If you love collecting rare designer pieces for your wardrobe, then check out these destinations in Athens.
The demand for pre-loved designer fashion has hugely increased, as more people are choosing sustainable options to reduce waste and let’s be honest, to save money!
When strolling around the city, you will come across plenty of high-end pre-owned fashion items, as there is a fantastic range of luxury second-hand- shops in Athens to choose from.
Meant to Be Mint
A secret gem nestled in a slightly underground location in the upscale neighbourhood of Kolonaki, this second-hand shop is filled with top-designer goods ranging from Chanel to Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, and many more. The store owner, Martha, has a stunning selection of ready-to-wear, shoes, bags, and belts, which she personally hand-picks with care. Suppose you’re too far away and can’t make it to the store, don’t worry. Martha has her pieces available online and ships internationally!
A: 17 Irodotou, Kolonaki
Second Hand Lux
Just a hop, skip and jump away from Meant to Be Mint, this second-hand store sources luxury designer and vintage pieces at affordable prices. Some hidden treasures include Giuseppe, Chanel, Dior, and much more. This shop also offers a variety of evening wear, bags, shoes, sunglasses, and other accessories.
A: Charitos 27, Kolonaki
Luxury Toys
With both modern and classic pre-loved items, this second-hand shop offers a variety of authentic designer handbags, clothing, jewellery, and accessories. If you walk in at the right time, you could score a rare Cartier piece or perhaps a limited-edition Chanel bag. If you’re not on a mission to pick up a vintage jewel and are looking to upcycle your pre-loved pieces for some cash, Luxury Toys also offers selling options.
A: Akadimias 25, Athens
Star Bags
With a designer collection of bags ranging from Jacquemus, Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and much more, despite the name, we have to let you know this second-hand shop offers more than just pre-loved totes and clutches. They also carry a carefully selected curation of second-hand luxury clothes, accessories, and shoes.
Start your mid-morning with a spot of shopping and a delightful brunch menu at one of the coolest concept stores in Athens.
Do you think it’s difficult to find a place that combines gardening advice and small Greek independent clothing labels with a shot of espresso and fluffy pancakes? Not anymore.
Imaginative concept stores are popping up all over Athens, offering a great range of unique items and services. Below we’ve put together a list of some of our favourite Athens concept stores for your next trip to the Greek capital.
MINŪ ATHENS
A vivid space in Psyrri, Minu combines the sale of indoor plants, furniture and designer objects, with works of art. At the same time, you can enjoy a cup of organic coffee, homemade lemonade or tea with a homemade cake or taste one of the Asian-inspired dishes on the menu created by Athinagoras Kostakos.
A: Sarri 50, Psyrri
EAST COAST
A concept store with a surfing vibe and an environmental conscience. KVD2137 is the store’s clothing brand made using 100% organic cotton and water-based dyes. Here you’ll only find reusable cups, cork coasters, soy candles and a vegan menu. Taste the protein bread with fig and mushroom, the carob bread with scrambled eggs or the vegan cinnamon rolls.
A: Palaiologou 9, Piraeus
WILD SOULS
A concept store that feels more like a gallery of nature’s wild treasures, it highlights both the nutritional benefits of nuts, as well as the incredible value of simplicity. Apart from the protagonists (nuts), at Wild Souls, you will find smooth and crunchy almond butter, hazelnut butter, and super-rich cashew nut butter; all free from preservatives, sugar and palm oil, elements that Areti, the owner, dislikes. Don’t miss the halva and the American style sweets.
A: Voulis 36, Syntagma
ANAMESA CONCEPT STORE
The brightly coloured basement on Nikis street is full of creations by Greek and international designers (that focus on sustainable and ethical fashion), Instagrammable accessories, design objects and tasty smoothies. Don’t miss the personalised handwritten packaging with your personal style tips by ANAMESA and the daily updated stickers collection.
A: Nikis 24, Syntagma
PLEGMA
This concept store combines interior design with tasty food and coffee. Handmade ceramic mugs, pots, small furniture items and decorations, stationery, utensils, bags, accessories, serving items, personal care and household items that are perfect for gifts. Enjoy energy bowls and light lunch choices such as a soba noodle salad, while browsing design books and magazines or city guides.
