Hello, all! I'm planning a solo trip to Greece for my 40th birthday this year, arriving on September 30th and leaving October 15th. I majored in classics in college so I'm very much looking forward to finally seeing the country. Currently my plan is to split the time between Athens and Naxos, with some day trips in each area but also plenty of time to relax and read on the beach or in cafes. I've been reading up on the Greece subforum and have saved a bunch of threads, but I had some questions and would appreciate some experienced travelers' answers. I consider myself a reasonably confident traveler as a woman on her own, and I'm not really interested in clubbing or nightlife.
I'm not planning to rent a car in either location, and I usually take public transit at home. Any strong recommendations or anti-recs for areas to stay in Naxos when not driving? (I know people on this forum love Hotel Grotta but it looks like the smaller rooms are all booked.) Ideally I'd like to be close to the beach, and I'm hoping it will still be warm enough to swim. I've seen recommendations on here for St George's beach. Similarly, what are good neighborhoods to stay in in Athens when relying on public transit and walking? I do plan to stay in hotels rather than AirBNB/VRBO apartments.
Are there any companies still running boat tours from Naxos to Delos after October 1st? It looks like Alexander ferries stops on September 30th, but I don't know what other options might exist.
Would love to hear people's favorite guides or tour companies for day trips around and outside of Athens, especially to Delphi. But I'm definitely also interested in non-ancient sites and tours, so suggestions for those are welcome!