What can you bring to Greece? Souvenirs from Greece: what to bring for family and friends

Greece is a fabulous sunny country that has a rich history and is a unique center of all cultures. Ancient excavations, warm beaches and olive groves attract tourists from all over the world. Greece is imbued with a unique culture, a piece of which everyone who has been here will want to take with them. What interesting things can you bring from Greece?

Alcohol

Guilt

Wine is produced in almost every region of Greece. The country's oldest wine is Retsina, which has a bitter, resinous taste and a strong odor. One of the best wines is “Kechri” or Pine Tear, which is made in Thessaloniki. The traditional drink is Cahors from the holy Mount Athos.

Metaxa

Metaxa is a mixture of grape wine and grape brandy. Local stores offer a selection of drinks with different aging periods and, as a result, prices. It is worth considering that the Greeks themselves use the three-star drink exclusively for culinary purposes, and drink it with aging for at least 5 years.

Cancers

Raki - Greek grape vodka. It tastes tart and strong, so it is usually served in small glasses. It is recommended to try rakomelo - it is the same raki, but infused with honey with the addition of cloves and cinnamon. It is produced and sold mainly in Crete. In winter, rakomelo is drunk warmed up as a cure for colds, and in summer as a regular alcoholic drink.

Ouzo

Greece has long been famous for the production of ouzo aniseed vodka. Residents of Hellas consider the drink national and drink it pure or in combination with orange or tomato juice. In addition to excellent taste, ouzo also has beneficial properties, such as improving sleep and digestion. The drink is produced in all regions of the country.

Kumquat

Greece is famous for its Kumquat liqueur. It is prepared on the basis of the citrus fruit of the same name, which looks like an orange and tastes like a tangerine. Therefore, you can usually find these small fruits in liquor bottles. On the island of Corfu, this liqueur is sold in beautiful bottles in the form of a map of the island or in the shape of statues of Greek gods.

Antique souvenirs

Ceramics

It is impossible to return from Greece and not bring with you a ceramic souvenir depicting the heroes of Hellas or the sights of Greece, because the ceramics here are of incredible beauty and excellent quality. A good souvenir would be sets, vases, jugs and amphorae made with a special ornament - golden Greek patterns on a black background. The most popular are ceramics from the island of Crete and pottery from Santorini and Halkidiki. The largest market for ceramic products is in Athens.

Figurines

In any souvenir shop you can buy figurines of ancient Greek gods, figurines of Olympians and ancient buildings, as well as busts of Socrates, Plato, and Pythagoras. The best selection of figurines is in Plaka.

Seafood

Shells and jewelry made from them are a cute and inexpensive souvenir that can be found in every souvenir shop. Sea sponges are very popular among tourists. This is a small and useful gift. They are soft and hard, large and small. The widest selection of sponges can be found in Rhodes and Kalymnos.

Icons

In souvenir shops and monasteries in Greece you can buy all kinds of icons - carved, in the form of a small book and inlaid with semi-precious stones. The most valuable gift will be an icon brought from the holy Mount Athos.

Paintings

Very often, tourists bring back from vacation paintings depicting Greek landmarks, painted in watercolors and oils by local artists. Here you can purchase ordinary paintings, or you can order exclusive paintings. The price for them depends on the size, execution technique and the presence of a frame.

Fur

Greece presents a huge range of fur products. From such a variety, you can choose a model that suits your taste and budget. That is why tour operators often organize special three-day “fur coat” tours to Greece. It is better to go for such a purchase to Kastoria, where the most popular showrooms of leading fur factories are located: Elegant Furs, Avanti, Afrodita Furs, Estelle.

Blankets, rugs, carpets

Blankets, rugs and carpets will be practical and pleasant souvenirs from Greece. It is better to buy them in Crete, Rhodes, Athens and Delphi. Preference should be given to products made of wool and silk. Handmade carpets are more valuable and the older it is, the higher its price. Prices for such products depend on the complexity of the design and the materials used.

Olives and olive oil

Greek olives are very tasty, large and contain many useful substances. They are sold here everywhere in tins and by weight. Another pride of Greece is olive oil. It is presented in a wide range in supermarkets and family shops.

Olive soap

Olive soap is a good and useful souvenir from Greece. Almost all Greek soap is handmade from olive oil with the addition of lavender, honey, rose or orange oil. Most often, this soap is sold in pieces by weight. It lathers well, has a pleasant aroma and makes the skin soft and velvety.

Sweets

Honey

Each region of Greece produces its own original honey, which beekeepers are rightfully proud of. Chalkidiki is considered the birthplace of the most delicious honey in Greece. Here it is sold pure or with hazelnuts, pine nuts and walnuts.

Jams and preserves

Oranges, quinces, figs, cherries, peaches, kumquats, and sometimes pistachios are often used to make preserves and preserves in Greece.

Kozinaki

The traditional sweet Kozinaki is slabs of pistachios, sesame, peanuts or almonds in sugar or honey syrup. They resemble kozinaki, but differ in the recipe. This is a very tasty and healthy treat - a vitamin and energy bomb.

Baklava

This is a traditional Greek pie made from puff pastry with chopped nuts and cinnamon, soaked in honey. A distinctive feature of Greek baklava is 33 layers of dough, symbolizing the age of Christ.