A: Efranoros 10, Pangrati
PHILOS
Set in a stunning 1930’s neo-classical building, Philos Athens, (part cafe/ part event space/ part boutique) located down Solonos Street in chic Kolonaki, is the Greek capital’s ultimate destination store and favourite weekend hangout alike!
Vouliagmenis Avenue, on the glamorous Athens Riviera is set to become home to Greece’s largest shopping mall!
According to Lamda Development who presented its new project to the public last week, the estimated amount of investment for the new development is between 335 to 410 million euros and is set to be completed by 2025.
The mall that will be constructed on Vouliagmenis Avenue, will span 130,000 sq.m., making it the largest and most modern shopping centre in Greece; offering a multifaceted, round-the-clock experience for its local and international visitors.
Featuring popular and up-and-coming Greek and international brands, as well as eateries, entertainment, and wellness facilities; it will also house exhibitions, concerts, gyms, gaming corners, cinemas, children’s recreation areas, and more.
At the 30,000 sq.m. commercial park, which is set to be developed at the Commercial Hub in collaboration with the Fourlis Group, visitors will find big-box stores of international home and sports equipment brands; and the hub will also feature modern office spaces of 27,500 sq.m. that will house the headquarters of Piraeus Bank.
“In the same area, a state-of-the-art 150 m high mixed-use tower will be developed that will house a hotel, offices, and apartments. The state-of-the-art Business Center to be created at The Hellinikon in the coming years will become the heart of Greece’s commercial and business life, bringing significant benefits for the area and the entire Attica region,” announced Lamda.
“The Ellinikon Commercial Hub is a destination of the future. This will become Greece’s most modern commercial and business hub; a popular attraction for citizens from across the country and, of course, for the one million tourists that will be visiting The Ellinikon every year,” said Lamda Development CEO, Mr. Odisseas Athanasiou, during the fourth online presentation held by the company on the major regeneration project at The Hellinikon.
From traditional to modern bakeries, if you are in the Greek capital and looking for some freshly baked bread, pies, biscuits, or any Christmas sweets, we have rounded up the Top 7 bakeries in Athens that will satisfy all cravings.
Takis Bakery
One of Athens’ most famous and oldest bakeries; just be prepared to wait as there is always a queue of people trying to get their hands on the freshly baked goods. From traditional sourdough to sweet honey bread, muffins, carrot cake, and other handmade pastries, Takis’ sells around 50 types of bread including prozimi, multigrain, baguettes, and koulouri.
A: 14 Misaraliotou, Koukaki
Mama Psomi
This fantastic bakery in Koukaki sells freshly baked bread, pies, and pastries. From wholewheat, prozimi and rye, to koulouria, melomakarona and croissants- there is a huge variety of baked goods on offer each day.
A: 42-44 Zaharitsa & Zinni Street, Koukaki
Pnyka
This traditional Greek bakery is located at three spots throughout Athens centre. Here you will be able to find a huge range of bread including white, wholegrain and buckwheat. You can also pick up a box of your favourite Greek cookies- perfect for the festive season.
This sourdough and viennoiserie bakery in Athens uses long fermentation methods, which makes their products more nutritious. Using the finest ingredients Kora sells a delicious and creative range of artisan bread, pastries and cakes.
A: Panagiotou Anagnostopoulou 44, Athens
Betty’s Bakery
If you are looking for a place that offers a wonderful range of artisan bread from traditional right through to seasonal bread for every special occasion ( Easter, Christmas loaves of bread, etc) this is the perfect spot!
A: Kassandras 10 St, Athens
Queen Bee
This all-day bakehouse is set in a stylish 1940s art deco building and has been given a major redesign with a focus on the sleek open kitchen. The elegantly displayed handmade products include sourdough, croissants, cinnamon buns, and pies. Tip: try the crunchy double-baked croissant with delicious almond filling!
A: Patriarchou Ioakim 45, Kolonaki
Tromero Paidi
This French-inspired artisan bakery and patisserie uses 100% Greek grains. Every day there are about ten different varieties of bread each of which are matured and baked on the spot, so you can enjoy your fresh loaf straight out of the oven!
