Experience in Athens, Greece by Vlassis

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

Athens has the most interesting and intense nightlife of all european capitals. Bars, clubs, theatres, restaurants, open air parties are some of the options. Cheap entertainment till the next morning. Very convenient transportation, easy to move in the city centre...

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

Most lessons are in the morning, the educational system and facilities are not good.

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

It is very cheap. Cheap food, cheap drinks, cheap transportation, cheap apartments. Less than 10€ per day, for sure.

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

I suggest you visit the city in order to find accommodation. Best areas for students are: Zografou (Ζωγράφου), Ambelokipi (Αμπελόκηποι), Kessariani (Καισαριανή), Pagrati (Παγκράτι), Kalithea (Καλλιθέα), Megaro Mussikis (Μέγαρο Μουσικής).

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

Food is everywhere in Athens. Suvlaki and pita are the most popular (and cheapest) fast food in Athens.

What places would you recommend visiting in Athens?

The Acropolis Museum, The Parthenon, Gazi for clubbing (area), Glyfada (for a walk by the sea), Ermou street (shopping), Thissio (for walks)

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

It is good and cheap. Monastiraki and Psirri have good restaurants. "Fallafelas" at Aiolou str (street food), "Pagotomania" for a good ice cream in Glyfada, "Cap Cap" for a lovely cupcake in Egaleo and in every neighboorhood of Athens it is easy to find a spot for a suvlaki. Kolonaki is also a good area for a good coffee or drink.

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

Best nightlife. City centre: KERAMEIKOS metro station, MONASTIRAKI metro station (for all types of entertainment), SYGGROU STR for greek music, "MoMix" for cocktails. If you have a vehicle move south by the sea, there are plenty of options especially in summer months.

What advice would you give future students heading to Athens?

Do not worry about the difficulty of university subjects, universities in Athens are not strict, learn the greek culture and history, go see theatre plays, be careful if you use the little train (ilektrikos HSAP), avoid areas like Omonoia, Metaxourghio and the little parks especially at night.