16 Greece Travel Tips for Solo Female Travellers Planning the Perfect Trip
Evening views like this never get old. Greece really knows how to show off.
Planning a Trip to Greece? Here’s What You Need to Know
If Greece is calling your name, you are definitely not the only one. It is one of those places that feels magical from the moment you land. The food, the sunsets, the blue and white everything, the warmth of the people. It is the kind of destination that instantly feels like the escape you have been craving.
But here is the thing. Greece looks simple on Instagram, yet planning the perfect trip can feel overwhelming when you realise how many islands there are, how the ferries work, and how much the experience changes depending on the month you visit.
I spend a lot of time in Greece with our girls’ trips each year, especially between May and September, and I have learned exactly what makes a Greek adventure run smoothly. These tips are the ones I wish every solo female traveller knew before touching down in Athens for the first time.
Let’s start from the top so you can plan a trip that feels easy, exciting and completely your vibe.
Golden hour in Greece hits different. This is the moment everyone falls in love with the islands
Tip 1: Choose the Right Season
The season you travel in can honestly make or break your trip. Greece in July and August is very different from Greece in May, June, September or October. Summer is hot, busy and full of energy. Shoulder season is warm, calmer, better value and still has that perfect summer feeling without the chaos.
If you want the best mix of good weather, swimmable seas and fewer crowds, May to early July and September are incredible. These are also the months I run most of our Greece group trips because everything feels a little easier and a lot more enjoyable. You get sunshine, clear skies and the space to explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Choosing the right month sets the tone for your whole experience, so take a minute to think about what kind of trip you want. Busy and buzzy, or warm and relaxed. Greece gives you both. You just need to pick the season that matches your energy.
Tip 2: Set a Realistic Itinerary
One of the biggest Greece planning mistakes is trying to squeeze too many islands into too few days. On our group trips for female travellers to Greece, we always plan enough time in each place so you actually get to enjoy the island instead of rushing through it.
A good rule is simple. Aim for at 2-3 nights in each destination so you have two full days to enjoy it. That gives you enough time to explore without feeling rushed and it also means you can actually settle into the island rather than just passing through it.
This is something I always keep in mind when planning our Greece trips because the whole point is to enjoy the moment, not spend your holiday queuing for ferries or dragging a suitcase from port to port.
Your trip to Greece should feel spacious and calm, not frantic. Choose fewer places and enjoy them properly.
Tip 3: Group Islands by Region
Greece has more than 200 inhabited islands and they are spread out a lot more than people realise. Instead of jumping between far apart islands, choose one group and stick to it. Your travel days will be shorter, your ferries will be smoother, and your overall route will feel more relaxed.
For example:
Cyclades: Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Milos, Mykonos, Los
Ionian: Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia
Dodecanese: Rhodes, Kos
Saronic Islands: Hydra, Aegina, Poros
Each cluster has its own vibe, so pick the energy you want and plan within that group. This makes everything easier and gives you more time on beaches, in tavernas and exploring, instead of sitting on ferries all day.
Tip 4: Understand How Ferries Work and When to Fly
Ferries are a big part of travelling around Greece and they are not all the same. Some are slower and cheaper. Others are fast, modern and a bit pricier. Depending on where you are going, a ferry journey can take anywhere from one hour to five or more.
If you are travelling longer distances, flying can sometimes make the most sense. For example, Athens to Santorini or Athens to Crete is often quicker and sometimes even cheaper by plane.
The main thing is to check the ferry schedules before you plan your itinerary. Ferries can sell out in peak months, and weather can sometimes cause delays. Knowing your options early helps you avoid surprises and saves a lot of stress once you are island hopping.
If you join one of our girls’ trips with Females Flying Solo, all the logistics are taken care of for you. Everything is pre-booked and planned, and you have a tour guide who handles the tickets and timings. All you need to do is pack your bag and turn up, and the rest is sorted.
Tip 5: Book Early for July and August, but Leave Room for Flexibility
If you are travelling in July or August, book your key things early. That means ferries, your must-stay hotels and flights. These months are the busiest of the year and prices rise quickly.
