The Central Market offers everything from whole lamb to octopus tentacles in the heart of Athens.
Known as Varvakios Market, it is named after a former pirate who became a Greek national hero. Meats are displayed on marble counters, and you can savor the delicious taste of Greece. Fresh fish, olives, nuts, herbs, spices, and more are available. At the entrance from Athinas Street, you’ll find the freshest fish arriving daily from Naxos, Kavala, Kalymnos, Paros, Evia, and Symi.
The Central Market is lively every day, attracting both locals and tourists. Cafés and restaurants provide opportunities to indulge your taste buds. One of the most famous soups is patsas, made from veal tripe, a recipe brought to Greece by refugees from Asia Minor in 1922. Another notable spot is Stoa ton Athanaton, a rebetadiko where you can enjoy a glass of wine or raki and a meze while listening to live Greek music.
Public transport
- By metro: closest metro station is Omonia (Red Line), then a 5-minute walk needed
- By bus: closest bus stop is Dimarxeio
Market days
Monday to Saturday
Opening hours on market days
Monday: 7am – 6pm
Tuesday: 7am – 6pm
Wednesday: 7am – 6pm
Thursday: 7am – 6pm
Friday: 7am – 6pm
Saturday: 7am – 6pm
Sunday: closed
