Are you a woman dreaming of exploring Greece solo? Wondering “is Greece safe for solo female travelers?” Absolutely Greece is a captivating destination for solo exploration. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming culture, Greece offers an unforgettable travel experience, and SIXT.VN is here to make it seamless and safe. This comprehensive guide, tailored for solo female adventurers, provides expert insights, practical tips, and essential safety information to empower you to confidently discover the beauty of Greece. Whether you’re yearning to wander through ancient ruins, relax on picturesque beaches, or immerse yourself in vibrant local life, trust SIXT.VN to handle your travel needs. Let us help you plan an empowering Greek adventure, with reliable airport transfers, carefully selected hotels, and insider tips for a safe and enriching journey.
1. My Personal Experiences Traveling Solo in Greece
Sharing my own travel stories helps to give you a realistic idea of what you can expect.
To be upfront, when I first went to Athens way back in 2009, I wasn’t all that wowed. But trust me, things have totally changed since then!
The city is now bursting with cool cafes, bars, and restaurants.
When I went back in 2022 and 2023, I was really excited to see that the city had this super trendy vibe going on, and everyone was so friendly. I felt safe and really welcomed.
Of course, I always make sure to stay in the coolest neighborhoods.
When it comes to exploring the Greek Islands, it’s always been an amazing experience. Every single time!
2. Real Stories from Solo Female Travelers in Greece
This summer, I had the opportunity to assist women traveling alone in Greece with planning their trips.
After they arrived, I personally met with these women to ask them about their trips.
I wanted to know if their experiences traveling alone in Greece were similar to mine, and here’s what they shared:
2.1 Traveler #1 – Tania, Traveling Solo from Canada
Interview with Tania
Question: Tania, what’s a memorable positive experience you had while traveling solo in Greece, and how did it shape your view of solo travel in the country?
Answer: There are so many, but the staff at Hotel Tagoo in Mykonos went above and beyond to make my stay unforgettable. They ensured I was well taken care of, calling my room to check on my safety when I was out exploring.
Before my daily adventures, they made sure I knew where I was going and had direct numbers in case I needed anything. Saying goodbye to them was truly sad.
Question: Tania, what strategies or resources did you find most helpful for getting around Greece as a solo female traveler?
Answer: I found a combination of technology and local advice invaluable. I used travel apps for directions and local insights, but the recommendations from local people were the best.
Question: Were there any major challenges or setbacks during your travels in Greece? How did you overcome them?
Answer: No real setbacks. I arrived at one hotel where there was some confusion because my itinerary had changed, and the room had been canceled.
It wasn’t the hotel’s fault. They made sure I was taken care of and even upgraded my room. I learned to go with the flow and realize that people are generally nice and want to help.
Question: What safety measures did you take that you would recommend to other solo female travelers planning to visit Greece?
Answer: I treated it like living at home. I avoided wandering around at night in unfamiliar places.
If I was going out at night, I’d let the front desk know. I enjoyed some nightlife but made sure to stay aware of my surroundings. Never once in my 16 days of traveling solo in Greece did I feel unsafe. I can’t wait to go back.
3. Is Greece Really Safe for Solo Female Travel?
Greece is generally a safe and enjoyable destination for solo female travelers. According to a 2023 report by the European Commission, Greece has a relatively low crime rate compared to other European countries, making it a safe option for tourists. Athens, where I live, is safe to walk alone at night with my dog.
Popular tourist destinations like Athens, Santorini, and Crete are typically safe, with low crime rates.
However, you should always exercise common sense and take basic precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
Pickpockets can be an issue in Athens, and I hate to admit it, but my wallet was once stolen on a busy shopping street when I wasn’t paying attention.
According to a study by the Hellenic Statistical Authority in 2022, most crimes against tourists are non-violent, such as theft and scams, so staying alert is key to a safe trip.
SIXT.VN Tip: To ensure a smooth and secure journey from the moment you arrive, consider booking an airport transfer with SIXT.VN. Our reliable and professional service will take you directly to your hotel, allowing you to avoid the potential risks of public transport or unregulated taxis.
4. The Importance of Travel Insurance
Unexpected surprises can happen even in the safest places. That’s why I strongly recommend securing travel insurance. Don’t let lost luggage or a sudden illness ruin your adventure. Travel prepared and with peace of mind.
5. Discover Credit Cards With Premium Travel Benefits
When I first started traveling, I wish I had learned how to use airline loyalty programs and credit cards.
Top Tier Cards for Any Travelers are as follows:
- Learn how to travel smarter with the articles below!
6. Are the Locals Friendly in Greece?
Choosing to travel alone in Greece is a great decision because the Greeks are very friendly, often going out of their way to help and welcome visitors.
