Webster Athens Celebrates Greece as World’s Most Beautiful Country and Leading Study Abroad Destination
January 17, 2025
Students gaze at the view of Athens during their tour of the Herodes Atticus Theater.
Greece has been named the most beautiful country in the world for 2024, according to a global survey conducted by U.S. News and World Report. This recognition highlights Greece’s cultural richness, natural beauty and its emergence as a premier destination for exploration, personal growth and one of world’s most dynamic hubs for international and study abroad education.
Situated in the heart of Plaka, at the foothills of the Acropolis, Webster Athens offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in an exceptional environment while pursuing the best of American education.
Greece secured the top ranking in the Heritage category and earned high marks in Adventure (#3), Movers (#13), Social Purpose (#23) and Quality of Life (#29). These accolades reflect the country’s diverse cultural and geographic attractions, rich history, human-centered values and dynamic potential for future growth.
Heritage is the top characteristic that places Greece at the forefront of cultural accessibility and diversity. Its pluralistic cultural and geographic attractions, rich history, human-scale scenic environment and pleasant climate inspire a sense of inclusion and a desire for exploration, adventure and savoring its renowned cuisine.
Greek cuisine scored 92.7 in the U.S. News and World Report survey. Rooted in centuries of tradition, Greek cuisine is celebrated for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, such as olive oil, herbs, fresh vegetables, seafood and grilled meats. Iconic dishes like moussaka, souvlaki and spanakopita, paired with refreshing Greek wines or ouzo, offer a culinary experience that is both simple and deeply flavorful, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Greek culture.
According to the Open Doors 2022-2023 report, Greece ranked among the top study abroad destinations for U.S. students, reflecting a record high in international education alongside other leading countries, such as Italy, Japan and Denmark. The report is published annually by the Institute of International Education (IIE).
The IIE, a U.S.-based 501(c) nonprofit organization, focuses on international student exchange and aid, foreign affairs and international peace and security.
“The United States is invested in Greece’s future and is proud to see our educational ties continue to expand. International education strengthens the ties between our countries, strengthens our economies and deepens the connections between our peoples,” said U.S. Ambassador to Greece George J. Tsunis to e-kathimerini newspaper.
U.S. News notes that Greece as an independent nation is young, existing since the 19th century. However, its civilization is one of history’s oldest and most influential, credited with creating the concept of democracy, as well as the ancient Olympic Games and laying Western foundations in science, the arts and philosophy.
Students learn about Ancient Olympia firsthand, standing in the historic field where
the Olympic Games were born. (April 2023)
Webster Athens, part of the Webster University network since 2014, offers students an exceptional academic and cultural experience. Through excursions to ancient sites, such as Mycenae, Meteora and Delphi, as well as trips to iconic Ionian and Aegean islands, students learn firsthand about Greece’s historical and cultural legacy. The campus also emphasizes civic engagement, with students actively participating in service-learning projects that make a positive impact on the local community.
“Our students benefit from living and learning in one of the world’s most vibrant and historic cities,” said Vasilis J Botopoulos, Rector at Webster Athens. “At Webster Athens, we cultivate a global perspective while immersing students in the rich heritage and modern dynamism of Greece.”
Study abroad students walk for the "Race for the Cure" event in Athens.
Located at Ipitou Street in Athens’ historical Plaka district, Webster Athens is surrounded by neoclassical architecture, traditional shops, cozy cafés and cultural landmarks like the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds. The campus provides a gateway to exploring Athens’ cultural events, including concerts, theater performances and international conferences.
Students prepare to run in the ancient Olympia stadium.
Webster Athens offers undergraduate and graduate programs in disciplines, such as business administration, economics, English, computer science, international relations, media studies, psychology and more. Students and faculty from around the world contribute to a vibrant and diverse learning community, enhancing the overall experience of studying abroad in Greece.
About Webster Athens
Webster Athens is the only fully owned and accredited U.S. university campus in Greece, bringing the best of American education to the heart of Athens. The university provides undergraduate and graduate programs that combine academic excellence with a unique cultural immersion, preparing students to succeed in an interconnected world.