10 reasons to go on Erasmus to Greece

Published by Claudia on

Greece is the favourite Mediterranean destination for many foreign students. The good weather, its nature and historical and cultural past have made Greece one of the most touristic places in Europe. This country may be the perfect place to do an Erasmus. Discover the 10 reasons to do your Erasmus in Greece!

1. Geographical location

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Greece is located in the south of the Balkan peninsula in the Mediterranean. This proximity to the sea has made this country one obligatory stop for countless cruise ships. This country borders Albania, Bulgaria and North Macedonia. Besides, it is close to the coasts of northern Turkey, which may be attractive to many students. Trips to bordering countries are guaranteed!

2. Language

The only official language is Modern Greek, a derivative of Classical Greek that lasted until the Byzantine Empire. Albanese is also speak Greek in the proximal areas to this country, although it is not widely spoken.

Greek is an attainable language, although it may result more complex for students who are not familiarized with the spelling. Here are some expressions in Greek that will be useful until you master the language:

  • Good morning = ”Χαίρετε/Chaírete”
  • Goodbye/see you later = “Αντίο/Antío”
  • Please = “Σας παρακαλούμε/Sas parakaloúme”
  • Thank you = “Ευχαριστώ/Efcharistó”
  • You’re welcome = “Κανένα πρόβλημα/Kanéna próvlima”
  • I don’t speak Greek = “δεν μιλαω ελληνικα/den milao ellinika”
  • I’m sorry = “Λυπάμαι/Lypámai”

3. Education in Greece

Education is under the responsibility of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs, so it can be said that education is highly centralized. One thing that differentiates Greek education from the rest of the European countries is its offer of state support or supplementary education courses. These courses are free of tuition fees and are offered at all stages of education.

The top-rated universities in this country are the University of Athens, the Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki and the Technical University of Athens.

4. Transport in Greece

This country is located in the Balkan peninsula, but counts with a huge amount of islands and archipelagos that can only be reached by ferry, ship or plane. The most usual way to move around the country is by bus, but the train is another alternative for longer distances.

Public transport

Public transport is the best way to move through the cities. The most common means of transport are bus and tram, although the Athens metro is well-connected.

Trains and buses

It is not a very large country, so the most common way to get around is by bus, with good connections to the country's major cities. The train can be a good alternative for long distances or travel to bordering countries.

Ferry and ship

The Greek Islands will be the main attraction of your Erasmus in Greece, the most common way to get from the peninsula to the islands or between the islands is by ferry or boat. Most ferries and boats usually depart from the port of Athens.

5. Gastronomy in Greece

Greek gastronomy is one of the most famous in the Mediterranean thanks to its high-quality ingredients. Here are some of the typical dishes you can try:

  • Tzatziki: is a yoghurt cream with cucumber and seasoned with lemon juice, mint or dill, depending on the region. Tzatziki is often served as a starter or as an accompaniment to other dishes.
  • Spanakotiropita: these are spinach patties stuffed with feta cheese. Spanakotiropitas are the most popular dish outside the country.
  • Dolmades: This is the most popular dish among the locals. Dolmades are vine leaves stuffed with meat or fish, rice is also added.
  • Taramosalata: Salted or smoked blue fish roe is mashed with breadcrumbs to a puree-like texture and seasoned with olive oil, garlic and lemon.
  • Melomakarona: the most famous dessert after the classic Greek yoghurt. Melomakarona are balls of flour dipped in honey, which can be topped with orange or brandy.

6. Cost of living in Greece

The cost of living is unalike, the peninsula has usually lower and more affordable prices than the Greek islands. In general, the cost of living is low, on your Erasmus in Greece you can spend around €500-600 a month. The prices for some islands such as Santorini, Mykonos or Creta are usually higher, it is difficult to spend less than €800 per month.

On Erasmus Play you can compare the best flatshares and verified spare rooms; the process is entirely online.

7. Party in Greece

This country is one of the European countries with the best atmosphere, and the influx of tourists and foreign students has a lot to do with this. The Greek cities with the best range of bars, clubs and Erasmus parties are Athens (the capital of Greece and the centre of the party scene), Thessaloniki, Heraklion and Mykonos, in the Greek Islands, which are the favourite party destinations for many Erasmus students. Live a unique experience in Greece!

8. Places to visit in Greece

Undoubtedly, this country is the most popular destination in the Eastern Mediterranean, the quality of its beaches has a lot to do with it. Greece's historical and cultural past is evident today, so check out the places you must visit in Greece!

  • Athens
  • Mykonos Island
  • Corfu Island
  • Thessaloniki
  • Paros Island
  • Zakynthos Beach
  • Rhodes Island
  • Cape Sunion
  • Santorini Island
Santorini

Santorini

9. Main monuments in Greece

It has a historical and cultural past that cannot be found in many countries. The art and thought of Ancient Greece are foundations of contemporary Europe, so don’t miss some of the best monuments:

  • Acropolis of Athens
  • Parthenon of Athens
  • Fortress of Corfu
  • Port of Parikia
  • White Tower of Thessaloniki
  • Roman Ruins of Thessaloniki
  • Lighthouse of Chania
  • City of Roda
  • Stone Colossi of Meteora
Acropolis of Athens

Acropolis of Athens

10. The character of Greeks

Greeks have a similar character to that of other Mediterranean countries such as Italy or Spain. The character is famous for their optimism and joy, they are social and festive people. One thing that characterizes the Greeks is their hospitality, it is impossible to visit a house and not be offered to stay, be served refreshments, and even eat with the family. Greeks are proud to be Greeks, they value their traditions and take special care of their past.

Frequently asked questions by students doing Erasmus in Greece

Have you decided to do your Erasmus in Greece? In Erasmus Play we display you some of the most common questions asked by many students who want to study in Greece:

How much does it cost to live in Greece?
The standard of living is low and accommodation will not be a problem either. Athens and the Greek Islands are the most expensive destinations, but you will be able to live well without spending more than €500.

What is the Price of student accommodation in Greece?
Student accommodation is fairly inexpensive, with rooms in shared flats costing around €150-300 and full flats around €500-600. Residence halls cost from €300 upwards, so the first option is the most popular. You can find verified accommodation in your destination city at Erasmus Play.

How much is the scholarship to study in Greece?
The Erasmus grant for Greece, as for other European countries, depends on factors such as the university of destination and the university of origin. In addition, some countries offer additional support from both countries and/or regions.

We hope we have answered some of your questions about your Erasmus in Greece, so don't hesitate to leave us a comment to help other students who want to study in Greece!

Erasmus in Greece

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