Athens

QS Best Student Cities ranking: =76^th

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% of Greece’s total population and central to the country’s culture and economy.

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® 2018.

Internationally ranked universities in Athens

More about Athens

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