Chees Feta"

A real Greek salad can only be prepared using Greek Feta cheese. As a rule, this cheese is made from sheep and goat milk, it is snow-white in appearance, has a high fat content (30-60%) and a salty taste. Feta is sold in brine in plastic, metal and vacuum packaging.

Jewelry and costume jewelry

The country is famous for its jewelry made of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls. The largest assortment is presented in the stores of the Kessaris and Ilias Lalaounis jewelry houses in Athens, Santorini, Delphi, Mykonos and Ioannina. Jewelry made in the Byzantine style is very popular.

Costume jewelry will be an inexpensive and original gift, which in Greece is best bought in souvenir shops. Very beautiful necklaces, brooches and bracelets are made here from olive wood, shells, marble, ceramics, gems and metals.

Cannot be exported

• antiquities, including stones from archaeological sites and objects found on the seabed;
• drugs, drug-containing drugs and medicines;
• weapons, explosives and toxic substances;
• plants, flowers, wild animals and birds and endangered species of flora and fauna.

You must keep receipts for all purchased items.

Food products grown and produced in Greece are products of the highest quality and environmental friendliness. Traditionally, tourists bring souvenirs and local delicacies as gifts from Greece, which convey the taste, aroma and unsurpassed atmosphere of the amazing country.

The list of leaders among the most popular gifts includes stylish and inexpensive fur coats from Greece, then:

Real shopaholics know that shopping centers in Greece offer a wide range of different goods: from clothes and shoes to souvenirs and food. In addition, all the world's manufacturers and brands are represented here, and prices remain very attractive. Traditionally, sales are held twice a year with significant discounts, which add special pleasure to winter and summer shopping.

The sales season attracts many buyers from Greece itself and even from abroad to the recognized centers of trade - the cities of Athens and Thessaloniki. Now they have added one of the largest shopping centers on the peninsula Halkidiki - Enigma, which has many shops and boutiques of the world's most famous brands and Greek ones, perfectly reflecting its flavor and traditions. Prices for goods of the highest level will delight every buyer - in addition to world-famous brands, you can also find small affordable stores.
In Greece it is possible to purchase clothes, shoes, accessories and jewelry from famous manufacturers: GANT, MORE & MORE, JEWLS & JEMS, FROZEN WAVE, FENA KIDS, NAVY & GREEN, ZARA, PUBLIC, MASSIMO DUTTI, PULL AND BEAR, DOMUS HOMUS KIDS, ZARA HOME, ONEIROCHORA, ORCHISTRA, SAM, JOY TOY, TO THELO and others. In addition, there are many jewelry, bookstores, taverns, cafes and bars, supermarkets, cinemas, children's rooms and others.

Olives

Olives have been considered a true symbol of Greece since ancient times. Previously, the Greeks believed that olive trees were endowed with special magical powers: it was believed that it acted as an intermediary between the gods and ordinary people. Legend says that the goddess Athena was able to win the hearts and loyalty of the people of Greece only when she presented them with olives. Since then, the olive tree has become the personification of wisdom, prosperity, peace and fertility. The wreath of the winners of the Olympic Games included olive tree branches; they were also used to decorate wedding ceremonies. In addition, the olive branch is also mentioned in biblical legends: a dove with an olive branch brought the news that the Great Flood had ended, Jesus Christ chose the olive grove in the Garden of Gethsemane as a place for prayer.

Today, olives have become an indispensable attribute for the Mediterranean diet and an important part of Greek gastronomic traditions. The beneficial properties of olives are beyond doubt. And the peoples of the Mediterranean believed that the olive never dies - this was a tribute to the tree, which sometimes lives up to 2500 years. Therefore, olive lovers receive the boost of health, strength and longevity that the olive has.

What in Russia is called olives (black) and olives (green) are called the same in Greece, although there are more than 100 varieties of this miracle of nature. The main difference is in size, appearance and taste: olives can be tiny or large, sometimes reach a length of 4 cm. The best places for growing olives are Amfissa, Kalamata, Thassos and the Chalkidiki peninsula. Add in over a hundred recipes and ways to prepare these 100 varieties of olives and you get an incredible variety of flavors. These can be green, black olives, marinated, stuffed, salted, smoked, spiced and others. A real adventure will be a walk through the aisles of the market: hundreds of different vats with different olives - the taste and quality will exceed all your expectations. In addition, by purchasing olives at local markets, you can arrange a real tasting and choose the most delicious ones. It is noteworthy that the sellers themselves actively encourage such interest in their product. But still, the palm variety among the Greeks themselves is held by a variety of olives with the colorful name “Kalamata”.

When buying olives by weight, take care of packaging that will allow them to be transported airtight without spilling the oil and brine. Or immediately choose olives in vacuum packaging, in glass jars or special metal containers.

Olive oil

The second element without which Greek cuisine would not be complete is olive oil. Greece occupies a leading place among producers of this tasty and healthy “liquid gold”. Every traveler going to Greece considers it obligatory to bring home natural olive oil from the sunny country.

You can buy it anywhere - there is no “fake” oil here, just like wine, and its varieties are very simple.