If it’s shopping you are after, Athens has something for everyone. From international labels and cool concept stores to colourful marketplaces, stunning boutiques in chic neighbourhoods, and shopping outlets located just outside the city- there are endless options for every style and budget.
So, whether you’re a fan of window browsing, or prefer to buy as you please, here is our list of best places to shop in Athens!
Kolonaki
Luisa World in Kolonaki
Just a few minutes away from Athens centre is one of the best areas to shop in the city- especially if you’re looking for high-end stores. The charming streets are filled with beautiful boutiques that feature Greek and international designers. And if you love spending endless hours browsing, Kolonaki is a must. This fashionable neighbourhood has no shortage of luxury labels, stylish concept stores, cool cafes, trendy bars, and classy restaurants (plenty of places to sit down for a nice long lunch, or a quick bite to eat). Here you will find unique pieces of couture and ready-to-wear clothing, as well as a stunning range of shoes, accessories, beauty products, and more.
Kifissia
About a 30-minute train ride from downtown, Kifissia is filled with elegant and classy boutiques. This is where you’ll bump into stylish Athenians from all over the city looking for the latest seasonal pieces. From high-end stores that stock clothing, handbags, jewellery; plus decor and homewares by both international and Greek designers- Kifissia stands out for its impressive range of shoe shops.
Glyfada
Along the Athenian Riviera you will come across one of Athens’ most popular shopping strips in Glyfada, which is filled with boutique after boutique- stocking womenswear, menswear, and kidswear. Home to SOHO SOHO and Glyfada Centre, there are plenty of stores featuring local and international designers. It’s a long open-air shopping mall, so make sure you are prepared with comfy shoes and an umbrella if rain is forecast!
Ermou St and Monastiraki
Ermou St
A paradise for shoppers, pedestrianised Ermou Street stretches over one and a half kilometres in the centre of Athens. Along the way, you will come across a variety of stores that stock international brands and local designers. From beauty stores such as Sephora and Mac through to the largest retailers in fast fashion- Zara, H&M, Pull & Bear and Bershka, you will find them all at Ermou. For those who love shoes, make sure you stop off at Migato, Mourtzo and Tsakiris Mallas, which are local brands. We also suggest you make time to check out the streets parallel to Ermou, for lots more stylish boutiques and designer wear.
Monastiraki
As you make your way down Ermou St, you will arrive at the heart of Monastiraki, which is famous for its Flea Market. Here you will discover a variety of stores including souvenir shops, vintage and second-hand shops. It’s the perfect place to pick up all your bric-a-brac and on Sundays, the streets of Monastiraki welcome a colourful open-air market, which is well worth visiting as there is nothing here you can’t find. Tip: When you walk through the Flea Market make sure you stroll through the tiny alleys and check out the little antique shops.
Plaka
One of the city’s busiest spots- it’s home to several stores. Here you will find locally made jewellery, sandals, and clothes; as well as books, vinyl, antiques, and souvenirs to take home with you. Make sure you check out the good range of clay, copper, and ceramics that can be found on pretty much every corner of Plaka.
McArthur Glen
Awatara in Plaka
This was the first designer outlet in Greece, where you’ll find international labels with price reductions from 35 – 70%, all year round. McArthur Glen Athens Designer Outlet is conveniently located just 15 minutes from Athens International Airport and 30 minutes drive from Athens city centre. Open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm- there are over 100 stores including Hugo Boss, BSB, Diesel, Gant, Moschino, Ralph Lauren, Prince Oliver, Salvatore Ferragamo, Scotch & Soda and Toi & Moi.
Factory Outlet
If you are around Piraeus way (maybe waiting for your ferry to depart) and you have some time to kill- head to the Factory Outlet where you can get heavily discounted prices on labels including Adidas, Ben Sherman, Boss, Converse, Diesel, Folli Follie, G-Star Raw, Karl Lagerfield, Nike, Pepe Jeans, Polo Ralph Lauren, Reebok and Ted Baker.
Golden Hall
If you’re in search of Athens’ leading shopping mall with a great range of stores then head to Maroussi, where you’ll find Golden Hall Shopping Mall. About a 20-minute drive from the heart of the city, the mall features both international and Greek fashion brands under one roof including Adidas, American Eagle, Benetton, Diesel, DKNY, GAP, Nike and Zara.
