Erasmus experience in Athens, Greece (by Oceane)

Why did you choose to go to Athens, Greece?

I wanted to be in an exotic European country, compared to France. I was also curious to discover beautiful landscapes and Greek culture.

How long are you staying there? How much money did you get in terms of help?

I am here for 2 semesters so one full year, with more than 500 euros per month in addition to the CROUS scholarship, which is more than enough in my opinion for the accommodation, the food, the social distractions/events, the travels...

How is the study atmosphere/vibe in Athens?

Very good vibe, great atmosphere for studies in Athens, first of all thanks to the Erasmus committee which is suggesting us a lot of events, visits or activities that allow us to gather ourselves as Erasmus students, but also thanks to Greek students who are so welcoming and always eager to meet foreign students.

Would you recommend the city and the university of Athens to other students?

I totally recommend this city which in spite of all one may think about the cleanliness, graffitis in many streets and in universities, has a lot of charm and once you live here for longer than a week period, you soon realize it.

I study International law at Panteion university. I am just a bit disappointed about the course organization; I really had a hard time to get into contact with many of my Greek professors. But the university itself is very nice, especially the main entrance with a perfect ray of sunshine (picture).

The best is still free meals in the morning, noon and evenings at the university restaurant, which is surprising for a country in economic crisis

How is the food in that country?

Perfect. Apart of Greek salads, pitas gyros aka souvlaki, moussakas, everything is so delicious and restaurants are so affordable that it is possible to eat several times a week without ending broke, especially in places where desserts are offered.

Did you have any difficulties in finding an accommodation in Athens?

I found a place to stay one month before coming here thanks to the real estate agency StayinAthens so I didn't have a hard time since they were offering a lot of accommodations for not that much (compared to France).

Once there, it is possible to find a place to stay independent of the agency I mentionned but according to many Erasmus experiences, you should be very careful with many landlords here.

What is the cost of life in Athens?

As being a foreign student from France I would say that when it comes to accommodation and public transports, it is not that expensive. On the other hand, I got very surprised with basic day to day products in supermarkets prices; I mean cornflakes, milk, pasta or regular hygienic products, etc... But fortunately, in every district of the city, there are markets with with very reasonable prices every week.

How is the learning of the Greek language? Did you attend language classes organized bu the university?

I am taking Greek classes in the KAPA university, 6 hours a week. After 2 months of learning, I still cannot have a conversation with a Greek but I can at least introduce myself and count to 100.

What is the cheapest way to go to Athens from your city?

To come to Athens from Toulouse I took a plane from a low-cost airline but when I wanted to go home for Christmas I realized that very few airlines were offering fall/winter periods and the prices were pretty high at that period unless you make 10 hour-stop in Paris waiting for a correspondence... that's a con of such a touristy country as Greece.

Which places would you recommend to party in Athens?

Gazi of course! Very animated district in the evenings with all types of bars and clubs, ideal for students. Also, going to the clubs/bars giving a great view on the Acropolis in Monastiraki or Kerameikos, at night it is just gorgeous!

What are your favorite places to eat in Athens?

Exarchia district is where most of the restaurants/taverns are really not that expensive and where desserts are usually free.

Egaleo district offers many nice taverns as well.

And what cultural places do you recommend?

The Acropolis, the Acropolis museum, the Cap Sounio in the South of Athens, the ruins close to Monastiraki, and also all around in the city...

A piece of Advice for future students in Athens?

If you are still hesitating to choose Athens, don't hesitate anymore!