EDUCATION

The city of Athens, respecting its ancient history and high regard as one of the major cultural centers of the world since the dawn of civilization, could but only offer to its residents and visitors, tens of various places to learn more about educational opportunities, research of the sciences and the Greek language.

Beginning with full-time residents of the city and country, a government funded educational system is offered to one and all – ranging from kindergarten to elementary and high school levels. Correspondingly, the capital city also provides musical, ecclesiastical, and athletic elementary and high schools. After completing the high school course, the public school service again provides free university education, divided in two ways: A.E.I. (Anotata Ekpaideftika Idrymata, meaning Higher Education Institute) and T.E.I. (Technologika Ekpaideftika Idrymata, meaning Technological Educational Institute). A student’s entrance into these universities is dependant upon his/her performance scores on the national examinations, given on the second and third year of high school. Moreover, most of the universities also offer post-graduate studies for those wishing to earn Masters Degrees. For those who fall below the passing level for entrance into public universities, there are a number of official schools called I.E.K. (Institouta Epaggelmatikis Katartisis, meaning Professional Training Institute). These schools accept both elementary and high school graduates, depending on their selected specialization and the need in the wide-ranging job market.

For those who wish to deepen their knowledge about specific scientific subjects, there are a number of research facilities and libraries rich in bibliographical material all over Athens that will satisfy the most ardent and demanding lovers of knowledge. An important part of the general education system in Athens is the system of foreign language tutorials, of which are offered more sufficiently in Athens than any other European capital. Foreign language education is provided through a plethora of private institutes as well as the official institutes established by various countries that are headquartered in Athens wishing to offer a source of culture and activities for the countries that they represent. Tutoring usually begins around the age of 9 and favors English and French. Although later on, students tend to take a more avid interest in learning languages such as German, Italian and Spanish.

As far as visitors to the city (especially those from foreign countries) are concerned, it should be noted that universities in Athens take part in most of the foreign exchange programs available. Lessons for beginning and advanced Greek are widely available by the Teaching School of Modern Greek, residing at the School of Philosophy at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. For those planning on staying in Athens for a long period of time, the capital offers plenty of foreign language training facilities as well as schools for minorities of which might follow the Greek educational system or one of another country.

Gastronomy

I PITA TOU PAPPOU
Chain of grill houses, that serve (among other things) the rumored biggest souvlaki in town.... more
PREMIERE (Athenaeum Intercontinental)
French hints but also many Mediterranean elements in the kitchen of Sotiris Evaggelou. Try the risotto with leeks and... more
ATHIRI
A transfer from Korydallos, with prize winning recipes and modern cooking techniques. Try the Santorini Fava and the choice wines.... more
ALEXANDRIA
A haven harbor in the center of the city with Egyptian and Mediterranean tastes. Falafel, humus, babaganous, foulia with... more
AIOLIS
Bar-Restaurant on the pedestrian walkway of Aiolou Street with nice music choices.... more
LIBADIA
Just a step away from Omonia Square. Enjoy Greek souvlaki by the stick with free bread under the shade of... more
HYTRA
Cuisine from chef Nikos Karthanos with gourmet dishes at a bistro level. Closed on Mondays.... more
BOOZE COOPERATIVA
A neoclassical building that functions as events multi-space. Café, bar, club, exhibitions, live music, theater and seminars... more
EVER GREEN
Casual food bar on Korai Street. Favorite youth hangout with emphasis on sandwiches, salads and juices.... more
TO KAFENEDAKI TOU KIPOU
For those who are looking for a natural green shelter in the heart of the city! A quiet café on... more
BAIRES
Baires made its debut in the very select spot of Sina 21 and Skoufa Street in Kolonaki. It is what... more