Although Athens is not often thought of as a top shopping destination, especially when compared to other European countries, there are actually many great shopping areas in the Greek capital! Here are some of the best areas for all your shopping needs, with a whole range of stores to find a good bargain, a nice souvenir, or that branded bag that you always wanted.
Plaka
Located in the centre of Athens, right under the famous Acropolis, is the beautiful and picturesque neighbourhood of Plaka, one of the oldest settlements in the whole of Europe. At Plaka, you will find several museums, like the Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments, and the site of the Ancient Agora. If you’re feeling peckish, there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, serving authentic Greek cuisine. For something Instagram worthy, find the small settlement of Anafiotika. With its white walls and lush greenery, it’s an island getaway in the middle of the city.
If you want to find souvenirs, Plaka is the best place to do so, with tons of shops selling items to remember your trip by. Other than the usual tacky souvenirs, there are also many local businesses selling authentic Greek items. Here, you can purchase bottles of fragrant Greek olive oil, beautiful handmade jewellry, or a unique rug, just to name a few of the items you can buy as unique souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones back home. As you shop, be sure to take a quick snap or two of this colourful neighbourhood.
Monastiraki Square and Market
Monastiraki Square is also located in the centre of Athens, a meeting point for the different cultures and religions that have shaped the city. Three important sites stand around this square: the Tzistarakis Mosque, the Library of Hadrian, and the Monastery of Pantanassa, so be sure to visit them while you’re there to learn more about Athens’ multicultural history while you explore this old but beautiful location.
Like Plaka, the market here has many souvenir shops here, selling mass-produced items for tourists. However, there are plenty of local businesses here too, selling items such as jewelry, clothing, and olive tree based products. Antiques, vintage CDs and books can also be found here. Regardless of what you’re buying, you’ll definitely be able to find good bargains.
Ermou Street
Close to Monastiraki Square is Ermou Street, Athens’ main shopping district. On this pedestrian-only street, you’ll find international brands that you might know very well, including Zara, H&M, and Sephora, as well as more local and regional boutiques. With such a wide variety of stores, you can definitely spend an entire afternoon here on a shopping spree.
As you shop here, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants, so you don’t have to worry about getting hungry. Along Ermou street, you will also find the small Church of Panagia Kapnikarea, one of the oldest churches in the whole city. Remember to stop by and appreciate this little piece of Greece’s history sitting right in the middle of this street.
Kolonaki
Kolonaki is not just one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens; it is probably the most stylish too. Kolonaki was once a place where all the elite of Athens lived, and that can be seen in the number of luxury boutiques found in the area today, with well-known brands like Balenciaga, Gucci, and Prada. You will also find brands created by local designers, producing slightly cheaper but equally high-end fashion. So, if you have some extra money on hand and you’re looking to splurge, Kolonaki is the place for you.
Other than the many luxury brands, there are also several art galleries, as well as hip cafes where you can watch the hours and crowds go by while sipping on a hot cup of coffee.
Shopping Malls
If you want to escape the heat of the streets, then head indoors into one of Athens’ many shopping malls. The Golden Hall, Attica City Link, and The Mall Athens are just some of the many malls located throughout the city. While these shopping malls house mostly mainstream brands, they are great alternatives to unwind in after a long day of exploring the vast city. Likewise, all of your shopping and eating needs are conveniently located under one roof.
While Athens is full of important historical sites, be sure to take a break from your exploration to visit one of these shopping destinations. With stores ranging from local to international brands, selling items from second-hand to luxury goods, you’ll be sure to pick something up no matter your budget.
