Tips on getting a good deal while shopping in Athens

[kcixcy]

One important thing to know while shopping in Athens, especially at the tourist places is that no price is the final price! When shopping, it is not considered rude to barter and negotiate prices (politely). I recommend doing this especially if you are purchasing a few items or paying with cash. Usually, the shop owner will give you a lower price if you are buying more things. Remember to always be polite when bartering and know that you shouldn't go too low, people should still be paid fairly.

 

[ellinasgolfer0320]

Try to speak a little Greek, but if they learn you're Australian, Canadian, or American then good luck. They specifically target people from those countries because they're known for spending the most.

 

[seleanor]

Try to speak a little Greek, but if they learn you're Australian, Canadian, or American then good luck. They specifically target people from those countries because they're known for spending the most.

This is very true, but if your Greek isn't perfect, they will always notice. The shop tellers seem to be very very aware of who is Greek and who isn't. I was travelling in Athens with one of my very good friends who is Greek American and speaks very good Greek, and they knew right away that she wasn't from there.

 

[ellinasgolfer0320]

This is very true, but if your Greek isn't perfect, they will always notice. The shop tellers seem to be very very aware of who is Greek and who isn't. I was travelling in Athens with one of my very good friends who is Greek American and speaks very good Greek, and they knew right away that she wasn't from there.

I was in Athens with an American friend one year, and wevwere at a kiosk buying a drink. We both bought a coke but he was charged €1.50 and I was charged €0.50 because I spoke greek (I've got an American accent when I speak Greek).

 

[seleanor]

I was in Athens with an American friend one year, and wevwere at a kiosk buying a drink. We both bought a coke but he was charged €1.50 and I was charged €0.50 because I spoke greek (I've got an American accent when I speak Greek).

Ahaha I didn't know they were so obvious about it! I've never seen that happen, you are lucky!

 

[k_tsoukalas]

I was in Athens with an American friend one year, and wevwere at a kiosk buying a drink. We both bought a coke but he was charged €1.50 and I was charged €0.50 because I spoke greek (I've got an American accent when I speak Greek).

That's interesting!!! I speak a little Greek but I have't noticed a difference either way. My parents speak it well, and it was my dad's first language, and I am usually in Greece with them.