Activities to Enjoy Alone in Athens
Steeped in history and culture, Athens ranks high as a holiday destination. But even if you decide to travel solo, the city still has many things to offer you. From cooking lessons to bike tours, you can definitely find something to do on your own in the Greek capital.
Join a food tour
Forget the diet – you’re on holiday in Greece! Though there are healthy and vegetarian restaurants, this is the chance to really discover Greek cuisine. A food tour allows visitors to discover different local flavours besides just gyros and Greek salad. Besides, it is a great way to meet locals and like-minded visitors and to discover new spots.
Visit the central market
Speaking of food, head to the central market on Athinas Street. Pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, seasonal produce, olive oils, pickled foods and spices. For a fun activity that will awake your senses, a visit to the central market is a must.
Take a class
Whether it is at a yoga or sailing class, cooking lesson or pottery workshop, take the chance to leave your comfort zone and meet new people, maybe even other solo travellers, too.
See a Greek drama
Besides the numerous monuments and museums dotting the city, summer is also the ideal time to attend a theatre or music performance during the Athens-Epidaurus Festival, held at the Herodion Theatre in Athens and at the Epidaurus in Peloponnese.
See a different side of the city
One of the most historical cities in the world offers plenty of things to see, but to spice up your visit or see the city through a different perspective, join an alternative tour of the city. Whether it is centred around street art, cuisine or landmarks, you will surely find a tour (or two) to pique your interest.
Treat yourself
Travelling alone means not worrying about what a group wants to do, so go ahead and indulge in a mani-pedi, visit a traditional Turkish hammam or simply get a relaxing massage.
Get out of the city
Athens may have historical and cultural sites to visit, but it also boasts beautiful beaches and a few nearby islands. Plenty of day cruises allow visit two or three islands in one day, nearby sites and cities – such as Delphi, Corinth or Nafplio – provide great getaways from the chaos of the capital for a day.
Go to an open-air cinema
Warm weather in Greece means open-air cinemas. Find a rich collection of outdoor cinemas across town, even near the sea, to catch up on the latest blockbusters or rediscover an old-time classic. If visiting at the end of summer, join the Athens Open Air Cinema Festival, where movies are screened for free across the city.
Cycle your way through the city
Make the best of travelling solo by renting a bike for a day (or longer), and explore the city and ancient sites on two wheels, or have an enchanting ride along the Athenian Riviera. Who knows what little hidden spots will be discovered? Even better, join a sunrise/sunset tour.
Create your own self-guided tour
Are you a street food junkie or a bookworm? Do you enjoy galleries, music, street art? Whatever your passion is, you can create your own tour of Athens. Browse our plethora of articles and resources to tailor your own tour of the ancient city.
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