There’s no denying that Greece is the very essence of a Mediterranean paradise, a land where history feels eternal and every corner echoes with stories of civilisation, passion, and heartfelt hospitality. With roots stretching back to the dawn of time, Greece isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience of living history, culture, and warmth.

So when you visit the Land of the Ancient Gods, don’t settle for the ordinary — skip the keychains, t-shirts, and tourist trinkets. Instead, bring home treasures that truly capture the spirit of Greece - the scents, tastes, and crafts woven into everyday Greek life. These are the souvenirs that hold the soul of the country itself.

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Culinary and Beverages

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Greece is one of the largest producers of olive oil in the world and one of the few countries where most of the olive oil produced is authentic extra virgin. It is the highest-quality olive oil, made from the first pressing of olives without heat or chemicals, resulting in lower acidity and higher levels of antioxidants.

A true superstar of the Mediterranean diet, the Greek extra virgin olive oil should totally be on your list of things to take away from Greece. Look for a bottle labelled “extra virgin”, with a “harvest date” and “produced in Greece”. It can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years, and once opened, it should be used within 6 months. 

• Location: Crete, Greece's largest island, has been producing olive oil since Minoan times. Check out the following locations for your authentic Greek extra virgin olive oil purchase:

  1. Biolea Organic Olive Oil: a family-run olive oil producer based in the village of Astrikas, near Kolymbari in Chania, Crete.

  2. Melissakis Family Olive Mill: a fourth-generation, family-owned olive oil producer located in the village of Tsivaras in the Apokoronas region of Chania, Crete, Greece.

  3. Kleanthi Family Olive Farm: a family-run olive-growing and olive oil–producing enterprise located in Skalani, a hillside village near Heraklion, Crete.

• Open hours: The best time to visit is mid-morning (10:00–12:00) for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

• Best time to visit:  The olive-harvest season (late October to February) is when mills are active, so you can actually see pressing; the rest of the year focuses on tastings and workshops.
  

Alcohol

Carry Greece’s warmth, hospitality and diversity in a bottle by taking the Greek spirit or liqueur home, as a souvenir. Each region of Greece produces its own signature drink; some of the most famous ones are:

• Ouzo – The national drink, an anise-flavoured spirit from Lesvos or northern Greece. Traditionally enjoyed with meze (small plates) and water, which turns it cloudy.

• Tsipouro – A strong grape-based spirit similar to grappa, common in mainland Greece, especially Thessaly and Epirus. Often homemade and shared socially.

• Raki / Tsikoudia – Crete’s proud local spirit, distilled from grape pomace. Served everywhere as a gesture of welcome.

• Mastiha Liqueur – A unique, aromatic drink from the island of Chios, made with mastic resin found only there. Light, herbal, and refreshing.

Location:

1. Duty-free shops and airports: Great for buying sealed bottles that meet travel regulations.

2. Markets and speciality stores: Especially in tourist towns like Athens (Plaka, Monastiraki), Santorini, Crete, and Mykonos.

3. Wineries and cooperatives: On islands like Santorini or Nemea for high-quality wine.

Chocolate

Loved by chocolate connoisseurs worldwide, ION is one of the most iconic Greek chocolate brands, founded in Athens in 1930. Its longevity gives it the same cultural status that brands like Hershey’s or Cadbury have in their home countries. The Amigdalou chocolate bar, with its pink packaging, has remained the most popular chocolate bar in Greece for more than five decades and makes for a perfect souvenir to take back home, especially for the little ones. 

Location: You can find them easily in supermarkets, local shops and confectionery boutiques in Greece.

Honey

Greek honey is one of the country’s most beloved and authentic souvenirs, capturing its natural beauty, ancient traditions and distinctive flavour, all in one jar. Known as the “nectar of the Gods” in ancient Greece, honey appears in Homer’s epics and ancient texts by Hippocrates, who praised its health benefits. 

 Distinct types include:

• Thyme honey (fragrant and golden, especially from Crete and the Cyclades)

• Pine honey (dark and mineral-rich, common in northern and central Greece)

• Heather, fir, or orange blossom honey (regional specialities with unique flavours)

Location: You can find local honey sold in farmers’ markets, monasteries, or small cooperatives, often in rustic glass jars or ceramic pots. Since honey is non-perishable and compact, it's perfect to store even while travelling and to make the best souvenirs to take home for friends, family, and yourself.

