Is Perfume Cheaper in Greece?
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Perfume shopping in Greece can be an enjoyable experience, especially for fragrance lovers looking for good deals. But is perfume cheaper in Greece compared to other countries like the UK, France, or the US? The answer depends on several factors including brand, store, tourist status, and local taxes. Let’s break it down.
Perfume Pricing in Greece: What You Should Know
1. VAT Rates in Greece
Greece applies a 24% Value Added Tax (VAT) on most consumer goods, including perfume. This tax is already included in retail prices, so it can make fragrances appear more expensive than in countries with lower VAT rates.
However, tourists from outside the EU may be eligible for VAT refunds, which could make perfumes more affordable post-purchase.
2. Competitive Retail Market
Greece has a highly competitive fragrance market with both local retailers and international chain stores offering a wide variety of perfumes. Some well-known perfume and cosmetics stores in Greece include:
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Hondos Center
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Attica
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Notos Galleries
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Sephora Greece
These retailers often run seasonal sales, loyalty discounts, and gift-with-purchase promotions, especially in tourist-heavy cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Santorini.
3. Airport Duty-Free Shopping
Greece’s international airports, particularly Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos), offer duty-free shopping for travelers flying outside the EU. Duty-free stores here stock:
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Chanel
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Dior
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Gucci
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Versace
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Tom Ford
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YSL
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Paco Rabanne
Prices in these duty-free zones can be 10–25% lower than retail stores, depending on the brand and promotions at the time.
Perfume Price Comparison (Greece vs Other Countries)
Perfume (100ml) | UK Price | US Price | Greece Retail Price | Greece Duty-Free |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dior Sauvage EDT | £100 | $125 | €110–€120 | €90–€100 |
Chanel No. 5 EDP | £120 | $150 | €130–€140 | €110–€120 |
YSL Libre EDP | £105 | $130 | €115–€125 | €95–€105 |
Armani Si EDP | £95 | $115 | €105–€115 | €85–€95 |
Note: 1 GBP ≈ 1.15 EUR, 1 USD ≈ 0.93 EUR (as of recent rates)
As you can see, Greece’s retail perfume prices are on par with or slightly higher than other countries, due to the 24% VAT. But duty-free prices can offer noticeable savings.
Tourist Advantages in Greece
1. VAT Refund
Tourists from outside the European Union can claim VAT refunds on purchases over a certain amount (usually €50 per shop). Just be sure to:
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Shop at stores offering Tax-Free Shopping
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Ask for a tax-free receipt
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Have the items available for inspection at the airport
This could mean savings of up to 24%, depending on the perfume's value.
2. Seasonal Sales
Greece holds two main seasonal sales:
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Winter sales (mid-January to end of February)
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Summer sales (mid-July to end of August)
During these periods, fragrance retailers offer significant markdowns, sometimes up to 50% off.
What About Local Perfume Brands?
In addition to international names, Greece is home to several local or Mediterranean-inspired fragrance houses that are often more affordable and unique. Look out for:
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Korres – a Greek brand known for natural, herbal perfumes
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Apivita – offers eco-friendly skincare and aromatic blends
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Fresh Line – handmade Greek fragrances and cosmetics
These brands can be cheaper than global designer perfumes and offer a distinct regional touch.
Shopping Tips for Perfume in Greece
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Compare prices in-store and online before making a purchase
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Check duty-free prices at the airport before your return flight
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Ask about loyalty programs or local discounts at larger chains
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Look for bundles or fragrance gift sets—they’re often better value
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Bring your passport for tax-free shopping as a tourist
You can even use apps like Global Blue or Planet to track VAT refund eligibility and process.
Is It Worth Buying Perfume in Greece?
It depends on your situation:
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If you're a tourist and can get a VAT refund, yes, it’s a great time to buy.
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If you’re shopping in duty-free zones, especially at airports, you’ll likely save money.
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If you’re buying local Greek perfume brands, they’ll be cheaper and culturally unique.
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But if you’re a local resident shopping at full retail, prices may be similar or higher than other countries due to VAT.
In Conclusion
Perfume is not drastically cheaper in Greece when compared to places like the US or UK, especially once VAT is factored in. However, duty-free stores, seasonal sales, local perfume brands, and VAT refunds for tourists can make Greece a smart place to shop for fragrances—especially when you plan your purchases strategically.
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