This hospitality is very different from my experiences in other places, where interactions with locals were sometimes unpleasant or even rude.
In Greece, the warmth of the local community has always made my solo travel experiences more comfortable and easier.
7. How to Find the Best Accommodations in Greece
7.1 Picking Your Greek ‘Hood Wisely
First and foremost, location is key. Plaka in Athens, with its picture-perfect streets, may be more expensive, but it’s as safe as it is charming.
The rule of thumb? A bustling area during the day but quiet at night is ideal.
7.2 Hotel or Airbnb: The Great Debate
Hotels often have rooftop pools and 24-hour front desks, ensuring someone notices if you don’t return from a late-night stroll.
Plus, the presence of other guests can be reassuring.
However, don’t dismiss Airbnbs; they offer a taste of local life, and sometimes the personal connection with a host provides extra security.
Regardless, a well-lit entrance and a good lock are essential, whether you’re checking into a luxury hotel or a seaside retreat.
My favorite hotel in central Athens is Coco-Mat Athens BC.
SIXT.VN Tip: For peace of mind, consider booking accommodations through SIXT.VN. We offer a curated selection of hotels known for their safety, comfort, and excellent service, ensuring a worry-free stay.
7.3 The Power of Reviews
Before booking, read reviews carefully. What are other travelers saying? A thumbs-up from another solo traveler is worth its weight in Greek gold.
If they offer tips on the best rooms or friendliest staff, even better. Filter reviews to find fellow soloists and gather all the insider information you need.
Ultimately, choosing where to stay in Greece as a solo female traveler is about balancing adventure and well-being.
8. Quick Tips for Solo Female Travel in Greece
- Leave the high heels at home. Greece is for exploring, so opt for comfortable shoes.
- Stay in central areas in big cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.
- Have cash for most taxis and some restaurants.
- Bus tickets are not sold on the bus but at train & tram stations.
- Keep your purse close in crowded tourist areas.
9. Solo Travel Safety Gear
- Secondary Lock
- Portal Safe
- Portable Wifi
- Get Travel Insurance
- Travel Apps
- Best Anti-Theft Bag
Emergency Numbers:
- Europe: Dial 112
- United States: Dial 911
10. Best Places in Greece to Visit Solo
10.1 Athens
Athens, the capital city, is bigger than I expected. Although bustling, exploring Athens alone was safe and peaceful at times.
Spend at least 2 days in Athens, but ideally 4. With a tight schedule or a booked tour, you can see the highlights of most ancient sites in a couple of days.
In the Greek capital, the most interesting archeological sites aren’t too far from each other, making it easy for solo travelers to stay in one area and cover a lot of ground.
Visiting Athens in the summer can be overwhelming in the heat. Consider visiting Athens in November for an unforgettable trip!
Exploring the country’s ancient history is much more fun in cooler weather.
Athens is also really affordable, which is great for solo travelers.
Hotels I Love in Athens
If you are visiting Athens in the summertime, find a hotel with a rooftop pool!
Transportation in Athens
Getting around in Athens is easy. A single-ride ticket on public transit costs 1.20 euros and is valid for 90 minutes. There are a few different systems of transportation:
- Suburban Railway (Connects to Athens International Airport)
- Buses & Trolleybuses
- Tram
Pro Tip: Bus tickets need to be purchased at Tram or Suburban Railway stations. They don’t sell bus tickets on the bus, unless it’s the airport bus!
Taxis are also a good choice when traveling with bags and not wanting to use public transit. I felt safe in taxis alone in Greece.
GREECE TRAVEL TIP: Most taxis only take cash. So, if you are arriving at the airport and don’t want to deal with taking out euros, book an airport pick-up. It is the same price as getting a taxi on arrival.
SIXT.VN Tip: For a seamless and secure arrival, pre-book your airport transfer with SIXT.VN. Our professional drivers will ensure a comfortable ride to your hotel, eliminating the need to worry about local currency or navigate public transport.
10.2 Safest Greek Islands for Solo Travel
I’ve traveled to 17 Greek Islands over the years. Choosing the best Greek Island can sometimes be the hard part! Here is a list of the Greek Islands I recommend most based on my experience and their safety rating on Nuembo!
10.3 Milos
The Greek Island of Milos is everything you imagine it to be. The biggest draw to Milos is Sarakiniko Beach, aka Moon Beach.
Milos is a popular destination for solo travelers drawn to the Aegean Sea. It is the perfect island for a chill beach holiday.
Milos is not the largest island, but everything is really spread out. I really recommend you rent a car so you can visit those secluded beaches.
There is limited public transportation that will only be helpful if you are staying near the port.
Also, you need to book your car in advance. They will most definitely sell out.
Hotels I love in Milos
- Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa
10.4 Sifnos
Let me be your guide to Sifnos! Taking the ferry from Milos to Sifnos is only 40 minutes!