Greek Traditional Pasta

A Mediterranean culinary gem is the Greek traditional pasta, and an underrated Greek souvenir. There exist a variety of unique, regionally specific types, but the most famous ones are:

• Hilopites: Flat egg noodles, like small tagliatelle, used in hearty stews or with tomato and cheese.

• Kritharaki: Orzo-shaped pasta used in yiouvetsi, a classic baked dish with meat and tomato sauce.

• Trahana: A fermented grain-and-yoghurt pasta used in soups; one of Greece’s oldest comfort foods.

Greek traditional pasta is primarily made from durum wheat semolina, fresh eggs and goat’s milk. This pasta is often made by women's cooperatives and small family producers, so you’re not only supporting local businesses —you’re taking home something really authentic and homely.

Location:

• Local food markets: Like Varvakios Agora in Athens or Chania Market in Crete.

• Village cooperatives: Many small towns sell pasta made by women’s associations.

Greek Herbs and Spices

The herbs and spices define what Greece is all about, carrying the aroma, flavour and essence of the Greek cuisine. Having been part of Greek history since antiquity, the herbs are not only used for cooking but also for their medicinal properties. The most popular Greek spices and herbs are:

• Oregano (rigani): Robust and fragrant, a staple in every Greek dish.

• Thyme: Floral and earthy, used in meats, salads, and honey blends.

• Mountain tea (tsai tou vounou): A herbal tea made from wild ironwort, known for its soothing qualities.

• Sage and rosemary: Common in Greek households for cooking and herbal remedies.

Bring home a piece of Greece for your kitchen and improve your meals exponentially. They are easy to carry for travellers, useful, and, above all, super affordable.

Location:

• Open-air markets (laikí agorá): The best place to buy fresh, aromatic herbs sold by local farmers.

• Local shops and delis: Especially in Athens (Plaka, Monastiraki) and island towns.

• Villages and monasteries: Many monasteries sell hand-dried herbs and tea blends.

Greek Sweets

The Greeks love their sweets and have some scrumptious traditional desserts to satisfy you and your loved ones’ sweet tooth. One of the most famous Greek desserts is the Baklava, made of layers of crispy phyllo dough, chopped nuts and honey syrup.  Other sweets include loukoumades, fried doughnut balls drizzled with honey; galaktoboureko, a custard-and-phyllo pie; and melomakarona, syrup-soaked honey cookies typically made for Christmas. 

Location:

• Local pastry shops (zacharoplasteia): Every town has family-run confectioneries making fresh sweets daily.

• Monasteries and cooperatives: Known for handmade, preservative-free treats.

• Airports and duty-free shops: Offer boxed assortments for travellers.

Offering sweets to guests is part of the Greek spirit of hospitality. Carry this spirit home with you by taking these traditional sweets as souvenirs. Often coming packaged in beautiful tin boxes, they will make perfect gifts.

Artisanal and Decorative Souvenirs

Mati

Traditionally, Greeks believe that a glance of jealousy or admiration can bring misfortune, so the mati, or a blue eye, is used to ward off bad energy and a negative aura. Although inherently Greek in origin, they are recognised throughout the world. The matis come in different forms, such as necklaces, bracelets, amulets, and wall hangings, and are generally very cheap, costing only a few euros. 

Location:

Plaka District, Athens: The old city beneath the Acropolis is full of souvenir shops and artisan boutiques with handmade mati jewellery and décor.

Santorini & Mykonos: Chic boutiques sell elegant, modern mati jewellery in gold or silver, often combined with other Greek symbols (like shells or crosses).
Crete: Local artisans craft traditional glass or ceramic eyes, especially in Chania’s Old Town.

Bringing one home is like carrying a piece of spirituality and tradition, and giving a mati to someone expresses a wish for their protection and luck.

Ceramics and pottery

Ceramics is one of Greece’s oldest art forms, dating back to ancient Minoan and Classical times, and many potters still use traditional methods passed down from generation to generation. Both replicas of ancient designs and modern interpretations of classical designs can be found. Greek pottery can be used for storing wine and olive oil, serving food, and decoration.

