Are you debating how your summer will look like, but you don't want to be on your stomach and back? We have news for you. The summer of 2024 is a perfect time to go on a shopping holiday in the fashion capitals of Europe. Because when the temperatures rise, the sales start and not only in stores. These days the Arkia airline joins the sales celebration and offers a variety of flights at surprising prices, which will suit shopping enthusiasts who simply cannot give up Europe in the summer.
Whether you're looking for the most coveted designer pieces, unique vintage bargains or simply new holiday clothes, Europe is the perfect destination for you. With a host of fascinating cities, each with its own unique character and fashion style, you can find everything you've dreamed of and at unbelievable prices.
Athens: Greek chic and Mediterranean tradition
You might not believe it, because Greece is still seen in our eyes as suitable only for a stomach-back vacation, but the Greek capital offers a fascinating combination of ancient history, rich culture and a vibrant fashion scene. In the summer, the picturesque alleys of the old town, the Plaka, come alive with souvenir shops, handmade jewelry, light linen clothes and leather sandals.
Ermou Street - the main shopping street of Athens, starting at Syntagma Square and reaching Monastiraki Square. Here you will find all the well-known international chains, such as Zara, H&M and Mango, alongside local Greek shops offering original design clothes, shoes and jewellery. Don't forget to also take a look at the side alleys of Ermo, where you will find vintage shops and interesting bookstores.
Kolonaki neighborhood (Kolonaki) - a prestigious neighborhood with prestigious boutique shops of Greek and international designers. Here you will find unique and designed items that you will not find anywhere else. Kolonaki is also home to trendy cafes and restaurants, so you can combine shopping with a pampering coffee break or a delicious lunch.
Monastiraki Flea Market - Athens' lively flea market, located in Monastiraki Square. Here you can find everything from everything, from antique furniture and jewelry to second hand clothes and souvenirs. The market is open every day, but is most lively on Sundays.
How much will it cost you: $180 for a flight to Athens with Arkia on July 13-15.
Rome: La Dolce Vita of the Celes
The magical capital of Italy offers a perfect combination of history, culture and fashion. In the summer, its picturesque streets become a colorful fashion runway, with boutique shops and coveted Italian brands offering tempting discounts.
Via del Corso (Via del Corso) - the main street of Rome, crowded with people and full of shops of all kinds. Here you will find all the well-known chains, such as Zara, H&M, Mango and more, alongside local Italian stores such as OVS and Coin that offer fashionable items at affordable prices.
The most convenient way to get to Via del Corso is by metro (line A, Spagna or Flaminio station). Before you go on your shopping trip, don't forget to eat a good breakfast that will give you energy for the long day ahead - a fine Italian cappuccino and a buttery croissant are a great start. You will also find a variety of cafes and restaurants along the street, such as Antico Caffè Greco, the oldest cafe in Rome, or Giolitti, a famous ice cream parlor with unique flavors.
Via dei Condotti - the most prestigious street in Rome, home to prestigious fashion houses such as Gucci, Prada, Valentino, Bulgari and Armani. If you are looking for luxury items, this is the place for you. Look for classic and timeless models from these brands, such as Gucci's Jackie bag or Valentino's Rockstud shoes.
Porta Portese Flea Market - the largest and most famous flea market in Rome, held every Sunday morning. Here you can find unique vintage bargains, antiques, second hand clothes, jewelry, books and more. Don't forget to bargain! Arrive early to avoid the crowds and grab the best bargains. You will also find here authentic Italian street food stalls, such as pizza al taglio and fresh pasta.
How much will it cost you: $399 for a flight to Rome with Arkia, on August 26 to September 4
Barcelona: Shopping in Catalan style
The vibrant capital of Catalonia is a paradise for fashion lovers. With wide boulevards, spectacular architecture and shops of all kinds and types, Barcelona is the perfect destination for a summer shopping holiday.
Passeig de Gracia - Barcelona's famous boulevard, home to luxury brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci, which offer significant discounts in sales. You can easily reach Passeig de Gràcia by metro (line L3, Passeig de Gràcia station). Do not miss a visit to the boutiques of Spanish designers such as Loewe and Adolfo Dominguez, which offer unique and high-quality designs.
El Corte Ingles (El Corte Ingles) - Spain's famous department store, where you will find everything from everything, from clothes and shoes to electronics and food. El Corte Inglés is located in Plaça Catalunya, the central square of Barcelona. The upper floors of the department store offer a spectacular panoramic view of the city, and it also has a gourmet restaurant and a deli with a large selection of cheeses and sausages.
El Born - a picturesque neighborhood with narrow alleys and unique boutique shops. Here you can find clothes from local designers such as Custo Barcelona and Desigual, handmade jewelry and vintage items. El Born is also a great place to sit in a cafe or tapas bar and watch the lively local atmosphere. Don't miss the Mercat de Santa Caterina food market, which offers a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, sausages and local foods.
How much will it cost you: $399 for a flight to Barcelona with Arkia on the dates 7/21 to 7/28.
Important tips for your shopping trip
Prepare yourself: Before you go on your shopping trip, make sure you have enough Papanoya credit limit and inform your credit company about your upcoming trip.
Comfortable clothing: Wear light and comfortable clothes that will be easy to take off and put back on in measurements, and comfortable shoes for a lot of walking.
Trolley: Take an empty trolley with you to make it easier to carry the bags.
Planning in advance: Make a list of stores you want to visit, and check their location and opening hours.
Shopping order: Start with the larger and more expensive purchases, such as shoes and coats, and move on to the smaller, cheaper items later.
Breaks: Don't forget to stop for coffee and pastry breaks to recharge your batteries and continue your shopping trip.
Secure payment and tax refunds
Credit card: The most convenient and safest way to pay in Europe. Make sure you have enough available credit and inform your credit company about the trip abroad.
Local currency: You should convert some money to the local currency (euro, euro), in case you want to pay cash in small shops or markets. You can exchange money at the airport, banks or money changers.
Tax refund: Tourists are entitled to a tax refund on shopping in Europe. Keep your receipts and check the conditions for receiving a tax refund in each country. Generally, you will need to show your receipts and passport at the airport before your flight back to Israel.