Experience in Ioannina, Greece by Anastasia

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

I lived in Ioannina as a student for 5 years and it was one of the greatest experiences of my life! There are all kinds of activities depending on personal preferences. I would 100% recommend it! The city is very beautiful, I would say graphic, with a big lake and a beautiful castle from another era, as well as lots of other cultural attractions.

Source

What is the student lifestyle like in Ioannina?

There are a lot of things to do here if you are a student.. lots of gyms, cafés, nice quality (fast food) restaurants, clubs, alternative bars, pubs and plenty of student parties going on from time to time! And don't forget the beautiful scenery, ideal for long walks, jogging or cycling.

The only con I can think of is the weather. We call Ioannina "London of Greece" as it rains a lot and the weather is often unpredictable. One minute it's sunny and the next one its hailing.. the moto of the city is "ALWAYS carry an umbrella with you!"

How much does it cost to live in Ioannina?

I would say life in Ioannina is more expensive than in other student cities (like Xanthi or Volos excluding of course Athens and Thessaloniki). The rents are pretty high (about 250-350€ for an apartment with 1 bedroom, kitchen/living room and a bathroom)but the living expenses are quite normal (around 2,5-5€ for a beer, 20€ for basic supermarket stuff, 7-9€ for drinks/cocktails, 5-7€ for a good burger)

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

It's not that hard to find accommodation in Ioannina, excluding late August to late September, as the results of the finals come out and students rush to find apartments. Any other time period should be ok. However, most of the houses are quite old and it needs a bit of effort to find something new or renovated. If you have a car, motorcycle or even a bike, I would recommend looking for a place outside the city center, as the houses are new and the rent much cheaper (like Anatoli, Seismoplikta or Ambelokipoi).

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

Food is extremely nice and the prices are normal. Favourite dishes are souvlaki, kontosouvli, crepes, burgers, mini donuts and much more!

What places would you recommend visiting in Ioannina?

Definitely the little island, where Boats come and go regularly. If you find trasport, the nearby villages are also worth visiting (Metsovo, Zagoroxoria etc. ) In the summer, there are lots of nearby places where you can go for a swim like Preveza or Sivota.

Source

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

Yes, the food is very nice and in reasonable prices. Recommendations: Metsovitiki Folia (traditional "ipirotika" dishes), Masa (savory and sweet crepes, sandwiches), Burger Home or Brothers in Law (burgers), Damiani L'artista (pizza, pasta etc), Loukoumania (mini donuts), Bretania (ice cream and waffles), Motley or Maison (sweets), Se anamena karvouna (gyros, souvlaki), Bonzai (Asian kitchen), Poco Loco (Mexican kitchen).

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

The nightlife is very good as the city is filled with students. There is a choice for everyone, from loud clubs to quite cafés.. Recommendations: Zythorixeio (pub), Denoar (bar, mostly rock and alternative music), Mavro Provato (rock club), Parea (live music), Mikri Skini (alternative live music), mostly all the little places with food, tsipouro, wine and ouzo, Spitaki (cocktails and drinks) and of course parties at Theatraki (outdoor space near the lake) or at the University.

What advice would you give future students heading to Ioannina?

Try to find a nice house as it will be your "safe" space. Don't be afraid to socialise and make friends. Go out and have fun often! ENJOY YOUR STUDENT YEARS!