Shopping in Athens: The best Shopping District and Malls

Athens is a city rich with old history and a fun shopping scene.

In the center, you will see old customs mixed with fresh styles. There are many well-known sights and historic places. You will feel a lively vibe that makes you want to explore. Shoppers can look for special items in regular flea markets, nice shops, and local stores. Athens offers something for everyone for all budgets.

 Incidental people on Ermou st, with the Byzantine Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea in the background.

Best Athens Shopping Streets and Neighborhood

Let's take a shopping trip to the best streets and areas in Athens. We will check out busy markets, cool boutiques, and nice local shops. Each spot has its own beauty and unique things to buy. Get set to enjoy the fun vibe of the city. We will discover hidden spots, shop for good deals, and check out what's trendy. If you want unique gifts, handmade jewelry, or stylish clothes, Athens has just what you need.

Ermou Street

Our first stop is Ermou Street. It is a busy shopping area in the center of Athens where only people can walk. You can find a nice mix of well-known international brands and local Greek designers. This famous street is great for shoppers. It offers many choices to find things for every part of your outfit. While you walk along Ermou Street, look for special accessories and jewelry made by skilled Greek artisans. These items make great souvenirs or nice gifts for your loved ones back home. If you want the newest fashion trends, stylish shoes, or special accessories, Ermou Street has everything. You’ll find everything from cosmetics at Sephora and Mac, athletic essentials at Foot Locker, trendy fashion at Zara, to unique finds at Flying Tiger. This vibrant street combines a diverse range of stores with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Make sure to wear comfy shoes because you will be walking a lot in this shopper's paradise!

Plaka Neighborhood

Under the Acropolis, the beautiful Plaka neighborhood feels like stepping back in time. You can walk on cobblestone streets and see old ruins and classic buildings. This is a great place to find special souvenirs and learn about the city's rich history. Strolling beneath the pink bougainvillea blossoms, Plaka has many shops that offer handmade Byzantine jewelry, ceramics, textiles, second-hand books and other traditional Greek items. You can find one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by ancient Greek designs. These items are perfect for bringing some history into your home.

Central Market

In the heart of Athens, the Central Market offers a lively shopping experience. This busy marketplace is a treat for the senses, with colorful fruit and fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and local foods. Visitors can check out many stalls that sell olives and olive oil, cheese, meats, and seafood. The atmosphere is always busy and full of life. It shows a bit of how Athenians shop for fresh ingredients. From mackerel to yesterday’s bread, the Central Market is full of tasty finds waiting to be discovered.

Syntagma Neighborhood

Syntagma Square is a place everyone should see if they want to shop for luxury items in Athens. This busy square is full of life and features many well-known luxury brands from around the globe. It's the perfect place to check out high-end clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

As you stroll along the trendy streets close to Syntagma Square, you will find famous brands like Hermes, Gucci, Chanel, and Prada. Each shop shows off their newest collections in lovely displays. If you enjoy luxury items, this location is perfect for shopping.

If you need a one-of-a-kind item to improve your wardrobe or a special gift for a big day, Syntagma Square offers a wonderful shopping experience in the center of Athens.

Exarcheia Neighborhood

For a taste of Athenian culture, visit the lively neighborhood of Exarcheia. It is known for its special feel and artistic energy. Exarcheia is fresh and different from regular shopping spots. Walk around the neighborhood and look at small shops. Each one has its special story. You can find used clothing stores, local bookstores, art supply shops, and places that sell musical instruments. If vintage shopping excites you, the neighborhood of Exarcheia is the place to be. This artistic district is a haven for vintage and second-hand lovers, offering countless options to explore. One of the most popular spots is Yesterday’s Bread, known for its amusing name. Despite its small size, this shop is packed with bags, accessories, shoes, coats, shirts, jackets, dresses, and jeans, all priced affordably (2-90 €), with most items sourced from Amsterdam and Paris. Don’t be surprised if you spend a lot of time sifting through the extensive selection.

Nearby, you’ll also find Skoros and Execute Fashion, two of the city’s most well-known second-hand stores, located on one of Athens' liveliest streets. The name Skoros, meaning “clothes moth,” highlights the Greek sense of humor when it comes to naming their shops. One thing is certain: with so many unique finds, you’re bound to discover something that catches your eye!

Exarcheia feels true and has a strong spirit. Here, you will see local artists sharing their work, musicians playing on the streets, and a community that loves to back local businesses.