Basic nuances. In production, a distinction is made between extra virgin olive oil, refined olive oil (Refined or Pour) or in the form of olive kernel oil (Pomace). Naturally, Extra virgin is considered the most beneficial for the body and valuable. To produce a liter of such oil, 10-30 kg of olives are needed (this depends on the variety, terrain and climatic conditions of the region).

This variety of olives is used for preparing salads, side dishes and other dishes - it retains maximum beneficial properties, since when it is pressed, only mechanical cleaning (filtration) takes place.
Olive oil has unique properties - it is the only oil that does not release carcinogenic substances when heated.
Refined or Pour olive oil is most often used for cooking over fire. It is refined using fire, which is why it contains slightly less useful substances than Extra virgin. Well, the cheapest oil is Pomace - this is an oil also used for frying (including in a deep fryer, where oil consumption is high).
Olive oil is most often purchased in small plastic bottles, 1-2 liters in volume, or in larger metal cans.

"Metaxa"

The most famous Greek alcoholic drink, which is a mixture of brandy and muscat wine. Its production is quite interesting: the grapes, which are amenable to double cognac distillation, are grown in three regions of Greece - Crete, Corinth and Attica. Then it is aged for 3 to 15 years in special oak barrels. Afterwards, the 60-degree wine “nectar” undergoes a mixing procedure with a special type of Muscat wine, which is also aged for at least a year. Then a herbal tincture is added and the future “metaxa” is infused and matured for at least another 6 months.
Metaxa can be consumed in its pure form - the drink is strong, but very aromatic, or you can mix cocktails based on it. Metaxa, which is aged for 3, 5 or 7 years, is exported. Separately, there is a collection of especially exquisite varieties that are sold in porcelain bottles, “editions” aged for 12-16 years, and even special collector’s items aged for 50 years.
Interestingly, it was Metaxa that became the first alcoholic drink to be sent into space. It is also as popular in the world as the Mediterranean diet.

Ouzo anisette vodka

The calling card of all Greek taverns located on the coast, which honor traditions and display the true Greek flavor. The smell of Greek aniseed vodka “ouzo” cannot be confused with anything else, but it is in great harmony with the unsurpassed aromas of the freshest fish and seafood. He believes that ouzo is best served with fish.
Ouzo is a traditional Greek drink that is very famous and popular in the world. In terms of production, ouzo is made by double distilling grape wine or grape marc.
Many varieties of Greek "ouzo" exist in the country. They all have differences in taste, and manufacturers keep their recipes in the strictest confidence. The main and unifying factor is the production of a drink from high-quality anise seeds. A little-known fact is that when preparing ouzo, not only anise is added, but sometimes also nutmeg, star anise or coriander. The drink can be easily recognized by its characteristic feature: if you mix it with water, “ouzo” will become cloudy and milky. Typically the strength of the drink is 40-50%.
If you are planning to bring ouzo as a gift, pay attention to interesting souvenir bottles, each of which can become a real work of art.

Wine

Greece is the birthplace of wine, so its history is continuously connected with this drink. Even one of the first household items found in Ancient Hellas were elegant and beautiful wine amphorae. The first Greeks discovered that wine had healing properties and used it to treat various wounds, physical and mental pain. The incredible cult of the god of wine Dionysus continued for a long time, and then wine was often mentioned in ancient legends and myths of Ancient Greece.

Growing grapes is one of the oldest traditions in Greece and has a rich history - much richer than in neighboring countries. The variety of Greek wines can make any gourmet's head spin. It doesn’t matter whether you buy inexpensive wine or an exquisite collection, whether you drink it in a stylish restaurant or in a simple tavern on the seashore: the types of wines and their bouquet will differ, but the quality will always remain at the highest level.

Everyone can choose Greek wines to suit their taste, ranging from light white, sweet or dry, to rose and red, semi-sweet and sweet. Each region of the country produces original varieties that differ in taste and have their own fans. One of the interesting types of Greek wine is the young wine Retsina, which has a specific resinous aroma.

Chees Feta"

What real Greek salad can do without feta cheese, whose history goes back to the time of Homer? Snow-white slices of feta on picturesque slices of vegetables, seasoned with wonderful olive oil, will arouse the appetite even of those who are indifferent to cheeses. Greek “feta” suits everyone’s taste: its taste is expressive, salty, with a delicate lactic sourness. Outwardly, it is also attractive, resembling pressed cottage cheese, which is prepared in one piece.
Feta is made from sheep and goat milk; The holding time is at least 3 months. Fat content – ​​from 30 to 60%. They are stored in a special brine, which significantly increases the period during which the cheese will be fresh and tasty. To remove excess saltiness, feta can be soaked in mineral water or milk for a few minutes, right before serving. This favorite Greek cheese is sold in plastic or metal sealed containers of various capacities. When opening it for the first time, do not forget that there is also brine there.

By the way, “feta” is a protected name under EU law. This means that real “feta” can only be produced in Greece.

Greek coffee

It is hardly possible to brew Greek coffee tastier than what the Greeks prepare in one of the traditional local cafes. But you can try! It should be cooked using the usual method, which in Russia is called “Turkish”.
Varieties of Greek coffee are presented in any supermarket in Greece or specialized stores. Drink the drink hot and strong. Sugar is traditionally added during cooking (to taste: “sketo” - without sugar, “metrio” - medium, “gliko” - sweet). Greek coffee is always served with water, which is used to wash down the aromatic drink.

