Shopping in Greece is a mix of tradition and modern style. The country has lively flea markets, stylish boutiques, and local craft shops that make it a favorite for travelers. In Athens, Ermou Street is one of the busiest shopping areas, filled with international and local brands. Monastiraki Flea Market is a must-visit for antiques, jewelry, and handmade crafts. The Plaka district also offers small shops where visitors can find ceramics, textiles, and souvenirs. On the islands, shopping feels more relaxed, with Mykonos known for fashion boutiques and Santorini for art galleries and jewelry. Many tourists look for traditional products such as olive oil, leather sandals, honey, and herbs, which are easy to carry home. Greece is also popular for gold and silver jewelry inspired by ancient designs. Whether in a city or a small village, shopping here lets travelers take home a piece of Greek culture.
Best Places to Shop in Greece: Markets, Malls & More
1. Monastiraki Flea Market, Athens
Located in the heart of Athens right by the ancient Agora, the Monastiraki Flea Market is an absolute must-visit. Its magic lies in its sheer variety; you can find anything from vintage clothing and handmade leather sandals to rare antiques and traditional Greek instruments. The market is a sprawling, energetic maze of shops and stalls where bargaining is part of the fun. On Sundays, the area expands with street vendors selling collectibles and second-hand goods. After shopping, relax at a rooftop cafe with a stunning view of the Acropolis.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
2. Plaka District, Athens
Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka is Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. Its winding cobblestone streets are filled with family-owned shops selling beautiful souvenirs, local art, and handmade jewelry. This is the perfect place to buy olive oil products, natural sponges, and classic Greek pottery. The atmosphere is more relaxed than Monastiraki, inviting you to wander and explore at a leisurely pace. The area's neoclassical charm and abundance of quaint tavernas make it an ideal spot for an afternoon of gentle shopping and dining.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
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3. Ermou Street, Athens
Ermou Street is Athens' main commercial artery, a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare that connects Syntagma Square to Monastiraki. It is lined with a mix of international high-street brands like Zara and H&M, as well as popular Greek department stores and cosmetic shops. This is the go-to destination for fashion and footwear, offering the latest trends at accessible prices. The street is always buzzing with energy, street performers, and shoppers. It’s a purely modern retail experience set against the backdrop of a historic city.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
4. Varvakios Agora, Athens
For an authentic taste of local life, head to the Varvakios Agora, Athens' central municipal market. This covered market is loud, chaotic, and utterly fascinating. It’s where local chefs and home cooks come to buy the freshest meat, fish, and produce in the city. The surrounding streets are packed with stalls selling an incredible array of spices, cheeses, olives, and nuts. Even if you're not cooking, it's an amazing place to buy edible souvenirs like local honey, herbs, or premium feta cheese. Be prepared for strong smells and a bustling crowd.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
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5. Kolonaki District, Athens
Kolonaki is the city's most affluent and sophisticated neighborhood, renowned for its high-end boutiques and designer showrooms. Here you will find flagship stores for international luxury brands alongside the workshops of Greece's most celebrated designers. The area is perfect for those looking to invest in fine jewelry, couture clothing, or upscale homeware. The elegant streets are also home to chic cafes, art galleries, and modern museums, making it a hub for Athenian high society.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, daily.
6. Matogianni Street, Mykonos
Mykonos Town’s Matogianni Street is the cosmopolitan heart of the island's shopping scene. By day, it’s a charming lane filled with whitewashed buildings and colorful bougainvillea. By night, it transforms into a glamorous runway for the world’s fashion-conscious travelers. The street is packed with luxury brand stores, exclusive jewelry shops, and art galleries. This is where you come to find breezy designer kaftans, handmade leather goods, and unique art pieces inspired by the Aegean Sea.