But here is the nice part. If you visit outside peak season, like May, June or September, you can be a lot more flexible. You will often find great last-minute deals and have more options for accommodation.
It is all about balance. Book the essentials that matter to you, and keep the rest open so you can go with the flow. Greece is one of those places where the best moments usually happen when you leave a little space for spontaneity.
Tip 6: Choose the Right Base in Each Destination
Where you stay in Greece makes a huge difference to how smooth your trip feels. In Athens, staying somewhere central like Plaka, Koukaki or near the Acropolis puts you close to the main sights and makes it easier to explore on foot.
On the islands, think about how you want to get around. If you are not renting a car, choose accommodation near the main town or along a good bus route. It saves you long walks in the heat and gives you easy access to beaches, restaurants and activities.
This is something I always think about when planning our Greece group trips, because the right base turns everything from food to sunsets to ferry days into something you actually enjoy instead of something you have to navigate. We also include transport on our trips, so you are taken straight from the ferry to your accommodation without having to work anything out yourself.
Tip 7: Plan for Heat and Sun Safety
Greece in summer can get hot, especially in July and August. The sun is strong and many archaeological sites have very little shade. It is easy to underestimate how quickly the heat can drain you.
Plan your days around the weather. Do your sightseeing early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Keep sunscreen, a hat and water with you, and take breaks in the shade or in a café when you need to.
This is exactly why on our Greece girls’ trips, we do the big activities earlier in the day when it is cooler. It keeps everyone comfortable and lets you enjoy the moment without feeling drained.
Tip 8: Pack Light and Smart
Greece is one of those places where packing light makes your whole trip easier. You will be walking on cobblestones, climbing steps, getting on and off ferries, and maybe even staying in places where you need to carry your bag up a hill. A heavy suitcase will not be your friend.
Choose comfortable shoes, light layers, swimwear, and a daypack you can use for beaches and day trips. You do not need endless outfits. Greece is relaxed, and no one cares what you wear. Pack what you actually use, not what you think you might use.
Top tip: plan your outfits before you travel and take photos of each one on your phone. When you are packing or getting ready in Greece, you can quickly scroll and see what you actually brought, instead of trying to remember or overpacking “just in case.”
Travelling light means you move through Greece with ease, confidence and way less stress.
Tip 9: Learn a Few Basic Greek Phrases
You do not need to be fluent to enjoy Greece, but knowing a few simple words goes a long way. Greeks really appreciate it when you make an effort, even if it is tiny.
A few to start with:
- Kalimera means good morning
- Efharisto means thank you
- Parakalo means please or you are welcome
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but using even one Greek word makes interactions friendlier. It also feels nice to show respect to the local culture while travelling
Tip 10: Understand Transport on Each Island
Getting around Greek islands can be very different from place to place. Some islands have great bus systems that take you to most beaches and towns. Others are much easier to explore with a car, scooter or ATV.
If you are not confident driving abroad, stick to islands with good public transport or stay close to a main town. If you do want the freedom of a vehicle, check if you need an International Driving Permit before you go.
Knowing your transport options ahead of time helps you plan days that actually feel fun rather than stressful.
Beach days in Greece just hit different. This is the definition of slow, sunny, holiday energy.
Tip 11: Budget Wisely and Know the Typical Costs
Greece can be as affordable or as expensive as you make it. Local tavernas, bakeries and public transport give you amazing value. Popular islands in peak season will cost more and boat tours and beach clubs can add up quickly.
Plan a loose budget for accommodation, food, ferries, activities and a few little treats. It is better to know what to expect rather than feel surprised once you arrive.
Travelling smart with your money means you get to enjoy Greece fully without worrying about every purchase.
Tip 12: Try Local Food the Local Way
Greek food is one of the highlights of any trip, and it tastes even better when you eat where the locals eat. Skip the big tourist menus on the main strip and look for small family-run tavernas. These places usually have the freshest dishes and the best prices.
Ask the staff what they recommend instead of sticking to the same dishes everywhere. Each island has its own specialities, and trying something new is part of the joy of travelling through Greece.
Sharing plates is normal here, so order a few things for the table and enjoy the slow, relaxed style of eating that makes Greek meals so memorable.
