Experience in Athens, Greece by Bill and Helena

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

Born and raised between Athens, Basel and Lausanne. We decided to move and Live in Athens. For the average Central European citizen, Athens might seem a bit chaotic and dirty, and in some aspects it is. It is a matter of perspective. For a Swiss citizen, Athens seems too noisy , but for an Egyptian , it is not.It is a city full of life 24/7 , great weather, one of the cheapest to live among European capitals and an amazing beach life.

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

Athens has become lately a very popular destination for erasmus students. Life is cheap compared to any other major European capital, almost everyone is speaking English and there are a lot of people speaking French, Russian , Turkish. There are areas full of students. Amazingly , you can enjoy sea and its beaches throughout the year ,as the winter is pretty mild

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

Minimum 750 (including rent in a shared bedroom)

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

If you share an apartment in a decent area , prices are starting from 300 per month (all bills included) . If you are looking for an apartment by yourself , prices start from 400 , but for something decent is closer to 450 (bills included) . Bills are big part of the rent . Electricity is the most expensive in Europe and Internet speeds are not great , usually around 50 Mpbs. Athens does not lack of available apartments and compared to most European capitals , buildings are not old . The huge majority of them were built after the 1960's

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

Huge variety of food and is quite cheap. Typical street food is 2 pieces of Souvlaki with pita bread and 1 beer and total cost is around 5 euros.

What places would you recommend visiting in Athens?

Apart from the sites of the Ancient city of Athens. Lycabettus hill, Marina Flisvos and the New Niarchos foundation, Vouliagmeni bay for Swimming, Cape Sounio , for the most romantic Sunset over the sea. The same applies for Kastella hill. One hour drive to mountain Parnitha. Hop on a ferry and visit a nearby Island , only 1 hour away.

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

Food is verifying the saying that Athens is the city where East meets West. You may find whatever you wish , whenever you wish. Restaurants are open almost all day and night long. if you want to escape the obvious choices of Psiri, Exarchia, Gazi, Monastiraki, i prefer the spots by the sea at Faliro, Kastela, Pireaus.

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

Great night life. Gazi is the obvious spot but every corner of central Athens has its nice spots. During May- October experience the unique Atmosphere of an open air cinema. In Greece all movies (and TV) are subtitled, so you enjoy original language. Go at Paleo Faliro by the sea and enjoy a casual drink or food within a unique atmosphere. Athenian Riviera has a lot to offer and to discover

What advice would you give future students heading to Athens?

Do not make the obvious choices. You can go to a bar or to a fast food restaurant anywhere in this planet. Athens is an open air city with amazing life by the sea. Escape down town whenever you can . The majority of foreign students are stacked in the center and they just meet other students from other countries for a beer...ok , but you can do that in any cloudy , rainy European city...Athens has a fantastic weather! Go out and explore !