Your Greek Island Language Adventure Awaits!
Daydreaming about your next summer adventure? And instead of just lounging, you’re also learning a new language in a beautiful place! Sounds pretty amazing, right? Well, if your heart’s set on a Greek island to learn a new language, here’s the honest scoop. While you might dream of picking up Spanish in Santorini or French in Fira, most of the really good, dedicated language schools on the Greek islands are, surprise, surprise, focused on teaching Modern Greek! It makes total sense, right? You’re literally living the language!
So, if learning Greek while surrounded by stunning turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and incredible food sounds like your jam, here are some fantastic spots that international students absolutely love. Just a heads-up, since it’s almost summer 2025, some programs might be full, and 2026 dates and exact prices are still often under wraps. But these will give you a great idea of what’s out there!
Here are some top-notch places to learn Modern Greek, right on the islands:
Omilo – Get Your Greek On!
Where: They pop up on gorgeous islands like Syros, Lefkada, and Naxos (plus some cool spots on the mainland too!). What You Learn: Modern Greek, all the way! The Vibe: Omilo is super popular for its intense-but-fun Greek lessons. They really want you talking and soaking up the culture. People rave about how quickly they pick things up here! What it Costs (approx. 2025): Think around €760 – €790 for a week of lessons and fun activities, or about €925 for two weeks. Just remember, your cozy island stay usually costs extra. Hot Tip: These guys are in demand, so “early bird gets the worm” is their best “offer” – book way ahead! Check them out: Omilo Greek Language and Culture Courses
Alexandria Institute – Dive Deep into Greek!
Where: You can find them on Chios, Paros, or Samos (they’re also in Athens, if you fancy city life). What You Learn: Modern Greek, of course! (They do Ancient Greek in Athens, too, for history buffs). The Vibe: These folks are serious about their Greek, blending solid academics with beautiful island vibes. What it Costs (approx. 2025): Roughly €615 – €790 for a week, or €740 – €925 for two weeks of lessons. Your place to sleep is extra. Hot Tip: Prices are usually set for the season, so no last-minute “deals” you’d miss! Check them out: Alexandria Institute
Hellenic Language School (Crete – Chania) – Learn Greek on the Big Island!
Where: In Chania, Crete, a super charming city. What You Learn: Modern Greek (and sometimes Ancient, too). The Vibe: They offer intense courses that get you chatting quickly, mixed with fun cultural excursions around Crete. What it Costs (approx. 2024, 2025 likely similar): About $841 – $1006 USD for two weeks, or $1511 – $1812 USD for four weeks. This usually covers your lessons and some fun extras. Hot Tip: Get ready for sunny days and lively evenings in Chania after class! Check them out: Hellenic Language School – Crete (via Lingua Service Worldwide)
Ikarian Centre – Chill & Learn on Ikaria!
Where: The famously “blue zone” island of Ikaria. What You Learn: Modern Greek. The Vibe: If you want a super relaxed pace and to really blend into local island life, this is your spot. It’s about learning, but also about living the Ikarian way. What it Costs: You’ll need to reach out to them directly for the most current prices, as they can vary with accommodation options. Expect tuition to be somewhere in the €400-€600+ per week range. Hot Tip: Perfect for those who love slow travel and true immersion! Check them out: Ikarian Centre
Ellinisti – Greek Language & Culture (Tinos Island) – Cycladic Charm!
Where: The beautiful Cycladic island of Tinos. What You Learn: Modern Greek. The Vibe: Fast-paced learning combined with soaking up the unique culture and beauty of Tinos. What it Costs (approx. 2025): About €456 for a week of tuition. Hot Tip: Tinos is famous for its marble artistry and spiritual vibes, so lots to explore outside of class! Check them out: Ellinisti Tinos
Andrioti School (Corfu) – Learn on the Emerald Isle!
Where: The lush island of Corfu. What You Learn: Modern Greek. The Vibe: Intensive courses that let you learn Greek while enjoying Corfu’s stunning beaches and Venetian charm. What it Costs (approx. 2025): Around $478 USD for a week of intensive Greek lessons. Hot Tip: Corfu’s got a rich history and a very distinct feel – perfect for culture vultures! Check them out: Andrioti School Corfu
Lexis – Centre of Greek Language & Culture (Crete – Chania) – More Chania Goodness!
Where: Back to Chania, Crete – it’s a popular spot for a reason! What You Learn: Modern Greek. The Vibe: A well-established school offering solid intensive courses for all levels. You’ll get your Greek on in a lively city setting. What it Costs (approx. 2025): A 2-week intensive course is around $433 USD for tuition. Hot Tip: Chania’s old Venetian harbor and foodie scene make it an awesome base. Check them out: Lexis Centre Greek Language Crete
The Lamda Project (Sometimes on Naxos!) – Greek with a Capital G!
Where: While mostly based in Athens, they sometimes do special summer programs on islands like Naxos. What You Learn: Modern Greek. The Vibe: These guys are serious about quality Greek education. Their island programs are usually limited, so they’re a bit of a special treat! What it Costs (approx. 2025 Naxos): Their Naxos program was listed at a higher $3,226 USD (likely for a very comprehensive package, so check inclusions carefully!). Their Athens courses are more standard in pricing. Hot Tip: If you see a Naxos spot open, grab it – it’s a fantastic island! Check them out: The Lamda Project
Ionian University Summer Schools (Corfu) – Academic & Island Life!
Where: On the beautiful island of Corfu. What You Learn: Mainly Modern Greek, but they also have academic summer schools in English on topics like history or culture. The Vibe: This is a university setting, so it’s a bit more academic, but still packed with history and island exploration. Great for a more structured, scholarly approach. What it Costs (approx. 2025): Fees vary, but their Greek Language, History and Culture program for June/July is typically tuition-only. You’ll need to check their site for exact program fees. Hot Tip: A great way to get a university experience while enjoying an island holiday! Check them out: Ionian University Summer Schools
Greek Out With Maria (Santorini – Heads-Up!)
Where: The iconic island of Santorini. What You Learn: Modern Greek. The Vibe: This program sounded super immersive, blending lessons with exploring Santorini’s unique beauty, food, and culture. Status for 2025: BIG SAD NEWS: Their 2025 Santorini program was unfortunately canceled due to some seismic activity in the area. Keep an eye on their site for future plans if this sounds like your dream! Check them out: Greek Out With Maria
Just a Few Friendly Reminders for Your Trip:
If you’re not looking for Greek, finding dedicated summer schools for other languages on the islands is almost impossible. You’d need to look at big cities like Athens or Thessaloniki, or even other countries! Sleeping Arrangements: Most of the prices above are just for the lessons. You’ll need to budget separately for your stay, which can range from about €150 to €400+ per week, depending on how fancy you want to get and which island you pick.
Travel Bits: Don’t forget to factor in your flights and any travel insurance – those are always extra!
Book Early!: Especially for summer 2026, if you see a program you love, jump on it! These spots fill up fast.
Double-Check! Always pop over to the school’s actual website for the very latest info on dates, prices, and what’s included. Things can change!
Have an absolutely amazing time learning and exploring the Greek islands! You’re in for a treat!
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