A short guide for new students coming to the city.
History
Thessaloniki was founded in 315 BC by the Macedonian king Cassander and quickly became one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire. The Byzantine era, the Ottoman period and the cosmopolitan communities of the 19th century left a deep mark on the urban fabric, from the Byzantine walls and churches (many built in the 4th and 5th centuries) to the old Jewish market in the city centre.
Today it is the second largest city in Greece (approximately 1 million inhabitants in the metropolitan area), a major university hub with more than 150,000 students, and a gateway to the Balkans.
Photo by Dimitris Mourousiadis
Getting Here
Thessaloniki “Macedonia” Airport (SKG) is located about 15 km from the city centre and serves direct flights from many European cities (Ryanair, Aegean, Wizz Air and others). From the airport you can reach the centre by bus (line 78, about 45 minutes, 1 EUR) or by taxi (approximately 20–25 EUR).
The city is also connected by train (the station is located near the port) and by intercity KTEL coaches from the rest of Greece and several Balkan countries.
Getting Around
Thessaloniki now has a metro. The new network includes a stop serving the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (“University” station), making travel to and from campus fast and convenient. The main axis of the city is fully covered by the network.
The city bus network (OASTH) also provides frequent service across the whole city. A monthly student pass costs around 15 EUR and covers unlimited journeys. Many students also use bicycles, as the city has significantly expanded its cycle lanes, especially along the waterfront. For occasional trips, taxis (Beat app) and shared e-scooters are also popular.
Cost of Living
Compared to most Western European cities, Thessaloniki offers a fairly affordable cost of living, especially when it comes to food and accommodation.
Monthly Expenses
| Category | Cost / month | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (room in shared flat) | 200–350 EUR | shared with roommates |
| Rent (studio, alone) | 350–550 EUR | higher near universities |
| Food (cooking at home) | 120–180 EUR | supermarket + street market |
| Food (eating out) | 80–150 EUR | student restaurants: 6–9 EUR/meal |
| Transport | 15–30 EUR | student pass or bicycle |
| Mobile / internet | 15–25 EUR | plans with 20–30 GB data |
| Entertainment / going out | 50–100 EUR | cafes, bars, cinema |
| Total (estimated) | 500–900 EUR | depending on lifestyle |
Sample Prices for Goods and Services
| Item / Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Bus ticket | 0.60 EUR (0.30 EUR with Academic ID Card) |
| Bottle of water (0.5 lt) | 0.50 EUR |
| Milk (1 lt) | 1.00–1.80 EUR |
| Soft drink | 1.00–2.00 EUR |
| Espresso at a cafe | 2.50–3.50 EUR |
| Beer at a bar | 4.00–6.00 EUR |
| Cinema ticket | 7.50 EUR |
| Loaf of fresh white bread | 0.90 EUR |
| Taxi start (normal tariff) | 3.50 EUR |
| Meal at a mid-range restaurant | 15.00 EUR |
| Apples (1 kg) | 0.80–1.40 EUR |
Accommodation
The most popular areas for students are Ano Poli (traditional neighbourhood, close to AUTH), the City Centre (close to everything, more expensive) and Toumba / Charilaou (quieter, more affordable). You can find listings on spitogatos.gr and xe.gr.
Many universities have student halls of residence, but places are limited. Ask your department secretary directly. If you are renting privately, always request an official tenancy agreement.
Social Life
Thessaloniki has a vibrant cultural scene and is widely regarded as Greece’s unofficial capital of food, music and nightlife. The waterfront promenade, Aristotelous Square and the Ladadika district are meeting points for people of all ages.
There are many student clubs, Erasmus communities, sports events and festivals (Thessaloniki International Fair, International Film Festival, Book Festival). If you are looking to meet other Erasmus+ students, the ESN Thessaloniki group regularly organises activities for international students.