The Mall
Attica Department Store
The Mall is one of the largest shopping centres in Athens. Also located in Maroussi, this popular shopping centre houses over 200 stores that are spread through four levels. Open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 9 pm, and Saturday 10 am to 8 pm here you’ll find Adidas, Calvin Klein, H&M, Intimissimi Uomo, Lacoste, LEGO Store, Migato, Massimo Dutti, Nike, Replay, Sephora, Swarovski, Tommy Hilfiger, Tsakiris Mallas, Benetton, Victoria’s Secret, Zara and Zara Home.
Attica
Attica is Greece’s largest department store. Housed in a neo-classical building it’s located right in the heart of Athens and here you’ll find a range of high-end brands and personalised services. From womenswear, menswear, kidswear, sportswear, accessories, jewellery, and homewares; Attica is a one-stop-shop for designer brands including Burberry, Diane Von Furstenberg, Dsquared 2, Escada, Emporio Armani, Isabel Marant, Kenzo, Maje, Max Mara, Missoni, John Varvatos and Zeus + Dione.
Known as the “neighbourhood of the Gods” Plaka, built in the shadow of the Acropolis, is the most authentic sample of old Athens, with hints of the new romantic side to the city.
This wonderful neighbourhood has been continuously inhabited since antiquity, which is why you will find a combination of the Ancient Greek, Roman, and Ottoman empires. Neoclassical buildings, car-free alleyways, charming cafés, and small gardens with bougainvillea and street art are a few reasons as to why this neighbourhood is our favourite in Athens, and one we believe needs to be experienced at least once in a lifetime.
How to get there?
From Syntagma Metro station you can take Voulis Street straight ahead until Kydathinaion Street. From Monastiraki Station, walk Adrianou Street from the flea market. Alternatively, from Acropolis station, you can cross Dionisiou Aeropagitou and then enter at Vyronos Street.
For Brunch or Lunch
Bakaliarakia tou Damigou – A family-run fish taverna, opened in 1864. It is situated in the basement beneath Brettos Bar. Don’t miss the battered cod with garlic sauce. (Kydathineon 41)
Vyzantino Restaurant – A traditional spot that has been here since 1948. (Kydathinaion 18)
I Palia Taverna tou Psarra – The oldest restaurant in Plaka, first opened in 1898. Famous for its fresh fish. Try the spaghetti with seafood and loukoumades. (Erotokritou & Erechtheos 16)
To Kafeneio – Housed in a 400-year-old building, which from time to time was the residence of many famous Greeks, they serve traditional but creative Greek dishes. (Epicharmou 1)
Scholarhio Ouzeri – Known to locals as Kouklis (named after its owner) it boasts a dining room from another era. (Tripodon 14)
7 Food Sins – A gourmet Greek gastro-pub offering a distinguished atmosphere and exquisite Greek dishes. (Filomousou Etaireias Sq. 1)
Best Cafes in Plaka
Yiasemi, a picturesque place that is the most Instagrammable bistro-café in the neighbourhood, with tables outside on the staircase. You can just sit and relax, watching people go by. (Mnisikleous 23)
Café Melina, a retro café dedicated to Greek actress and political activist Melina Merkouri. (Lysiou 22).