Opening Hours: 24x7
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7. Fira’s Gold Street, Santorini
Officially named Ypapantis Street, the main artery running through Fira is famously known as "Gold Street." It’s renowned for its dazzling concentration of jewelry stores offering everything from classic Greek key designs to modern creations featuring volcanic stones. The shops glitter with gold and silver, and the competition keeps the quality high. Whether you're seeking a special keepsake or a significant investment piece, you’ll find it here. The stunning caldera views from the street add a dramatic backdrop to your shopping spree.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
8. Oia’s Boutiques, Santorini
While Fira has the gold, Oia is the capital of art and culture in Santorini. Its narrow marble-paved lanes are home to a curated selection of chic boutiques, charming bookshops, and incredible art galleries. The shopping here is more about unique, handcrafted items than big brands. You can find beautiful ceramics, hand-painted artwork, and stylish resort wear from local designers. It’s the perfect place to find a truly one-of-a-kind memento of your trip, with every shop offering something distinct.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 11 PM (All Days)
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9. Sokratous Street, Rhodes Old Town
Shopping in the Old Town of Rhodes is like stepping back in time. Sokratous Street is the main shopping thoroughfare within the medieval walls, a lively bazaar that has served visitors for centuries. The street is lined with shops selling leather goods, natural sea sponges, local ceramics, and an abundance of souvenirs. While some items are geared toward tourists, you can find genuine artisan products if you look carefully. The experience is enhanced by the historic setting of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily
10. Chania Old Town Market, Crete
The Old Town of Chania in Crete offers one of the most beautiful shopping settings in Greece. The area around the Venetian harbor is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways filled with shops. You'll find everything from "koumouto," traditional Cretan knives, to local olive wood carvings and textiles. It’s an excellent place to buy culinary delights like Cretan honey, raki, and local cheeses. The blend of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture provides a stunning environment for a relaxed day of browsing and discovery.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (All Days)
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Tips to Follow Before Shopping in Greece
- Carry Cash: Many small shops and markets prefer cash, especially in villages and islands.
- Check Opening Hours: Shops often close for a few hours in the afternoon (siesta), typically from 2 PM to 5 PM.
- Know the VAT Refund: Non-EU tourists can claim a VAT refund on eligible purchases over a certain amount.
- Bargaining is Common: Flea markets and local stalls often allow polite negotiation.
- Watch for Authenticity: When buying antiques, jewelry, or olive oil, ensure products are genuine and certified.
- Bring a Bag: Many stores do not provide free bags, so carrying your own reusable bag is useful.
- Research Local Prices: Compare prices online or in different shops to avoid overpaying.
- Check Island Shops: Small island boutiques may have limited stock, so buy early if you find something unique.
Final Thoughts
Greece offers a shopping experience that suits every type of traveler. In major cities like Athens, visitors can explore busy streets, modern malls, and luxury boutiques in areas such as Kolonaki. Flea markets, like Monastiraki, provide antiques, handmade crafts, and souvenirs at negotiable prices. On the islands, small shops and local workshops sell unique items such as jewelry, art, and textiles made by Greek artisans. Many travelers also purchase traditional products like olive oil, honey, leather sandals, and herbs. Shopping in Greece is not only about buying items but also experiencing local culture, interacting with artisans, and discovering hidden gems. Book your Greece tour packages today with Myholidays and get ready to explore the shopping options.
Shopping in Greece - FAQ’s
Look for items that reflect Greek culture and craftsmanship. Popular choices include handmade leather sandals, olive oil and olive wood products, natural sponges, blue evil eye (mati) charms, and local spirits like ouzo or raki. Komboloi (worry beads) and backgammon sets are also classic Greek gifts.
Bargaining is expected and part of the fun in flea markets like Monastiraki and with street vendors. In boutiques, department stores, and high-end shops, prices are fixed. Always be polite and respectful when you negotiate.
Yes, markets in Greece are generally very safe for solo travelers. As in any busy area, stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. The atmosphere is typically lively and friendly.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most stores, boutiques, and restaurants, especially in cities and tourist areas. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases, market stalls, and small family-run shops.
If you are a non-EU resident, you can claim a VAT refund on purchases over a certain amount (the minimum spend can vary). Ask for a tax-free form from the shop when you pay. You will need to present the completed form, your receipts, and the purchased items at customs upon your departure from the EU.
For high-street fashion, Ermou Street in Athens is the top destination. For luxury and designer brands, head to the Kolonaki district in Athens or Matogianni Street in Mykonos. For unique, locally designed pieces, explore the boutiques in Plaka (Athens) and Oia (Santorini).
There are strict regulations on exporting genuine antiques and archaeological items from Greece. If you buy anything that could be considered an antique, ensure you get a certificate from the seller proving it is a replica or has been approved for export. There are no major restrictions on exporting textiles.
Dress comfortably, especially your footwear, as you will likely be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. The dress code is generally casual. If you plan to visit churches or monasteries near shopping areas, carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders as a sign of respect.
