The intersection of eras, the intersection of cultures - and that's all about her, the amazing country of the Mediterranean, Greece. There seem to be more shops than people here, as trade and tourism are the most lucrative industries for Greece. This is a true shopping paradise, and the service and prices will impress you.
So, if you went to Greece not for a Mediterranean tan, but for shopping, then you can be sure that you will fully complete your task. The Greeks have been engaged in trade since ancient times due to the favorable location of the country. Goods are brought here from everywhere and in large quantities.
Trade culture
A special centuries-old culture of trade reigns here, the prevailing atmosphere, special procedures in customer service. Each seller will meet you as a dear guest, offer the best product and will not let you go until you agree to buy at least something from him.
Prices can be artificially inflated, but if you know how to bargain, and most importantly, have a sense of tact and a healthy dose of humor, then a compliant seller can even discount you half the price.
Any Greek city has a couple of main shopping streets with open-air markets, souvenir lavas, shopping centers and brand shops, where you can buy from a porcelain plate with the symbols of Greece to an exclusive fur coat.
Goods for every taste
Most of the shoppers go to Greece for furs. These are not necessarily fur coats, they are not in trend. Today, fashion designers offer numerous fur boas, capes, vests, stylized jackets with sheared fur. The largest selection in Kastoria, almost all tour operators organize shopping tours there with a free transfer.
Those who love interior decorations will like the numerous breakdowns where you can find really worthwhile designer items, wooden figurines made of olive wood, and ceramics. The Greeks have preserved the traditions of painting kitchen and tableware, and therefore it is possible to bring a set of plates with beautiful handmade ornaments, perhaps, only from Greece.
Ladies do not ignore Greek cosmetics, which are mostly based on olive oil. Inexpensive and high-quality brand - "Aphrodite", more expensive and with a large assortment - "Corres".
Men and gourmets are bringing ouzo, this is the local vodka. Quite worthy. Olives, different types of olive oil, honey, rose wine, local spices (especially for confectionery) are all export-oriented goods, and therefore tourists can buy them in gift wrapping, bags or baskets that are convenient to transport.
Greek traditions
Greek hypermarkets are open on weekdays from 8 am to 9 pm. Everybody rests on weekends. Remember this when shopping.
During the season of summer and winter discounts, tourists from all countries come to Greek cities. And this is not surprising, because such an abundance of European goods and a collapse in prices are not found everywhere. If you expect to get into the sales season, you should hurry up and be in time for its very beginning, because the running sizes and goods are sold out in the first days and hours of the opening of the sale.
In Greece, German and Greek-French shops are widespread, which are distinguished by good quality goods with very reasonable prices. In the Greek capital, there are hypermarkets with domestic goods, usually they have orange signs. Such hypermarkets often have one-time promotions and sales, where you can save a lot of money. It is worth paying attention to them.
Souvenirs and handicrafts are best purchased from small shops on the streets of Greek cities or from open-air bazaars. Here you can make a good bargain with the seller and purchase an exclusive handmade product.
