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Dreaming of visiting the Greek Islands but have no one to go with?! Lucky for you, island hopping in Greece is a great choice for females traveling alone. Basking in the sun while gazing at the Aegean sea doesn’t have to wait till you find a travel buddy… In this post, you will find out the 15 best Greek Islands for solo travel!
Solo trips to Greece are my specialty! I have visited Greece six and soon to be seven times alone. There are so many Greek Islands, almost too many to visit in one lifetime, but I will try!
Choosing which island to visit can be a real challenge. Each Greek island is unique in its own way. And of all the islands I visited, each offered a different vibe, impressive landscape, and vibrant culture. I should point out that I felt incredibly safe visiting when visiting all these islands.
15 Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel
What qualifies these Greek Islands as the “best for solo travel” is how safe I felt and the people’s hospitality and ease of navigating alone.
Greece is such a wonderful country, it can be hard to narrow down what island to choose from. I hope the list of the 15 best Greek Islands for solo travel can make it easy!
Rhodes Island
Dodecanese Islands
The Greek island of Rhodes ( Ródos in Greek) is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. For solo female traveling, I rank it as one of the best! I enjoyed traveling solo in Rhodes for five nights. What I loved most about traveling here on my own was that I never was bored. Rhodes has various things to do that kept me busy for days!
Rhodes is located most easterly in the Aegean Sea, just off the coast of Turkey. A convenient airport on the island and public transportation that will take you to the Old Town for 2.50 euros in just 15 minutes.
Things To Do Solo In Rhodes
- Immerse yourself in ancient history and walk around the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes.
- Check out the three medieval windmills of Mandraki on your way to St. Nicolas Fortress.
- Try the traditional Greek dessert from Rhodes, Melekouni.
- Take a day trip to Symi Island.
- Lay on the best beaches in Rhodes, such as Tsambika, Saint Paul’s bay, Ladiko, or Kallithea.
- Visit the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes and the archaeological park.
- Explore Rhodes Medieval City – UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Find eleven gates of the fortified city of Rhodes.
- Climb to the top of the clock tower.
- Day trip to Lindos to visit the archaeological sites.
- Join a wine-tasting tour.
- Rent a car and visit secluded beaches.
Where to Stay Solo in Rhodes
Rhodes is a great starting point to island hop in the Dodecanese islands!
Symi Island
Dodecanese Islands
One of the best Greek islands for solo travel is Symi Island. It is one of the most picturesque Greek Islands I have ever been to. Reflecting on my time on Symi island, I think of slow traveling in paradise.
Symi island is a bit sleepy and very safe. Everyone knew everyone on this island. You can feel a real sense of this island’s Greek culture and community. I recommend visiting for a day or one to two nights maximum.
There is no public transportation in Symi. If you plan to stay longer than just a day, I recommend renting a car.
Symi is located 25 miles north northwest of Rhodes. The best way to reach Symi is by ferry. A ferry ride from Rhodes was only 1 hour to 1.5 hours. Check out ferry options with Direct Ferries.
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Things To Do Solo in Symi
- Walk along the harbor visiting shops and cafes.
- Relax on the beautiful beaches of Saint George bay and Agia Marina.
- Visit the Sacred Monastery of Saint Archangel Michael the Panormitis.
- Check out the Archaeological Museum of Symi
- Ride in a water taxi around nearby beaches
Where to Stay Solo in Symi
Your next Greek island hop within the Dodecanese island group is Kos! Find out all about why you should solo travel to Kos!
Kos Island
Dodecanese Islands
A very popular island hopping route is Symi Island to Kos Island. The journey via ferry between Symi and Kos is approximately 1.5 hours.
This is a great island for solo female travel! Kos is the second most visited island of Dodecanese, next to Rhodes. It is known for its archaeological sites, beautiful beaches, and lush landscapes. Also, Kos is known to be the birthplace of Hippocrates!
Kos is one of the more lively islands, so it is here if you want a party. As a solo traveler, Kos is a great island to make friends and meet other solo travelers!
Kos is located in the Aegean Sea near the Turkish coast. It is 200 nautical miles from Piraeus port in Athens.
Things To Do Solo In Kos
- Relax in the Aegean sea thermal waters at Agios Fokas Beach. Not all destinations in Greece have thermal baths. Take advantage of this opportunity in Kos!
- Rent a bike and enjoy cycling along the coastal villages and beautiful beaches
- Immerse yourself in ancient history and explore the Netatzia castle built by the Knights of Templar.
- Take a half-day trip and discover the archeological site of Asklepion. Take a taxi or go by car 3.5 km southwest of the main town of Chora.
