Hey Wallflowers! 👋

You know that feeling when you finally touch down in a brand new city and the air just smells like adventure? That was me landing in Athens after a long flight, fueled by pure excitement (and maybe a little bit of airport Guinness 🍻— one of my favourite pre-flight rituals!).

This trip is all about a solo female travel adventure, and my first night in Greece was the perfect soft landing. Grab a mythical cup of coffee, because here’s the play-by-play of my journey from Toronto to Athens! 💖🇬🇷

Phase 1: The Descent ✈️

After a solid 10 hours in the air, having left the chill of Toronto behind, I was officially ready to swap my autumn sweater for sandals! The transition from the plane to my ride was seamless (a huge win for any anxious traveller!). I got in a taxi and it whisked me right to my base camp: the Hotel Syngrou Fix.

Accommodation Vibe Check: This spot is amazing! It's a clean, modern, and perfectly located boutique hotel in Athens. Super accessible to the transit and a quiet little haven away from the most chaotic tourist crush. Essential for a good night’s sleep! 😴

*Checking in and wandering near the hotel (Sept 2025)*

Phase 2: Finding My Feet in Plaka 🚶‍♀️

The second the suitcase was dropped, the walking shoes went on. My goal? Find dinner and feel the heartbeat of the city. I decided to head straight for Plaka, one of the most iconic and charming Athens neighborhoods.

Walking those winding streets was pure magic! It felt like stepping into a postcard—colorful neoclassical houses, tiny shops spilling into the alleyways, and the incredible view of the Acropolis looming above. I love that initial rush of discovery!

Phase 3: Dinner with a View 🍷

My intuition led me up the famous Plaka staircase to the very top, where I found the most picture-perfect spot: Anafiotika Cafe. If you're looking for a delicious dinner with a gorgeous Plaka view, this is it!

The Meal: I ordered some simple, perfect Greek food—starting with fresh olives and feta, and diving straight into the classic, comforting Moussaka! It was the ideal, hearty meal after a long flight.
An Unexpected Chat: My server noticed my accent and asked where I was from. Turns out, he lived in Montreal for years! We spent a few minutes chatting about life across the pond. It was such a lovely, grounding moment — a reminder that you can always find connection, even when traveling alone. This is what solo travel for introverts is all about: small, meaningful interactions that fuel the soul!

Phase 4: Lights Out for an Early Start 🌙

After dinner, a quiet stroll back to the hotel was exactly what my jet-lagged brain needed. I was ready to pass out! The best part of planning an itinerary? Making sure Day 1 is gentle enough to ensure I’m well-rested for the big archaeological adventures tomorrow.

Athens, you have been charming, welcoming, and exactly the soft landing I needed. Time to dream of gods and goddesses! 💖

Stay tuned for my dive into the ancient wonders! Next up: The Acropolis! 🏛️