Going out for coffee is a whole ritual in Greece. Business negotiations and friendly conversation begin with “helliniko” (Greek coffee, as it is called in the cafe). It is over a cup of coffee that friendships and romantic relationships are born. Many women are fond of coffee fortune-telling - the remaining coffee grounds are poured onto a saucer, the cup is turned over, and after the coffee dries, modern Pythians read the present and future.

As you can see, in Greece there can be no problems with choosing delicious “goodies”. Add to all of the above the most delicate Greek yogurt, delicate-tasting honey, a huge assortment of all kinds of sweets, jam... One of the largest shopping centers on the Chalkidiki peninsula - Enigma awaits every visitor and is ready to surprise with the widest range of goods for every taste.
Enjoy your shopping in Greek and have heartfelt memories from your trip to this amazing country, where they know how to enjoy life and savor the taste of every day.

Each trip leaves behind memorable impressions, and a part of these memories is associated with the souvenirs and gifts brought for loved ones. Those who travel to Greek resorts for the first time are often lost, thinking about what to bring from Greece. Indeed, there are so many options: cosmetics, delicious olives or oil, textiles, jewelry, etc. And to help novice travelers, we made an article about what tourists bring from Greece. So, we present a small top of Greek souvenirs and gifts.

Butter and all sorts of goodies

On vacation, you can’t do without visiting a regular supermarket or food market. As a rule, they have a large assortment of delicious food, so the idea immediately comes to mind that you can bring natural local products as a gift from Greece. Moreover, they have excellent taste, and the choice in this category is almost limitless.

So, let's see what you can buy from Greek products in local stores and markets.

The fruits of the olive tree are the most popular Greek souvenirs. Of course, we sell olive oil and green/black olives, but the original Greek product is unique.

In Greece, there are more than two dozen varieties of table olives, of which Kalamon, Chalkidiki and Konservolia are considered the most popular. You can buy them at any store, but it is best to buy them in bulk at local markets. The price per kg of product will be 4-5 €, while a store-bought jar of olives costs 2.5 €.

The production of Greek olive oil, whose beneficial properties are talked about so much, is also distinguished by its class. The following varieties are available for sale:

1. Extra Virgin – first cold-pressed oil with the lowest acidity (0.8%), which indicates the highest quality of the product. Price per liter from 8 to 11 €.
2. Fine Virgin – a second cold-pressed product with an acidity level of 1.5%. Classified as 1st grade. Price per liter 4-5 €.
3. Pour (Refined ) – first cold pressed oil diluted with hot refined oil. Price 1 liter of product from 3€.
4. Pomace – hot oil prepared from olive pits. Cost 1 liter from 2€.

Accordingly, the tastier and richer the product, the more difficult its production and the higher the price.

Many people bring Greek cheeses from Athens, Thessaloniki or island cities. The famous Feta, with its delicate salty and creamy taste, will be a truly rare gift. After all, this cheese is produced only in Greece, and in Russia it is very difficult to get a similar product.

It is also worth noting the hard cheese varieties Kefalotiri and Graviera, popular in Greece. The first has an islandy aftertaste, while the second tastes a little like sweet fruit.

Read also: How to celebrate the New Year in Greece - traditions, gifts and dishes for the festive table

Sweets and honey

Without a doubt, friends and family will be delighted with the honey brought from Greece as a gift. The country is among the leaders in terms of the number of hives, and local producers try to bring a bit of originality to their honey. So, in Greece you can easily find pine, spruce, thyme, orange and hundreds of other varieties of honey.

You can buy this delicacy in stores, markets and even in monasteries, because... many of them own their own apiary. The price for 1 liter of honey varies from 7 to 10 €.

Local sweets are also a special topic of conversation. Baklava, kozinaki, Turkish delight, chocolate candies “shokolatakya” - all this is available in abundance in the markets and shops of Athens, Crete, Rhodes and other regions. The average price per kg of sweets is 10 €.

For cooks and gourmets, mixtures of dry herbs or Greek sauces will be a pleasant gift. For a bag of spices they usually ask for 2-3 €, but large sets of different herbs are also sold, the cost of which reaches 10 €.

Greek alcoholic drinks

Very often, among what can be purchased in Greece, the national alcohol is noted. Basically, these are drinks such as Greek Ouzo, Mastic, Metaxa, Malvasia and other wines or strong alcohol.

Greek vodka

Greek Raki and Ouzo are considered analogues of Russian vodka. Raki is grape vodka with a strength of 40-50 degrees. The taste is vaguely reminiscent of moonshine, so not everyone will appreciate such a souvenir. But Ouzo is a more standard option. Although its strength also reaches 40-50 degrees, in Greece it is used as an aperitif. A shot of the drink warms up the body and improves digestion.

The price per liter of strong Greek alcohol will be 10-15 €. But often local supermarkets sell vodka in souvenir bottles of 200 or 500 ml, or even as a gift set with shot glasses. Such a gift will cost 2-5 euros.

Among cognac products in Greece, Metaxa is the undisputed leader. In fact, it’s not even really cognac, but brandy with fruity notes, but these are minor nuances. Metaxa is classified by year of aging, so the bottle can be easily identified by the number of stars.

