Experience in Athens, Greece by a local

What is it like to live in Athens? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

This city is full of life. There's everything anyone needs: beautiful views, yummy food, beaches about 20' minutes away from the center - what's not to love? Lots of different neighborhoods to discover: from the picturesque area of Plaka to noisy Gazi, from traditional Pasalimani to the upper-class suburbs of Kifisia.

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

Students from all over Greece come to study in Athens. Truth is, there aren't many international students around - but young Greeks speak English to a sufficient standard, so you won't have any problem communicating in Athens!

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

That really depends, but I'll say 500-600 euros are more than enough for a month. Rents are pretty low, eating out will cost about 15-30e per person.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Athens? Is there any advice you can give?

There is no campus, so you gotta find a place to live. Finding a new place will be hard, mainly because of the language - most of the ads are in greek. Find a Greek friend or get help from your ESN in order to find a place to live. Fortunately, rents are pretty low.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

It's heaven. I haven't met a single foreigner who doesn't like greek cuisine. Souvlaki will become your bff as a student in Greece!

What places would you recommend visiting in Athens?

Don't get used to "tourist traps" (Plaka, Anafiotika, Monastiraki, Thiseio) - Athens doesn't consist just of these places! Try other areas too: Panormou, Mikrolimano, Ano Petralona, Glyfada, Maroussi, Floisvos, Argyroupoli, Nea Smyrni. Luckily, you can get almost everywhere in Athens via metro/tram.

Is it good to eat out in Athens? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Of course it is! Try going to a "mezedopoleion" - they serve ouzo/raki and something to bite (meat or fish). These are usually pretty cheap and nowdays you can find many students spending time there instead of bars.

Is the nightlife good in Athens? Where is good to go?

There are many nightlife spots in Athens, the most famous ones are in Gazi, Monastiraki and Panormou. There's also "mpouzoukia" and several big clubs, usually close to the beach("Paraliaki"). Greeks get out pretty late, and even in weekdays bars & pubs won't close until 1 or 2am.

What advice would you give future students headed to Athens?

Take this as an opportunity to travel to the rest of the country as well!! There are buses and ships to go to anywhere in Greece; whether it is northern Greece or Crete and Cyclades, I'm sure you'll have a nice time!