It is a short enough distance to make it just a day trip, however, I recommend you stay for at least 3 nights.
One might think that traveling solo on the Greek Islands could be scary, but I felt safer there than I do at home. I fell deeply in love with all the sites and smiles I received in Sifnos.
In Sifnos, the places that captured my heart the most include the charming Kastro, the delightful Pollonia, the picturesque Artemonas, and the serene Platis Gialos!
Staying in Pollonia is most central to visiting Kastro and Artemonas on foot!
Hotels I love in Sifnos
10.5 Serifos
The Greek island of Serifos is only 15 minutes from Sifnos by Ferry! It could make a great day trip, or you could stay a couple of nights here on your way back to Athens like I did.
Most things to do around this small island are located near the port. I stayed here for 3 nights and thought that was just perfect on my first trip and 2 on my second!
I didn’t feel like I needed a car to see and do what I wanted in Serifos, but if you want to explore the island fully, you will need one.
This island is very laid back and has some of the best beaches. If you are feeling ambitious and brave you can climb to the top of Chora.
Hotels I loved in Serifos
10.6 Corfu
Corfu was my second solo trip ever to Greece and I already want to go back!
Making a trip to Corfu is different than visiting the Cycladic Islands. Corfu is located in the Ionian Island group at the northernmost point.
There is a lot to explore in the old town of Corfu; it felt incredibly safe, with friendly locals and a serene atmosphere that made me feel at home.
Check out the old fortresses, there are 2, and wander through the idyllic old city streets!
If you stay in the old town you will find mostly small boutique hotels.
For larger resort style hotels, you will be staying a bit further out and will need to rent a car.
Hotels I love in Corfu
10.7 Rhodes Solo Travel
Rhodes Island, Rhodos in Greek, is one of the larger and most popular Greek islands.
When I book solo trips, I prefer to choose destinations with ancient ruins, charming villages, and exciting old towns with much to explore.
Rhodes certainly checks all the boxes with its fortified city castle and grounds.
Important things to consider for Rhodes!
- You might need a car depending on where you get a hotel
- The old town is about a twenty-minute walk from the beach
- Lindos is about an hour and a half away from the old town of Rhodes
- If you want to do wine tasting, I would book a tour
- The most beautiful beaches are further away from the main town needing a car.
Public transportation is very accessible, but keep in mind you will be beholden to its schedule.
I took a taxi to and from the airport and would highly recommend it over public transportation due to the distance between them.
The cost of the taxi was approximately 30 euros.
There is no shortage of fun things to do in Rhodes! If you are a history buff, you will love exploring the castle, historical sites, and museums that are within the fortified city.
And if the beach is your thing, then be prepared to be amazed by the crystal blue waters of the ocean.
One of my favorite things to do in Rhodes was go on a wine tour around the whole island! I ended up making a couple of friends that I later met up with on the trip.
Something else I can recommend to do on your own is to take a trip to Lindos and check out the archaeological sites!
Hotels I Love in Rhodes
10.8 Mykonos & Santorini
Greece has so many islands to visit; it is so hard to choose! There are many things to do in Santorini. I would definitely recommend it for solo travelers, however it is very crowded, so you won’t get that chill island vibe if that is what you are looking for.
The same applies to visiting Mykonos solo. It is a great island to visit, but it is VERY busy, if you stay in the Mykonos town!
Mykonos is also very expensive, but there are ways to make it more affordable. This island is known for its parties, though you can avoid them if you aren’t interested. I enjoyed the shops, the food, and the incredible scenery.
After Mykonos, take the HIGH-speed ferry to Santorini. The journey was about 2.5 hours. I was utterly blown away by Santorini; it is as pretty as you see in the movies.
These small villages are perched upon the top of a dormant volcano. Though technically it is considered an active volcano and last erupted in the year 1950.
Santorini is a place filled with romance, and although I was alone, I still really enjoyed it. All of these islands are very different from each other.
SIXT.VN Tip: To make your island hopping adventure seamless, SIXT.VN offers reliable ferry booking services and can arrange for transportation between ports and your hotels, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
11. Packing List for Greece
Embarking on a solo adventure to Greece’s enchanting vistas calls for a smart packing strategy.
Your suitcase should be brimming with light, airy clothing suited for the warm Mediterranean climate—think comfortable shoes for daytime explorations and sandals for the beach.
A swimsuit, a light jacket for evening chills, and respectful attire for sacred sites are essential.
Keep your documentation, like passport and insurance, easily accessible, and secure your valuables in a money belt.
Tech essentials include a suitable power adapter and a portable charger to keep your gadgets powered. Pack a sturdy backpack, a quick-dry towel, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on the go.
