5 Reasons to Study Abroad in Athens, Greece

Opa! What could be better than studying abroad in Greece? From ancient ruins dating back thousands of years to mouthwatering olive oil to picturesque islands only a short flight or ferry ride away from the mainland, there is so much to experience in the beautiful country of Greece. 

Greece takes in thousands of study abroad students each year, with 2022-23 data (the most recent available) showing 6,000 American students spending time there. That puts it in the top 10 countries American students choose! 

Let’s take a closer look at what Greece study abroad programs can offer you and why students study in this historic European gem year-after-year. 

Why Study Abroad in Athens 

There are so many reasons why studying abroad in Athens is popular. You may want to know that: 

• It’s a safe city – one of the safest in Europe
• Most residents know English (though they appreciate it when you learn a few Greek phrases)
• It’s one of the oldest cities in the world
• It’s an LGBTQ+-friendly area
• It’s home to three well-known universities in Greece 

Keep reading to find out five major reasons why we think it’s worth looking into Athens study abroad programs. 

Reason #1: The History 

It’s usually the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Greece. Be sure to take advantage of day trips offered through your Athens study abroad organization or ones you plan with your new friends. 

We recommend: 

• The Acropolis, an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above Athens and one of the most well-known ruins in the world
• The National Archaeological Museum (considered one of the most impressive collections of artifacts in the world) where statues, pottery, and relics tell the stories of Athens’ golden age
• Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games and a sacred site of ruined temples, grand stadiums, and timeless history nestled in Greece’s Peloponnesian landscape 

And so much more! Athens’ history is alive in every plaza, museum, and ruin. By simply walking the streets through the city’s distinct neighborhoods, you will feel the weight of 3,000+ years of civilization.  

Athens is not just a city with history; it’s a city where history is an active and tangible part of daily life. 

Reason #2: The Cuisine 

Imagine snacking on spanakopita (a crispy spinach pie) with some of the freshest feta you’ve ever tasted. Or ending the night biting into sweet loukoumades (Greek donut). 

Greek food – often part of Mediterranean diets – is known for being incredibly healthy, often featuring fresh fish, vegetables, herbs, and oils. While in Athens, you won’t want to miss sampling: 

• Moussaka – A rich, layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce
• Souvlaki – Grilled meat skewers, often served with pita, tzatziki, and salad
• A Gyro – Rotisserie meat (usually pork or chicken) wrapped in pita with vegetables and tzatziki
• Baklava – A sweet dessert made of layers of phyllo, honey, and chopped nuts
• Kleftiko – Slow-cooked lamb, marinated with garlic, lemon, and herbs 

You’ll have so many opportunities to try dozens of dishes when you enroll in a Greece study abroad program! 

Read More: Eat, Drink, Explore: Athens 

Reason #3: The Affordability 

Greece has a reputation for being one of the more affordable European countries, making your money go further during your Athens, Greece, study abroad program. 

Athens is known for having affordable public transportation, which can help you discover more about your new city and beyond. 

Other things you’ll find priced affordably include fresh produce, local wines, attractions, and visits to some of the Greek islands (think Ios, Mykonos, and more). 

Reason #4: The Weather and Beaches 

For students used to cooler falls and winters, you’ll be happy to escape to temperatures only as low as 50 degrees in the winter.  

And the summer doesn’t get too hot, either, as temps often don’t reach higher than the 80s. So, if you’re exploring during warmer weather, be sure to visit beaches like: 

• Astir Beach, right in Athens (and you’ll want to make reservations)
• Balos, Crete, highlighted by white sand
• Elafonissi Beach, known for its pink sand
• Navagio Beach, where you can check out shipwrecks
• Santorini, which features beaches with black sand and volcanic rocks 

And more! 

Reason #5: The Courses and Internships 

We can’t overlook the main reason students research study abroad programs in Greece: It’s to study abroad! 

Depending on the type of Greece study abroad program you choose, you could pick from various in-person or online classes (taught in English) and optional international internship placements to gain real-world global experience.  

Keep reading to explore the study abroad and internship programs you can choose from in Greece through CIEE Study Abroad! 

Find an Athens Study Abroad Program 

You’ll have a variety of program options to choose from if you want to study abroad in Greece with CIEE Study Abroad, including: 

• Business + Culture: Immerse yourself in Athens’ social and economic culture while taking business-focused courses and enrolling in an optional part-time internship in Athens’ dynamic economy
• Ecology + Sustainability: Address some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges in a local context through a combination of sustainability- and discipline-focused courses  
• Engineering, Technology + Sciences: Learn how Athens approaches engineering, technology, and science in integrated coursework with real-world applications
• Global Internship: Gain industry experience in one of Athens’ international workplaces with a full-time internship  
• Intern + Study Abroad: Earn credit and real-world Greek work experience with a part-time semester internship and part-time coursework  
• Open Campus Block: Design your own study abroad program by customizing your program length (1, 2, or 3 consecutive 6-week blocks in up to 3 cities), term (spring, summer, and/or fall), and coursework (choose from hundreds of courses)
• Semester in Athens: Sign up for the traditional study abroad journey and enroll in courses across a broad range of subjects while immersing yourself in the local Greek culture 

No matter which program you choose, you can’t go wrong! 

Take Your Studies to Athens 

Athens is a stunning city with lots to offer. From the city’s ancient history and iconic landmarks to its bustling cafés and world-class academics, Athens, Greece study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

Get ready to learn, explore, and immerse yourself in Greek traditions. Find your Athens study abroad program today! 

EXPLORE ATHENS STUDY ABROAD