Experience in Thessaloniki, Greece by Hannah

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

It's very vibrant, open and interesting, the sea is only a few feet away, there are supermarkets everywhere and markets. In summer there are a lot of open air parties, the beach is 30-45 minutes and the people are very open and friendly. It is the worlds 5th best party city, has a lot of clubs, bars, night-life areas and a lot of greek people up and about at all times. The transportation however is abysmal with only busses (no metro, etc. ) for the 300.000 people living here. I would totally recommend it, but you better bring a lot of patience for the "greek lifestyle".

What is the student lifestyle like in Thessaloniki?

There are a lot of bars, clubs, parties, beaches and opportunities to go out at night. The faculties have parties and there is an Erasmus-happing every week. And for the morning after there is always the favourite beverage of the greeks: Freddo cappuchino (Iced cappuchino). The university however is no joke if you want to fulfil your requirements, with papers, obligatory classes and exams it gets serious nearing the end of semester. It is easy to travel a lot, the Balkans are well connected by train and bus, Istanbul, Athens, Chalkidiki, the Greek Islands, hot springs, waterfalls, mountains, Mount Olympus are not far away and easyly reachable.

How much does it cost to live in Thessaloniki?

The rent is quite low, 150-200 € per month is the standard prize. The food is a bit more expensive, especially in the supermarkets (mostly Carrefour), however buying veggetables and fruits on the weekly markets is really cheap (one kilo of anything mostly 1€)

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

Its easy to find it, but be careful that you don't get cheated. Do it directly and not with third or inofficial parties, maybe try a serious agency.

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

LOVE THE FOOD!!! Typical greek: Gyros, Souvlaki, Pita, Olives,...etc. You have to try Gyros or Haloumi Pita!!! Its the greek version of fast food, a bit like Kebab. Especially the Pita Haloumi is delicious. Also try Rakumelo, it's hot Raki served with honey. The people here eat a lot of meat and seafood, especially in the traditional tavernas.

What places would you recommend visiting in Thessaloniki?

White Tower, monastery, Bus 50 around the city, the huge market at the Aristotele square, Chalkidiki, Loutra, water front,..

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

Very good nightlife!!! The Bit Bazaar is an awesome place for drinking with friends, try the 8ball club or bedroom for clubbing until five in the morning. There are also oper air parties, salsa parties, and festivals in the summer. The beerhouse and "drink and go" offer very cheap drinks (beer 1 €) and the bars clustered around the Rotunda are very nice.

What advice would you give future students headed to Thessaloniki?

Be patient with the Greek lifestyle!!! They take their time.

Make sure you have a good buddy helping you around, especially with informations concerning the University (its all in Greek)

Learn Greek!!!

Cook at home, it saves you a lot of money.

Try the Balkan Flexi Pass (50 €) for using any train in the Balkans and getting out of the city a bit.

Travel around a lot, there are a lot of interesting places to see: Chalkidiki (rent a car for 50 €/day), Loutra hotspings, Edessa waterfall, Meteora, Athens, Xanthi, Alexandropouli,....