Greece is a country that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in ancient history, stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, or vibrant nightlife, you will find plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Mediterranean gem. And when it comes to shopping, Greece offers a variety of unique souvenirs and products that will remind you of your unforgettable trip.
But what are the best things to buy in Greece and where can you find them? In this blog post, we will give you some ideas and tips on what to look for and where to shop for the most authentic and memorable Greek souvenirs and products. Here are some of the categories we will cover:
- Food and drink
- Jewelry and accessories
- Clothing and leather goods
- Art and crafts
- Musical instruments
- Books and games
- Tacky souvenirs
Food and drink
Greece is famous for its rich and diverse cuisine, which is based on fresh ingredients, olive oil, herbs, cheese, yogurt, honey, and seafood. Some of the most popular dishes include moussaka, souvlaki, gyros, tzatziki, dolmades, spanakopita, and baklava. If you want to bring back some of the flavors of Greece to your home, here are some of the food and drink items you can buy as souvenirs:
| Item | Description | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Feta cheese | The most famous cheese of Greece, with a soft, crumbly texture and a tangy taste. It is made from sheep’s or goat’s milk and is used in salads, pies, dips, and more. | Available in every supermarket in Greece. You can also get sealed packets at the airport. |
| Greek honey | A natural superfood with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Greece produces several types of honey, such as thyme, pine, chestnut, heather, and arbutus. Each one has a distinct flavor and aroma. | Available at delis, street markets, food markets, and local shops in every island. |
| Olives and olive oil | The staple ingredients of Greek cuisine and the Mediterranean diet. Olives are cured in brine and eaten as snacks or added to salads and dishes. Olive oil is extracted from olives and used for cooking, dressing, dipping, and more. It is rich in antioxidants and has many health benefits. | Available at supermarkets, specialty shops, farmers’ markets, and olive oil mills. Look for extra virgin olive oil with a protected designation of origin (PDO) label. |
| Ouzo | The national drink of Greece, a clear spirit with an aniseed flavor. It is usually diluted with water and ice and served as an aperitif or with meze (small plates of food). | Available at liquor stores, supermarkets, souvenir shops, and distilleries. Look for brands like Ouzo Plomari, Ouzo Barbayanni, Ouzo Mini, or Ouzo 12. |
| Baklava | A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and soaked in honey or syrup. It is one of the most popular desserts in Greece and comes in different shapes and sizes. | Available at bakeries, pastry shops, supermarkets, and souvenir shops. Look for fresh baklava or vacuum-packed ones for longer shelf life. |
