Experience in Irakleion, Greece by Antria

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

Living in Irakleion is really wonderful. There are a lot of places to visit and the people are friendly. I highly recomend it. It will be a great experience.

What is the student lifestyle like in Irakleion?

I think it's really easygoing to study there. There is no pressure and you can have fun while studing. It will be a little difficult with the language, because not many greeks speak english, but they are really friendly and hospitable.

How much does it cost to live in Irakleion?

The prices for the rent vary. A flat can cost from 150 to 300, 350 euros max. It depends on the size and the region (if it's at the center the price is higher). Living in Irakleion, and in Greece in general, is not very expensive. You need 600 - 800 euros a month, including rent, electricity, water, transportation, groceries, food and fun.

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

It's a bit difficult to find the flat of your dreams, but with some help from the newspaper and some websites, you can find what you need. If you live at the center though, you won't need any transportation, because everything is near. Shopping streets, coffee shops, supermarket, taverns, restaurants, clubs.

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

The food is very delicious and if you haven't tried the greek cuisine yet, you'll love it! Some of the dishes are: Greek salad with feta cheese (cucumbers, tomatos, onions, olives, olive oil and ofcourse feta), kebab, souvlaki (meat grilled on a skewer), saganaki (fried cheese), fisherman's spaghetti (prawns, oysters, calamari and pasta). I can write for ages about greek cuisine. But let's not forget about the drinks too. You have to taste the wine and of course the cretan raki (you drink that in shots and with great vigor).

What places would you recommend visiting in Irakleion?

You have to go to the Museum of Knossos and the Museum of Natural History. Take a walk at Koules, a raod in the sea, to see the Castle and the Port. The church of Saint Minas and Saint Titos. The Lion Square at the center of the town. And of course you have to go to the beach Amnissos.

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

There are a lot of places to eat in Irakleion for all ages and tastes. Some of the taverns I like the most are:
"Arrenon Thileon", a place with lots of students, good wine and tasty dishes. "Baraki" and "Koutourou" are also similar to the first one. "Ligo krasi...ligo thalassa" is a fish tavern with the famous fisherman's spaghetti. "Skiniko" is a tavern with live music, a dance floor and amazing food and wine.
If you are more of a burger person, there are just the right places for you: "Yankees" at Talos Plaza, and at the center of town "Johnny Burger" and "Beer O'Clock" (it serves beer too, so win-win).
For the chocolate lovers there is a place like Paradise, with chocolate fountains, waffles, ice-cream and what else, more chocolate! It's called "Utopia"(you are welcome). :D

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

The night is full of life! There are lots of clubs for the students with both greek and english music, such as "Loft", "Level", "Stylvie", "Macao" and many more. If you are more of a rocker, you will love "Rolling Stone", "Jailhouse Rock" and "Route 66". The last one has many different beers (cheers mate).

What advice would you give future students heading to Irakleion?

Don't hesitate for a second! You will love it, I promise. I know it will be difficult with the language and all, and no, you don't have to learn greek (please don't). There is no need to worry. People are friendly and helpful. The weather is wonderful and sunny most of the year! Crete has lots of places to see and discover. There is the sea, but also the mountains. There are many villages to visit and to try there local food and products. Life in Irakleion is really fun and you will never forget it...