Shopping in Greece is a delightful mix of traditional craftsmanship, local delicacies, and modern fashion. In Athens, the Monastiraki Flea Market and the upscale streets of Kolonaki offer everything from handmade leather sandals and Byzantine-style jewelry to high-end boutique fashion. Greece is famous for its gold and silver work, making it the perfect place to buy unique jewelry. Travelers also love the "Agora" experience, buying local products like thyme honey, extra virgin olive oil, mastic from Chios, and dried herbs. On the islands, boutiques in Mykonos and Santorini offer chic resort wear and art, while Crete is known for its leather boots and woven textiles. Whether you’re hunting for a "mati" (evil eye) charm for good luck, natural olive oil soap, or a hand-painted icon, shopping in Greece allows you to take a piece of its culture and artistry home with you.
When it comes to souvenirs in Greece, the options are timeless and high-quality. Travelers often look for products that reflect the land and history. Olive Oil is liquid gold here; buying Extra Virgin Olive Oil or products made from it (like natural Olive Oil Soap) is a must. Honey (especially Thyme honey) and Mastic products from the island of Chios (gum, liqueur, cosmetics) are unique culinary treasures.
Jewelry is a major draw. Greece has a long tradition of gold and silversmithing dating back to the Byzantine era. You can find intricate designs featuring the Meander (Greek key) symbol or reproductions of ancient coins in jewelry shops in Athens and the islands. Leather Sandals are another icon; handmade leather sandals from the workshops in Monastiraki or Plaka are durable, stylish, and unmistakably Greek.
Fashion includes breezy linen clothing perfect for the summer heat, often found in island boutiques. For something spiritual, hand-painted Byzantine Icons are beautiful works of art. A Komboloi (worry beads) is a classic gift for men; it’s a string of beads used for relaxation and fidgeting, not prayer. Wine lovers should pick up a bottle of Assyrtiko from Santorini or Agiorgitiko from Nemea.
Finding authentic Greek crafts requires exploring the markets and backstreets. Monastiraki Flea Market in Athens is the epicenter, selling everything from antiques and vinyl records to leather goods and copper. For a more upscale experience, the neighborhood of Kolonaki offers Greek designer boutiques.
Plaka, the old historic neighborhood of Athens, is filled with shops, but look for the ones selling "Made in Greece" products rather than imported plastic statues. The Athens Central Market (Varvakios) is the place to buy spices, herbs (like mountainous oregano), and cheeses to take home (vacuum packed).
On the islands, Chora (main towns) usually have the best boutiques. In Crete, look for traditional Cretan knives and woven textiles. In Ioannina (mainland), the silversmithing is legendary. To ensure authenticity, visit workshops where you can see the artisans working. Museum gift shops (like the Benaki Museum or Acropolis Museum) offer high-quality, tasteful replicas and design objects that support cultural institutions.
Shopping in Greece offers a benefit for non-EU visitors: Tax-Free Shopping. The Sales Tax (VAT/FPA) is included in the price tag. The standard rate is 24%, which is significant.
Greece has a minimum spend (usually around €50) to qualify for a VAT refund for non-EU residents. When buying, ask the shop for a "Tax-Free Form". You will need your passport. Look for the "Global Blue" or "Planet" tax-free signage in windows.
When leaving the EU (at the airport, e.g., Athens Eleftherios Venizelos), you must show your goods and forms to Customs before checking your bags to get a stamp. Then, visit the refund counter to get your money back. This makes buying jewelry or designer goods much more attractive for tourists from the USA, UK, or Australia.