• 3 stars – three-year aging, strength 38%, price* 13 €;
• 5 stars – 5 years of aging, strength 38-40%, price 16 €;
• 7 stars - seven years old, 40% strength and 25 € per bottle.
• 12 stars – 12 years of aging, 40% strength, price 40 €.

The drink "Metaxa" AEN is considered especially tasty - it is an 80-year-old brandy with a unique flavor bouquet. You can find this elite cognac only in specialized shops, and the cost of a bottle reaches 1,500 €.

Greek wines

Since ancient times, the Hellenes were known as gifted winemakers, so if strong alcohol is not for you, then a bottle of light wine will always come in handy around the house. Of the Greek wines, Malvasia is especially distinguished. This is a sweet grape wine made from selected berries using multi-stage preparation technology. Officially considered the sweetest of the Madera varieties.

They say that Greece has everything, and this is not far from the truth. A holiday in this sunny country can be combined with bargain shopping, and special attention should be paid to leather clothes and shoes, jewelry made of gold and silver, as well as numerous gastronomic souvenirs: olive oil, cheese, Greek wine, ouzo aniseed vodka and etc. It is worth mentioning separately about Greek fur coats - they are known for their quality and relatively low prices. Special tours to Greece for fur coats have been popular for decades.

Store opening hours

Shops in Greek resorts are open from morning until late evening and mostly seven days a week. In non-tourist regions, shops are open from 9:00 to 20:30 (in summer - until 21:00) with a break for “mesimeri” (Greek siesta) from 15:00 to 17:00-17:30.

Large supermarkets and shopping centers are usually open without a break from 8:00-9:00 to 21:00. There are also small convenience stores that are open late, but the selection is usually limited to a small selection of groceries and other essentials.

Sales

The sales schedule in Greece is regulated by the state and usually coincides with sales in other European countries. There are two large-scale “sales” in this country - in summer and winter. The summer discount season lasts from mid-July to the end of August, and the winter season from mid-January to early March.

In addition, since 2012, stores have been legally allowed to hold additional off-season sales in early May and early November, each lasting about 10 days.

There is an economic crisis in Greece, so, unfortunately, many stores are closing and selling off their remaining goods due to bankruptcy. In such cases, the discounts are the most generous, and the number of the court decision is always indicated on the display window.

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What to buy in Greece

• clothes,
• shoes,
• fur and leather,
• Jewelry,
• cosmetics,
• souvenirs and antiques,
• food and wine.

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Clothes and shoes

Greece does not have such an abundance of brands as neighboring Italy, but there are many local brands that are rarely sold outside the country. Most of them are affordable (for example, Alexandra and DMN Sport), and there are also a lot of good quality Italian and Turkish clothes in Greek stores. The largest selection of Greek brands is in Athens and Thessaloniki, where you can also find popular European brands: Zara, Massimo Dutti, Marks&Spencer, H&M, GAP, Esprit, etc.

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Furs and leather

For the famous Greek fur coats you need to go to Kastoria. Once upon a time, many beavers lived here, so this city became the main workshop for the production of fur products. Today there are many factories, studios and workshops that sell fur coats at factory prices, and the choice is truly impressive. Another city famous for “fur” production is Paralia Katerinis; in all other Greek cities, of course, there are also fur stores, but the prices there will be much higher.

You can go fur coat shopping either independently or as part of a special “fur coat tour”. They come with or without obligations: tours with obligations are the cheapest, but you must make a purchase for a certain amount (usually 1000-1500 EUR) or pay a penalty. No-obligation tours include factory and shopping trips, but all purchases are at your own discretion with no penalties. Prices on the page are as of November 2018.

The average cost of a mink coat in Greece is from 1300 EUR (short), from 2000 EUR (knee-length) and from 2500 EUR (long). Prices are often quoted taking into account a possible discount, so mentally subtract 30-40% from them and start haggling.

Greece has an excellent selection of leather goods. The most attractive prices are in Kastoria - a high-quality leather jacket can be purchased for 50 EUR (Carlo Mosse store). Thessaloniki also has a good selection, but the prices are at least one and a half times higher. There are a lot of leather shoes everywhere, however, many buyers note that they do not have a very comfortable last, so it may take a long time to choose; prices - from 30 EUR per pair of shoes or boots. But you can buy Greek sandals with confidence: they are very comfortable, sold everywhere and cost from 15 EUR per pair. Prices for wallets start from 5 EUR, for bags - from 30 EUR.

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Cosmetics

Greece produces excellent cosmetics based on olive oil, honey, herbs and aloe. The secret of its quality is in the high concentration of natural ingredients, for example, in olive soap there is more than 90% natural oil.

It is worth paying attention to the following brands:

• Fresh Line is an affordable cosmetics from Athens, which is made according to ancient recipes from family soap factories, prices for creams and lotions start from 12 EUR, for shampoos and balms - from 8 EUR.

• Aphrodite - cosmetics based on olive oil and herbs, prices are about the same as Fresh Line cosmetics.

• Olive Way is another popular Greek cosmetic brand known for its anti-aging ranges. Cleansing foam costs from 10 EUR, anti-aging care - from 30 EUR.

• Korres - Greek luxury cosmetics, known far beyond the country's borders. Prices for shampoos start from 10 EUR, for moisturizers - from 25 EUR. In addition, the brand is famous for its excellent quality decorative cosmetics.

