Is Athens Worth Moving To?
/If you're mulling over moving to Athens for your studies or work...
And you're not sure if Athens is worth it...
In this article, we'll try to disperse any doubts... and make sure you join thousands of people who chose Athens as their city to study, work… and enjoy life. (many of whom we've had the privilege to host in our properties).
Here's why...
Athens is a vibrant city with an amazing food scene.
And where else can you experience such short distances between what are arguably the most important historical sites in the world?
The ancient Acropolis of Athens rises above the city (works best if visited early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds).
At the same time, only a stone's throw away from your office, sits Hadrian's Gate, National Gardens, and Syntagma Square, among others.
The people are warm and welcoming to newcomers, especially ex-pats who have embraced life here as their own.
Plus, the sun shines in Athens on most days!
On average, the city has more than 300 days of sunshine a year.
It feels like half of the population is out enjoying some outdoor time on sunny days.
Although temperatures are hot and humid in the summer months, the winter is usually mild and dry.
The climate in Athens is ideal for many outdoor activities such as cycling, golfing, rock climbing, and sailing.
Many locals make it a point to stay active and healthy.
There are many places where you can hike, bike, or go running in Athens, so you will not be short of options.
You can also head over to the coast, which is not too far away, and engage in water sports such as surfing or sailing.
And if you aren't into physical activities? No problem!
Athens also has plenty of green spaces where you can spend some time outdoors... just sitting around reading a book and relaxing.
The weather is also perfect for growing grapes to make wine!
Athens is great for wine lovers, and there are vineyards to visit.
And if you love wine, you should come to Athens just for that reason alone!
Greek wines are great value for money and offer a wide range of exciting wines (often at a lower price than other European countries).
The Greek wine industry is unique, with a long history and journey that has made it more than worthy to discover.
Wine tasting tours can take you throughout the vineyards in Athens and the surrounding areas to get a taste of some of the best local produce.
The city's wine bars and shops offer some pretty cool places to enjoy after-work drinks or even dinners.
What about housing options?
Renting in Athens is not prohibitively expensive.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost between 350-500 EUR per month.
The average rent for a two-room apartment within the boundaries of Athens Municipality is 500-600€/month.
Compared to other European capitals, rental prices are lower in Athens.
At rooms Athens, you can find and rent a wide range of housing fitting every taste and budget.
From a private budget room in a fully furnished shared apartment... to a studio apartment to one or two & three-room apartments.
Our properties in Athens are conveniently located near many universities and public transport... and always with one goal:
Living in comfort and style in Athens should be affordable.
Athens has pretty good public transportation options.
If you're considering relocating to Athens there's one thing you should be aware of: getting around is easy.
The city has various transportation options to help get you from point A to point B with the least hassle.
There are buses that run throughout the city and connect with other transportation services.
You can also use the subway system to travel throughout the city quickly and efficiently.
It offers direct routes between major neighborhoods.
The trains frequently run during weekday rush hours so that people can get to work on time.
Plus, you don't have to worry about traffic jams or bad weather disrupting your commute because it's underground.
Taxis are another easy way to get around town if you don't mind paying a bit extra for convenience.
You can call ahead or hail one on the street during off-hours. Uber is always available too through their app. It's a great option because taxi services are some of the most affordable in Europe.
You can read about the taxi fares in more detail HERE.
If your commute involves going from Athens International Airport (AIA) into town or vice versa, there are several options available.
Bus X95 connects AIA with Syntagma Square via Kifissos Intercity Interchange Bus Station every 30 minutes from 5 am to midnight, allowing quick access to central Athens.
Metro Line 3 connects AIA and Syntagma Square via Monastiraki Station every 30 minutes from 6 am – to 11 pm daily.
Suburban Railway connects AIA and Omonia Station every half hour from 5 am – to 11 pm daily.
You can go from sea to ski in less than an hour from Athens.
How many places can you go from the beach to the ski resort in less than an hour?
You can enjoy swimming at world-renowned beaches, such as Vouliagmeni, Glyfada, Porto Rafti, and Saronida.
You can also visit other amazing beaches such as Marathonas and Sounio in less than 45 minutes.
If you seek skiing, you can drive up to Parnitha mountain or Hymettus mountain (within 30 minutes of downtown) to enjoy fresh snow every winter.
Alternatively, it takes a little over an hour's drive to reach Kalavryta (2 hours by train) or Parnassus ski resorts.
Greek food is delicious!
Many restaurants offer excellent local food at great prices.
Look for tavernas, souvlaki shops (often kebab-like meat on a skewer), and takeout joints.
For a quick, easy meal that's healthy to boot, choose hummus, tzatziki (yogurt dip with cucumber), or Greek salad.
Locals often eat out in groups several nights a week. And you should too!
Athens has something for everyone, whether you're after a relaxed dinner for two or an all-nighter with your new friends.
Plenty of budget airlines fly in and out of Athens for your travel needs.
Many low-cost airlines can get you to Athens for a reasonable price if you're traveling from Europe. Easy Jet and Ryan Air fly to Athens daily.
Aegean Airlines flies to Athens throughout the week too.
If you're traveling from America or other countries outside of Europe, there are currently direct flights too. (more details HERE).
Otherwise, you'll have to take an indirect route with a stopover in Europe.
Athens has more to offer than you think, and it's a fun place to live!
Athens is an excellent place to live.
The Athenian lifestyle includes many opportunities for socializing and enjoying the open air, day or night.
With its rich history spanning over three millennia, Athens is the cradle of Western civilization.
Being one of the world's oldest cities, Athens is a significant historical landmark... with many ancient monuments such as the Acropolis, Stoa of Attalos, Ancient Agora, Roman Market, and Theatre of Dionysus.
Its long history means that the city has an extensive cultural heritage, including some fantastic museums (new Acropolis Museum, Benaki Museum), art galleries (National Gallery), theatre venues (Greek National Theatre), concert halls (Megaron), libraries (National Library) as well as many festivals throughout the year such as Athens & Epidaurus Festival, Documentary Festival, World Championships in Dance, etc.
But it's not only about fun.
Athens is also one of the most affordable European capitals and provides career opportunities in all sectors. That's why Athens has become an attractive city for students and young professionals looking for a vibrant and dynamic city with a high quality of life.