Kimolia Art Café, a backstreet, colourful and unique café, hidden in the alleyways of Plaka. (Ypereidou 5)
Anafiotika Café, stands out for its position, on the famous steps. Ideal for a coffee during a morning stroll or a Greek meze later on in the day. (Mnisikleous 24)
Café Plaka, for its fireplace during winter and its calming roof terrace for the sunny mornings. Taste the pancakes and take photos in front of the pink house. (Tripodon 1)
O Glykys, a traditional kafeneio for coffee, tsipouro, homemade delicacies, and backgammon, of course. (Geronta 2)
Dioskouroi, a favourite student hangout – and not only! (Dioskouron 13)
For Casual Street Food
Souvlaki O Kostas – The best souvlaki of Athens. For almost 6 decades it remains untouched by the modern attempts of Greek souvlaki stores. It used to be at Adrianou 116 in Plaka since 1950 but in the last years, it was transferred a few streets further down. (Pentelis 5)
For a Cocktail/Wine
Brettos Athens’ oldest distillery- established in 1909 by Michail Brettos, it’s almost impossible to pass by and not pay attention to the illuminated bottles displayed behind the bar, filling the walls up to the ceiling. Specialising in colourful cocktails. (Kydathineon 41)
Mono Wine Restaurant– An all-day wine restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, fancy cocktail recipes, and more than 120 choices of wine, it’s two steps away from Plaka. (Mpenizelou Palaiologou 4)
Oinoscent – Just a step outside Plaka’s borders too, this wine bar has more than 1000 bottles to choose from. (Voulis 45-47)
Insider Tips- Something you may not know about Plaka is that during the 60s it used to be the place for traditional boîtes,small live music venues, like cabarets, inspired by the French Nouvelle Vague cinema movement. Today most of them are closed (like the legendary boîte Esperides) but you can still find a few, like Apanemia and Vatraxoi. For traditional Greek live music, you can also visit Lyra, which fills the alleyway with music every night, and the Perivoli tou Ouranou, one of the oldest venues for laikain Athens.
For Some Fine Dining…
2Mazi – boasting modern interiors inside a neoclassical mansion, they serve inventive gastronomic creations using local products. It’s a tasty twist on Greek (island) cuisine. (Nikis Street 48)
Daphne’s Restaurant – One of the most famous Athenian restaurants with Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, a hot spot for politicians, artists, and celebrities. (Lisikratous 4)
Best Desserts in Plaka
Arte Athens – Unique and traditional handmade gelato, using fresh ingredients. (Tripodon 16)
Maniera Gelateria – based on traditional Italian recipes, using natural Greek ingredients. (Adrianou 87)
Places to Shop
Flâneur – Here, contemporary Greek artists sell innovative handmade products, such as prints, t-shirts, and gifts. There are also items such as outdoor gear, backpacks etc. (Flessa 1)
Forget me Not – Souvenirs from contemporary Greek designers, including gifts, stationery, home accessories, clothing, and books as well. (Adrianou 100)
Ioanna Kourbela– One of the most celebrated contemporary Greek designers. The Kourbela family workshop opened in Plaka in 1971, offering handmade knitwear. (Adrianou 109)
Elaias Gi – At this shop, you can find a big selection of good quality olive oil and tree-based products, like soaps and kitchenware. (Adrianou 122). Same at Evonon (Adrianou 124)
Byzantino– Since 1987 Kostas and Babis have created ancient pieces of gold jewellery. (Adianou 120 & Pandrossou 17)
Angelo– The Ouzo King sells a great variety of Ouzo. (Adrianou 120)
For Greek leather sandals visit Sandals4u (Adrianou 88), Achillion (Adrianou 110) and Christonia Vintage (Adrianou 83).
Athens Protasis, for handmade products, designed and manufactured in Greece by taking raw materials from around the world. (Adrianou 136)
For Pre-Loved Items
Martinos Antiques – Since 1895, it is as much a museum as a shop. It boasts an impressive range of furniture, decorative items, Islamic art, fine art, and jewellery. (Pandrosou 50)
Elliniko Spiti – Dimitris Koutelieris makes in his workshop furniture and art of dismantled ships, houses, and other recycled materials. (Kekropos 14)
For Something Unique…
DotAhartis a special art lab, where you can apply your imagination to create your own ceramic inspired by Athens. A special place to buy handmade gifts as well. (Afroditis 12)
Best Parks & Gardens
Ragava Park or “Eleokipos” (Olive Garden), is a tiny park, where you can find the steps that lead to Stratonos Street and the gate to Anafiotika neighbourhood.
The charming Lysikrates Square with views of the Acropolis and the imposing Choragic Monument of Lysikrates.
Historical Finds…
The Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments opened in 1991, it’s constituted by the collection of musicologist Foivos Anogiannakis.
Frissiras Museum, opened in 2000, with contemporary European art.
The Jewish Museum, with a collection of rare books, textiles, and domestic and religious artifacts.
The Athens University Museum, with many transcripts and old photos,
The Museum of Pavlos and Alexandra Kanellopoulou, with archaeological finds and artworks from the prehistoric period up until nowadays
The Benizelos Mansion, the oldest house in Athens has been transformed into a museum.