Psiri Neighborhood

Continue exploring and head to Psirri, where a mix of shops and local eateries awaits. Here, you can pick up traditional worry beads – the well-known Greek “kompoloi” – from various souvenir stores, as well as the famous handmade sandals crafted by the Poet-Sandalmaker.

In the heart of the Greek capital, Psiri is full of life. It fills your senses with sights, sounds, and smells. This old area, known for its leather shops, is now a cool spot with street art, live music, and special boutique shops. As you walk along the winding streets of Psiri, keep an eye out for high-quality leather items. These items reflect the traditional craft of the area. You can find chic bags, belts, handmade shoes, and jackets. Psiri offers a unique shopping experience that blends tradition with modern style.

Venture off the main paths and into the narrow Nika Street, where a small shop specializes in handmade Greek stringed instruments like the bouzouki and baglamas, perfect for music lovers. Before leaving Psirri, be sure to stock up on natural soaps and beauty products made with organic Greek ingredients – it’s a purchase you won’t regret!

Stadiou Street

Stadiou Street is a busy shopping area in Athens, near Syntagma Square. This historic street has a mix of modern shops and traditional Greek stores. It offers a great shopping experience. Visitors can look at many boutiques, gift shops, and special stores along Stadiou Street. You can find items from Greek designers and brands like Zara and Hermes. Whatever type of clothes you want, stylish clothes or authentic Greek items, Stadiou Street has something for everyone.

 The \"Golden Hall\" shopping center in Marousi, Athens, Greece. Exterior view of the mall in bright daylight

Best Athens Shopping Malls and Department Stores

Athens has a lot of shopping malls for people who enjoy shopping inside. Each mall has its own unique feel and items to provide. These malls give a pleasant escape from the hectic city life, especially during the hot summer or cold winter. You can find great fashion shops, fun places to spend time, and tasty restaurants. If you want the newest fashion, unique gifts, or a pleasant place to chill, these malls have it all.

Golden Hall

Golden Hall is located in the northern part of Marousi. It is a stylish shopping place that represents luxury. A lot of people from Athens and visitors enjoy this mall. There is a good variety of high-end fashion shops, popular global brands, and fancy restaurants. You will love the mall's lovely design and bright store windows. There is a great choice of designer clothes, accessories, makeup, and home goods. Golden Hall is the perfect spot for a nice shopping trip. You can also see the newest fashion trends from all over the world.

After a fun day of shopping, you can enjoy a tasty meal at one of the nice restaurants in the mall. Golden Hall has many different dishes. You can find flavors from Mediterranean to other international recipes. There is something for everyone.

The Mall

The Mall, found in Marousi, is the largest shopping center in Athens. It offers many stores, fun activities, and dining options. If you need clothes, electronics, or home goods, or if you just want to enjoy time with family and friends, The Mall has everything you need. You can make your shopping better by going to the mall's movie theater. It is perfect for seeing the latest films or having a fun movie night with family. The mall gives you more than just shopping. It is a popular place for entertainment. The Mall is in a great spot. It has a lot of parking. You can choose from many options. This makes shopping easy and fun.

Athens Metro Mall

Athens Metro Mall is easy to reach from the Agios Dimitrios metro station in southern Athens. It is a great spot for shopping. There are over 90 stores across five floors. You can find many items like clothes, accessories, electronics, home goods, and more. When you need a break from shopping, you can find great food at many shops and restaurants in the mall. You can choose a quick snack, a nice lunch, or something sweet. Athens Metro Mall has tasty options for everyone.

Thanks to the metro, you can add a stop at Athens Metro Mall to your day of sightseeing. It is easy to get there from the city center or the southern suburbs. This mall has a fun shopping experience.

Avenue

It gives the feeling of an ‘open’ market with all the advantages of the shopping center, thanks to the impressive architectural design with eco-friendly materials (wood, stone) and natural green space of 4,000 sq.m. With over 60 branded stores you can find women’s, men’s, and children’s fashion, accessories, jewelry, bags, sports goods, and travel items, optics, cosmetics, household items and we dare to say so much more! Highlight: There are many options for coffee and snacks on-site, so you won’t drop after you shop.

Notos Department Stores

Notos, where shopping is a ritual and a need for the whole family and each person individually. With over a century of operation, starting in 1901 by the Lambropoulos brothers, it was the first shop-in-a-shop in Greece and now they have conquered the Athenian and not only market. With the slogan ‘I want more’ Notos generously gives the consumers what they ‘want’ by offering products from the biggest and most renowned Greek and international brands. The department stores have a dynamic presence in Athens, Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Kalamata, and Halkidiki.

