You just landed in Athens. Exciting, right?

Except now you're staring at a group of fellow Erasmus students in your new co-living apartment...

And suddenly, making friends feels like climbing Mount Olympus.

Relax. You’re not alone.

We’ve got 10 icebreakers that will guarantee you won’t be the awkward person in the kitchen anymore.

1. “Where Are You From?”

Let’s start simple.

Asking someone where they’re from is the universal icebreaker. It’s gold when you’re living with other international students.

Not only does it open up the conversation. It gives you the perfect chance to bond over travel stories, cultural quirks, and, yeah, food.

People love talking about their hometowns...

Pro Tip: Follow up with something specific. “Oh, you’re from Paris? I’ve heard the crepes there are unreal.” It’s not about the food, it’s about showing interest in their world.

2. Share a Survival Tip

Everyone’s adjusting to a new city, especially if it’s their first time in Greece.

Offer a tip you learned on your first day. Like how to use the metro, where to get the best souvlaki, or how to deal with the temperamental Greek plumbing.

Example: “Hey, by the way, if you need the best spot for late-night gyros, there’s a place around the corner.”

People appreciate useful info. Plus, you’ll come across as the local expert.

Bonus points if you suggest grabbing some food together!

3. Plan a Netflix Night

Who doesn’t love binge-watching?

Suggest a Netflix night with a series or movie that everyone can get into. It’s low-pressure and gives everyone a reason to chill together.

Pro Tip: Suggest something you can all laugh at or talk about later.

4. Play the “Two Truths and a Lie” Game

Here’s a fun one.

Sit everyone down after dinner, and kick off “Two Truths and a Lie.”

Each person shares two true facts and one lie about themselves, and the rest of the group has to guess the lie.

You’ll discover things you never expected... and break down those initial awkward barriers.

Example: You learn Maria from Spain has a twin sister, speaks five languages, but doesn’t secretly juggle for a circus (or does she?).

5. Organize a Group Grocery Run

Believe it or not, the most mundane activities can be powerful bonding moments.

Organize a group grocery run to the local market. It's practical and gets everyone out of the apartment. What's more, it is a shared experience everyone can relate to—because we all need to eat.

Pro Tip: Once you're back, suggest cooking something together.

Nothing bonds like sharing a meal.

It can be something as simple as pasta. Or an international recipe from one of the flatmates' home countries.

6. Host a “Potluck Dinner”

Food is the universal language, and everyone has a dish from home they’re proud of.

Organize a potluck where each flatmate cooks something from their country.

This is not just about food. It’s about stories, culture... and laughing about the fact that some of these dishes didn’t turn out exactly like they do at home.

Example: “I’ve got some secret Hungarian paprika I’m going to use for my goulash.” You bring something to the table (literally) and invite others to share.

7. Ask for Help

Sounds counterintuitive? It’s not. People love to help.

Ask for advice on something small: where to get good coffee or if they know a shortcut to class.

Asking for help is an easy way to open a conversation and let others feel useful.

Example: “Hey, do you know where to buy cheap school supplies?” Simple questions lead to longer conversations, and—bam!—instant connection.

8. Start a Group Chat

Take the initiative and start a group chat for your flatmates.

Use it to share quick updates, funny photos, or to organize plans.

It makes everyone feel connected, even if they’re in different rooms. And, let’s be honest, it’s easier to break the ice when the pressure of face-to-face conversations isn’t there.

Pro Tip: Keep it lighthearted at first.

Drop a GIF or funny meme to get things rolling.

Then, you can casually suggest hanging out: “Anyone up for some drinks tonight?”

9. Suggest a “Tourist Day”

No one knows Athens yet, so why not explore together?

Suggest taking a “tourist day” where you hit up all the iconic spots like the Acropolis, Plaka, or Monastiraki Flea Market.

Exploring the city as a group creates instant shared memories.

Example: “Hey, who’s down for an Acropolis trip on Saturday? We could grab coffee after!” You’re not just seeing the sights—you’re building friendships.

10. Share Your Why

This one’s deeper but powerful.

Open up about why you chose to do Erasmus in Athens. Sharing your “why” encourages others to do the same, and you’ll quickly find common ground.

Maybe you’re both here to explore history, meet new people, or challenge yourself in a new environment.

Pro Tip: “I’ve always been obsessed with ancient history, so studying in Athens was a no-brainer for me. What about you?” It’s raw, it’s real, and it creates authentic connections.

Wrapping Up: Be the Person Who Makes the First Move

Here’s the deal. Everyone’s in the same boat. They all want to make friends, they all feel that nervous twinge, and they’re just waiting for someone to break the ice. Be that person.

The Erasmus experience isn’t just about studying—it’s about making memories with people from all over the world.

The best way to do that? Start talking.

Use these icebreakers, put yourself out there, and you’ll be amazed at how fast those awkward silences turn into laughter-filled conversations.

Feeling ready to dive into the Erasmus experience in Athens?

If these tips helped, imagine how much easier everything would be if your housing situation was sorted.

No stress, no hassle, just move-in-ready apartments filled with fellow Erasmus students waiting to meet you.

Check out our listings at roomsAthens, and secure your perfect home away from home!