Is Athens Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Athens, the capital of Greece, is generally safe for solo female travelers. The city has emergent crime rates that are no higher than an average European city. The public transportation is reliable and it's easy to travel around. Most of the locals are pleasant and helpful. However, like any other city, there are neighborhoods to avoid during night-time, pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur. Therefore, it is advisable to be cautious, especially in crowded places and take the usual precautions that you would in any other city.

Safety rating

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How safe is Athens?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Athens is moderately safe to traverse at night. Major tourist sites and populated areas like Plaka, Syntagma Square, and Monastiraki remain well-lit and busy into the evening hours, reducing the risk of encountering undesirable situations. However, areas such as Omonoia, Exarchia, and Metaxourgeio can be a bit riskier, being known for occasional petty crime. As a solo female traveler, it is always better to practice vigilance at night.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Athens generally is safe and reliable. The metro, buses and trams are used by thousands of locals and tourists daily without incident. You should be aware of pickpockets, particularly in crowded places or during peak hours. Also, it is best to avoid less crowded vehicles late at night. However, the chances of experiencing serious issues are quite low.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Street harassment in Athens is relatively low compared to other major cities worldwide. Greek people are generally respectful and warm to tourists, including solo female travelers. Nevertheless, like any city, occasional unwanted attention can occur, but it's usually limited to non-aggressive stares or comments. It's advisable to follow general safety precautions to avoid potential uncomfortable situations.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Athens has a relatively low risk of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching. Popular tourist sites and crowded locales are more likely places for these petty crimes, but exercising basic caution like keeping personal belongings close and being aware of the surroundings can minimize the risk. In general, the city is safe, and locals are friendly and helpful, but like all tourist destinations, it's key to stay vigilant.

Is Athens safe to travel?

4.3 /5

Based on 44 experiences

Anjelika

Anjelika

United States

Solo travel

I went solo to Athens but met amazing friends while there. People are friendly and welcoming and generally feels safe. I stayed in an Airbnb in the city and was able to find grocery, a gym, the metro, bars, and bookstores all within walking distance. I met up with some other solo travelers to explore the city and go on some historic guided tours. Overall my experience was life changing and I would highly recommend Athens to everyone.

Posted: July 24, 2024Experienced: October, 2022
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Finn

Finn

Czech Republic

Group travel

I visited Athens with my friends this summer and it was one of my favorite trips ever! Even though the public transport wasn't the most reliable the great food balanced it out. I didn't feel more unsafe than in other countries I've visited so far. Actually, people everywhere we're so nice and helpful, even when they couldn't help us out. 100% will visit again (mainly for the museums and food :)

Posted: July 14, 2024
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Emma

Emma

United Kingdom

Solo travel

Vibrant city. Only able to stay for 2 nights and wish had more. Got very early morning bus to airport to save money on taxi - would recommend. Safe city, lovely food. Stayed in City Circus hostel, no frills and a bit noisy but as expected for hostel of price range.

Posted: June 25, 2024
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Amber

Amber

United States

Couple travel

We felt overwhelming and unexpectedly safe in Athens, particularly around the Acropolis area. I love Greek food, but my partner had never had it before and fell in love with it. We ate dinner at Arcadia Restaurant and spent the rest of the evening walking around and enjoying the shops in this area.

Posted: June 15, 2024
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Diana

Diana

Switzerland

Group travel

To my surprise, I felt very unsafe. I loved the city, but people were very reactive and I have the impression there is no consideration for women. We were 3 women and constantly having men swearing at us. I felt all the time as suddenly a fight against us could start.

Posted: June 12, 2024Experienced: April, 2024
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Lili

Lili

United States

Solo travel

I stayed in an Airbnb in Athens, and felt mostly safe walking around. I didn’t hear great things about hostels which is why I made this decision, and I was very grateful to have this space all to myself since it was quite the crowded city. There were definitely some sketchy streets so be super super vigilant when you are walking around alone, especially at night. I was there in July, so it was very hot! I decided to do the main attractions anyway, such as walking up to the Acropolis, but did my best to go in the mornings/evenings in order to avoid the mid day heat. This is when I would go back to my airbnb to cool off, eat, and drink water. Absolutely bring a giant water bottle to keep hydrated throughout the day even thought it can be a pain to carry around. Comfy shoes also!!

Posted: May 16, 2024
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Solo travel

I really recommend athens I’m feeling so safe here and ppl are really helpful and friendly . Food is also great . Transport is easy I hope a safe trip for all of you much loveee

Posted: April 13, 2024
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Solo travel

I went to Athens for three days about one year ago. I was fairly nervous before the trip. I found it to be extremely welcoming. I stayed in a hostel, which was a good decision. I joined a bicycle tour for three hours, which gave me an overview of the city. There was a time at night when I was out walking but I felt a little nervous. However, overall, the city felt very safe.

Posted: January 29, 2024
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Devin

Devin

United States

Couple travel

Athens, Greece was the best trip yet! Met an amazing family and had a good time. Safety: totally safe. We never felt afraid. Everyone was welcoming and nice. It is also a fire arms free country. Things to do: too many things to do and see. We saw just a small part of Athens in a week. A month is needed to island hop or to get a lot more in. Greece has so much to offer from tours, beach days and food galore! The food was so good! Anything we ate was delicious with a variety of options. Transportation: use the metro. Easy and cheap with lines all over the city. Cars are not recommended if you’re staying in the city. Accommodations: we stayed at a (and I think it’s called) boutique hotel. It was a cool place and would recommend as it was pretty central. The rest of the time was at an air bnb. Overall costs: fairly cheap. Food was definitely cheap. Out stay was the most expensive part since we were there for 5 days. The excursions were also a bit costly depending on what you want to do. I do like to do hop on hop off bus tours because it gives you an idea of what’s around to see and do for them or later, for a cheap ride. Plus it gives you transportation for the day to get to those sites at no extra costs other than waiting for the next ride. Side note: I DON’T RECOMMEND THIS TOUR IN ROME. Too much traffic and not worth it. It’s faster to walk.