- Treat yourself to a half day of wine tasting and dinner!
Where To Stay Solo in Kos
Corfu Island
Ionian islands
A fantastic west coast island for solo female travellers in the Ionian Islands is Corfu! A good time to visit Corfu is in late April or early May.
If you are traveling solo, those are the best times to visit Corfu to beat the crowds of families. The weather was warm enough to go to the beach but not too hot. You also won’t get bored here with so much ancient history to immerse yourself in.
Corfu (Kerkyra in Greek) is located on the far northwest coast of mainland Greece! You can fly directly into Corfu and then island hop from there. If you fly into Corfu and are traveling with only a small carry-on, you can walk from the airport to the old town of Corfu. Learn more about your solo trip to Corfu here.
Things To Do Solo In Corfu
- Explore Corfu Town on a guided walking tour and local food tastings.
- Go on a Quad Safari tour of Corfu island with lunch!
- Spend the day exploring the Old Venetian Fortress
- Make day trips to beautiful beaches such as Porto Timoni beach, Agios Georgios beach, Nissaki beach, and Agios Spiridon beach.
- Check out the New Venetian Fortress
- Take a day trip to Angelokastro for the most amazing panoramic views!
- Visit the Holy Church of Saint Spyridon in the Old Town Corfu
Where to Stay Solo in Corfu
Best Greek Island Travel Guides
Paxos Island
Ionian islands
The Greek island Paxos, also known as Paxi, is perfect for a solo traveling female looking to unplug. Paxos is quiet and is not a hotspot for tourism. You can island hop here for a night or two while recharging for your next adventure.
Paxos is located in the Ionian sea south of Corfu. Via ferry, it can take anywhere from 50 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Paxos could also make a great day trip if you are short on time.
The best time to visit Paxos is in the summer when the weather is nice and warm. Getting around Paxos is best by car or moped, as public transportation is very limited.
Things To Do Solo in Paxos
- Stroll around the port town of Gaios and what the ferry boats come in.
- Visit the resort-like towns of Loggos and Lakka
- Take a day trip to the Antipaxos Island
- Explore the Tripitos Arch near the village of Ozias
- Relax at the pristine beaches of Monodendri Beach, Pounda Beach, and Harami Beach
- Watch sunsets from Erimitis Beach
Where to Stay Solo in Paxos
Lefkada Island
Ionian islands
Island hopping from Paxos/Paxi is limited, but in the summer months, there are ferries to the most popular islands. Traveling solo to Lefkada from Paxi is possible with 3 weekly ferry connections.
The journey to Lefkada from Paxos is around 3 hours via ferry. Lefkada is located in the Ionian Sea, west of mainland Greece.
The closest airport to Lefkada is in the city of Preveza. This is one of the few Greek islands connected to the mainland by a bridge. Lefkada is a nice island with incredible beaches of crystal blue water and traditional Greek villages.
Things to Do Solo in Lefkada
- Take a tour of the town of Lefkada, the capital of the island
- Take a day trip to the Dimossari Waterfalls
- Relax at the most popular beach in Lefkada! Porto Katsiki is a stunning beach and feels almost surreal.
- Immerse yourself in ancient history and explore the Castle of Agia Mavra
- Try windsurfing at Vasiliki! This beach is located in the southern part of the island of Lefkada
- Get some incredible photos of the white cliffs at Cape Lefkatas
- Do a Full Day Boat cruise with lunch to the forgotten islands of Lefkada
- Full-Day Kayaking Tour in the Ionian Sea
Where to Stay Solo in Lefkada
Mykonos Island
Cyclades Islands
Mykonos was the first Greek Island I have ever visited. It was also my first-ever solo trip! My inspiration for writing about these 15 best Greek islands for solo travel all started with this island.
As a solo traveler, Greece has always been the most welcoming country for me. The people have been so kind and friendly, the food is incredible, and the culture vibrant and warm!
Mykonos is a lot different now than when I visited in 2010. The magic is still there, but the prices and the crowds have increased. Depending on where you fall as a social traveler, you may want to flock to or skip this island. If you are looking for a party island, this is the place!
If you are traveling from Athens, you will get the ferry from the Piraeus Port. The journey from Athens to Mykonos will range depending on the ferry you book. The shortest time is 2 hours 30 minutes, and the longest is up to 5 hours 15 minutes.
Mykonos is part of the Cyclades Islands, the largest of the island groups in Greece. The Cyclades islands are the best for island hopping!
Things to Do Solo in Mykonos
- Walking tour of Mykonos! I highly recommend joining a group tour when traveling alone as a female. It is a fantastic way to make a few friends.
