Athens

QS Best Student Cities ranking: 72nd

Greece’s capital and largest city, Athens has a history dating back thousands of years, and has been called the cradle of western civilization as well as the birthplace of democracy.

The classical city-state of Athens has been transformed into a busy modern metropolis, home to around 34 percent of Greece’s total population. Rising four places this year, Athens is now ranked 72nd in the Best Student Cities 2019.

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (including the world-famous Acropolis), the city retains much of its classical heritage, with many ancient monuments such as the famous Parthenon. Athens is a city that certainly mixes old and new – you can’t walk the streets without seeing reminders of the fascinating history that’s taken place exactly where you’re standing.

As well as exploring one of the oldest cultures in the world, you could also spend time enjoying the city’s lively nightlife, delicious Greek food, great shops, its long tradition in sports, as well as theater and entertainment.

Greek people are noted for their warmth and friendliness and, if you fancy more exploration, the city is just a quick ferry ride away from beautiful Greek islands such as Kea and Aegina.

Considered the birthplace of modern thinking, Athens is home to some of Greece’s most prestigious universities, three of which are included in the QS World University Rankings® 2020.

Greece earns its highest score in the affordability indicator, at 32nd worldwide. This is due to its relatively low tuition fees (US$2,100), as well as the low cost of living. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center would cost you only US$400 per month, compared to US$1,288 for the same thing in France’s capital, Paris.

In fact, in the student survey, Athens’ affordability is frequently mentioned, with one individual saying, “in contrast to other European cities, Athens is much more affordable.” Another respondent praised “the weather and the nightlife.”  

Internationally ranked universities in Athens

More about Athens

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.*