Erasmus Experience in Thessaloniki, Greece by Tania

Why did you choose to go to Thessaloniki, Greece?

It was the warmest place among all other available countries for me. Also I was interested in Greek culture and knew that Greece has a huge academical experience.

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

I received 1600 euro for 3 months that I studied there. Plus 500 euro extra for the plane tickets.

What is the student lifestyle like in Thessaloniki?

Many cultural events and parties. Hard to study sometimes. If you have very strict rules about completing courses for your home university, you should avoid some parties and organize your activities very well. Otherwise you won't have time to finish your studies.

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

Sure! I highly recommend it!

What is the food like?

Very tasty! Can't resist! I gained 5 kilos in 3 months. There is free food in students cafeteria. But you can also buy lots of delicious things in restaurants and shops. My favorite was Gyros and Kataifi.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Thessaloniki?

No, I got a room in Efxinos Leschi dormitory - the best dormitory ever!!! It was also the cheapest and only for Erasmus students. I just loved it, we lived like a family.

How much does it cost to live in Thessaloniki?

Quite a lot, I can't remember by now. I also travelled a lot (all around Greece, plus Bulgaria, plus Turkey), so it's hard to say how much I spent in Thessaloniki exactly. What I can say is that my scholarship of 1600 euro per 3 months wasn't enough for my lifestyle there. I treated that time as pure vacation and spent a lot. I'm sure it could be twice less if you plan wisely and don't travel that much.

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

I didn't take Greek language there, I knew a couple of things already, but honestly... never used them! I spoke English most of the times.

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

Plane.

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

8ball club. Any restaurant at the seaside. Boat trips are also nice!

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

The gyros place on the opposite of Efxinos Leschi dormitory. Cosy restaurants in the upper part of the city (Old town).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Check Wikipedia, everything was worth seeing!

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

Beware: it will change your life. When you go for exchange studies, you are prepared for everything - that's right. But, please, be even MORE prepared for the changes it will bring to your life! You might become a different person when you come back home. Especially, if you're not from the south Europe. It's been almost 4 years since my Erasmus and I still miss it sometimes. However I would never come back, because the place without those people who studied there with me is not the same! Thessaloniki will always stay in my heart, it's my second home!