The Children’s Museum, with art created by children.
Plus, the Roman Agora, was built between 19-11 BC as an expansion of the ancient Agora to the East, from donations of Julius Caesar and Augustus.
The Fethiye Mosque, the Agoranomion and the Tower of the Winds, a 12-meter-tall clocktower designed by the astronomer Andronikos of Cyrrhos, considered the first-ever meteorological station, and worked as a sundial, telling the time of the day by the position of the Sun in the sky, a waterclock (with water coming down from the Acropolis) and a wind vane.
The Choragic Monument of Lysikrates, a wealthy patron of theatrical plays performed in the theater of Dionysus. In 1658 a French Capuchin monastery was built on this site, where Lord Byron also stayed during his second visit to Greece. In 1818 the first tomatoes ever in Greece were planted in the monastery’s garden.
The 11/12th-century church of Agios Ioannis Theologos, the interior decorated by 13th-century Byzantine wall paintings, as well as the beautiful 11th-century church of Agios Nikolaos Ragavas. Moreover, the church of Agioi Anargyroi – Holy Metohi Panagiou Tafou, was constructed in the 17th century as a convent, and from the 18th century, it functioned as an embassy church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
The two-storey house at Periandrou Street was once the home of the great poet Kostis Palamas. There is also a marble slab to indicate so. At Kydathinaion 9, there is the residence of the families Seferiades and Tsatsos. The ground floor was allocated to Giorgos Seferiades, the famous Greek poet Giorgos Seferis. The upper floor was the residence of Ioanna Tsatsou, sister of Seferis and wife of Konstantinos Tsatsos, President of the Hellenic Republic during the period 1975-1980. At Dioskouroi Street 4, you can find the personal archives of Nobel Laureate poet Odysseus Elytis and an exact representation of the poets’ study room as well.
Don’t miss…
Cine Paris, an outdoor cinema where the screen is on the rooftop with a stunning view of the Acropolis. Its trademark is the Greek collectible versions of foreign films’ posters.
Anafiotika, is a unique neighbourhood within a neighbourhood. Like a small Cycladic island with white cubic houses and blue doors and windows, it’s partially covered by bougainvillea – built by craftsmen who were called by King Otto to build his palace-, Anafiotika is an oasis in the centre of the Greek capital.
The street art– Many philosophical artists have left their marks on the walls or stairs of Plaka. You can find phrases like “Next to you, I learned to live, I learned to exist” as well as, “Whatever we lost in the fire, we will find in the ashes” and “By stepping backward no one has ever moved forward” among others.
From retro wares to one-of-a-kind statement pieces, these vintage stores in Athens are stocked with treasures!
Many celebrities and fashion icons have jumped on the slow-fashion trend and many are advocating the advantages of buying second-hand clothing and accessories. Combining a long-lasting, high-quality bought item with vintage or interesting pre-used items is not only good for the planet but for one’s image too. Wearing used clothing that could have come from anywhere and that one selects as a particular attribute to their entirely personal style can make a world of difference.
Where once it was unheard of to wear something that wasn’t directly off the rack because it was considered dirty or a sign of poverty, constantly-evolving Athens has gained more and more second hand stores throughout the last decade. Here we present you with the best!
Our Bazaar
A large hall filled with treasures perfect for bazaar-lovers who like to hunt for the perfect item through piles and rows of things. Here you’ll find everything from accessories, shoes and clothing (mainly women’s but also for men and kids), paintings, decor items, jewellery and toys. It’s not a glamorous space but it’s very laid back and there is an ultra-glamorous corner featuring designerwear by fashion legends like Valentino, Armani and Stella McCartney at a fraction of the price they were originally sold at. You can also bring your own stuff and put it up for sale, receiving a commission from the final sale.
A: Drakou 33, Koukaki
Kilo shop
Note the colour of the plastic tag locked onto the clothing item or accessory of your choice and weigh it according to its price per kilo. This is the very place you need to visit if you’re looking for a gratifying variety of basic outfits like jeans, a white skirt or a striped or polka-dot shirt, although there are many other colourful and unique items to choose from too, from hats and dresses to belts and jumpsits that are vintage or coming from a vague, faraway galaxy.
