The Footwear Tradition in Athens
Greece has a long history of leather craftsmanship, and Athens has been home to sandal makers and shoemakers for generations. Walking the city's marble streets, hills, and archaeological sites makes comfortable footwear essential, while its fashionable neighborhoods demand style. This combination has produced a footwear culture that values both craftsmanship and contemporary design.
Visitors and locals can find everything from handcrafted sandals in Monastiraki and Plaka to luxury designer shoes in Kolonaki and popular Greek shoe chains in shopping centers. Here are ten of the best footwear brands and retailers in Athens.
The Top 10 Footwear Brands in Athens
1. Ancient Greek Sandals
Ancient Greek Sandals is an internationally recognized brand that handcrafts leather sandals inspired by classical Greek art and mythology. Each pair is made in Greece using natural leather and traditional techniques. The brand blends timeless designs with modern comfort and is sold in luxury boutiques worldwide, making it a true symbol of Greek craftsmanship.
2. Kalogirou
Kalogirou is a prestigious Greek luxury retailer known for shoes, handbags, and accessories. Its stores showcase both its own designs and international designer brands. For decades, Kalogirou has been a destination for shoppers seeking elegant, high-quality footwear for special occasions and everyday sophistication.
3. Mourtzi
Mourtzi is a well-established Greek shoe retailer offering a large selection of men's and women's footwear. Its stores carry popular international brands alongside its own collections. Shoppers appreciate the variety, attentive service, and focus on comfort as well as style.
4. Migato
Migato is a Greek shoe and accessories brand known for modern, trend-led designs. Its collections include sneakers, boots, heels, and sandals at accessible prices. With a strong network of stores, it is popular among young shoppers who want fashionable footwear that follows the latest trends.
5. Envie Shoes
Envie Shoes is a Greek footwear brand offering stylish women's shoes at affordable prices. It is known for fast-moving fashion collections that include chunky sneakers, ankle boots, platforms, and sandals. Its youthful energy and frequent new arrivals keep customers coming back.
6. Exe
Exe is a Greek brand offering fashionable footwear, bags, and accessories. Its designs are bold yet wearable, and the brand has expanded internationally. Shoppers value its combination of contemporary style, comfort, and competitive pricing.
7. Sante
Sante is a Greek shoe manufacturer recognized for comfortable, quality women's footwear. Many designs are made in Greece with attention to fit and materials. The brand's balance of elegance and comfort makes it ideal for workdays and long walks around the city.
8. Fardoulis
Fardoulis is a respected Athenian shoe retailer with a long history serving local customers. It offers a curated selection of quality footwear for men, women, and children, with a reputation for knowledgeable staff and reliable products.
9. Tsakiris Mallas
Tsakiris Mallas is a Greek footwear and accessories brand known for modern designs that combine fashion with practicality. Its collections include casual sneakers, elegant heels, and versatile boots, appealing to style-conscious shoppers across Athens.
10. Mortoglou
Mortoglou is a Greek shoe retailer offering an extensive range of women's, men's, and children's footwear. Its stores feature well-known international brands as well as affordable fashion collections, making it a convenient destination for the whole family.
Where to Buy Shoes in Athens
For handmade sandals, explore the streets of Monastiraki and Plaka, where small workshops still create custom pairs. Ermou Street features popular Greek and international shoe chains, while Kolonaki and Kifisia offer luxury boutiques. Shopping malls provide convenience with many brands in one location.
Choosing the Right Footwear for Athens
Athens streets are often uneven, and many sites, including the Acropolis, have slippery marble surfaces. Shoes with good grip and support are essential for sightseeing. In summer, breathable leather sandals with cushioned soles are ideal, while lightweight sneakers work well year round. For evenings in Kolonaki or Glyfada, a stylish pair of flats or heeled sandals complements Athenian nightlife.
Footwear Trends in Greece
Handcrafted leather sandals remain iconic, but comfortable sneakers, chunky soles, and minimalist designs are also popular. Sustainability is growing in importance, with brands exploring vegetable-tanned leather, recycled materials, and local production that reduces environmental impact.
How We Selected These Brands
We evaluated craftsmanship, materials, comfort, design, value, and presence in Athens shopping districts. Brands that manufacture in Greece or support local artisans received extra consideration, as did retailers with a long track record of serving Athenian families. The result is a balanced list that covers iconic handmade sandals, luxury retail, everyday comfort shoes, and fast-moving fashion footwear.
Caring for Leather Sandals
Handmade leather sandals soften and mold to your feet over time. Keep them away from prolonged water exposure, condition the leather occasionally, and store them in a cool, dry place to keep them looking beautiful for many summers.
Final Thoughts
Athens is one of Europe's most rewarding cities for footwear shopping. Whether you seek handcrafted sandals rooted in ancient tradition or fashionable city shoes, these ten brands offer quality, comfort, and distinctive Greek style.