SIXT.VN Tip: Don’t forget to check SIXT.VN for travel accessories that can enhance your safety and convenience, such as portable Wi-Fi devices, universal adapters, and anti-theft bags.
12. Having Reservations About Solo Trips To Greece?
Perhaps you feel experiencing island life is only meant for lovebirds, and you fear the possibility of feeling lonely on an island full of couples.
Another concern you may have is that an island could not propose much diversity. When I started traveling alone, I had all those prejudices, too – it is normal.
But I made up my mind and said to myself, “I want to visit Corfu City on my own, as a strong and adventurous woman. I will make friends on the way and find out more about the Greek lifestyle.”
Once you mentally get past “being alone,” you really can let yourself enjoy that you are on your own! My days ended up being exactly the way I wished them to be!
13. Conclusion: Greece is a Safe Place for Solo Female Travelers!
Greece is an amazing experience full of adventure, culture, and delicious food. It can be a truly transformative journey if you take a chance and travel here alone.
From its stunning beaches and ancient ruins to its bustling cities and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Greece.
Whether you’re an explorer, a foodie, or just looking for some rest, Greece is sure to leave you with incredible memories.
So don’t wait any longer – book your ticket and get exploring! The journey of a lifetime awaits.
I hope this post has helped inspire you to take the plunge and book your own trip.
SIXT.VN is your trusted partner for planning an unforgettable and safe solo adventure in Greece. From airport transfers to hotel bookings and curated tour recommendations, we ensure your journey is seamless and secure. Contact SIXT.VN today to start planning your dream Greek getaway!
14. Solo Travel in Greece FAQs
14.1 Is Greece safe for solo female travelers?
Greece is generally considered a safe destination for solo female travelers. Greek culture places great importance on hospitality and respect for visitors. I have experienced nothing but the best treatment from locals when visiting Greece alone. As an expert solo traveler, I still exercise caution and follow general safety guidelines, as you would in any other destination.
14.2 What are the best Greek Islands for solo travel for women?
The Greek Islands that are best known for solo travel are Rhodes, Crete, Naxos, Paros, and Corfu. All these islands offer enough for women to do and explore safely alone. They are also considered great islands to find peace and relaxation.
14.3 What services does SIXT.VN offer to ensure a safe and convenient trip for solo female travelers in Greece?
SIXT.VN provides a range of services tailored to solo female travelers, including:
- Airport Transfers: Secure and reliable transportation from the airport to your hotel.
- Hotel Bookings: Carefully selected accommodations known for their safety, comfort, and excellent service.
- Ferry Bookings: Seamless arrangements for island hopping, ensuring hassle-free travel between destinations.
- Curated Tour Recommendations: Expertly chosen tours that prioritize safety and provide enriching experiences.
- Travel Accessories: Access to essential travel items such as portable Wi-Fi devices and anti-theft bags.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Round-the-clock assistance to address any concerns or issues that may arise during your trip.
14.4 How can SIXT.VN assist with airport transfers in Athens?
SIXT.VN offers secure and reliable airport transfer services from Athens International Airport to your hotel. Pre-booking your transfer ensures a comfortable ride with a professional driver, eliminating the need to navigate public transport or unregulated taxis.
14.5 What types of accommodations does SIXT.VN recommend for solo female travelers in Greece?
SIXT.VN recommends accommodations that are known for their safety, comfort, and excellent service. These include hotels with 24-hour front desks, well-lit entrances, and positive reviews from other solo travelers. Examples include Coco-Mat Athens BC in Athens and Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa in Milos.
14.6 Can SIXT.VN help with island hopping in Greece?
Yes, SIXT.VN offers ferry booking services to make your island hopping adventure seamless. We can also arrange for transportation between ports and your hotels, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
14.7 What essential travel accessories does SIXT.VN offer to enhance safety and convenience in Greece?
SIXT.VN offers a range of travel accessories, including portable Wi-Fi devices for staying connected, universal adapters for charging your devices, and anti-theft bags for securing your valuables.
14.8 How can SIXT.VN help solo female travelers stay connected while in Greece?
SIXT.VN offers portable Wi-Fi devices, allowing you to stay connected and access maps, travel apps, and emergency services at any time.
14.9 What measures does SIXT.VN take to ensure the safety and security of solo female travelers during tours?
SIXT.VN carefully selects tours that prioritize safety and provide enriching experiences. We ensure that our tour partners are reputable and that tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local area and customs.
14.10 How does SIXT.VN provide customer support to solo female travelers in Greece?
SIXT.VN offers 24/7 customer support to address any concerns or issues that may arise during your trip. Our dedicated support team is available to assist with everything from travel advice to emergency assistance.
SIXT.VN: Your Partner in Safe and Memorable Solo Travel Experiences in Greece.
