Experience in Athens, Greece by Ioannis

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

Athens is a very lively capital and living there one can be sure that it will have all the relative advantages that big cities have. Of course, I recommend it! The transport network is very good, there are all available services for someone who visits or stays in the city for studies or work. Of course, you have to have a little patience when it comes to traffic jams, but you get compensated as you can enjoy the ancient sights, the many museums, the beautiful mountains that surround the city under the roof of the Acropolis and the living culture. Access to the wonderful Greek islands is very easy. Athens has very beautiful women and you can feel that one beauty follows another as you stretch your body on the beaches of the city under the enchanting Greek sun.

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

I live in Athens. Athens has many universities and therefore a large student population. During the day they deal with their obligations. University parties are very common, also every night you will see groups of students enjoying the nightlife.

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

Housing and daily travel expenses reach 500 euros. Beyond that, how much the cost will go up depends on the type and frequency of entertainment one desires. Students can of course find cheaper homes and some can stay in student dormitories at minimal cost.

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

It depends on your requirements but also on the area where you will stay. It is generally a bit difficult to combine a good price that goes with your requirements.

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

There are many options, from Mediterranean cuisine to oriental flavors. However, you can try the moussaka, the gyros, the souvlaki, the tzatziki, the village salad, the pumpkin meatballs and many other special dishes of the local cuisine.

What places would you recommend visiting in Athens?

Of course you will visit the Acropolis with the Parthenon and the many museums of the city. You can take a walk in the National Garden, to see the presidential palace, the parliament building, the hill of Lycabettus with the beautiful view of the city, the ancient market, the Temple of Hephaestus, the Conservatory of Herodes Atticus, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the commercial triangle of the city. The National Gallery holds a special place in the sights of the city, while you should not miss the walk in the picturesque alleys of Plaka and Anafiotika below the Acropolis that are full of life.

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

You have many options at your disposal. The restaurants in Plaka are so beautiful.

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

Athens has a hectic nightlife. It has many bars and cafes, while in the middle of the night the real night life begins with the big entertainment centers offering plenty of entertainment to the world. The modern international music scene and the traditional Greek bouzouki do not leave any visitor complaining. The nightclubs in the coastal zone, in Plaka and Thiseio are must.

What advice would you give future students heading to Athens?

I invite you to come to the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa and become part of the Mediterranean excitement of Athens!