assured you will have a smooth arrival.

There is public transport from the Athens airport to the city center, and it is a great option for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of luggage.

🚐 Book an airport transfer pick-up at Athens Airport! It’s nearly the same price as a taxi , with no waiting ; )

Should I Rent a Car in Athens, Greece?

Renting a car in Athens is only going to be necessary if you want the freedom to explore the area outside the city center.

You also may want to take your car aboard the ferry if you are going to certain Greek islands where it’s a good idea to have a car.

If you do rent a car in Athens, find a hotel that has parking so you can avoid the stress of parking on the narrow streets.

When I rent a car in Greece I always use Discover Cars , they simply have the best deals!

How Many Days Should You Spend in Athens By Yourself?

The amount of time you spend in Athens will depend on what type of experience you’re looking for. When I first visited Athens it was for only a couple of days .

I was more interested in visiting Greek island destinations so I didn’t stay long in Athens.

The second time I visited Athens alone I spent 10 days here, in November .

When planning your solo trip to Greece, consider how much you love ancient archeological sites and museums.

If you’re just looking to take a quick tour of the city, then two or three days may be enough.

However, if you want to truly experience the Greek culture and all Athens has to offer, then it is best to stay at least a week.

This way, you will have enough time to explore its numerous attractions and take advantage of the many day trips you can take .

The more time you have, you can explore nearby islands by ferry .

Related: All the best Greek islands for solo travel

Things to Do Solo in Athens

Athens is home to numerous landmark attractions, many of which date back thousands of years. I loved exploring Athens city by myself because I could take as much or as little time as I wanted.

Some of the city’s must-see sights for a solo female traveller include the Acropolis, Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, and National Archaeological Museum, along with a variety of other ancient monuments and temples.

Acropolis & Acropolis Museum

I highly recommend getting a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Joining a tour is a great way to meet other solo travellers and it is an efficient way to move through such an incredible monument.

I like this tour because it’s affordable and it hits the majority of the sites you don’t want to miss.

April 1 to October 31: You can visit the Acropolis daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, with the last entry being at 7:30 PM. Tickets are 30 euros

November 1 to March 31, it is open from 8 AM to 5 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. Tickets are 20 euros.

Acropolis Free Entry Days

• March 6 – Memory of Melina Merkouris
• April 18 – International Memorial Day
• May 18 – International Museum Day
• The last weekend of September each year (European Heritage Days)
• Every first Sunday of the month from November 1 to March 31.

The Acropolis is Closed for Major Holidays

• Easter Sunday
• December 25
• December 26

Look for Treasure in Monastiraki Square

This famous square is known for the Monastiraki Flea Market and is a great place to find a bargain. It is one of the oldest and most popular markets in Athens, this is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and handmade items.

The flea market is open every day of the week from 10 am to 10 pm. If you staying inside the city centre, you can reach Monastiraki Square by foot.

If you are a little further out, you can take public transport to the Monastiraki Metro Station.

Stroll Plaka

The old historic district of Athens, this neighborhood is full of charming cobblestone streets and traditional Greek taverns.

The Plaka district is a great place to spend an afternoon or early evening out. With its colorful streets lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, it’s the perfect spot for solo travellers looking to experience local culture.

I recommend going early in the morning to enjoy some people-watching as the locals prepare for their day ahead. A restaurant I love in Plaka is Zorbas !

Wonder The National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens houses some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece, including sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and more.

You can often get entry to this museum when you purchase tickets to the Acropolis.

Opening Times: November 1 to March 31 , Admission 6 euros. Tuesdays 13:00 to 20:00. Wednesday through Monday 8:30 to 15:30. April 1 to October 31, Admission 12 euros. Tuesdays 13:00 to 20:00. Wednesdays through Mondays 8:00 to 20:00.

Chill in Syntagma Square

Located in the center of Athens, this square is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as the Greek Parliament building and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

There is a major metro station here at Syntagma Square as well as some of the nicest hotels with rooftop pools!

If you are looking to do some shopping the start of Ermou Street starts here.

Climb Lycabettus Hill

This hill offers stunning views of the city and is a great spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a picnic. Located a bit outside the city center at the back of the Koloanki neighborhood.

You can feel safe traveling here on foot as a solo woman. There are A LOT of hills and stairs if you choose to walk. So prepare yourself.

❤︎ See Lycabettus Hill at sunset as well as visit Pireaus Port on a tour!

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The remains of the Temple of Olympian Zeus are located just at the foot of the old historical town of Athens. If you have time on your trip you can take a tour within the park.

When short on time, you could just do a walk-by. The temple is located here.

Eat in Agora

Located in the heart of Athens, this ancient marketplace is full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

National Gallery

This impressive gallery boasts one of Europe’s greatest collections of modern art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

These are just a few of the amazing attractions that solo travelers can visit in Athens. With so much to see and do, this vibrant city is sure to provide an unforgettable experience!

What is a unique experience I could have while visiting Athens?