- Take a day trip to Delos Island! Explore the archeological site with a small group and a guide.
- Tour remote villages in Mykonos! This 4-hour tour is perfect for solo travelers! Spend a half day with a small group discovering hidden harbors and secret beaches.
- Take a sunset cruise with drinks! Spend 2 hours and 30 minutes cruising around Little Venice and Mykonos, eating snacks, and watching the sunset.
- Go on an off-road safari visiting rural villages and stopping for a swim.
- Take pictures of the famous windmills
- Eat in a seaside cafe
Where to Stay Solo in Mykonos
Traveling from Mykonos to Santorini is a popular island-hopping route. Many ferry lines travel between the two islands daily.
Best Greek Island Essentials
Santorini Island
Cyclades Islands
Santorini is by far and away the most popular Greek island, according to Google. Santorini has appeared in so many movies and Instagram feeds no wonder it’s on everyone’s mind.
As far as solo female traveling is concerned, it is one of the best Greek islands to travel alone! Santorini is safe, packed with things to do, and easy to navigate!
Santorini is located 130 nautical miles from Athens in the southern Aegean Sea. There is an airport in Santorini. It is common to either fly into or out of Santorini at the start or the end of a Greek island-hopping adventure.
A fast ferry from Athens to Santorini takes approximately 4-5 hours. Since it does take a relatively long time to get there from Athens, I suggest island hop your way back or fly.
Things to Do Solo in Santorini
- Tour the highlights of Santorini and end the day with a wine-tasting!
- Join a bus tour of the island with Oia village sunset to finish off the day!
- Ride on an old wooden boat to the Volcano and swim in the volcanic sulfur waters!
- Take a day trip to the Venetian Castles.
- Check out the most beautiful beaches in Santorini! Red Beach, Kamari Beach, and Perissa Beach are among the most popular.
Where to Stay Solo in Santorini
Milos Island
Cyclades Islands
Milos is one of the newly popular Greek islands of the Cyclades. We can thank social media for putting this gem on our radar. The main attraction pulling people to Milos is Sarakiniko Beach, AKA “Moon Beach.” There are some incredible boutique hotels in Milos that offer the perfect island experience!
From Santorini, Milos is between 2 and 4 hours via ferry. Milos does have a small airport for those of you interested in flying. If you are traveling from Athens, Milos is a 3-hour ferry ride.
Milos has become a popular choice on the island hopping route recently. The island is starting to adapt and increase public transportation with increased tourism. It is still a ways off, and one of my biggest takeaways was that you really need to rent a car in Milos.
Things to Do Solo in Milos
- Visit Sarakiniko Beach! This beach is so special with its make up of volcanic rock resembling a luna formation. Head to the beach early to beat the crowds.
- Take an archaeology culture tour of Milos Island.
- Visit the iconic Greek town of Plaka
- Check out the colorful fishing village of Klima
- Explore the Ancient Theatre of Milos in Trypiti
If you want more, check out the best 10 things to do in Milos.
Where to Stay Solo in Milos
- Melian Boutique Hotel
- Delmar Apartments & Suites
- Noon & Beyond Accommodation
Sifnos Island
Cyclades Islands
Sifnos is an island for the “foodies,” so if you solo travel for food, island hop here! I highly recommend Sifnos to any female traveling alone. I felt incredibly safe and welcomed on the Greek island of Sifnos.
It is truly a hidden gem of the Greek Islands. Which almost makes me hesitant to write about it.
Sifnos is located only a 40-minute ferry ride from Milos! The short distance in between makes a perfect spot for a solo travel island hop. There is no airport in Sifnos, but there is some public transportation of buses.
Public transportation is limited; renting a car is the easiest way to get around. I did not rent a car in Sifnos and could get around by foot or taxi to the destinations most important to me.
Things to Do Solo in Sifnos
- Explore the ancient capital city of Kastro! No cars are allowed in Kastro, and it is made up of stairs and inclines. It will not be suitable if you have any physical challenges.
- Visit the Church of Seven Martyrs
- Relax at the beach in Platis Gialos! Some of the best restaurants are also located in Platis Gialos. For more information, read the best guide to Sifnos, Greece.
- Sample traditional Greek Food and explore the towns of Apollonia and Artemonas.
- Enjoy delicious food most famous restaurant, Cantina!
Where to Stay Solo in Sifnos
Serifos Island
Cyclades Islands
Serifos Island is a really good island for solo travel if you are on a budget. It is one of the more authentic Greek islands and very affordable! It is a chill vibe with some of the nicest people.