Tip 13: Respect Cultural Norms and Historical Sites
Greece is full of beautiful churches, monasteries and ancient ruins, and they all come with traditions and etiquette. Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering religious sites and quiet behaviour is expected.
At archaeological sites, avoid climbing on old structures or picking up stones. These places are protected and incredibly important to Greek history.
A little bit of respect makes your experience smoother and shows appreciation for the culture you are exploring.
Tip 14: Consider Guided Tours and Boat Trips
Even if you love travelling independently, booking at least one guided experience in Greece can completely elevate your trip. In Athens, a walking tour brings the history to life in a way that is hard to get from signs alone. On the islands, boat trips are often the highlight of the whole holiday. Hidden coves, snorkelling stops, music, good food, and the kind of views you remember forever.
This is why I always include a boat day on our trips. It is fun, relaxed and such an easy way to connect with other women while seeing the coastline from a completely different perspective. If you like the idea of travelling solo but not alone, you can explore all our group trips for solo female travellers here.
Guided tours add depth, context and a social element that many solo travellers really appreciate.
Tip 15: Sort Out Your Connectivity and Travel Tech
Wi-Fi in Greece is reliable in most hotels, restaurants and cafés, but it can drop in remote areas or while you are on ferries. If you rely on maps, translation apps or staying in touch with family, getting an e-SIM or local SIM card is the easiest way to stay connected.
E-SIMs are great because you can set them up before you even leave home. They activate the moment you land, you keep your usual number, and you never have to go searching for a phone shop. You can check out popular eSIMs like Saily or Airalo if you are interested.
It also helps to download offline maps for the islands you are visiting and save screenshots of your ferry tickets, hotel bookings and transfers. That way you are covered even when the signal drops.
A little prep goes a long way and makes your days run smoother from the moment you arrive.
Tip 16: Don’t Skip Travel Insurance and Basic Safety
Greece is generally very safe, but things like lost luggage and cancelled ferries can happen. Travel insurance is worth it, especially if you are island hopping or planning boat days and hikes.
Stay aware in busy areas like markets and metros in Athens, keep your bag zipped, and take care on uneven paths or cliffside viewpoints. Nothing dramatic, just the usual common sense.
Feeling prepared lets you enjoy Greece with confidence and ease.
Your Greek Adventure Starts Here
Greece has this special ability to stay with you long after you have left. The food, the islands, the sunsets, the warmth of the people, the energy of the old towns. It is one of those destinations that feels both exciting and grounding at the same time.
With the right planning, Greece becomes an easy, relaxing and unforgettable place to explore, especially if you are travelling solo. Once you know how the ferries work, which months feel best, how many islands to choose and what to expect day to day, the whole trip opens up. It stops feeling overwhelming and starts feeling like something you can genuinely enjoy from the moment you land.
And here is the part I love. Every year between May and September, I take groups of women to Greece, and I see the same thing happen again and again. Everyone arrives a little unsure, wondering if they can really do this, and they leave with friendships, confidence and stories they will never forget. Greece does that for people.
So wherever you choose to go, take these tips with you, trust yourself and let Greece be the place where you relax, explore and enjoy the kind of moments that make you feel alive.
You are ready for this. Greece is ready for you.
FAQS About Planning a Trip to Greece
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Yes, Greece is generally very safe for women travelling alone. The islands feel relaxed, the locals are friendly and most places are easy to get around. Just use the usual travel awareness you would anywhere else and you will feel comfortable exploring.
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Two or three islands is usually the sweet spot. Anything more becomes a lot of packing, ferry schedules and rushing. Fewer islands mean more quality time and a calmer, smoother trip.
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If you are travelling in July or August, booking ahead is a good idea. Outside peak season, you have more flexibility, but checking the timetable early helps you plan your route confidently.
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It depends on the island. Some have great bus routes and walkable towns. Others are easier with a car, scooter or ATV. If you are not comfortable driving abroad, choose islands with good public transport or stay close to a main town.
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May, June and September are amazing. Warm weather, swimmable seas, fewer crowds and better prices. July and August are very lively but also very hot, so just plan around the heat if you visit then.