Athens is a great city for shopping, from flea-market finds to local fashion and food to take home. Here are the best places to browse.
Monastiraki flea market
In the shadow of the Acropolis, the Monastiraki flea market is a good place to hunt for souvenirs, handmade crafts and vintage finds such as old maps, coins from the last century, vintage pottery and jewellery. Sundays are especially lively. Genuine antiquities cannot be legally bought or taken out of Greece, so stick to old and vintage pieces.
Plaka’s craft shops
Plaka, at the foot of the Acropolis, is one of the oldest districts in Athens. Its winding streets are lined with shops selling handmade jewellery, ceramics and leather goods, which make good gifts.
Ermou Street
Ermou Street, the city’s main shopping street, is a pedestrian street that runs from Syntagma Square to Monastiraki. It mixes international brands with local boutiques, and it passes historic churches along the way.
The central market
For a taste of local life, visit the central market, Varvakios Agora. It sells fresh meat, fish and spices, and the shops around it are good for olives, cheese and honey. Small eateries nearby serve traditional dishes.
Kolonaki
For designer labels and upmarket boutiques, head to Kolonaki, below Lycabettus Hill.
A day off from the shops
Take a day off from the shops at sea. Our day cruise leaves Marina Zeas in Piraeus at 09:00 and returns around 19:00. In between you get free time on Agistri and Aegina, a swim stop, a Greek lunch, and unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks on board.
