Spoiler alert: my solo trip to Athens was not scary at all.

As someone who lives with anxiety, I often imagine the worst before I even step out the door — getting lost, missing flights, awkward moments, safety concerns, you name it. But on this trip, I learned that Athens is not only manageable for solo travelers, but actually comforting in ways I didn’t expect.

Here’s a breakdown of the moments I thought would spike my anxiety… and what they actually felt like in real life.

✈️ Flying Solo — Anxiety Level: 1/10

By now, airports and flights are almost routine for me. I’ve traveled alone often enough that the logistics — security lines, boarding, connections — are more familiar than frightening.

Once I was on the plane, I actually felt that sense of calm I always get when I know the journey has finally begun. Flying turned out to be the least stressful part of the whole trip.

🏨 Checking Into My Hotel — Anxiety Level: 2/10

There’s always that lingering worry: What if I can’t find the hotel? What if they lost my reservation? What if something goes wrong?

But checking into Hotel Syngrou Fix was super smooth. The staff was kind, the process was easy, and I felt settled almost immediately. That first “I made it” moment is always such a relief — and Athens definitely delivered that comfortably.

🏛 Going on Day Trips Alone — Anxiety Level: 3/10

This was probably the scenario I imagined going wrong in multiple ways. When the small tour bus first pulled up and someone called my name, I felt my nerves spike just a little. Am I getting on the right bus? am I even in the right place?

But after the first tour, everything clicked. I learned how to recognize my group, where to wait, and what to expect. And honestly? Meeting other travelers was one of the highlights of the trip. I felt like I belonged more and more as each day went on.

💦 Swimming in the Ocean Alone — Anxiety Level: 2/10

I don’t swim in the ocean often, so there’s always that moment of vulnerability: your bag on the beach, your phone tucked away, the unknowns of the water.

But Greece surprised me. People were incredibly trustworthy, and I felt safe the entire time. I brought a waterproof case to wear around my neck for my phone, and everything else I left on shore without worry. Once I got in the water, it became one of the most peaceful moments of the entire trip.

🌯 Eating Alone — Anxiety Level: 0/10

This is one part of solo travel that I genuinely love. Eating alone has never felt awkward to me — it’s grounding, relaxing, and the perfect opportunity to people-watch.

In Athens, I took my time with every meal. No rushing, no pressure, just enjoying good food in a beautiful place. Highly recommend embracing solo meals on any trip.

🗺 Wandering the City Alone — Anxiety Level: 1/10

Walking around a new city will always come with a tiny bit of uncertainty, especially when you don’t know the streets yet. But Athens was incredibly easy to navigate, and Google Maps was my best friend.

I stayed in tourist-friendly areas, trusted my instincts, and moved at my own pace. It didn’t take long before I felt surprisingly at ease exploring on my own.

What I’m trying to say is… Solo Travel Isn’t Fearless, It’s Empowering

My solo trip to Athens wasn’t scary… it was freeing.

Traveling with anxiety doesn’t mean avoiding new places — it just means approaching them with awareness, compassion for yourself, and the understanding that not every situation is as intimidating as your mind makes it seem.

If you’ve been thinking about a solo trip to Athens (or anywhere!), consider this your sign: it might just be easier, and more empowering, than you expect!

My Solo Trip to Athens: What It Felt Like Traveling With Anxiety