Experience in Athens, Greece by Antonia

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

Athens is the biggest city of Greece, and also it's capital. Athens is place rich in history and culture, with good transportation and of course great food and nightlife. Unfortunately, some parts of the centre are being ignored by the authorities, thus diminishing the city's beauty. I think that Athens brings together elements of both megacities and small ones, as its size doesn't let things get too chaotic but at the same time offers all sorts of possibilities that a bigger city does. It's equally ideal for culture nerds as well as 'party junkies'.

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

Greece is said to have a great nightlife, and the same goes for Athens. Athens offers a variety of nighclubs, most of which are found in the area of Gazi. Students who enjoy this kind of lifestyle will soon realise that here most clubs stay open untill dawn. There are many Universities here, so the city is always buzzing. The ones who are not drawn to clubs can have a great time here as well. The areas of Syntagma, Monastiraki, Plaka etc are ideal for strolling.

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

Athens is not an expensive place overall.

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

I live in Athens permanently, and I am not familiar with that matter.

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

Greece is famous for its cuisine. Some of the most classic dishes are souvlaki, mousaka and although tasty, I would say they are just the tip of the iceberg. Some of my favourite greek dishes would be gemista with minced meat (stuffed tomatoes and peppers with rice and minced meat),pastitsio and all sorts of pies (tiropita =cheese pie, spanakopita=spinach pie etc), loukoumades. Try to find quality traditional taverns and avoid the ones that are mainly aimed towards tourists.

What places would you recommend visiting in Athens?

Syntagma, Plaka, Thisio, the Acropolis museum,the archaeological museum, the zoological park, exarchia.

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

I eat greek food at home, so I tend to go for other cuisines when out. I like to eat at Wok Master (noodles), Mirch (Indian food).Around Monastiraki you can find great places to eat.

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

As mentioned before, Gazi is full of nightclubs.

What advice would you give future students heading to Athens?

Have fun!