Location:

• Athens: The Plaka and Monastiraki districts have numerous shops selling handmade pottery and museum-style replicas.

• Santorini: Known for its white clay ceramics and artistic studios in Oia and Fira.

• Crete: Especially Margarites village near Rethymno and Thrapsano near Heraklion — both famous for centuries-old pottery traditions.

Each piece is unique, reflecting the artisan’s skill and the clay of the region where it was made. Taking home Greek ceramics supports local artisans and is a keepsake that lasts for years. 

Greek Worry Beads or Komboloi

The komboloi or Greek Worry Beads have been used for centuries. Although initially tied to a religious connotation, it is now secular and used to pass the time, for calm, rhythm and reflection. Traditional worry beads are handcrafted from beautiful tactile materials, such as amber, semi-precious stones, olive wood, resin, glass, or bone, and strung on silk or nylon thread with a charm at the end. 

Location:

• Athens: Speciality komboloi shops in Plaka and Monastiraki offer everything from simple to luxurious versions.

• Nafplio: Home to the Komboloi Museum, which showcases worry beads from around the world and sells handcrafted Greek designs.

• Greek islands: Small shops and artisan stalls in Santorini, Crete, and Rhodes often sell locally made beads using regional materials.

Taking home a komboloi is like bringing a piece of Greek culture and everyday life with you, a reminder of the Mediterranean calm.

Fashion & Lifestyle Souvenirs

Leather

Leatherworking in Greece dates back to ancient times, when artisans made sandals, belts, and armour from tanned animal hides. The tradition has since continued, and the style of handmade Greek sandals, inspired by Greek mythology, is being worn today. 

The leather goods are mostly made from natural cowhide or goat leather and are often hand-stitched in local workshops rather than mass-produced, giving each item a unique feel.

Location:

• Athens: The Monastiraki and Plaka districts are famous for handmade sandal shops, such as Melissinos the Poet Sandal Maker, a family business dating back to the 1920s.

• Crete: Local markets and workshops in Chania and Rethymno sell bags, belts, and sandals crafted by local leatherworkers.

• Leather is a practical choice to take home as a souvenir and makes great gifts for people from all walks of life because of its timeless nature. Carry the spirit of Greece wherever you go with your Greek leather sandals.

Skincare

Skincare in Greece dates back to ancient times, when men and women used olive oil, honey, herbs and milk to moisturise and protect their skin. Modern Greek skincare brands have preserved the legacy, with Korres emerging as a pioneer. Since they are made from natural substances, they tend to cause fewer side effects and help heal the skin from the inside. Take home authentic Greek skincare products at a cheaper price for yourself or as a gift for any skincare enthusiasts you might have back home.

Location:

• Pharmacies: Greek pharmacies are renowned for offering high-quality skincare, especially Korres and Apivita lines.

• Boutiques & natural stores: Found in Athens (Plaka, Kolonaki) and islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

• Local markets: Some artisans sell handmade olive oil soaps, balms, and creams using local ingredients.

Whether it’s an olive oil moisturiser, honey lip balm, or mastiha-infused cream, each product offers a sensory reminder of Greek sunshine, sea air, and timeless wellness.

Demitasse Cup Sets

Coffee is not just a drink in Greece; it is central to conversations, friendships and community. The Greeks love to take coffee breaks and watch the world go by for hours. The demitasse cup is a small, handle-equipped porcelain or ceramic cup and the traditional vessel for serving Greek coffee. These dainty little things come with beautiful patterns and colours. Take a set home with you to drink your Greek coffee the way it is supposed to be.

Location:

• Athens and Thessaloniki: Gift shops, markets (like Monastiraki), and design boutiques.

• Greek islands: Especially Santorini, Crete, and Rhodes, where ceramic and artisan workshops produce locally made sets.

• Museum shops: Many sell elegant, history-inspired coffee sets with ancient Greek motifs.

Gemstones & Jewellery

Greece is home to beautiful natural stones, used in traditional and modern jewellery. They are worn not just for fashion but also believed to carry meaning, a belief dating back to Minoan, Mycenaean, and Classical times. Some of these are:

• Lapis lazuli – associated with wisdom and power.

