Experience in Athens, Greece by Areti

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

The city is alive and vibrant and the locals are friendly. However the city is dirty and the public transport is unreliable.

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

Student life in Athens is a great experience as the city is full of students and young people and there are plenty of activities for your leisure time.

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

The rents are much cheaper than central or northern Europe. However the bills and especially electricity and heating as well as petrol for cars are pretty expensive and are not included in rent. Students are offered half-prices, among others in public transport tickets. Overall you can live with 700-1000 euros per month.

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

Finding accomodation in Athens is not difficult. However many apartments are very old and not in a good state. Plus the areas near the universities or metro stations
have higher rent. Since bills are not included in rent my advice is 1. Find an apartment new or recently renovated with good
insulation to avoid energy loss.
2. Find an apartment with autonomus heating or else it is probable that you wont have
heating at all, since due to economic crisis in many apartment buildings it is decided not to supply with heating petrol. Gas for heating is the best choice by far but you will not find it easily as most buildings use petrol.

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

Food is delicious and not expensive. You can find all kinds of european and asian cuisine. Greek cuisine has much to offer. You must try souvlaki, a local and really famous street food both cheap and delicious. There are not many choices for vegeterians though.

What places would you recommend visiting in Athens?

The center of Athens has a lot of famous beautiful neibourhoods where young people hang out. Visit Plaka, Akropolis, Monastiraki, Thiseio, Psiri and Gazi and you will discover all kinds of cafés, pubs and bars for every taste.

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

For souvlaki and cheap greek meat dishes visit "Thanasis" in Plaka. For icecream Pagotomania in Psiri.

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

Athens has vibrant nightlife and you must discover your own preferable places in the Neighbourhoods mentioned above. Also Plateia Agias Eirinis at the center and Kolokotroni street offer great choices.

What advice would you give future students heading to Athens?

People are nice open and friendly so you ll have a great time. Be carefull with the apartment you choose because landlords are weird and the bills are very high. Also be ready to face the monster of bureaucracy in every exchange you will need to have with the greek state.