Moving to Greece as an Erasmus Student: The Ultimate Survival Guide

Welcome to the Land of Sun, Souvlaki, and Slightly Chaotic Bureaucracy 🇬🇷

So, you’ve decided to spend your Erasmus semester in Greece? Good choice! Get ready for stunning islands, unbeatable souvlaki, and a nightlife that never ends. But before you start daydreaming about sipping Freddo espressos by the sea, let’s talk about what you actually need to know to make your move smooth and stress-free (or at least as stress-free as Greek bureaucracy allows).

📍 Where to Live?

Athens 🏛️

• Best for: Big city lovers, nightlife enthusiasts, history buffs.
• Neighborhoods to check out: Exarchia (edgy and artsy), Koukaki (cozy and close to Acropolis), Pagrati (hipster but affordable), Kypseli (up-and-coming multicultural hub).
• Public transport: Metro is your best friend. Buses… let’s just say they run on their own schedule.

Thessaloniki 🌊

• Best for: Foodies, seaside lovers, and those who prefer a more chill city vibe.
• Neighborhoods to check out: Ano Poli (historic and charming), Ladadika (party central).
• Public transport: Breaking news! Thessaloniki FINALLY has a metro (after only 20+ years of waiting 🎉). Buses still exist, but now you have options!

Crete, Patras & Other Cities 🏝️

• If your Erasmus takes you outside Athens or Thessaloniki, congrats! You’re about to experience a more authentic and less touristy Greece. Just be prepared for a slower pace and a smaller Erasmus crowd.

🏠 Finding Accommodation (Aka, Your New Greek Home)

Forget about signing a lease months in advance—this isn’t Germany. In Greece, most student rentals are found last minute. Luckily, that’s where Nostus comes in!

• Best time to book: 1-2 months before arrival (or even after you arrive if you’re adventurous).
• What to look for: WiFi speed (usually decent but check first), air conditioning (Greek summers are no joke), and proximity to your university.
• Where to search: Nostus, of course 😉 (no shady Facebook groups needed).

💳 Cost of Living: Will You Survive on an Erasmus Grant?

Greece is cheaper than most of Western Europe, but it’s not as cheap as it used to be. Here’s what you can expect:

• Rent: €350–€550/month (depends on the city and whether you like roommates).
• Food: €3.5-4.5 for souvlaki & fries (the holy grail of budget dining).
• Nightlife: €3-5 for a beer, €8-12 for a cocktail (but expect free shots from friendly bartenders).
• Coffee: €3.5-4 for a Freddo espresso (yes, we take our iced coffee seriously).
• Public transport: €15–€30/month for a student pass.

📚 University Life: More Than Just Beach Days (Unfortunately)

Greek universities are relaxed, but that doesn’t mean you can skip every class. Some things to keep in mind:

• Lectures? Attendance is often optional, but exams can be tricky, so don’t slack too much.
• Grading? Some professors are lenient, others… not so much. But hey, it’s Erasmus—you’ll be fine!
• Campus life? Expect strikes, protests, and random holidays you didn’t know existed.

🍽️ Food & Drinks: What You’ll Be Living Off

• Souvlaki/Pita gyros: Your best friend. €3.5-4.5 of pure happiness.
• Moussaka: The Greek version of lasagna but better.
• Tiropita/Bougatsa: Breakfast pastries that will ruin all future breakfasts for you.
• Ouzo/Raki: Proceed with caution.
• Freddo Espresso: More than a coffee, it’s a way of life.

🏛️ Greek Culture & Fun Facts

• Greeks don’t say “yes” or “no” with their heads the way you expect. (A slight upwards nod = no, a downward nod = yes—you’ll get used to it.)
• Time is flexible. If a Greek says “Let’s meet at 8 PM,” expect them around 8:30.
• Strikes and protests are common—especially near universities. It’s normal.
• Greeks LOVE socializing. You’ll often find yourself in conversations with strangers at cafés, buses, or even waiting in line.

📞 Essential Things to Set Up

• SIM Card: Get a prepaid SIM from Vodafone, Cosmote, or Wind. Data is cheap, and WiFi is generally reliable.
• Public Transport Card: Ask for a student discount.
• Health Insurance: Your EU Health Card works here, but for non-EU students, make sure you have private coverage.
• Greek Bank Account? Not necessary. Almost all places accept cards now (and technically, they all should).

🤝 Erasmus Student Network (ESN) – Your Best Friend

Erasmus can be overwhelming at first, but that’s where ESN (Erasmus Student Network) comes in! ESN is a volunteer-based organization run by former Erasmus students who help newcomers adjust to their new city, meet people, and have fun.

• Follow your local ESN section (e.g., ESN Thessaloniki, ESN Athens) for events, trips, and support.
• Nostus is an official partner of ESN Thessaloniki, so you’ll get access to exclusive deals and assistance.
• Expect welcome parties, day trips, language exchanges, and general tips for making the most of your Erasmus adventure!

🔥 Final Erasmus Survival Tips

✅ Embrace the chaos. Bureaucracy might drive you insane, but just go with the flow.
✅ Say YES to social events. Greek people (and Erasmus groups) are super welcoming.
✅ Explore beyond your city. The islands, Meteora, Peloponnese—so much to see!
✅ Learn a few Greek words. “Efharisto” (thank you) and “Yamas” (cheers) will take you far.
✅ Take it easy. Greeks know how to enjoy life. Follow their lead!

Ready to Book Your Greek Adventure? 🎉

Finding accommodation shouldn’t be harder than learning Greek verbs. Let Nostus help you find the perfect place so you can focus on making the most of your Erasmus experience.

👉 Find Your Greek Home Now