After a few days in Mykonos, Greece, you will probably have already seen all the attractions and beaches – it's time to shop. Shopping in Mykonos is not limited to touristy souvenirs, however. Many of the stores don't have names, but each one has its own unique atmosphere. From hand-made leather sandals to gorgeous jewelry, there is a limitless supply of authentic, local products to choose from.
Cotton shirts hang on display in a nameless store in Mykonos.
It won't be hard for you to find something you love from the start. In the first store on Matoyianni Street, I found the most gorgeous rose gold bracelet that I assumed would be difficult to find in the other stores. I bought the bracelet, but in the next store (and several others), there were identical ones. Although the design was popular, I don't regret my purchase.
The rose-gold bracelet that I purchased for 20 euro.
Thousands of unique jewelry designs are available at shops in Mykonos. Prices range from affordable to expensive, and the more luxurious items are usually locked up.
If you are looking for a casual shirt or dress with a Greek style, you might have some trouble finding one at an affordable price. Basically all cotton, Greek shirts for women or men are over 30 euro. When I walked in my last store for the day, the women’s shirts were still 35 euro. But here's a great trick: buy a child’s size 12! For only 20 euro, I treated myself to a 100% cotton, pinstriped blue and white shirt, made in Greece.
Here I stand on the coast of Mykonos wearing my new shirt. I paired it with white shorts and comfortable Nike sneakers, since I knew I’d be doing a lot of walking!
Even if you don't pIan on buying anything, you will have a great experience just wandering through the narrow pathways. There are another row of shops at every corner you turn. Many of the shops even have goods on display outside. This is a common tactic that shop owners use to attract customer attention.
UF study abroad student Lauren Seewald shops for sunglasses and hats outside a shop in Mykonos.
The most distinct shop on Matoyianni Street is called Kampanas, which sells hundreds of hand-made sandals. The shop smells of rich leather – basically, that “new shoe” scent fills the whole place. It's also one of the only stores that has an obvious title.
A variety of sandals are made and sold at Kampanas.
The only obstacle that may stop you from buying shoes is there is if you don't have plenty of space in your suitcase. Many of the shoes, specifically the ones with platforms and heels, are also quite heavy and would add weight to your luggage, even if you find the space.
If you’re interested in purchasing leather goods, but not specifically shoes, there are multiple shops that sell leather purses and wallets.
The vibrant leather items for sale appear very well-made, but the prices are a little steep. A small shoulder bag costs 80 euro.
Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, shopping in Mykonos is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. You will really enjoy getting lost in the winding pathways and admiring all of the handmade items for sale. Many of the shop owners also make the products they sell, which adds an authentic touch to any item you decide to take home.