• Clean Skin Mythos is another good Greek mass market. The brand can be found in any supermarket; the quality is quite good at low prices.

Greek cosmetics are sold everywhere: from pharmacies to minimarkets and souvenir shops, and they are rarely counterfeited, so you can safely buy them anywhere. It is believed that the largest selection of high-quality cosmetics is on the Halkidiki peninsula - this is where the best olives in the country are grown.

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Jewelry

In Greece, high-quality jewelry is made from gold and silver. The Greek style has been known since the 3rd century. BC e., it was then that jewelry began to be made in Hellas. It is recognizable to this day and in the jewelry world is considered that very “noble simplicity”. Gold in Greece is famous not only for its design, but also for its relatively low price: 1 gram will cost from 30 to 50 EUR, depending on processing.

Most jewelry stores in Athens. The most famous of them is Ilias Lalaounis (there is also a branch on the island of Corfu). There is a small museum attached to the store; gold items with precious stones are real works of art, and the prices are appropriate: sometimes they are 10-12 times higher than the cost.

Another famous jewelry store in the capital is Kessaris, which offers gold jewelry in a variety of styles, from antique to modern. On the island of Rhodes there is a Dimitriadis store that sells handmade gold jewelry and watches, and the Tempus Jewelery chain is popular in Thessaloniki and the cities of Northern Greece.

Greece also has a large selection of stylish silver. It can be bought in Oro Vildiridis stores (a large jewelry chain that has existed since 1897), Z by Aliki Vergidou (a designer store in Thessaloniki) and others. Prices there start from 10 EUR for earrings or a ring.

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Souvenirs and antiques

It is prohibited to export historical valuables from Greece; local laws are quite strict in this regard, but you can purchase high-quality copies, which are sold in numerous souvenir shops. In antique salons and flea markets there are old souvenirs that have no historical value, and they can be taken out without hindrance.

Many antique and souvenir shops are located in the Plaka area of ​​Athens near the Acropolis, as well as in the tourist areas of other cities. In Greek monasteries and churches you can buy icons, crosses and other religious accessories, which are blessed right on the spot.

Other popular souvenirs are marble and alabaster figurines, vases and amphorae, lace, embroidery and, of course, Greek ceramics. The largest selection of ceramics is in Crete and Rhodes; local craftsmen make them by hand using ancient pottery technologies. There are both cheap souvenirs (from 5 EUR) and more expensive ones (from 40 EUR), which exactly replicate museum exhibits.

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Food and wine

Olives, olive oil, honey, feta cheese and local alcohol are traditionally brought from Greece. Olive oil is in no way inferior to Italian and Spanish, and it is better to buy it in cans - this way it is better stored. Olives in Greece are large (up to 5 cm in length) and very tasty; the best are considered to be those grown on the Chalkidiki peninsula and in the regions of Amfissa and Kalamata.

The most popular local alcoholic drinks are Greek cognac Metaxa (tastes more like brandy) and anisette vodka Ouzo, which is drunk with ice and diluted with water. Supermarkets and souvenir shops usually sell inexpensive Metaxa (from 10 EUR per bottle), but in wine shops you can find cognac aged up to 80 years.

Among Greek wines, the inexpensive Retsina (white wine with a pine flavor) is popular. The island of Rhodes is considered the most wine-rich region, where there are many small private wineries, at each of which you can try homemade wine. The cost of wine is from 5 EUR per liter.

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Stores in Greece

There are malls in Greece, but they are not as popular and interesting for shopping as shopping districts and streets. They are in every major city and are located, as a rule, in the historical center or near it:

• Athens: Kolonaki, Plaka, Glyfada and Chalandri districts, Ermou Street in the city center;
• Thessaloniki: Tsimiski Street and its parallel Ignatius and Metropolis;
• Rethymnon - Arkadiou street,
• Rhodes - Old Town (budget shopping) and New Town (expensive boutiques).

There you can find local and popular European clothing brands, shoe stores of Greek designers, jewelry and antique stores and numerous souvenir shops.

Shopping centers in Greece

In large cities there are large shopping centers where you can buy clothes, shoes, cosmetics, perfumes and other goods, some of them have cinemas, food courts and other entertainment.

Athens

• Athens Heart is the capital's largest shopping center, located next to the Acropolis. There are 4 floors of clothing, shoe, electronics and furniture stores, there is a supermarket and an ice skating rink.

• Golden Hall is a large shopping mall in a tourist area, with more than 130 stores of popular European brands.

• The Mall Athens - more than 20 stores, including unknown Greek brands. Also known as a cultural space, exhibitions and various performances are often held here.

• Attica the department store is another large Athens department store.

• Hondos Center is a popular chain of cosmetics and perfume stores.

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Thessaloniki

• Mediterranean Cosmos is an entire shopping city located 10 km from Thessaloniki. In addition to shops, there is a bowling alley, a cinema, an amusement park and a concert venue, where people perform from time to time.

• City gate is a shopping complex in the city center, world and Greek brands are represented, there is a bowling alley, a food court and a cinema.

• Alpha Odeon is a large shopping and entertainment complex; in winter, a Christmas tree is decorated here in the courtyard.