A: Ermou 20, Thisseio
Guadeloupe
Near the Monastiraki metro in a small Psyrri sides-treet, this two-storey dinky shop showcases well-priced, sometimes unusual and even exotic items from all over the world. Many things here seem ordinary at first glance but are pretty special when you take a closer look.
A: Protogenous 11, Psirri
Preloved
In a cool little square graced by three buzzy bars and between the borders of Syntagma and Plaka you’ll find this luxury rendition of a second-hand clothing store. Preloved sells top designer gear by greats such as Chanel, Gucci, Diane Von Furstenberg and Yves Saint Laurent that is ideal for ladies who like to sparkle in sequins, faux fur, velvet and silk, without having paid an arm and
a leg for it. An additional bonus is that you’ll also find vintage designs from the ‘50s to the ‘80s to make you stand out even more.
A: Ipittou 5, Syntagma
Yesterday’s Bread
In rebellious Exarcheia known for its off-beat sense of style, this shop mainly sells second-hand and vintage and retro clothing and accessories from Amsterdam and Paris and is especially known for its Converse sneaker collection. This is also a favourite store for Athens’ passionate Swing-dancing community.
If you’re planning a stylish shopping pilgrimage to Kolonaki, there’s no need to leave the kids behind, or even have to dread bringing them along.
There are plenty of ways to combine adult interests (from shopping to the essential prosecco pit-stop) with things that will entertain your young ones too.
There are two playgrounds you can visit, both under the foothills of Lycabettus, and surrounded by greenery. The first is more ideally suited for children between baby and toddler ages, and is located in what is known as Deinokratous park, on the street of the same name. The large park is lovingly tended by the municipal gardeners as well as the parents who take their kids there, and includes a roundabout in one corner, several benches, and a marble drinking fountain. The playground itself is not very well shaded so it’s best to visit in ealy morning hours or late afternoon. It’s strewn with toys brought by residents so that besides the classic rides (swins, slide, climbing frame) young kids can find oodles of other entertainment.
The other playground is located in Dexameni square, right under the St George Lycabettus hotel. The steep downhill that leads to it is lined with little tables where you can have anything from cake and lemonade to fried calamari and lentil salad with ouzo. The square by the playground is ideal for scootering, football and hide and seek and during pre-Covid times it’s a great place for lingering until dark and then going to the open air Dexameni cinema.
Lycabettus hill itself is a lovely place to take kids of any age for a scenic nature walk, again, ideally during the cooler hours of the day. You can either take the teleferique cable car – an adventure in itself for younger kids (on Aristippou 3) or simply enjoy a leisurely uphill walk, stopping to look at the lovely panoramic views of the city, and even down to Piraeus harbour. Head up to the Church of St George for the best view of all.
The most exciting museum to visit with kids in Kolonaki is by far the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology(Pindarou 16), where you can see models (many real-size and all very artfully crafted) of inventions that you wouldn’t believe came from millennia ago. From the Antikithera Mechanism, to a door alarm and the first robot – which served guests wine – this museum is not to be missed.
Children also love The War Museum (Rizari 2) next to Evangelismos metro. Apart from the many artefacts, pohotographs, weapons and uniforms housed inside, visitors are allowed to climb steps and peek into a great variety of historical war planes, cannons and more.
Kalamaki Kolonaki
Mailos The Pasta Project
Mum, I’m hungry!
Kolonaki is full of cafes and restaurants, but there are a few places that are especially great for kids, and more budget-friendly too.
Kalamaki Kolonaki (Ploutarchou 32) Meat on a stick (beef, pork, chicken) and delicious hand-cut fresh fries to various salads and dips. Relaxed, comfortable setting and tolerance for kids who like to get up and play.
Yoleni’s (Solonos 9) A big variety of homemade-style fresh savoury pies, sandwiches and pies.
Filippou (Xenokratous 19) A classic Greek taverna-restaurant with homemade-style stews, fish and meat dishes, pies and other Greek classics. Don’t miss out on the prawn salad.
