Athens Shopping Guide

Athens is a shopper's paradise where contemporary luxury coexists with centuries-old bazaars. Although you'll find somewhat inflated prices in tourist areas like Plaka, the quality of local crafts—from jewelry to food—is well worth it.

Typical Souvenirs from Athens

As well as the traditional postcards of the Acropolis or the little Parthenon sculptures, there are numerous articles that visitors will find make great gifts:

• Gold or silver jewelry: Gold and silver Greek handmade jewelry is famous worldwide. Visitors will find reproductions of ancient Greek ornaments, contemporary pieces, or traditional Greek designs in the capital.
• Archaeological replicas: These are probably the most popular souvenirs from Greece. If the imitation is good quality, it should have a certificate and a small silver-colored seal. There are reproductions of all types of items: jewelry, vases, helmets, and other items made of bronze.
• Gourmet products: The most sought-after foods in Greece include olive oil, honey, spices, olives, wine, and liquors (especially Ouzo, an appetizer that tastes slightly of anise).

Main Shopping Areas

• Kolonaki: Located at the feet of Mount Lycabettus, it is one of the best areas to go shopping in Athens, especially if you’re looking for high-end stores. Its streets are flanked with beautiful boutiques owned by famous Greek designers.
• Monastiraki: This neighborhood is famous for its flea markets and average-priced shops specializing in clothes, second-hand books, CDs, and watches. On Sunday mornings, the streets of Monastiraki welcome a splendid open-air market, which is well worth visiting.
• Plaka: It is one of the most popular areas in Athens, and is packed with souvenir shops that sell objects made of copper and clay, as well as all types of ornaments and typical Greek food.
• Syntagma Square and surroundings: Some of the streets that lead to Syntagma Square, like Ermou Street, Stadiou Street, and Panepistimious Street, offer hundreds of international clothing brands and more specialized stores.
• Central Market: More than just a shopping area, Athens' Central Market is where Athenians go to buy fresh produce like meat and fish. It's amusing to see them trying to sell even a chicken to curious tourists. It's located near Omonia Square.