• Fenafresh is a department store located in a beautiful Art Deco building. On 4 floors of the center there are many stores of affordable brands of clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories, lingerie, cosmetics and electronics.

Outlets in Greece

Almost all major outlets in Greece are located near Athens.

The most famous and popular is Athen Designer Outlet, it is located in the center of the capital and occupies an entire street. There you can buy items from world brands with discounts of up to 70%.

Another large outlet - McArthurGlen - is located next to the zoo (about 30 minutes from the city center). There are more than 100 stores of clothing, shoes, accessories and other goods, there is a children's playground and food court, discounts range from 30 to 70%. You can get there by free buses that depart once an hour on weekdays from the Doukissis Plakendias metro station.

Factory Outlet - two outlets have been built under this brand in Athens, one near the airport and the other in Piraeus. The assortment is classic, discounts up to 70%, the choice is very large, usually there are almost all sizes.

Thessaloniki also has its own outlet - Mega Outlet, it is located 10 km from the city. There are more than 80 shops here, and people usually come here for the whole day: there is a food court, a children's playground with animation and other entertainment.

Markets

Every Greek city has food markets, and it is recommended to buy all the gastronomy there. The market sells fresh vegetables, fruits, cheeses, fish and seafood, as well as spices, olive oil and wine. You can and even need to haggle (this is the custom here), but even without haggling, prices are lower than in supermarkets.

The largest food market in Athens - "Varvakios Agora" in the Monastiraki area. The place is very colorful, the choice is huge, the market is open from Monday to Saturday from 7:00 to 18:00, but sometimes the sellers begin to close earlier.

The most famous flea market in Athens is located in this area. There you can buy the most amazing antique junk - from rare books and records to vintage jewelry and furniture. There are also very good restaurants serving Greek cuisine.

Thessaloniki has its own food market - Modiano, it is located near Aristotle Square (landmark - Turkish baths). There you can not only buy fresh food, but also have a delicious lunch. There is also a flea market here, it’s called Kopani Agora and is located in the city center. The assortment is approximately the same as in Athens, but they also sell paintings and delicacies.

Tax free

In Greece, you can get back up to 23% of money spent in local stores. The purchase amount must be at least 120 EUR (in one store); at the checkout when paying, you need to fill out a special form, and then present it along with the purchase and passport when leaving the country at the airport. The packaging must be undamaged, otherwise the money may not be returned.

Best places to shop

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• Austria Vienna
• England London
• Vietnam: Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City
• Germany: Berlin, Düsseldorf and Munich
• Georgia: Tbilisi, Batumi
• Hungary: Budapest
• Greece (fur tours): Athens, Crete, Rhodes, Thessaloniki
• Israel: Jerusalem and Tel Aviv
• Spain: Alicante, Barcelona, ​​Valencia, Madrid (and its shops), Mallorca, Malaga, Tarragona and Salou
• Italy: Milan, Bologna, Venice, Rome, Rimini, Turin, Florence and

18 options for what you can bring from Crete as a souvenir. The most popular Cretan souvenirs according to tourist reviews.

What to bring from Crete

Are you looking for something to bring as a souvenir for yourself and your loved ones from the island of Crete? In this article you will find 17 ideas for souvenirs that you can bring from Crete as a keepsake or as a gift. Prices for goods vary greatly, from cheap komboloi to handmade boots from Stevaniya. Reviews and recommendations from tourists will help you buy something that will help you remember with a smile the wonderful days spent on the island of Crete.

What to buy in Greece on Crete

Wine

Despite the fact that wine has been produced in Crete for as long as olives, they began to import wine from Crete relatively recently. The best place in Crete where you can taste and buy locally produced wine is Douloufakis Winery near Heraklion. If you buy Greek wines from a store in Crete, remember the Douloufakis brand. Many tourists recommend taking wine Malvasia (Malvasia di Candia Aromatica) - this is the famous dry white Cretan wine of the Venetian era; according to the description, it has a fruity aroma and a muscat aftertaste.

Cancers

Raki or tsikoudia is a local drink made from what is left from pressing grapes. It is very similar to Italian grappa. Most restaurants in Crete offer raki after your meal. So there's a good chance you'll love this drink and want to take some with you. Raki comes in small bottles and you can easily transport it in your suitcase.

Olive oil on the island of Crete

Olives have been grown in Greece since the Minoan era (3500 BC). Archaeologists even found an old olive press in the Knossos Palace. The first olive oil, which began to be supplied throughout the world, was produced in Crete. It is also an indispensable ingredient in the famous Cretan diet.

In addition to oil, other products are made from olives: marmalade and various pastes to spread on bread, cosmetics and crafts made from olive wood.

Which olive oil from Crete is best?

If you are going to buy olive oil in Crete, make sure that it is “Extra Virgin”, otherwise there is no point in bringing a bottle with you. If you find oil in a metal container, you will carry it with peace of mind, without fear that the glass will spill and your entire luggage will turn into Greek salad. There is also the option of transporting oil in vacuum packaging.

© maya83/ flickr.com / CC BY 2.0

Seasonings and herbs of Crete

Crete is widely known for its herbs, which grow literally everywhere: in the mountains, cities, coastal areas. Some of the herbs are endemic and grow only on the island. Here you will find chamomile, sage, marotira, rosemary, myran, mint, oregano - and these are just the most famous herbs. The herb dictamus grows in Crete, known for its beneficial properties. It is not surprising that Cretan cuisine is considered one of the most delicious in Greece.