• Turquoise and chalcedony – linked to the sea and tranquillity.

• Olive branches – peace and prosperity.

• Meander (Greek key) – eternity and unity.

Location:

• Athens: Visit the Plaka, Monastiraki, and Kolonaki districts for artisan shops, jewellery boutiques, and goldsmith ateliers.

• Santorini & Mykonos: Famous for elegant, contemporary designs and gemstone boutiques overlooking the Aegean.

• Museum stores: The Museum of Cycladic Art and National Archaeological Museum in Athens often sell replicas of ancient jewellery designs.

The jewellery is available in a range of prices and styles, ranging from everyday charms to more intricate pieces. These wearable memories, whether a delicate silver bracelet from Santorini or a gold pendant shaped like an olive wreath will speak without words of your beautiful memories in Greece, even while being far from it.

Books and Music

As the land of philosophers, Greece has some epic literature for you to delve into know more about its history, traditions and culture. Some of the books that you can check out are:

• Greek mythology & history books: Illustrated editions of myths, gods, and heroes which are great for all ages.

• Modern Greek novels: Zorba the Greek (Nikos Kazantzakis) or Eleni (Nicholas Gage) capture modern spirit and struggle.

• Cookbooks: Authentic Greek recipes and Mediterranean diet guides.

• Art & photography books: Stunning visuals of Greek islands, architecture, and landscapes.

• Poetry & philosophy: Compact, timeless, and deeply Greek - Cavafy, Seferis, Elytis, or excerpts from Plato and Aristotle.
  

Consider taking back traditional Greek instruments like bouzouki, a long-necked lute; the lyra, a pear-shaped bowed instrument or the laouto, a large-bodied lute. If you are low on budget, you can also consider buying their miniatures as decorative pieces, to remind you about a Greek adventure.

Best Markets to shop in Greece

Central Municipal Athens Market

Locally known as Varvakeios Agora, it is the largest food market in Athens. A bustling meat market and selling fish caught straight from the Aegean. Also, check out the section with herbs, teas and spices.

Location

•  Address: Athinas Street, between Omonia and Monastiraki Square, Athens, Greece

• Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, roughly 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed on Sundays)

• Closest Metro Station: Omonia or Monastiraki (both a short walk away)

Eleonas Flea Market

Also known as the Sunday Flea Market at Schisto or Avtiki, this market is filled with treasures. Expect rare vintage and antique items, a feeling no less than time travel as you mingle with like-minded crowd and vendors.

Location

•  Address: Near Eleonas Metro Station (Blue Line), on Iera Odos, just a few stops from Monastiraki.

• Open: Sundays only, from around 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM (go early for the best finds).

• How to Get There: Take the Blue Metro Line (M3) and stop at Eleonas — the market is a short walk from the station.
  
  

Avissinias

The Avissinias Square Flea Market, has been a trading hub since the early 20th century, surrounded by cafés and old neoclassical buildings making it perfect for strolling and people-watching. On Sundays, the square transforms into an open-air bazaar buzzing with collectors, musicians, and bargain hunters.

Location

• Address: Avissinias Square (Πλατεία Αβησσυνίας), between Ifestou Street and Ermou Street, Monastiraki, Athens, Greece

• Opening Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Sunday: The busiest day, with more antique dealers and outdoor stalls

• Nearest Metro Station: Monastiraki (Lines 1 & 3)

Thissio Outdoor Market

The Thissio Outdoor Market is one of Athens’ most scenic and relaxed open-air markets, set along the pedestrian promenade near the Acropolis. It perfectly combines shopping, street art, and stunning views — ideal for travellers who want to experience a more artistic and local side of Athens.

Location

•  Address: Along Apostolou Pavlou Street, stretching from Thissio Metro Station toward Monastiraki.

• When to Visit: Sundays: The main market day, from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Weekdays: Fewer vendors, but nearby shops and cafés stay open.

• Nearest Metro Station: Thissio (Green Line, Line 1)
  

Each simple souvenir carries centuries of history and Greece's traditions, and we want to make sure you don't miss out on anything essential. Take home not just gifts, but memories infused with sunlight, sea breeze, and Greek spirit!