Experience in Thessaloniki, Greece by Stamatia

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

Living in Thessaloniki is really great. There are grocery markets pretty much in every neighborhood to do your shopping, the transportation is good, even though it used to be even better, but there are buses go to every direction though the city and to the airport and train station. I think that you could say that living in Thessaloniki is quite cheap. You could find a really big flat to stay with your friends from 300 euros and studios from 180 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Thessaloniki?

The student lifestyle is very good. The Universities are located at the center of the city but that is not the same for Alexander TEI of Thessaloniki, which is out site of the city and can be reach with the 52 bus.

How much does it cost to live in Thessaloniki?

You can find quite cheap flats but in the price are not included the electricity, heating, internet etc. The electricity bill will be quite expensive. I would suggest a house with gas heating instead of cental (petrol). The grocery market I would say that they have reasonable prices. The transportation costs are around 15 euros per month with the monthly transportation cart. Coffee, food etc. are really cheap.

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

I would say that it depends on when you are looking for accommodation. In the summer, students that they have finished with their studies, leave, so it's easier to find a place. But I believe that you can always find something. If you are visiting for winter try to find a place with gas heating and new aluminium windows so that you don't get cold. Avoid the top floor since it will get to cold on winter and way to hot on summer. Try to find a place about Egnatia str. since the rents there are cheaper.

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

Greek food the the best! You can find cheap tavern where you can try the traditional cuisine or you can choose the famous gyros in every corner of the city! For taverns try Athonos str. and Bit Bazzar. But you will definitely ask the Greek students to recommend a place that only the locals know! Street food is good here and there is a variety from gyros to salads.

What places would you recommend visiting in Thessaloniki?

Leukos Pirgos, walk on the Nea Paralia near the sea, have a beer at Rotonta and later you should go to a party somewhere in the University campus, Ano Poli for the greatest view of the city and to visit the Castles, Seih Sou the forest with a dark history for walk or bicycling