Study Abroad in Athens
College Study Abroad
Explore Athens with CIEE
Step into the cradle of Western civilization when you study abroad in Athens, Greece, a city where ancient ruins and modern life coexist. Start your mornings with koulouri from a street vendor, walk past the Acropolis on your way to class, or sip iced espresso in a shaded square as locals play backgammon nearby. Spend weekends browsing treasures at the Monastiraki Flea Market, hiking up Mount Lycabettus for sunset views, or catching a concert in the open-air Odeon of Herodes Atticus. With rich academic offerings, legendary landmarks, and a daily rhythm steeped in history and hospitality, Athens study abroad offers a memorable journey as layered as the city itself.
While abroad, students may complete a full- or part-time internship in Athens, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Top Activities Athens with CIEE
Every CIEE Athens study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Athens, excursions may include:
- Going on guided tours of iconic city highlights, including the ancient Acropolis and Parthenon, the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market, or the colorful street art scene in the edgy Exarchia district
- Joining a hands-on Greek cooking class and learning how to make traditional dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, and baklava from local chefs
- Exploring the awe-inspiring ruins of Delphi, once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek mythology, and take in breathtaking mountain views
Internships & Volunteering in Athens
Students can add valuable international work experience to their resume by interning in tourism agencies, agricultural organizations, and manufacturing businesses.
Athens Study Abroad Programs
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Full-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Full-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Currency
Euro
Spoken Language
Greek, English
Available Transportation
Metro, buses, trams, taxis
Famous Local
Giannis Antetokounmpo – Nigerian-Greek professional basketball player born in Athens
Climate
Hot, dry summers; mild, rainy winters
Did You Know?
The first modern marathon originated in Athens in 1896
Airport
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)
Social Norms
Follow Greek bathroom etiquette – to protect the city’s ancient sewage system, it’s requested not to flush toilet paper
What to Pack
Layers, a hat, comfortable shoes, sunscreen
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! As Greece’s vibrant capital and largest city, Athens is an incredible place to study abroad. With its unique blend of ancient history, modern culture, and academic opportunities, students can immerse themselves in a city that has shaped philosophy, politics, and the arts for centuries.
Plus, Athens is generally a safe city to explore both day and night, offering a welcoming atmosphere, friendly locals, and plenty of exciting experiences – from historic landmarks like the Acropolis to lively neighborhoods filled with cafés, markets, and street art.
Both Athens and Florence offer incredible study abroad experiences, but the best choice depends on your interests!
- Athens: A dynamic coastal city where you can immerse yourself in ancient history, archaeology, and philosophy while enjoying easy access to beautiful beaches and the stunning Greek islands. It’s also a great place to pick up some Greek language skills and experience a lively Mediterranean culture.
- Florence: A landlocked city famous for its Renaissance art, world-class museums, and thriving fashion, design, and culinary scenes. If you’re passionate about Italian language, culture, food, and history, Florence might be the ideal fit.
No matter which city you choose, you’ll be surrounded by history, incredible food, and endless opportunities for adventure!
Absolutely – Athens, Greece study abroad has something for everyone! Whether you love exploring ancient ruins, dining at delicious tavernas, dancing the night away at lively clubs, or getting outdoors for a run or mountain biking adventure, you’ll never run out of things to do.
The city is packed with festivals, cultural events, and stunning nature spots, making it a fantastic place to enjoy both new and familiar activities. Plus, studying abroad is the perfect opportunity to pick up a new hobby – why not try Greek dancing, sailing, or photography while you're here?
The cost of studying abroad in Athens varies depending on the program you choose and how long you plan to go for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each of the individual Athens study abroad programs.
For costs not included in the outlined fees, you'll want to consider factors surrounding your journey while abroad.
Read More: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Athens to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
Need-Based Scholarships
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Merit Scholarships
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Other Scholarships
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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