A good time to visit is late May or early September. The island starts to close up around the 19th or so of September. In my case, I was leaving at just the right time, around September 20th.
Serifos is located only 15 minutes by ferry from Sifnos! It could easily be a day trip from Sifnos, but I am glad to have stayed on the island.
There is no airport, and from Athens, you can reach Serifos in 2 hours by ferry. If you don’t want to rent a car in Serifos, you will see almost everything the island has to offer by foot or bus.
Serifos does have some incredible beaches and places for hiking. You will need a car to do these activities. There is a limited number of taxis on the island, so don’t rely on them.
Things to Do Solo in Serifos
- Spend the whole day at the beach! Serifos has pristine beaches with the best beach bars! For more information, read a complete guide to Serifos.
- Climb from the port in Livadia to the top of Chora for the most incredible panoramic views of Serifos.
- Visit the many churches of Serifos. The are loads of churches to visit, but the main ones are the Church of Ioannhs, Agia Marnia, Agios Manas, and the Church of Saint Athanasios.
Where to Stay Solo in Serifos
Shop Greek Brands
Paros Island
Cyclades Islands
Paros is another affordable island for solo female travelers! This island is a bit more lively than Serifos. If you are looking for nightlife on a budget, Paros is your island!
If you plan to travel from Serifos to Paros, the ferry will take 2 hours with a fast ferry. It could take up to 6 hours on certain ferries. In the high season of June to September, there are typically 8 ferry crossings per week.
Paros does have an airport located south of the city of Parikia. Depending on your island hopping itinerary, it could be a good option to fly in and out.
Things to Do Solo in Paros
- Check out the town of Naoussa! This is a place that is packed with nightlife and the best restaurants.
- Visit the beautiful beach of Kolymbithres! Just chill all day by the Aegean Sea.
- Go on a full-day boat trip to Delos and Mykonos! This full-day tour leaves Paros and takes you to Delos and Mykonos!
- Walk around Parikia, a traditional Greek village. This town is what you would expect on a Greek Island, with whitewashed cubed houses and narrow pathways leading to shops.
- Get into the Gastronomic scene in Paros! Some of the best restaurants include Thalassa you, Mario, and Siparos.
Where to Stay Solo in Paros
Crete Island
Largest Greek Island
Greece’s largest Greek island is Crete. It is also the most populated. If you are someone who isn’t interested in island hopping but want to see a lot on one island, come to Crete.
Crete is located 99 miles south of mainland Greece. There are 2 main towns, Heraklion and Chania, in Crete, both with an airport. A popular island to fly into and island hop from there.
Since Crete is so large and more densely populated, it operates all year. Also, with an island this populated, many public transportation options exist.
The best way to explore Crete is by renting a car. It is very affordable and easy with Discover Cars.
Things to Do Solo in Crete
- From Chania: Go on a World Class Wine Tasting tour! This full-day tour includes lunch and wine tasting!
- From Chania: Stroll around the old town and check out the shops and cafes
- From Chania: Go hiking to Samaria Gorge
- From Heraklion: Palace of Knossos Guided Walking Tour
- From Chania or Heraklion: Take a day trip to Rethymno!
There is so much to do in Crete! Check out the Ultimate Crete Solo Travel Guide for more information!
Where to Stay Solo in Crete
- Nonnalena Boutique Hotel – Chania
- Monastery Estate Venetian Harbor – Chania
- White Swan – Rethymno
- Infinity City Boutique Hotel – Heraklion
Best Swimsuits for the Greek Islands
Hydra Island
Saronic Islands
Hydra is a great island for solo traveling! One of the best things about Hydra is that no cars or motorcycles are allowed! This is also one of the closest islands to Athens! So if your starting point is Athen, visiting Hydra is a great choice!
Hydra is located in the central Greece region, just off the eastern side of the Argolís Peninsula of the Peloponnese.
Things to Do Solo in Hydra
- Saronic Islands Day Cruise with Lunch & Audio Guide
- Check out the many museums of Hydra! Historical Archives Museum, Kountouriotis, and Ecclesiastical Museum.
- Taking a walking tour from Kamini Fishing Village to Hydra Town!
- Make friends with the Donkeys!
- Chill on the many beaches of Hydra!
- Vlychos Beach – Pebbled Beach
- Kaminia Beach- Pebbled beach best for families
- Spilia Beach- Rocky spot ideal for diving
- Agios Nikolaos- Beautiful sandy beach considered one of the best on the island!
