Looking for something special but can’t afford it? Don’t be that sure because sales start in full force on January 15. So head to the nearest airport and book a flight to Greece; Athens to be exact. You won’t regret it. You can literally change your entire wardrobe and end up saving money if you manage to catch the sales.

Sales Period

All over Europe, the sales period starts in mid-January. In Greece, according to law 3357/2007 the sales will last from January 15 to February 28. Unlike in some other European countries, in Greece sales are forbidden before January 15. You can also shop at low prices in August and September.

Shopping Streets in Athens

Downtown Athens is the perfect place to start your shopping spree. Plaka and Monastiraki are already well known among shoppers, but let’s not forget Ermou Street and Voukourestiou.

A lot of streets have been closed and are now filled with a variety of shops where you can buy anything from souvenirs to clothes and shoes or jewelry. Make sure to take your time and check out every little place because not every shop has big display windows.

If you are looking for quality clothes and shoes, you much check out Ermou Street. It’s the number one shopping street in Athens where you can find any local brand and the well-known international shops.

Eolou and Agiou Marou are the places where you can find the bargain shops. Of course there is pretty much everything you can think of on sale: clothes, shoes, fabrics. Don’t miss the cafes where you can rest for a while before restarting your shopping spree.

I’ve always believed that if you want to experience the real city life, you need to check out the market. So, although you won’t be buying sea food, check out Athens Central Market and try some of the fruits and nuts available. Morning is the best time to come. Enjoy the atmosphere and sample some olives –yes, you are allowed to do that. I really like spices, so when given the chance I check them out. Buy some spices from the market and when you get back home and use them, you will surely remember Athens.

And speaking of spices and herbs…don’t miss Elixer, a spices shop located on Evripidou Street. You can find a variety of spices, some of which I bet you never heard of.

Opening Hours

Except on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays –when the shops close at 2:30 PM -, you will find the shops opened until 9 PM. On Sundays, the shops are generally closed but it’s a good reason to check out the markets.