Athens, Greece

Best places to shop in Athens

5 markets, malls and shopping districts in Athens — what to buy, when to go, and the tourist traps to avoid at each one.

Last updated 2026-08-08

1. Monastiraki Flea Market

The market quarter below the Acropolis — antiques, brass, icons, vinyl, army surplus and souvenirs, spilling out of Avissinias Square.

Where: Flea Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 09:00–20:00; the Sunday market is the largest
Cost: Budget

Watch outAncient coins and 'antiquities' offered here are reproductions, and genuine antiquities cannot legally leave Greece without an export licence from the Ministry of Culture. Buying one is a criminal matter at the airport.

2. Plaka

The old quarter beneath the Acropolis — sandals, ceramics, icons, olive-wood and jewellery in neoclassical streets.

Where: Street Shopping
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 09:00–21:00
Cost: Budget–Mid
Tip: The Poet Sandal Maker on Pandrossou has made leather sandals to measure since 1920 and will cut them to your foot while you wait.

3. Ermou Street

The main commercial street from Syntagma to Monastiraki — international chains and Greek high-street brands.

Where: Street Shopping
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 09:00–21:00; closed Sunday
Cost: Mid-range

4. Varvakios Central Market

The 19th-century meat and fish halls on Athinas Street, with the spice, herb and olive merchants in the streets around them.

Where: Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 07:00–18:00
Cost: Budget
Tip: Greek mountain tea, oregano, mastiha and saffron from Kozani are the things to buy in the spice streets around Evripidou.

5. Kolonaki

The smart quarter below Lycabettus — Greek designers, jewellers, galleries and the cafés between them.

Where: Luxury
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 10:00–20:00
Cost: Luxury