Shopping in Glyfada: the Athens Riviera's shopping streets
Metaxa and Kyprou streets, what's worth buying, getting there by tram and what to know about Greek shop hours.
- Metaxa Street is the main artery, with Zara, H&M and other chains.
- Parallel Kyprou Street is full of independent boutiques and concept stores.
- Most shops close on Sunday, and hours vary on other days.
If you're on the Riviera, Glyfada replaces the trip to Ermou. Plan a weekday morning and add a meal at Esperidon Square.
Why Glyfada is a shopping destination in Athens
Glyfada is a seaside suburb some 15–20 km south of central Athens, often called the capital of the Athens Riviera. Besides beaches, restaurants and nightlife, it has one of the city's largest shopping areas. Visit Greece, the national tourism body, calls its market "the heart of commerce in the southern suburbs". Many Israelis holidaying or living on the Riviera shop here instead of travelling to Ermou in the centre.
Glyfada's shopping streets
| Street | What you'll find |
|---|---|
| Metaxa | the main shopping artery, with international chains such as Zara and H&M |
| Kyprou | parallel to Metaxa and split by Esperidon Square. Independent boutiques, concept stores, jewellery and stylish pharmacies |
| Esperidon Square and around | cafés and restaurants between shops |
Athens Insider describes Kyprou as an "open mall": a whole street of small boutiques, women's and men's fashion, shoes and gifts. Shops change fairly often, so it's best to wander and explore.
What to buy in Glyfada
- Fashion: familiar chains as well as Greek designers and boutiques you won't find in Israel.
- Jewellery: "mati" (evil eye) bracelets and Greek-designed gold and silver pieces.
- Cosmetics: Greek pharmacies sell local skincare brands at prices that compare well with Israel.
- Swimwear and beachwear: fitting for Glyfada, with a big selection before summer.
Getting to Glyfada
- Tram: the coastal line from Syntagma passes through Glyfada. It's slowish but cheap.
- Taxi: from the centre or the airport. The fare depends on time and traffic.
- Car: there are paid car parks around the shopping area. Saturday mornings are busy.
Shopping tips for Glyfada
- Hours: Greek shop hours vary by day. Shops close early on some weekdays and stay open into the evening on others. Most shops are closed on Sunday. Check a specific shop's hours before you go.
- Shabbat: we know of no eruv or Jewish institution near the centre. Information on Shabbat and Chabad houses in Athens is on our Shabbat page.
- VAT refund: non-EU residents can claim a refund on large purchases in one shop. Ask for a Tax Free form at the till. Details in our VAT refund guide.
- Sales: Greece has regulated sale seasons in winter and summer.
More in the area: shopping in Athens, Athens Riviera beaches and where to stay on the Riviera.
FAQ
What is Glyfada's main shopping street? Metaxa Street, with the big fashion chains. Parallel to it is Kyprou Street, with independent boutiques.
How do I get to Glyfada from central Athens? By the coastal tram from Syntagma, by taxi or by car.
Are Glyfada's shops open on Sunday? Mostly not. Most shops in Greece close on Sundays, except at certain times and in tourist areas.
Is Glyfada better than Ermou for shopping? If you're staying or living on the Riviera, yes: the choice is wide and the atmosphere is calmer.