Attica

Since 2005, it is the ultimate shopping destination until the final drop! Here all the latest trends and the biggest names of fashion give an appointment in the 4 Attica department stores in Athens and Thessaloniki to meet the needs of modern consumers in fashion brands for women, men, and children.

McArthur Glen Outlet Mall

For shoppers looking for designer brands at better prices, McArthur Glen Outlet Mall is the spot. It is located just outside the city center and has several designer shops. You can get great discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods. You will find many designer brands giving great discounts on their older collections. This is a perfect time to buy a stylish item for a much lower price. You can refresh your wardrobe without spending too much.

A bustling scene at Monastiraki Flea Market in Athens, showcasing people browsing through antique items, vintage goods, and various second-hand treasures, including rugs, paintings, and brassware.

Luxury Athens Shopping

Athens offers great options for those who love luxury shopping. The city has special areas and streets where you can find designer clothes, lovely jewelry, tailored outfits, and elegant home goods.

Get set to be wowed by beauty and style. Here, the quality and special items stand out. If you want something unique to boost your style or a special gift for someone, these luxury shopping places in Athens will not let you down.

Glyfada District

Get away from the busy city center and enjoy the stylish seaside area of Glyfada. This place is famous for its fancy feel, beautiful sandy beaches, and active nightlife. Glyfada also has many good shops, great for a fun day of shopping and relaxing. Walk down the streets lined with palm trees. You will see cool boutiques, special stores, and designer shops with the latest fashion, accessories, and home decor. The feel in Glyfada is calm and stylish, making it a great place to shop.

After shopping, take a break at one of the many cafes and restaurants on the streets. They give nice views of the Saronic Gulf. If you are looking for a cute cafe, a casual lunch, or a nice dinner, Glyfada has food for everyone.

Kolonaki Neighborhood

Kolonaki sits at the foot of Lycabettus Hill. It is the most exclusive area in Athens. The neighborhood is famous for its high-end shops, art galleries, and an elegant feel. Rich locals and visitors who enjoy luxury love this stylish spot. You can discover designer clothes, exquisite jewelry, and tailor-made outfits here. As you walk through the beautiful streets, you will see famous stores for popular brands like Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada. Each shop is in a nice building that shows style. Kolonaki is the spot for fancy shopping in Athens. However, it also caters to those on a budget with shops like Pre-loved. Whether you’re searching for something simple or more refined, from the styles of the 1950s to the bold looks of the 1980s, Pre-loved has it all. In this underground store, you’ll discover second-hand treasures from brands like Hermes, Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Stella McCartney, Gucci, and Prada, all in exceptional condition.

After you shop, you can take it easy at one of the popular cafes or restaurants nearby. Have a nice lunch, drink a refreshing cocktail, or just feel the stylish vibe of Kolonaki.

Voukourestiou Street

For a wonderful luxury shopping experience, you should go to Voukourestiou Street. This well-known street is in the heart of Athens. It is famous for top fashion, lovely jewelry, and tailored clothes. Voukourestiou Street has top stores from famous brands like Gucci, Bulgari, Cartier, and Dior. You can enjoy looking at the lovely window displays. They show the latest fashion trends and great craftsmanship. If you want to find a stunning item for your closet, a nice gift for someone special, or just enjoy some luxury, Voukourestiou Street offers a shopping experience you will remember.

Kifisia Neighborhood

Visit the northern suburb of Kifisia. This place is a green oasis. It is known for its beautiful homes, great shopping streets, and nice cafes. Kifisia offers a more relaxed and elegant shopping feel compared to the busy city center. You can walk through the nice streets that are full of classy shops, special stores, and designer showrooms. They have a great selection of clothes, accessories, home decor, and lifestyle items. Kifisia’s shopping area is great for people who like quality and style.

After shopping, you can have a tasty meal at one of Kifisia's cafes or restaurants. If you want a light lunch, a romantic dinner, or a sweet snack, Kifisia has food options that will make you happy.

Marousi District

Marousi District has many modern shopping malls. It offers a great shopping experience. You can find everything here. There are popular fashion items, designer brands, electronics, and home goods.

Visit the large shopping malls, like Golden Hall and The Mall Athens. They have many European stores, department stores, and fun places to enjoy. It’s the ideal place for all your shopping and free time needs.

Marousi is easy to get to from the city center. You can arrive here by metro or train. If you are looking for certain brands, want to see the latest styles, or just feel like having a fun day, Marousi has something for all.