Mailo’s The Pasta Project (Patriarchou Ioakim 39) Freshly-made, quick, delicious and affordable. There are a few tables to sit at or just grap it in a tub on the go.
A paradise for shoppers, pedestrianised Ermou Street stretches over one and a half kilometres in the centre of Athens. This is the busiest and most expensive commercial street in Greece, making it a must-see destination.
Visitors can begin their leisurely stroll from Syntagma Square. Across from Parliament you walk down a set of stairs that lead you to a charming fountain- from here you are able to begin your walk all the way through to Monastiraki.
Along the way you will come across a variety of stores that stock international brands and local designers.
Athens’ shopping strip is also popular thanks to its laid-back vibe, with musicians and other artists busking outdoors- providing a cool and lively buzz- both day and night.
However, most do come to shop and from high-end clothing to handmade shoes, leather goods, embroidery, and designer jewellery – there is something here for everyone. But if you aren’t really into fashion don’t despair you can also find some great food stores that sell local delicacies such as herbs, teas, olive oil, nuts, and cheeses. Otherwise grab yourself some Greek street food, or sit at one of the many cafes or bars and enjoy a coffee or dessert.
As you walk along, you will also come across one of the oldest churches in the Greek capital. The Byzantine Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea is in a small square, on the east section of Ermou Street. The historic 11th-century church stands out, with its beautiful icons created by Fotis Kondoglou.
If it’s all about the shopping- you are definitely in the right spot. From beauty stores such as Sephora and Mac through to the largest retailers in fast fashion- Zara, H&M, Pull & Bear and Bershka, you will find them all at Ermou. For those who love shoes, make sure you stop off at Migato, Mourtzo and Tsakiris Mallas, which are local brands. We also suggest you make time to check out the streets parallel to Ermou, for lots more stylish boutiques and designer wear.
As you make your way down, you will arrive at the heart of Monastiraki, which is famous for its flea market. Here you will discover a variety of stores including souvenir shops, vintage and second-hand shops. It’s the perfect place to pick up all your bric-a-brac and enjoy the fun game of bargaining. Monastiraki, (meaning little monastery) is a distinctive area, with narrow streets criss-crossing streets, and small buildings. It is located in the old quarters of the city.
The area is home to several clothing stores, specialty stores, and you will also find plenty of places to eat. If you are after leather sandals, traditional clothes, Greek football jerseys, used or new furniture, old books, vinyls, antiques and inexpensive gifts to take home- this is where you will find them. Keep in mind that most stores are open Monday-Saturday 9am to 9pm and are closed on Sunday.
There are certain Sundays throughout the year whereby the stores are open- usually over Christmas, Easter, New Years or during sale season.
We love spending endless hours walking along the elegant streets of Kolonaki, a fashionable neighbourhood that has no shortage of high-end boutiques, stylish concept stores, cool cafes, trendy bars, and classy restaurants. So we’ve put together an in-depth guide revealing our favourite places to shop around here- designed to help you discover this ultra-chic district.
Part One | Concept Stores
SOPHIA Enjoy Thinking Live is an art and design lovers’ heaven where you can source stunning and unique handmade home decor, lifestyle, and fashion items, stationery, as well as organic beauty products. Here you can also take part in curated events and workshops with talented local artists and designers.
A: Pindarou 15, Athina
A: Solonos 36, Athina
Graffito
Philos Athens is a multifunctional space that brings together stunning designs and homeware items. It serves as a restaurant, cafe, event space, retail, and design studio. The beautiful shop is set up in a historical Athenian residence, offering a unique glimpse into Ancient Greek history and architecture. The store is currently closed due to COVID 19 but will be opening its doors again shortly.
A: Solonos 32, Athina
Philos Athens
DTalesis a revolutionary way to buy fashion. The pioneering store brings together designer wear from Paris, New York, Australia, and Europe, allowing customers to shop an unparalleled range of labels and pieces as well as beauty products, perfumes, accessories, deco-art treasures, and statement jewellery.
A: 6, Xanthou Street
i-D CONCEPT STORES is a curated space showcasing Greek fine jewellery designers, colourful, eclectic apparel, unique objects, and upcoming brands. This store is designed to allow visitors to feel and sense the merchandise and you will find a range of labels you won’t find elsewhere.