Bazaar At Monastiraki In Athens, Greece

The Bazaar at Monastiraki is a huge flea market where people gather to sell their items. You can find people offering anything from exquisite jewelry made from gold and silver to bric-a-brac, old antiques that are in disrepair. Many of the items you will find have come from Russia, Kazakhstan and Georgia being sold by Greeks who migrated to Athens.

The Monastiraki bazaar has been going on since the 11th century. It began with old stalls and tables set along fields so that the poor people could sell their wares for coins.

Today, you can take the subway, called the Monastiraki, to this great event. The train will drop you off at a station that is within walking distance to the bazaar.

Upon arrival, you will see some of the original buildings used in the early years when this bazaar began. They are beginning to decay, but the charm remains. Thousands of people from all over the world are drawn to this event. They are seeking treasures to bring back with them. There are no set prices and you have to bargain and haggle.

Haggling is an art that can be learned. If you are very good at it, you can get almost any item rather cheap. When first learning, you might try a skeptical look while mumbling with uncertainty. Just watch as the prices come down. They will usually compromise with a polite argument. Remember, once you enter the shop you will be watched very closely. The owner's eyes will be on you the whole time.

Like so many flea markets, you will be drawn in by the smell of food. There are many cafes offering authentic Greek food for you to enjoy as well.