Shopping in Athens: A Guide to Unique Finds

From flea markets in Monastiraki to high-end boutique browsing, Athens has something for every shopper. For designer boutiques, go glam in fancier parts of town like Kolonaki. However, if bargaining for hours to get the best price on a rug is more your shopping style, it’s the many Athenian markets that are calling your name.

1. Kolonaki

To go away with something fancier than your standard magnet sourced from the souvenir shops around the Acropolis, head to the well-heeled neighborhood of Kolonaki. Wander down Skoufas St and the surrounding area, lined with bitter-orange trees. This part of town boasts an enormous selection of boutiques featuring clothing and jewelry from Greek designers.

You might stumble upon iD Concept Store, where you’ll find cotton and linen kaftans designed and made in Greece, jewelry from emerging Greek designers, and even a gallery showcasing works from local artists. Located at 12 Kanari & Sekeri St.

2. Mohxa

Previously nestled in the bright coastal suburb of Paleo Faliro, this streetwear label has moved into central Athens, surrounded by jewelry stores and shops along Akadimias. Although this place is tiny, it’s worthwhile to stop by to pick up a super soft cotton tee reflecting the laid-back lifestyle of the coastal city.

Mohxa touts itself as a ‘surf label’, envisioned by Athenians George Papachatzopoulos and Jason Pachos. If you resonate with surfers catching waves in Vouliagmeni or skaters hanging out at the Latraac skate cafe, this place is definitely worth a visit. You’ll find Hawaiian shirts, quality cotton T-shirts, and unique dead stock items with retro patterns, all designed and made in Greece. Visit at Panepistimiou 44.

3. Yesterday’s Bread

Another spot you might easily walk past if you’re unaware of it, this small vintage store is tucked away in the Exarcheia neighborhood. Here, you’re likely to come across dead stock clothing that hasn’t ever been worn, alongside vibrant second-hand vintage wear.

Sourcing pieces from stores that have long been closed down across the southern Mediterranean, the Athenians behind this hidden gem seek bold statement pieces from the ’80s and ’90s. Moreover, you’ll find staples like sturdy denims and breezy button-downs, perfect for your island explorations. The store is located on Kallidromiou St.

4. Lito Cabinet de Curiosites

Lito began her design journey with influential names like Kenzo and Jean-Paul Gaultier before establishing her eponymous handmade jewelry brand in central Athens. Her bold and directional jewelry pieces, heavily influenced by Greek and Ottoman culture, are prominently featured. Bracelets and necklaces incorporating the region’s ubiquitous evil eye motif make for perfect souvenirs.

The store, designed by Lito’s sister, is a fairy-tale cave of wonders filled with delicate pieces just waiting to be tried on. Note that this boutique is on the pricier side – there’s no bargaining or bartering here, unfortunately! Visit at Irodotou 25.

5. Flea Markets

If you’re constantly on the lookout for a bargain, the Monastiraki Flea Market is an essential starting point for any Athenian shopping excursion. It’s wonderfully chaotic, but here you’ll discover a variety of stalls and shops selling clothes, furniture, and bric-à-brac. Look to Monastiraki to pick up anything from a briki (a traditional pot for brewing coffee) to kitsch crockery.

For seasoned flea market enthusiasts seeking a unique experience, the Eleonas Flea Market, open only on Sunday mornings, is just a few metro stops away from Monastiraki. Known to locals as ‘the gypsy market’, Eleonas is a treasure trove for vintage crochet blankets (often knitted by a Greek grandma), Persian rugs, and original mid-century light fittings – all at a fraction of the prices found in the city center.

If food is more your interest, head to the municipal market on Athinas St to find spices, herbs, and tea leaves. Here, you can find saffron and dried roses at prices that will encourage you to buy in bulk. The mountain tea enjoyed at a typical Greek kafeneio can also be sourced here.

6. Paraphernalia

In contrast to the cramped, chaotic environments of Monastiraki or Eleonas Market, Paraphernalia offers a bright, spacious store for homewares almost reminiscent of an art gallery. Here, the owners curate second-hand furniture alongside varied items, including magazines, ceramics, and potted plants. The term ‘Paraphernalia’ reflects the eclectic styles and purposes of the items, thus eliminating the need for extensive flea-market rummaging. Visit at Ioannou Paparrigopoulou 15.