Where to Shop

Currency

Greece's monetary unit is the Euro. No other currency is accepted and it is best to exchange currency at a bank. The exchange rates are all the same throughout the country and you exchange money at a bank or official exchange shop where you will get the best running rates. Banks are open from 8:30 AM until 2:30 PM. Needless to say that if you come from any European Union country you would not have to worry about exchanging any money since the Euro is the shared currency of the EU.The best way to access money while in Greece is through the ATMs that are present in every large or small city. If you have a debit card that doubles as a Visa or MC you can access your money right from your bank account.

The ATMs disperse Euro. Every bank in Greece has an updated currency conversion chart displayed on their window, so you can get a general idea of how much money you are really withdrawing. Before you go to Greece, find out if your destination has an ATM. Chances are that it does, but some small towns don't have a bank. Some ATMs don't allow withdrawals above a certain amount. Most banks have a limit on the amount one can withdraw through ATMs. Before you leave for Greece check with your bank to see what the withdraw limit is per day.

Shopping

Super Markets

Greek supermarkets can be found in every suburb and area and their products vary from dairy products to clothing. They operate between 9:00 am until 21:00 on business days and up to 20:00 on Saturdays. On Sundays all major shops are closed but you can always find grocery stores or kiosks that are open 24/7.

Supermarkets are as expected divided in sections with signs over each corridor indicating the products found however, employees will be happy to assist you with your shopping and direct you should you ask them. During your checkout, you can use plastic bags that are free of charge in most supermarkets. If you desire to pay via a credit card most shops will accept them so no need to worry. Additionally many supermarkets have launched the use of bonus cards so if you acquire one check for your points in order to get a discount or free household equipment.

Recently many big supermarket chains offer the service of online shopping where you can choose the closest store and get what you have bought delivered for free to your house.

Green Markets

Green markets have been a part of greek life for centuries. The motivation for their creation was so as to help farmers and agricultural producers sell their products at reasonable prices, without the interference of middle-persons. Hence green markets (known as laikes agores) brim with fresh green products and fruit, and every town or village has their weekly market. These markets start as soon as 5:30 am up 3:00 pm when sellers have lowered their prices so as to promote their remaining merchandise.

Other Shopping

You can by all means, you will be impressed by the variety of goods offered at large department stores and malls. Shops operate from 9:00 am - 3:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, however many of them are open from 9:00 to 21:00 during business days and from 9:00 to 19:00 on Saturdays.

Greek shops brim with designer clothes such as the one found in Kolonaki, where you can go window-shopping at one Athens' most chic and aristocratic area. Recently big malls have been attracting consumers, which are places that also roof big cinema multiplexes, electronic goods shops, restaurants and cafes.

Keep in mind that bargaining is always on the table when it comes to greek stores, especially flee markets or shops in areas such as Monastiraki, so along with your stroll and uzo you can find the time to purchase.

Sales periods in Greece last between the 15th of January till the end of February and from mid July until the 31st of August, though you can find special offers beyond these time frames as well.