The best fashion and gift stores Central Greece

Timetable

Shops are generally open from Monday to Saturday, from 8am to 8pm, with a closing period at lunchtime. However, the opening hours adapt to the number of tourists: it is not uncommon for a shop to close at 10pm or even later during the high season. Out of season, it is generally the opposite, with many tourist shops simply closed, especially on the coast.

Budget & Tips

You will find cheaper items in the markets or cooperatives where the locals go. Credit cards are generally accepted in all stores. Finally, without being smokers, we feel obliged to remind you that

the price of a pack of cigarettes varies around 4 to 5 € only in Greece, that is to say twice cheaper than in France...

Sales

The periods (more and more frequent) and habits are the same as elsewhere in Europe, including "Black Friday"! Nevertheless, the main sales periods are in January-February and then again in July, but the islands do not necessarily follow these calendars, especially in high season when it is a question of earning enough money for the rest of the year. As a result, you will find good deals in the larger cities that do not depend solely on the tourist season.

What's very local

Bargaining is not, frankly, the norm in Greece. But a discount is sometimes offered if you pay in cash... On a daily basis, you can also buy all kinds of local products in grocery stores, bakeries and mini-markets on the islands. Outside the cities, some farmers sometimes sell the surplus in the back of their vans. As for fishing, on the coasts, it often goes directly to taverns and restaurants. But some fishermen will be willing to sell you what's left. All you have to do is ask nicely

Tourist traps

Many items sold in tourist places are not made in Greece. Beware of fake local souvenirs: bracelets against the evil eye, sponges, pumice stones, reproductions of icons or ancient statuettes are rarely Greek-made. Always opt for an artisan, rather than for the made-in-China souvenir stores. The latter flood the streets of Athens and Plaka in particular. And, wherever you are, beware of counterfeits: the customs, upon arrival, will be merciless if you get caught!