Shopping in Greece offers a delightful blend of tradition and modernity, making it a must-do for any visitor. From bustling markets in Athens to charming boutiques on the islands, Greece is a treasure trove of unique finds and high-quality products. Whether you're hunting for authentic Greek souvenirs or high-end fashion, shopping in Greece provides an unforgettable experience.
Here is the list of best shopping places in Greece -
1. Monastiraki Flea Market
Monastiraki Flea Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for a variety of goods. This popular market offers handmade jewelry, fabrics, records, and local products. On weekends, it transforms into a bustling flea market with authentic antiques at great prices. It’s a vibrant spot for treasure hunting and soaking in the local culture. It is accessible by the Monastiraki metro station (Line 1 and Line 3).
Location: Athens, Greece
What to buy: Handmade jewelry, antiques, and souvenirs
2. Ermou Street
For those in need of a wardrobe update, Ermou Street in Athens is the place to be. It is a bustling pedestrian street lined with a mix of high-end boutiques and popular international chains. You can find a wide range of fashion items at discounted prices, making it ideal for fashion enthusiasts. A short walk from Syntagma metro station (Line 2) can take you to this street.
Location: Athens, Greece
What to buy: Fashionable clothing and accessories
3. Kolonaki
Kolonaki is an upscale neighborhood in Athens known for its chic boutiques and designer stores. It’s a sophisticated shopping district with a range of designer brands, art galleries, and stylish cafes, perfect for those looking for luxury shopping. If you’re looking for high-quality clothing, jewelry, and luxury items, Kolonaki is the place to go. It’s also home to some elegant homeware shops and art galleries.
Location: Athens, Greece
What to buy: High-end clothing and accessories
4. Laiki Agora
While primarily known as farmers' markets, Laiki Agoras in different parts of Greece also have non-food stalls selling crafts, clothing, and household goods. These markets provide a local flavor and are worth visiting if you want to see a mix of goods and local life. They are known as Laiki Agora in all the prominant cities.
Location: Various Locations
What to buy: Crafts, food items clothing
5. The Plaka
Situated near the Acropolis, the Plaka is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens. It's famous for its cafes, restaurants, and shops selling jewelry and souvenirs. This is a great place to buy gold jewelry at lower prices due to Greece's economic situation. A short walk from Acropolis metro station (Line 2) can take you to Plaka.
Location: Plaka, Athens, Greece
What to buy: Gold jewelry, antiques, and souvenirs
6. Sifnos Pottery Shops - Sifnos Island
Sifnos is renowned for its pottery, and you can find beautiful handmade ceramics in various shops across the island. The local pottery is known for its quality and unique designs, making it a great place to buy distinctive homewares. These items make perfect gifts or home decor, with unique designs that are hard to find elsewhere.Various locations on Sifnos Island, particularly in the villages of Kamares and Apollonia feature these shops.
7. Rhodes Old Town - Rhodes
Rhodes Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a blend of history and shopping. The narrow, cobblestone streets are filled with shops selling everything from local crafts to high-quality art. It’s a wonderful place to find unique gifts and souvenirs while soaking in the historic atmosphere of the area. It is accessible on foot from most parts of the town or by local bus.
8. Chania Market - Crete
While Chania Market is known for its food, it also has a range of shops selling textiles, leather goods, and traditional Cretan products. It is a lively spot and a great place to find authentic Cretan goods in a bustling environment.The market's vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods make it a great spot for finding interesting items. It is located on a short walk from the main bus station or the old harbor.
9. Nafplio Old Town - Nafplio
Nafplio’s Old Town is dotted with charming shops offering a range of handcrafted goods, local art, and antiques. The historic setting adds to the charm, making it a perfect place for finding unique souvenirs. The town is known for its small cozy family owned shops giving a personal touch to the shopping in Nafplio.
10. Aeolou and Agios Markos Streets
Aeolou and Agios Markos Streets are popular shopping destinations for fabrics in Athens. The area features numerous shops specializing in textiles, from luxurious silks to practical cottons and linens. The lively shopping environment and variety of options make it an ideal spot for those looking to purchase unique fabrics or trendy clothing. These are just a short walk away from Monastiraki or Syntagma metro stations (Line 1 and Line 2).
Location: Athens, Greece
What to buy: Fabrics and clothing
11. Glyfada
Located in the Athenian Riviera, Glyfada is a trendy district known for its upscale boutiques and designer shops. The area offers a sophisticated shopping experience with beautiful sea views and a relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere. It’s an excellent destination for luxury shopping and enjoying high-end fashion in a scenic setting. The district’s vibrant streets are lined with fashionable stores, cafes, and restaurants,
Location: Glyfada, Athens, Greece
What to buy: High-end fashion and unique designer items
What to Buy in Greece
- Beauty Products: Skincare, fragrance, and sunscreen, honey-based products, and organic, affordable olive oil based body care.
- Jewelry: From artisan shops across the islands.
- Clothing: Stylish kaftans and linen clothing.
- Shoes: Handmade sandals, especially in Athens
- Other Accessories: Scarves, hats, bags, and belts.
- Homewares: Turkish rugs, ceramics, linen bedding. Visit local markets for tablecloths, napkins, and decorative art.
- Antiques and Bric-a-Brac: Collectibles, knick-knacks, and curios, found in flea markets or antique shops.
- Food and Wine: Olive oil, honey, sweets, wine, and herbs.
- Souvenirs: Evil eye jewelry, komboloi (worry beads), backgammon sets, musical instruments, and replica artifacts.
Shopping in Greece is more than just a retail experience; it's a journey through the country's rich culture and history. From the vibrant markets of Athens to the artisanal shops on the islands, there is something for everyone looking to find unique treasures and high-quality products. So, pack your shopping bags and get ready to enjoy the diverse and exciting shopping scene Greece has to offer.