Dining Solo in Athens: A Slow, Beautiful Night at the Mnisikleous Stairs
Image courtesy of A77 Suites
*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning that if you click through & make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
One Night in Athens
Athens was not part of my original plan. I was supposed to fly home after my birthday island-hopping trip. But because of flight delays and cancellations, I had to spend one more unexpected night in the city.
At first, I was stressed and tired from the long day. But I decided to turn this surprise stop into something good. Instead of choosing a fine dining restaurant, I wanted something simple and cozy. So I headed to the Mnisikleous Stairs, a famous outdoor dining street in the Plaka neighborhood, right at the base of the Acropolis.
What I thought would be a stressful night turned out to be the perfect ending to my birthday adventure.
Why Athens is Great for Solo Travel
Athens can be busy, but it also has corners that feel peaceful and charming. Plaka is one of those places; full of steps, flowers, cafes, and cobblestone streets.
For solo travelers, the city offers great food, friendly people, and so much history to enjoy at your own pace. And if plans change (as they often do), Athens has a way of turning surprises into memories.
✨ Click Here to Explore Boutique Hotels in Athens
Dining Solo at the Mnisikleous Stairs
The Mnisikleous Stairs are lined with outdoor cafes where you sit on colorful cushions and watch the world go by. I found a small table and ordered my favorite Greek snacks:
Saganaki (fried cheese)
Fresh Greek Salad
Freddo Espresso with Medium Sugar
The warm air, the soft lights, and the sound of people walking by made everything feel calm.
The Dining Experience
After dinner, I took a slow walk through Plaka. The marble streets glowed under the streetlights, and shops were still open with handmade jewelry and little treasures.
I ended up at a charming wine bar called Finewine, where I sat outside overlooking the cobblestone street and string lights. Life felt slow — in the best way.
I ordered two wines:
A crisp Assyrtiko from the Greek Island of Santorini
A full-bodied Agiorgitiko from the Peloponnese Region
As I sipped my wine, I reflected on my day. My plans had been totally disrupted, but I chose to enjoy the extra time Greece gave me. I discovered a new part of Athens, had a peaceful night, and even found a new favorite Greek wine to take home.
✨ Book a Greek wine tasting in Athens Here
Tips for Eating Alone in Athens
Sit at an outdoor cafe. It’s relaxing and great for people-watching.
Try local wines. Greece has so many unique flavors to enjoy.
Let the city slow you down. Athens is a perfect place to pause after full travel days.
Where to Stay for a Solo Escape in Athens
I stayed at A77 Suites, a boutique hotel right in the heart of Plaka. It was charming, safe, and perfect for a solo traveler.
What I loved:
A beautiful boutique entrance filled with Greek designer clothing and jewelry
A room with a Juliet balcony and a view of the Acropolis
Spacious, calm design
Friendly staff who offered warm, personal service
✨ Here are my favorite Athens hotels that make solo travel easy, safe, and luxurious:
A77 Suites - Boutique Luxury, Acropolis Views & located in Plaka: Click Here to Check Availability
The Dolli at Acropolis - Landmark turned Luxury hotel, Unobstructed Acropolis Views & Located in Plaka: Click Here to See Rates
King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel - Old World Luxury, Acropolis Views & Located in Syntagma: Book Here
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens - Luxurious, Seafront on the Athens Riviera, Greek Island Vibe & 30 Minutes from City Center : Click Here to Book
How to Book Your Athens Luxury Travel Experience
If you want a slow evening like mine, simply walk through Plaka around sunset. For the best panoramic sunset and Acropolis views in Athens, go to Areopagus Hill. You can also book small experiences that make your stop in Athens even more special:
Acropolis View at Night from Areopagus Hill
Final Thoughts: A Celebration, Not Solitude
My night in Athens reminded me that travel doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. Sometimes the best moments happen when things don’t go as planned.
Sitting on the Mnisikleous Stairs with saganaki, strolling the marble streets, and ending the night with Greek wine made my unexpected stop feel peaceful and special.
It was the perfect end to my birthday trip; slow, simple, and full of charm.
✨ Want more luxury solo travel guides? Join World Traveling Daughter’s Newsletter
