City of Thessaloniki

The AFS University of Science and Technology - U.L.E. is located in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city and one of Europe’s most student-friendly. It’s walkable, lively, and full of culture, with a coastline you’ll love and neighborhoods packed with cafés, bookstores, and late-night food spots.

With over 150,000 students across various institutions, the city pulses with a youthful energy that is contagious. Cafés, libraries, and cultural venues create spaces for study, collaboration, and socializing. As a student at our university, you have the best of both worlds: the peaceful, high-tech environment of our 280-acre farm campus and the dynamic urban life of Thessaloniki just 20 minutes away.

Key Highlights for Students

The Waterfront (Nea Paralia): 5km promenade, perfect for sunset walks, cycling, or grab-and-go coffee from the “coolest” kiosks in Greece.
Aristotelous Square: The heart of the city for shopping, meeting friends, and major events.
The White Tower: The iconic landmark and the starting point for most city explorations.
Ano Poli (Upper Town): The historic old town with cobblestone streets, Byzantine walls, and the best panoramic views of the Thermaic Gulf.

The Food Scene (UNESCO City of Gastronomy)

Ladadika & Athonos Square: Districts with traditional tavernas and “ouzeries” where students gather for affordable, high-quality Greek food.
Kapani & Modiano Markets: Historic open-air markets to buy fresh local ingredients.
The “Bougatsa” Tradition: You can’t live in Thessaloniki without trying the famous breakfast pastry.

Nightlife & Culture

Valaoritou & Syngrou: Two of Thessaloniki’s most vibrant alternative nightlife districts, known for their bars and live music stages.
Festivals: Thessaloniki hosts major cultural events throughout the year, including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival in November and the International Exhibition (TIF) every September.
Museums: The city’s rich history is showcased in landmark institutions such as the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and the Museum of Byzantine Culture.

Practical Information for Students

Students can reach the city centre easily by public transport:

Bus: Route 66 stops directly in front of the University’s main gate.
Metro: From the final stop of bus route 66, students can access the metro network and travel across the city.
Chalkidiki: the famous Chalkidiki peninsula with the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters is just 45-60 minutes driving. The bus station is located across the campus – 5 mins walk

City of Thessaloniki

Key Highlights for Students

The Waterfront (Nea Paralia): 5km promenade, perfect for sunset walks, cycling, or grab-and-go coffee from the “coolest” kiosks in Greece.

Aristotelous Square: The heart of the city for shopping, meeting friends, and major events.

The White Tower: The iconic landmark and the starting point for most city explorations.

Ano Poli (Upper Town): The historic old town with cobblestone streets, Byzantine walls, and the best panoramic views of the Thermaic Gulf.

The Food Scene (UNESCO City of Gastronomy)

Ladadika & Athonos Square: Districts with traditional tavernas and “ouzeries” where students gather for affordable, high-quality Greek food.

Kapani & Modiano Markets: Historic open-air markets to buy fresh local ingredients.

The “Bougatsa” Tradition: You can’t live in Thessaloniki without trying the famous breakfast pastry.

Nightlife & Culture

Valaoritou & Syngrou: Two of Thessaloniki’s most vibrant alternative nightlife districts, known for their bars and live music stages.

Festivals: Thessaloniki hosts major cultural events throughout the year, including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival in November and the International Exhibition (TIF) every September.

Museums: The city’s rich history is showcased in landmark institutions such as the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and the Museum of Byzantine Culture.

Practical Information for Students

Students can reach the city centre easily by public transport:

Bus: Route 66 stops directly in front of the University’s main gate.

Metro: From the final stop of bus route 66, students can access the metro network and travel across the city.

Chalkidiki: the famous Chalkidiki peninsula with the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters is just 45-60 minutes driving. The bus station is located across the campus – 5 mins walk