Athens is full of unique experiences for solo travelers. One such experience is attending one of the city’s many outdoor free concerts and dance events. Find information here .

The city also offers interesting tours which provide an in-depth look at its culture and history. From traditional Greek Food tours to guided pub crawl walking tours! If you love trying new foods, I recommend this Athens food tour .

There is a number of ways to experience the city’s numerous archaeological sites. Something unique to do in Athens alone is to pack a picnic of your favorite Greek foods and enjoy them in the park across from the Acropolis. Here is the best spot for incredible views.

What is the Best time of Year to Visit Athens?

Athens is a great destination for solo travelers all year round . However, the best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is warm and sunny.

Visiting mainland Greece in the summer months is HOT, HOT, HOT . Athens might be best saved for the milder temperatures, like in November or December for example. If you do come in summer, check out the best beaches near Athens .

Taking a leisurely stroll through the Ancient Agora is more fun when you trying to hide from the sun.

If you are planning to head to a small island or two you will want to visit in the summer. Most of the Greek Islands shut down as of October 1st.

Pro Tip: Even though I found solo travel to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

Neighborhoods to Stay Solo in Athens

Staying in a neighborhood where I feel comfortable walking alone at night is the priority. Consider the following;

➡️ Monastiraki: For solo travelers looking for a lively atmosphere and budget-friendly check out the district of Monastiraki . It is ideal with plenty of restaurants and bars lined up along the pedestrian-only street.

➡️ Plaka: If you’re looking for something more laid back and residential , check out Plaka , a picturesque neighborhood filled with cafes and boutique shops .

➡️ Kolonaki: For a more upscale experience, Kolonaki is your best bet , offering designer stores and luxurious hotels.

➡️ Psiri: If you’re looking for something budget-friendly, Psiri offers plenty of cheap lodging options as well as lively nightlife.

➡️ Koukaki: Another idea is to stay in the Koukaki neighborhood , where I currently reside. You will find lots of great coffee shops and places to eat. Ideal spot for digital nomads in Greece. I can’t recommend Coco-Mat Athens BC enough!

Related: Best Hotels in Athens with Rooftop Pools

Neighborhoods to Avoid in Athens

• Metaxourgeio : Although it has a growing art scene, it’s best to be cautious after dark due to a higher crime rate in certain parts.
• Kolonos : An area that is generally considered less safe, especially at night, due to increased risks of crime.
• Patisia : While it has residential parts, some areas can feel unsafe at night. It’s wise to stick to well-lit, busier streets.
• Kypseli : This neighborhood has a lively cultural scene but can be risky late at night in less crowded areas.
• Omonoia Square : This area can be crowded and a bit unsafe at night, with more risks of petty theft.
• Near Larissa Station : This is the main railway station, and like many transport hubs, it’s best to be extra cautious here at night due to a higher chance of encountering trouble.

Must Try Restaurants When You Visit Athens

Athens is filled with amazing restaurants and hip cafes . The best part of solo travel to Athens is getting to eat all the delicious food!

Some must-try restaurants include:

• Atlantikos- I have had some of the best seafood of my life here in Athens at Atlantikos ! Serving up traditional Greek seafood taverna fare and other classics like a Greek salad. This place is located in Psiri and does get very busy, but it is worth the wait!
• NiDo – Are you a solo traveling foodie? If so, I highly recommend checking out NiDo! Here you will find a gastro-bar with funky bites and a trendy atmosphere. All the delightful and creative cuisine is curated by Chef Nick Thomas. You will find NiDo located in Kolonaki .
• Winners Vegan- You don’t have to be a vegan to enjoy the food at Winners Vegan! I have had some of the best plant-based meals at this restaurant. My recommendation is to try the noodle dishes!
• Mystilli – Looking for some traditional Greek food like Mousska? For the best meal at the Agora try Mystilli. It’s the perfect place to sit outside and people-watch while devouring some classic Greek dishes. You will find Mystilli here .

Day Trips From Athens to Consider

Athens is surrounded by stunning natural scenery that makes for the perfect day trip destination.

Popular destinations include Cape Sounion, where you can admire the Temple of Poseidon perched atop the rocky cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea.

You can also visit Delphi, an ancient Greek city located about two and a half hours from Athens that was once considered to be the center of the world.

Here, you’ll find stunning beaches and charming villages that will make for a perfect day trip .

Additionally, the nearby islands of Hydra, Aegina, and Poros are all easily accessible from Athens and offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. No matter where you decide to go, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Athens that will surely satisfy

RELATED: GREEK ISLANDS BEST FOR SOLO TRAVEL

Conclusion On Visiting Athens Alone

Visiting Athens solo is an incredible experience. The vibrant city offers plenty of attractions, activities, and experiences that will make your visit enjoyable and unforgettable.

From the historical sites to the delicious cuisine, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, trying different restaurants, and exploring the city.

With its convenient location, vibrant atmosphere, and range of luxury and affordable accommodation options, Athens is a great place to stay for solo travelers. No matter where you decide to stay in Athens, you can be sure that you will have a wonderful experience!

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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