Shopping in the Greek islands is a delightful venture, particularly when engaging with local artisans. In quaint villages, skilled craftsmen, including embroiderers and lacemakers, showcase their talents, offering a unique glimpse into traditional trades. While these handmade treasures contribute significantly to the local economy, it's worth noting that most non-local goods are imported, rendering them slightly pricier.
MARKETS
Discovering the vibrant pulse of Greek towns is made even more exciting by stumbling upon their weekly street markets, known as 'laiki agora.' Bursting with a kaleidoscope of fresh produce, herbs, seafood, meats, and more, these markets offer the best value for your money. Operating on different days in larger towns, the markets wrap up by early afternoon, leaving ample time for the cherished Greek siesta. Prices here are generally friendlier than those in supermarkets, and a bit of haggling is often expected.
FOOD AND DRINK
Indulge your senses in the culinary treasures of the Greek islands, with highlights like luscious honey, flavorful pistachios, succulent olives, aromatic herbs, and exotic spices. Treat your palate to the delights of salty feta and sweet anthotyro from Crete, complemented by an array of pastries and biscuits from the renowned zacharoplasteio. The islands also boast a rich tradition of wines and spirits, featuring brandy, ouzo, resinated retsina wine, and the potent Cretan specialty, raki.
UNVEILING GREEK TREASURES
While traditional handcrafts may not be budget-friendly, they stand as the epitome of authentic Greek souvenirs. From exquisite gold replicas of ancient Minoan pendants to rustic pots, wooden spoons, and handcrafted leather sandals, the options are diverse. Particularly, the leatherwork in Chania, Crete, is a noteworthy attraction. Villages throughout the islands showcase brightly colored embroidery (kentia) and wallhangings, representing family businesses that thrive during the summer months. Bargaining is often welcomed in these charming locales.
Icons are predominantly available in shops and monasteries, ranging from small portraits to larger, meticulously crafted compositions. The use of traditional techniques adds a timeless and valuable touch to these beautiful creations.
Gold jewelry takes center stage in larger towns, with museum gift shops offering reproductions of ancient designs.
Exquisite utensils, like hand-carved wooden spoons, are treasures found in traditional craft shops, often crafted from the textured wood of native olive trees.
Komboloi, or worry beads, make for a common and soothing sight in Greece, available in souvenir shops.
Kitchenware is abundant in most markets and specialized stores, with coffee pots being particularly popular items.
Leather goods grace every corner of Greece, offering practical and enduring souvenirs in the form of bags, backpacks, and sandals.
Artistic ceramics present themselves in various shapes and finishes. Traditional pottery, characterized by simplicity, functionality, and an unglazed charm, is a common find on the outskirts of Athens and the larger towns scattered across the islands.