Posted: January 28, 2024Experienced: May, 2023
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Caroline

Caroline

France

Solo travel

For my first travel alone, I stay 6 days in Athens. It’s a very beautiful city with amazing view. I feel safe but i don’t go anywhere at night 🙃 I sleep in a hotel next to acropolis so it’s a very good place to stroll all day long

Posted: January 27, 2024Experienced: January, 2024
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Is Athens safe for women?

Safety rating

2.9 /5

Based on 16 experiences

Crime rates rating

2.8 /5

Based on 16 experiences

Athens is not safe for solo travellers. Especially the Athens center. If you want to visit Athens, choose to live in the north like Kifisia or Marousi where you can easily take the green metro line and visit the center of the Athens during the day and not the night hours.

Posted: September 8, 2024
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In athens you need to keep an eye on your belongings at all times and also especially if you are a tourist look like you know where you are going. It will be safe if you do those things. Also dont just aimlessly wander in the center because there are pretty bad areas outside the touristic zone and actually very close to it. Just be aware and you will be fine.

Posted: September 7, 2024
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Is Athens safe right now?

Before your visit to Athens, it's essential to check travel advisories for Greece, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States Government advises exercising normal precautions in Greece. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: August 15, 2024
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian Government advises taking normal security precautions in Greece. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: September 4, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

Sure, here is the text with improved formatting and redaction: The Australian government advises to exercise normal safety precautions in Greece. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: August 13, 2024

Is Athens worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 44 experiences

Solo travel

Walk up and down as many streets as possible in Plaka. Enjoy the many cafes and eateries. Take in the sights. And smile at the friendly locals and fellow travellers. Have a wonderful time in this beautiful and historical city!

Posted: September 16, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel

I live in Athens now and have been for the last months. I visited the acropolis and it was so nice. It was free entry bc I’m 22 which was really good. The people are nice and the food are great. They have a lot of different rooftop bars also around monastiraki. I would recommend MS rooftop, hyper, A for Athens and 360 rooftop bar.

Posted: September 6, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5
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Meet locals in Athens

Meet local women in Athens who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Emma

Emma

About Me

I'm dying to explore new countries and learn about cultures. My favorite is mountain climbing next to waterfalls and swimming in the sea at sunset :)) My goal is to see the northern lights up close🤪

Speaking

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Christina

Christina

About Me

Hello lovely ladies 😘 I’m a cosmopolitan cookie who’s hopped around Europe like it’s a game of Monopoly. I’ve lived in several countries, collected loads of memories, and made friends all over the map. After taking a (much too long) break from travelling, I’m thrilled to be back on the road, diving into new adventures with a renewed zest for life. I'm a tennis nut who’s always up for a match or two. Off the court, I’m a proud (and slightly obsessed) dog mom to Biscuit, my adorable sausage dog who runs our cozy downtown Athens home. If you’re staying with us, expect a warm welcome and plenty of snuggles from Biscuit—she’s basically the boss around here. When I'm not styling people remotely or figuring out how to change the world (one wild idea at a time), you’ll find me chasing sunsets, swapping stories, and enjoying the little (and big) things that make life beautiful. If you're into good vibes, laughs, and a bit of adventure, let's connect! Looking forward to meeting you and sharing some great times! 🌍✈️🐾

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Athens

Stay with local women in Athens who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Hospitality exchange is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Emma

Emma

Athens

Can host for:

6 days

About me

I'm dying to explore new countries and learn about cultures. My favorite is mountain climbing next to waterfalls and swimming in the sea at sunset :)) My goal is to see the northern lights up close🤪

Speaking

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Christina

Christina

Athens

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello lovely ladies 😘 I’m a cosmopolitan cookie who’s hopped around Europe like it’s a game of Monopoly. I’ve lived in several countries, collected loads of memories, and made friends all over the map. After taking a (much too long) break from travelling, I’m thrilled to be back on the road, diving into new adventures with a renewed zest for life. I'm a tennis nut who’s always up for a match or two. Off the court, I’m a proud (and slightly obsessed) dog mom to Biscuit, my adorable sausage dog who runs our cozy downtown Athens home. If you’re staying with us, expect a warm welcome and plenty of snuggles from Biscuit—she’s basically the boss around here. When I'm not styling people remotely or figuring out how to change the world (one wild idea at a time), you’ll find me chasing sunsets, swapping stories, and enjoying the little (and big) things that make life beautiful. If you're into good vibes, laughs, and a bit of adventure, let's connect! Looking forward to meeting you and sharing some great times! 🌍✈️🐾

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Athens

Connect with upcoming visitors to Athens who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Noortje

Noortje

About Me

Hi! I am a Dutch girl living in Antwerp for my study. Loves to (solo)travel and exploring cities, nature and animals! I’m a kind social and sportive girl and would describe myself as an ambivert person (like to go to parties but also like to have me-time to reload). I’m positive and much into self development :-) my last travels were working as a volunteer on a horse ranch on Skyros and Crete 🌞🐴 I’ve just finished my summer exams and now I would love to discover Athens even more since I’ve been there only for some days and meeting new people 🍸🏛️💃🌸

Speaking

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Fredom

Fredom

About Me

Hey, I'm looking good forward to connecting with fellow travelers.

Speaking

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Safety in Greece