The Ultimate Athens (Greece) Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Athens, Greece? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

The largest city (and capital) of Greece, Athens is home to 3.2 million people
The city is named after Athena, the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom.
One of the oldest cities in the world, with origins dating back to 3000 BC
Host of the first modern summer Olympic Games in 1896 (and again in 2004!)
Nicknames: Cradle of Civilization, City of the Violet Crown

Currency: Euro (EUR)
Spoken languages: Greek is the primary language
Best time to visit: spring (April-May) offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Autumn (September to November) is another good choice.
If you’re here in the summer, catch the Athens Epidaurus Festival, which often runs from June to August.
Arriving via airport:
– Take the Blue Line (Metro Line 3) for 10 EUR. 40 minute ride, every 36 minutes from 6 AM to 11 PM.
– A taxi will cost about 40 EUR (45 minute ride).

Best hostel for solo travelers: Athens Hub. Very friendly staff, exceptionally clean (including showers/bathrooms), and comfortable beds. Not a party hostel, but a nice relaxing place to rest after a long day of sightseeing (there’s still a common area for meeting others). Book ahead, especially during high season!
Good neighborhoods to stay in (everything available within walking distance): The Plaka, Makrianni, Thission, Syntagma, and Monastriraki.

Yellow trolleys and blue buses are a convenient for getting around. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks.
You can ride the Athens Coastal Tram between Syntagma Square and the beaches of Glyfada and Voula.
Public transport tickets are 1.50 EUR for a single ride.
Taxis are readily available, although they have a dodgy reputation.
Uber and Beat apps are a great alternative to taxis here.
Renting a car is not recommended – traffic in Athens is chaotic and rules are not obeyed.

Drinking age is 18 (16 under supervision), although this is hardly ever enforced!
Last call is never (the party often goes on until the last customer wants to go).
Main scene: the majority of nightlife is located in central areas, such as Psiri
Hip/local scene: some of the coolest clubs are in the narrow streets around Platia Iroon.
Great bars in Athens to stop for a drink: Norman Athens Bar, Couleur Locale (great rooftop views), James Joyce Pub (Irish pub), Mika Athens, Jazz in Jazz, G cafe bar, MAI TAI AΘENS, The Clumsies, Drunk Sinatra.
Looking for great live music? Head to the Half Note Jazz Club.

The Academy of Athens is a beautiful neoclassic building established in 1926. It is the main scientific establishment in Greece, and is named in the tradition of the ancient Academy of Plato.
The Acropolis is one of the most familiar and unique landmarks in the world. If visiting during the summer months, go early in the day to avoid the intense heat.
Syntagma Square: with the Greek Parliament in view, this square has been at the center of political protests in Greece for over a century.
The Plaka is the oldest district of Athens, and is home to many excellent restaurants and artisans’ workshops.
The National Archaeological Museum: you would be hard pressed to find a better collection of ancient Greek sculptures, pottery, and artifacts. Avoid visiting on a Sunday (only a few of the galleries are open).
Day trip idea: Delphi, about 2.5 hours from Athens.

From Panathinaikon Stadium and Syndagma area all the way to the Gazi area.
Walk along the waterfront for beautiful views (especially at sunset).
Check out The Plaka in the early evening.
Walk around the Mets area and Logginou Park to see a great residential party of the city. Combine it with a visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus (located nearby).
Walk through the trendy Koukaki neighborhood, known for its street art and cafes.
Looking for a great cafe to rest your legs and just enjoy people watching? Head directly to Public Café Restaurant Σύνταγμα (Syntagma area).

Great restaurants that locals love: Κίτσουλας ($ – Google Maps), Fine Mess Smokehouse ($$), Efcharis restaurant ($$), HAPPY BLENDER ($$ – Vegan), Omorphi Polis ($$), Maiandros restaurant ($).
Where to find good cheap eats: take this chance to enjoy some authentic Greek souvlaki. Cheap, delicious food is available almost on every corner. Take the metro to “Syngrou Fix” – you’ll get to the Koukaki neighbourhood, an area replete with great food and drinks.
Tipping 5-10% is standard in restaurants.

One of the best times of year to visit is during Easter, which is a feast more important than Christmas in Greece. You will get the the chance to experience the cultures and witness Greek traditions. One unique tradition is Holy Saturday: people attend church at 11 PM, bringing their baptismal candles to be lit with the Holy Flame.
Greeks are generally very warm and hospitable. When meeting someone on friendly terms, they often embrace; sometimes they may also kiss each other on the cheek.
If you want to escape the searing heat, take a day trip to one of the neighbouring islands: Aegina, Poros or Hydra. Take the Flying Dolphin from the Port town of Piraeus.
Dangerous areas: Avoid going out in the evening near Omonoia Square. Stay alert in Athens, as it has become a haven for pickpockets.

Recommended trip duration: 3-4 days