Greece has long been a favored destination for international students, offering a blend of quality education and rich cultural experiences. Among its cities, Athens and Thessaloniki stand out as primary academic hubs.
In this blog, we'll delve into what makes a neighborhood student-friendly and provide detailed insights into the best areas to live in Athens and Thessaloniki. We'll cover aspects like proximity to universities, affordability, safety, and access to amenities to help you make an informed decision.
Why Neighborhood Choice Matters for International Students in Greece
Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most significant decisions you'll make when studying abroad. For students coming to Greece, particularly Athens or Thessaloniki, your choice affects everything from your daily routine and commuting ease to your overall social experience and budget management.
The neighborhood you choose can greatly influence your academic success, personal well-being, and social connections. Both Athens and Thessaloniki boast vibrant student populations, creating dynamic communities with unique local characters.
Each city offers diverse neighborhoods that cater to a variety of lifestyles, making it essential to clearly identify your personal priorities and preferences as a student.
Is Living in Athens and Thessaloniki Safe for Foreign Students?
Overall, Athens and Thessaloniki are considered safe cities for foreign students, each offering welcoming and friendly communities. Both cities have active police patrols, particularly in student-heavy neighborhoods, and many areas feature well-lit streets and bustling activity late into the evening.
However, as in any urban setting, it's wise to remain aware of your surroundings, particularly late at night or in less crowded areas. Students are encouraged to connect with local and university resources, which often provide guidance and support to enhance personal safety and comfort.
By exercising general caution and choosing neighborhoods known for safety, international students can feel secure and comfortable living in either Athens or Thessaloniki.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Students in Athens?
Athens is a city of contrasts, where ancient streets meet modern student life. Its neighborhoods vary greatly in pace, personality, and affordability, shaped by a long history of migration, academic presence, and urban sprawl.
Whether you're seeking something close to the university, a quieter spot for study, or an area rich with local flavor, Athens offers a compelling mix of options for international students:
1. Exarchia
Exarchia is one of Athens’ most politically and culturally charged neighborhoods, known for its alternative character and artistic energy. It has long attracted students, particularly from
NTUA and the
School of Law, thanks to its proximity to universities and affordable rents. Independent bookstores, underground music venues, and lively cafés define its street life. While deeply engaging, the area can be noisy and intense, especially at night.
Pros: Budget-friendly rent, central location, strong student presence.
Cons: Can be noisy and crowded, may feel chaotic to some.
2. Pangrati
Pangrati offers a balanced mix of central location and a laid-back lifestyle. Popular with students and young professionals, it features charming cafés, bakeries, and indie cinemas, with most daily errands within walking distance. While safe and welcoming, it tends to attract those who enjoy city life without the extremes. Rental prices are higher, but many find the quality of life worth the cost.
Pros: Close to major universities, excellent amenities, safe and walkable.
Cons: Higher rents compared to other student neighborhoods.
3. Koukaki
Koukaki blends residential calm with easy access to central Athens and major landmarks like the Acropolis Museum. Its tree-lined streets and low-rise buildings offer a more local, slower-paced lifestyle, while the nearby metro stations make commuting effortless. It appeals to students who want peace without isolation. However, prices can be higher and the area busier in peak tourist seasons.
Pros: Excellent public transportation, close to downtown, quiet and well-kept.
Cons: Crowded during tourist seasons, relatively expensive.
4. Zografou
Zografou is arguably the quintessential student neighborhood of Athens, housing thousands of university students due to its immediate proximity to
NKUA and
NTUA campuses. The area is dense with budget-friendly apartments, affordable eateries, and academic bookstores. It’s practical and purpose-driven, making it a solid base for daily university life. That said, it offers fewer leisure options than more central districts.
Pros: Affordable rent, close to major universities, built around student needs.
Cons: Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
5. Kypseli
Kypseli is a diverse and evolving neighborhood with a mix of old Athenian charm and new creative energy. Once considered past its prime, it’s seen a revival in recent years, drawing in students and artists with its low rents and cultural mix. There’s a raw, unpolished quality to the area, and it offers a strong sense of local life away from tourist zones. It may not be the greenest or most central, but it has a personality of its own.
