Published on
December 31, 2025
As the New Year approaches, retail stores across Greece are adjusting their hours to accommodate last-minute shoppers on December 31, 2025. In preparation for the New Year’s Eve closures, many shops, including supermarkets and local boutiques, will remain open for part of the day, allowing both locals and tourists to stock up on goods before the holiday festivities begin. These special shopping hours make it easier for visitors to Greece to enjoy their holiday shopping, even if they’ve left it until the final day of the year.
Whether looking for souvenirs, food, or gifts, Greece’s retail landscape ensures that visitors can make the most of their time in the country before heading into New Year celebrations. Tourists who are spending the holiday in Athens, Thessaloniki, or the Greek islands can take advantage of these extended hours to pick up essential items and gifts in preparation for the coming year.
Holiday Shopping in Greece: Key Retail Hours and Locations
In Athens, the capital city of Greece, Syntagma Square and the surrounding areas are bustling with shops offering a range of holiday goods, from clothing to local artisan products. On New Year’s Eve, many stores in central Athens will be open until the early afternoon, with major shopping streets like Ermou Street remaining active for last-minute shoppers. Monastiraki and Plaka, famous for their markets and street vendors, will also have a festive atmosphere, providing opportunities for unique and traditional purchases, such as handcrafted jewelry, Greek olive oil, and local delicacies.
The same festive shopping atmosphere can be found in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city. Shops in the Aristotelous Square and along the main commercial streets, such as Tsimiski Street, will observe extended hours, allowing both local residents and tourists to enjoy the holiday spirit while shopping for gifts, decorations, and foodstuffs before the New Year’s celebrations. Thessaloniki’s Modiano Market is also expected to see high foot traffic, with visitors eager to find unique products and souvenirs to take home.
Outside of the major cities, popular tourist islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete will offer holiday shopping hours for visitors enjoying the quieter winter months. While some shops and markets may close early on New Year’s Eve, key retailers and souvenir shops in the more tourist-centric areas will maintain extended operating hours. Island visitors can still find local crafts, jewelry, and food items like olives, honey, and wines to take back home.
Supermarket and Grocery Shopping Hours
For those staying in Greece over the New Year, supermarkets will also observe adjusted hours on New Year’s Eve. Supermarket chains like Sklavenitis, AB Vassilopoulos, and Lidl will typically close earlier in the afternoon on December 31, allowing customers to pick up essential items for their New Year celebrations. Some smaller neighbourhood shops may operate for longer periods, particularly in busy areas like Athens’ Kifisia and Kolonaki districts.
With Greek traditions often centered around communal meals, such as the New Year’s Eve dinner, it’s important for shoppers to secure ingredients like meats, cheese, and bakery products before the stores close. Local markets in towns across Greece will also offer fresh produce, seafood, and traditional baked goods, allowing visitors to experience authentic Greek flavors and create their own festive meals.
Tourism in Greece During New Year’s Eve
While many tourists visit Greece in the warmer months to enjoy its beaches and historical landmarks, the holiday season offers a different kind of charm, with vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations and quieter, more relaxed tourist experiences. Athens hosts a large New Year’s Eve party in Syntagma Square, where thousands gather to celebrate the end of the year with live music, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere.
For those staying on the islands, the New Year’s Eve experience is typically more intimate, with local bars and restaurants offering a more traditional celebration with family-style meals and music. Many visitors come to these islands not only for the tranquil surroundings but also for the chance to experience Greek hospitality and cultural traditions in a more serene environment compared to the summer crowds.
Additionally, the New Year’s Day celebration in Greece often includes family gatherings, with many locals participating in the cutting of the Vasilopita cake, a traditional custom where a coin is hidden inside, and the person who finds it is said to have good luck for the year. This custom is one of the many ways that visitors can learn about Greek cultural practices and join in the country’s festive traditions.
Shopping and Dining Tips for Tourists
Tourists planning to visit Greece during the holiday season should be aware that many businesses, especially restaurants and smaller shops, may close early on New Year’s Eve. It’s advisable to book reservations in advance for New Year’s Eve dinners, particularly at traditional Greek tavernas or fine-dining restaurants, as they often offer special menus to celebrate the occasion.
For New Year’s Day, many shops and cafes will be closed, but tourist-friendly restaurants and hotels typically offer festive meals for those looking to experience New Year’s Day in Greece.
Conclusion: A Festive Time to Visit Greece
With the Great British Rail Sale and New Year celebrations drawing travelers to Spain, Italy, and the UK, Greece remains a strong holiday destination for those seeking festive experiences, historical exploration, and seasonal shopping. Shopping hours during New Year’s Eve are designed to offer visitors flexibility to purchase their last-minute gifts or essentials before the festivities begin, while the rest of the holiday season provides ample opportunity to enjoy the Greek cultural experience in both cities and islands.
