Top places to shop in Greece

Greece, a country with rich history and natural beauty, boasts stunning landscapes, sun-kissed islands like Santorini and Mykonos, rugged mountains and pristine beaches. Besides its scenic appeal, shopping in Greece is an incredible experience. With its lively street markets to chic boutiques, you can find everything from modern fashion to traditional craftsmanship.

In this blog, we have some of the best shopping destinations in Greece.

Best places for shopping in Greece

Here is a list of shopping places in Greece:

1. Ermou Street

One of the best places to shop in Athens is Ermou Street, a pedestrian-only street that is home to stores like Zara, H&M, Marks & Spencer, and Benetton. During the annual sales in February and August, you can find great deals on high-end fashion. You can also visit Fokas, a famous Greek department store, and the Hondos Centre, a sanctuary for women's goods and cosmetics. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by street artists and coffee shops where you can try the famous salep tea. You can also find high-quality Italian leather goods at Nikos Spiliopoulos Shoes, located at 63 Ermou.

• Things to Buy: Apparel and high-quality Italian leather goods at Nikos Spiliopoulos Shoes.

2. The Piraeus Flea Market

The Piraeus Flea Market is a vibrant and authentic market held every Sunday morning. This lively market is crowded with vendors offering a range of goods, including clothes, shoes, home goods, and antiques.

Beyond the latest merchandise, you'll find hidden treasures such as vintage coins, stamps, and oddball antiques.

• Things to Buy: Clothing, shoes, home goods, antiques, vintage coins, stamps, oddball antiques.

3. Laiki Agora

Laiki Agora, which translates to "people's market," is where locals go to buy seasonal, fresh produce straight from farmers. Kallidromiou Street in Exarchia combines fine produce with lovely surroundings, while Kokkinara Street in Kifisia is where locals sell olive oil, honey, and grains. Both are popular farmer’s markets where you can find fresh, locally sourced goods. You can also enjoy various street foods that provide a glimpse into Greece’s rich culinary traditions.

• Things to Buy: Seasonal fresh produce, organic products, honey, grains.

4. Kifisia

Kifisia is a shopping haven in northern Athens well-known for its chic stores, neighbourhood artisanal shops, and designer boutiques. You can explore luxury fashion, handcrafted accessories, and distinctive home décor. Spiridon Louis Street is lined with stylish boutiques, while Golden Hall is home to numerous luxury brands. Head to Varsos for delectable Greek treats to relax after your shopping spree.

• Things to Buy: Luxury fashion, handcrafted accessories, designer boutiques, home décor

5. Aeolou and Agios Markos Streets

Aeolou and Agios Markos Streets in Athens offer a blend of design, cuisine, and regional craftsmanship. Agios Markos Street is home to vibrant restaurants offering Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, while Aeolou Street is home to both local and international boutiques. The streets are lined with shops and street vendors, making them an ideal place to buy unique gifts.

• Things to Buy: Local and international boutiques

6. The Plaka

Plaka is the oldest and most charming neighbourhood in Athens. Its cobblestone streets are lined with cafes, galleries, jewellery shops, and stores selling antiques and handcrafted items. Don't miss out on exploring Kydathineon and Adrianou, the two most popular streets in Athens perfect for taking a stroll, shopping, or simply soaking the historic charm of the country. While you’re there, you can also visit the Greek Folk Art Museum, Music Museum, or Children's Museum to dive deeper into Greek culture. For a true taste of local life, stop by Saitia and other restaurants that provide genuine Greek taverna experiences, especially during Apokreas (Apokries), the Greek carnival season.

• Things to Buy: Handcrafted jewellery, traditional Greek artefacts, textiles and leather goods.

7. Chania Market

Chania's Municipal Market, also known as Agora, is a great spot to purchase traditional Cretan crafts like ceramics and textiles, as well as fresh produce, honey, olive oil, and regional cheeses.
The market is a must-visit for tourists because it offers vintage treasures and handcrafted ornaments. Chania hosts weekly street markets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, that sell a variety of goods, including colourful spices and fresh fish.

• Things to Buy: Traditional crafts like ceramics and textiles, fresh produce, vintage treasures, and handcrafted ornaments.

8. Nafplio Old Town

Greece's first capital, Nafplio, magically blends shopping and history. You can discover quaint boutiques, artisanal jewellery shops, and neighbourhood craft stores selling ceramics, leather goods, and genuine Greek souvenirs. While there, don't miss Staikopoulos Street, which is dotted with attractive stores and unique finds.

• Things to Buy: Artisanal jewellery, ceramics, leather goods, Greek souvenirs

Frequently asked questions (FAQS)

1. Is it better to shop in Athens or smaller Greek towns?

Athens has everything from luxury boutiques to bustling flea markets, but smaller towns like Nafplio or Chania offer an authentic local shopping experience.

2. What are the unique shopping spots in Greece?

Don’t miss the Monastiraki Flea Market in Athens for antiques or Ermou Street for a mix of high-end and affordable finds.

3. Where can I find authentic Greek jewellery?

For unique designs, explore boutique shops in Plaka. You can search for pieces inspired by Greek mythology and ancient designs.

4. What’s the story behind the evil eye souvenirs?

The evil eye is a protective symbol in Greek culture and is believed to ward off negative energy.

5. Is it easy to find vegan or cruelty-free products in Greece?

Yes! Many Greek brands focus on sustainability and cruelty-free practices. Check out shops that sell vegan skincare, soaps, and food products, especially in Athens and Thessaloniki.

Conclusion

Shopping in Greece is about embracing the rich cultural legacy, regional handicrafts, and friendly locals. Every shopping destination offers a unique taste of Greece, from the vibrant markets of Crete and Nafplio to the cosmopolitan Ermou Street in Athens. To enjoy a hassle-free trip, it is a smart choice to invest in international travel insurance that will not only safeguard your trip but also cover unexpected medical emergencies and travel-related issues like trip cancellations, flight delays, loss of passport, and even accidents.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.