Shopping in Athens: A Comprehensive Guide
Whether you’re in search of unique souvenirs, local handicrafts, or renowned international brands, Athens presents a wealth of options to indulge your shopping desires. The city offers more than just traditional items like ouzo, feta, and olives, as the quest for irresistible bargains or local treasures provides an excellent reason to navigate through its diverse neighborhoods and back streets, away from the usual tourist hotspots.
Markets
A visit to Athens is incomplete without exploring its bustling markets. While taking fresh fish or vegetables home may not be feasible, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the central fruit and vegetable market and the Varvakios Agora is a must. These markets offer a rich tapestry of fish, meats, fruits, and vegetables, visually delightful and full of local life. Furthermore, farmers markets abound in every neighborhood, with the most convenient ones being in Kerameikos (Tuesdays), Xenokratous (Fridays), and Kalidromiou (Saturdays).
Antiques, from furniture to trinkets, can be found around Avyssinias square in Monastiraki. If you are eager to sift through heaps of goodies in search of striking finds at low prices, head to Eleonas, which hosts a bustling flea market every Sunday morning, appealing to avid treasure hunters.
Food and Drink
Indulge in local spirits at Brettos, one of Greece’s oldest distilleries. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the exceptional selection at Cellier and Anthidis, where expert guidance enhances your local wine experience.
For the ultimate gastronomic delights, head to Yoleni’s in the upscale Kolonaki neighborhood, where you’ll find premium Greek specialties like organic olive oil, homemade spreads, and artisanal cheeses sourced from the finest producers. Additionally, Pantopoleion offers over 2000 traditional products from family-run businesses across Greece.
On Evripidou street, check out Arapian and Miran, renowned for their exceptional pastirma (pressed beef) and sucuk (spicy sausage), as well as numerous varieties of cheese and cured meats. The area is also dotted with top spice vendors, with Hatzigeorgiou and Bahar being especially popular.
Lastly, for coffee aficionados, the aroma of freshly ground Greek coffee wafts from small specialized shops throughout the city—seek out Loumidi, a historic establishment with over a century of history, or venture to Madras for a fine selection of teas from around the globe.
Fashion
Ermou street serves as the epicenter of mainstream shopping in Athens, featuring flagship stores for all major brands. For a more upscale shopping experience, explore the affluent Kolonaki neighborhood, frequented by politicians and celebrities alike. If luxury shopping is on your agenda, you’ll feel right at home on Voukourestiou street, renowned for its boutique offerings from top international designers. Notably, prestigious Greek jewelers like Zolotas and Lalaounis also find their places here.
On the budget-friendly side, navigate through the narrow commercial streets of Agiou Markou, Aiolou, and Athinas, where shopkeepers display affordable clothing, accessories, and more. For a bit of unique flair, notable shops like Karfil (hats), Pan-Pol (hats), and Erica (ties and cufflinks) are worth a visit.
If department store shopping is what you prefer, Attica and Notos Galleries can fulfill your needs. If you don’t mind venturing further, The Mall Athens, Metro Mall, and the upscale Golden Hall provide ample shopping opportunities easily accessible by public transport.
Crafts and Souvenirs
While Plaka neighborhood features numerous souvenir shops with the cliché Greek leather sandals, lucky visitors will also find treasures among shops like Forget Me Not and Flâneur, offering modern, tastefully designed items inspired by Greek culture. Brands such as Sun of a Beach, T-Greeks, Greece is for Lovers, and Postfolk stand out as a new wave of contemporary design, challenging conventional souvenir norms.
Board game enthusiasts should not miss Ekavi on Voulis street, known for its exquisite backgammon sets and chess pieces inspired by ancient Greek heritage. Additionally, Korres and Apivita offer a wide array of natural ingredient cosmetics, widely available in pharmacies, along with Apivita’s specialized wellness ‘Experience Store’ in Kolonaki, showcasing short classes and spa services.
Local Arts and Music
For music lovers, Athens is rich with specialized vinyl stores throughout the city. Notable mentions include Mr Vinylios and Zacharias in Monastiraki, both well-stocked with a diverse range of records. The cultural hub of Underflow combines a record store with a gallery, while smaller gems like Syd in Psyrri, Plan 59, and Vinyl City in Exarhia cater to collectors seeking rare finds. The Public department store boasts an extensive vinyl section, offering the latest releases alongside a wide selection of English-language books.
For those passionate about reading, Politeia presents a treasure trove for bookworms, while Aiora, a small bookshop and publishing house, specializes in modern Greek classics in multiple languages. Explore Anavasi for all your travel guide and map needs. Don’t forget to check out the various shops selling Greek indie comics, especially in the Exarhia and Monastiraki neighborhoods.