Where to Stay Solo in Hydra
Skiathos Island
Sporades Islands
Skiathos is the most visited of the Sporades Islands. It is very close to mainland Greece. It attracts solo travelers for its picturesque village vibes and lively nightlife.
You will find Skiathos in the Northern Sporades island group, located west of the island of Skopelos. From Athens, it is about a 2-3 hour journey by ferry.
Things to do Solo in Skiathos
- Stroll the idyllic old town.
- Relax at Agia Eleni Beach
- Visit the Evangelistria Monastery
Where to Stay Solo in Skiathos
Popular Greek Island Hopping Routes
Rhodes – Symi – Kos | Greek Island Hopping Route Itinerary
The perfect itinerary for this Island hopping route would be 8 nights on the islands and 2 days in Athens.
- Day 1- Athens Day
- Day 2-5 – Rhodes Island
- Day 6 -Symi Island
- Day 7-9 Kos Island
- Day 10 Athens
Milos – Sifnos – Serifos | Greek Island Hopping Route Itinerary
The ideal itinerary for this Greek island hopping route would be 11 days total, including 2 days in Athens.
- Day 1 – Athens
- Day 2 – 5 – Milos
- Day 6-9 Sifnos
- Day 9-10 -Serifos
- Day 11- Athens
Crete – Santorini
On this Greek island hopping itinerary, I recommend you fly into Chania, Crete, and then island hop your way back to Athens.
- Day 1-3 Chania, Crete
- Day 4-7 Heraklion, Crete
- Day 8-10 Oia, Santorini
- Day 11-12 Athens
Corfu – Paxos – Lefkada
Visiting Corfu is easy to fly into and then island hop from there. I recommend a total 8-day itinerary.
- Day 1-3 – Corfu
- Day 2-4 Paxos
- Day 5-8 Lefkada
Greek Island Travel Tips
Travel solo and travel prepared to the Greek Islands! Here is the list of my must-haves when going. to the Greek islands!
Buy Ferry Tickets in Advance
Don’t wait until the last minute; get your tickets at least 8 weeks in advance. Travel is back, the ticket could be booked out if you wait.
book Restaraunt reservations early
If you don’t book ahead, you could miss out entirely. Some restaurants don’t take reservations, and if they don’t, then get there early.
Bring a Sun hat
Save yourself a sunburned head! It is worth buying on the island or bringing from home. Just have a sun hat.
Plan in case of seasickness
Sometimes the ferries are rocky and could cause a little seasickness. Plan ahead and pack some pills just in case.
Bring lots of sunscreen
Have plenty of sunscreen on hand. I bring the powdered and liquid.
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FAQs About Greek Island Hopping
Greek island hopping doesn’t have to cost a lot. If the ferry ticket cost is low, then the trip itself doesn’t have to be more than it would cost to visit normally. It would be comparable to visiting another city via train.
No. In most cases, the island doesn’t have an airport, so you must take a ferry. I find the ferry more enjoyable and less of a hassle than flying.
A great starting point is the island of Serifos. Serifos is only 2 hours from Athens via ferry. From there, you can easily hop to Sifnos and Milos.
I hope you enjoy solo traveling around the Greek islands as much as I do!
Pin It For Later!
Sharyn says
Great post. I love the maps showing me the popular Greek island hopping routes. This is so helpful. Already planning my Greek Island hopping trip based on your recommendations.
Josy A says
Awww I honestly think all Greek Islands are fab for solo travel. I have been to several of these, but I have somehow totally missed Symi Island and Serifos Island. They both look gooorgeous. 🙂
Now you have me dreaming of Greek food.
Lisa says
Thanks for this super informative post. You’ve provided us with so much information. Definitely feel a little more confident in which islands to choose now!
Krista says
We are hoping to do some island hopping next summer so this will be a great guide. I’m not sure where to start!
Denise says
I still need to get to Santorini!. Now I need to do so much more! The colors are the stunning-the water, the towns, the little boats! Pinning for next year!
Lisa says
Some great info here! Lovely pictures too!
Carly says
I’ve only ever been to Corfu – it actually looked a lot like my hometown on the Pacific Coast of Canada (lots of greenery!) except it was A LOT warmer! I definitely need to go back and see more of Greece!
Lisa says
I would love to explore the Greek islands! This is a great guide for a solo traveler but also great for a first timer!
Angie Kunze says
Great article. I see myself getting a lot of use out of it. I’m less than 4 years from retirement and I am intending to get out and travel, likely solo! I haven’t yet done any research on Greece and islands are my thing so I see myself getting some use out of this article (hopefully in the not too distant future!) Lefkada Island looks like a real winner!