Alternative Urban Shopping

Greek multicultural and historic flea markets Ever since the antiquity, the centre of Athens has hosted the city’s commercial life. The Monastiraki flea market starts from the vivid Monastiraki Square and snakes through the surrounding streets right in the heart of the buzzing capital. Avissynias Square is where you’ll find antiques loaded with the power of nostalgia. On weekends, vintage traders sell used and new furniture, records, books, homewares, and colourful bric à brac, so you’ll find a treat or two, whatever your style or budget. Explore handicrafts with a historical content, handmade locally by craftsmen who use traditional age-old techniques and produce items such as wooden backgammon sets, Graeco-roman style leather sandals and gold jewellery. It is definitely worth the stroll! On a Sunday morning, make your way through the Piraeus flea market, which carries everything from Greek embroidery to musical instruments. Purchase second hand rarities at a trivial cost. An oriental flea market is the famous Bit Bazaar of Thessaloniki city, lined with food establishments. Why not combine a pleasant walk around the market with a delicious meal like locals do? Whichever market you visit in Greece, take the opportunity to mingle with local artisans and browse around colourful stalls with items, trinkets and hidden treasures. You can also find different options of local street food. You will discover this is a vibrant cultural experience for offer hunters, keen collectors or for anyone willing to take a journey in time! Dimitra Iliadi Angela Christopoulou