Chalandri District

A few kilometers north of Athens lies the municipality of Chalandri, near Marousi and The Mall Athens, featuring one of the most charming markets in the northern suburbs. With its variety of local shops, visitors can stroll along the pedestrian streets of Chalandri, enjoying shopping alongside coffee and snacks in a lovely urban setting. One of our favorite spots is the Evripidis bookshop, a true cultural haven for book lovers. It boasts an impressive collection of both Greek and international books, along with a beautiful selection of stationery. Evripidis perfectly combines the modern convenience of a bookstore with the cozy, inviting atmosphere of a coffee shop. Two delightful coffee spaces, one located on the first floor of the bookshop and the other in the courtyard, serve a variety of sweet and savory treats, giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “food for thought.”

A bustling scene at Monastiraki Flea Market in Athens, showcasing people browsing through antique items, vintage goods, and various second-hand treasures, including rugs, paintings, and brassware.

The Traditional Markets of Athens

Below you will find the traditional Athens markets for those who want to find interesting,vintage, and quirky items.

Central Market (Varvakeios)

With a history of at least 150 years, Athens' Central Market, a lively open-air market was set up in honor of the national benefactor Ioannis Varvakis (1745-1825) and provides the Athenians with a variety of meat, seafood, nuts, fruits, and vegetables from every corner of Greece. With a vintage aesthetic, it comes off as extremely charming. The eateries in the Agora of the market have their unique gastronomic history, with wonderful dishes cooked at any time of the day and very affordable prices. Our favorite ones are ‘Epirus’ and ‘The Stoa of the Immortals’.

Euripidou

The street with a thousand aromas and intense flavors is here. One may argue that it is the most fragrant street in the capital. Arranged in a row, the little shops with the flair of another decade, offer spices, cold cuts, and Greek cheeses. However, you can find a bunch of tasty things from places far far away. Most of the buildings in the neighborhood are small architectural diamonds of the 19th century, while the state declared in 2012 Euripidou as a ‘place of traditional trade’.

Abyssinia Square

In the glorious corner of the city, Monastiraki, ‘wedged’ somewhere between Eros and Hephaestus, time in the paved square seems to have stopped. With a trademark of antique shops, they say that it got its name when the aid sent by the emperor of Abyssinia (Ethiopia) was distributed here to the Greek refugees of Asia Minor because they lived here from ancient Ethiopia. Under the Athenian sky, a manorial bazaar is set up every Sunday with all the forgotten objects of all kinds, while it is a favorite place for locals and tourists.

Monastiraki Flea Market

Explore the lively Monastiraki flea market in the center of Athens. Here, you can feel the busy vibe of this old area. You will find traditional Greek products like worry beads, old coins, olive oil, and leather goods. One of its biggest perks is that, unlike many markets in Greece, it stays open on Sundays. There are also modern items from Greek designers and international brands. Walk through the winding paths of small shops. Each shop offers a special shopping experience with unique items, from ancient Greek artifacts to trendy accessories. Try local foods at the nearby shops and enjoy the real spirit of Athenian culture.

If you love markets, Athens has amazing Organic Markets, click here for more!

Where to Find the Best Food and Drink Specialties

When it comes to food shopping, Athens is truly a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re searching for local products or unique Greek flavors, you’ve come to the right place!

Head back to Psirri and explore local food shops that bring the wonders of Greek nature straight to your table. Visit Pantopoleio… Peri Lesvou and discover the treasures of the island of Lesvos, from flavorful cheeses to aromatic ouzo. Stop by Aapian, a shop that has proudly stood in the heart of Athens since 1922, offering smoked meats, sausages, soutzouki, and pastourma. As you continue your food journey through Psirri, you’ll come across numerous shops selling a vast selection of Greek spices and herbs.

For all of our foodies out there, we have a special article: Athens Best Food Tours! And, check out Athens best street food joints!

Athens is a fun place to shop. You can see many styles, from crowded streets to nice areas. Go to Ermou Street for new trends. Check out the Monastiraki Flea Market to find unique things. Plaka is a nice place to relax while you shop. Don’t forget to check out shopping malls like Golden Hall for upscale brands. You can also enjoy luxury shopping in Glyfada and Kolonaki. Remember some shopping tips—haggle at the flea markets and be aware of store hours. Also, look at local markets for special food items. You can try local favorites like olive oil and ouzo. Athens is a great place for shopping, just waiting for you to check out!

 

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