Erasmus Experience in Ioannina, Greece by Fari

Why did you choose to go to Ioannina, Greece?

It was the only choice for me and I knew some professors.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

Two semesters. Probably you will live in a dormitory, since it'll be cheaper for you. Two years ago, a room in a dormitory used to cost 65 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ioannina?

It's perfect. Enjoy it. Ioannina has a very good student life. Just integrate with Greek students.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Ioannina to other students?

Yes, why not? I had good a time there. After my Erasmus stay, I keep going there sometimes to meet some friends who are still studying there.

What is the food like?

As I am Turkish, I didn't have any difficulcies with the food. We have very similar dishes, but it's mainly based on meat and it can be a bit difficult for vegetarian people.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Ioannina?

Not really. As I said before, I stayed in a dormitory.

How much does it cost to live in Ioannina?

It's up to you. If you travel very much, you will spend a lot. Or if you eat outside, the same happens. I travelled a lot and sometimes ate in restaurants, so I think the money that the Erasmus Programme provides to the students is enough. Besides, my parents sent me some money.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There is a Greek Language School inside the campus area.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Ioannina from your city?

I live in Turkey, so I took train to Thessaloniki and afterwards I travelled by bus to Ioannina.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Ioannina?

Of course, if you have interest in trying Greek drinks, like ouzo, tsipouro and retsina, you should go a tsipouradiko. And there are good clubs and restaurants. The main Greek fast food dishes you can try are souvlaki and gyros. Some shops make also kreppa. And if you want to taste Greek traditional music, you can go to places like Parea, Mov, Allou Gi'allou, etc.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Ioannina?

Boukia Bouki, if you are looking for good food; Vlachoi is a Greek fast food chain and, finally, Diethnes, which also has delicious Greek food

In addition, on the Averof street and near the Castle you can find some restaurants. At lake there is also good cafes, like Kyra Frosyni.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Dodoni, the ancient theater; the Ioanninan Acropole, that is, the old city; Some old Ottoman mosques, where you can find some pieces of Islamic art; Vrellis Museum (wax collection); the Archailogical Museum at Itskale; the Folklor Museum, which I didn't have the opportunity to visit...

Definitely, Mitsikelli Mountain, Metsovo, Konitsa, Arta, Kalambaka, Kerkyra are the nearest destinations.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Ioannina in the future?

In fall and winter, take an umbrella with you everytime you go out, because you can't exactly know when it is going to rain. Weather is so unpredictable.