Pros: Low housing costs, culturally diverse, strong local community.
Cons: Less central, fewer green spaces.
Best Neighborhoods for Students in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, has a deeply rooted academic presence and a long-standing reputation as a student-friendly environment.
With one of the largest universities in the Balkans, the city offers an array of neighborhoods that appeal to different student needs — from affordability to accessibility and community life.
This section explores several areas known for their suitability to international students, helping you navigate where to begin your search for housing:
1. Rotunda / Kamara Area
Situated just steps from Aristotle University, the Rotunda and Kamara area is widely considered the heart of Thessaloniki’s student life. You'll find countless cafés, street food vendors, bookstores, and late-night hangouts packed with students. The metro stations near Rotunda make moving around the city much easier, especially for those commuting to other neighborhoods. This is a great option for those who thrive in high-energy, social environments.
Pros: Rich student culture, affordable dining, numerous social venues.
Cons: Busy and noisy, especially on weekends.
2. Ano Poli (Upper Town)
Ano Poli offers a quieter alternative with cobbled streets, traditional houses, and panoramic views of the city and sea. It attracts students looking for peace, inspiration, or a more reflective lifestyle. Rent is typically lower, but reaching the area can be a hike due to its elevation and limited public transport. It's a strong choice for postgrads or those who prioritize quiet and charm over convenience.
Pros: Quiet living environment, picturesque surroundings, affordable rents.
Cons: Hilltop location means a challenging walk and fewer transport options.
3. Toumba
Toumba is a residential district east of the city center, offering a good balance between cost, comfort, and access to everyday amenities. It’s not adjacent to the university, but public transportation makes it manageable for daily commuting. Supermarkets, gyms, and cafés are all nearby, making it ideal for students who prefer a more low-key neighborhood. It's especially suited to those who don't mind a short bus ride to class.
Pros: Reasonable rent prices, relaxed atmosphere, plenty of local amenities.
Cons: Requires daily commuting, not close to main university campuses.
4. Neapoli – Sykies
Located on the northern edge of the city, Neapoli and Sykies is a spacious, green, and largely residential area. It's a good option for students who want to escape the noise of the center and live in a slower-paced, more family-oriented environment. The housing here is typically more affordable, and the area feels more like a traditional Greek suburb. The tradeoff is a longer commute to nightlife or university facilities.
Pros: Low rents, peaceful lifestyle, family-friendly environment.
Cons: Distance from nightlife and central Thessaloniki means a longer commute.
5. Vardaris / Railway Station Area
Vardaris has long had a rough-around-the-edges reputation, but recent developments and infrastructure improvements are gradually changing that. The new metro station is a game changer, improving access to the rest of the city and increasing the area's appeal for students seeking low rents and centrality. It's still evolving, but it's becoming a more practical option — especially for budget-conscious students. Just be mindful of the surrounding streets at night.
Pros: Affordable rents, central location, excellent transport links.
Cons: Historical reputation for safety issues, though improving.
What to Look for in a Good Student Neighborhood
Ultimately, selecting the best neighborhood depends on balancing your personal preferences with practical needs. When choosing your neighborhood, consider:
● Proximity to University: Shorter commutes save you time, money, and energy.
● Public Transport Access: Reliable metro or bus routes make life significantly easier.
● Affordable Rent: Keeping housing costs manageable allows more financial freedom.
● Safety and Walkability: A safe, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood enhances daily living.
● Student-Friendly Amenities: Easy access to affordable food, cafés, libraries, and study spots.
● Social Life Balance: Ideally, your area should offer both social activities and quiet spaces for study.
Engage with student communities online, visit neighborhoods if possible, and don't hesitate to ask for advice from local or fellow international students.
With thoughtful planning, your choice of neighborhood can greatly enhance your experience studying in Greece.
Your time in Greece could be the experience of a lifetime — are you ready to get started?