In Crete you can try their famous Mountain tea. Locals add up to 12 different mountain herbs to the tea; they call it “cocktail tea” and drink it with honey in winter, and with ice and orange zest in summer.

Herbs weigh practically nothing, will not break on the road, and are very cheap. Chania has some good herbal shops in their indoor market.

Honey

Honey from Crete is another famous product that is worth bringing back from your trip. It bears little resemblance to what we are used to. The most popular honey in Greece is from thyme, which is also the most expensive. Here you can also find such unusual varieties as pine honey, heather honey and chestnut honey.

It is best to buy honey in the markets, or directly from the manufacturer. So you can try it. If possible, buy honey in plastic or metal containers for ease of transportation.

Cheese

Be sure to try the local cheese. In Crete you will find many interesting varieties: gruyere (made from sheep's milk), feta (white cheese), mizithra (unpasteurized fresh cheese from sheep or goat milk) and anthotiro (made from sheep and goat milk, practically unsalted).

Gruyere is the most popular cheese in Crete. Try to buy it on the day of departure so that it does not get damaged in your luggage. And Graviera can be stored in the refrigerator for a very long time.

Carob products

Carob is an evergreen tree that grows almost everywhere in Crete. Here is also the largest carob grove in Europe - Tris Ekklisies. The pods (not seeds) of the tree are consumed dried or roasted, and are also used to make flour. During the war, carob products were fed to rebels and local residents, and now it is considered a superfood - a healthy substitute for chocolate. Carob is used to make macaroons, coffee, tea and cookies.

Knives

In Crete, knives are treated with special respect. Previously, men carried 2 knives with them: one for food, and the other for enemies. They differed from each other in the shape of the handle. Food knives had wavy handles with indentations for the fingers, while combat knives had straight and smooth handles.

The Cretan knife is one of the most popular souvenirs. There are 3 main types of knives: "voskomahero" (shepherd's knife), "basalis" (boss) and "saita" (shuttle). The best knives can be bought at Machairadika, from the Greek word machaíri (knife), located on Sifaka Street in the Old Town of Chania. This is the only store where knives are made. You can take knives out of Crete in your luggage; usually, there are no problems.

© whatknot/ flickr.com / CC BY 2.0

Traditional Cretan-Mycenaean costume

In some villages of Crete, men wear the famous Cretan costume every day. The rest of the inhabitants of Crete wear it on holidays and festivals.

A woman's Cretan costume consists of a ruffled embroidered dress, an embroidered apron and an embroidered vest over a silk shirt. The outfit is completed with an embroidered silk scarf and jewelry on the chest.

As for men's traditional costume, common throughout the island, there are two types: daily and festive. The daily suit consists of black ribbon breeches, a shirt and a long belt wrapped several times around the waist. The formal suit is made of quality blue felt and consists of pleated breeches, an embroidered vest, a silk shirt and a long purple silk belt. You can find Cretan costumes in traditional tailor shops.

Leather goods (Stivania)

A characteristic feature of the Cretan men's costume are leather boots. Black for every day and white for formal occasions. These boots are made only in Crete and have a unique design. Each pair is suitable only for the person who ordered them, because... They are specially tailored to the customer’s feet.

There are 2 types of boots: from one piece of leather and from two, where one is for the foot and the other for the lower leg. Cretan leather boots can be ordered from the Stivanadika workshop on Skridlof street in Chania. Today there are only a few craftsmen left who can create an individual “stevania” for you. At Stivanadika you can buy bags, wallets, sandals and other Cretan leather souvenirs.

© copepodo/flickr.com / CC BY 2.0

Komboloi – Greek rosary

Komboloi are ordinary rosary beads for one or two hands. In Greece they were used to pass the time without any religious significance. In Crete, the House of Amber has one of the largest collections of komboloi in the world. There are usually a lot of beads in komboloi and there are options for both men and women. Komboloi beads can be made from sandalwood, natural stone, amber or plastic.

Icons

Crete has a rich history of religious iconography. You can buy an icon from Greece in Crete in a store or, which is cheaper and more interesting, order it directly from an icon painter. Please note that old icons can only be exported from Crete with special permission.

Weaving

Not so long ago there was a loom in almost every home in Crete. Now few people master this art, but you can still bring handmade carpets and blankets, beautiful lace and embroidered handkerchiefs, aprons and tablecloths of all colors and sizes from Crete.

There is a very good store “Crete's only male weaver” in Chania, as well as in Axos, Anogia, Zoniana, Zaros.

Natural cosmetic

You can bring high-quality natural Greek cosmetics from Crete. The largest and most famous manufacturers: Korres and Apivita. All cosmetics are made from natural ingredients containing olive oil, avocado, Cretan herbs and essential oils.

Decorations

In Crete you can buy interesting jewelry made of silver and gold of excellent quality. The largest number of jewelry stores are in Chania and Rethymno. In these regions, high competition forces stores to reduce the cost of products.

© evrtstudio/flickr.com / CC BY 2.0

Ceramics

The art of ceramics originated 7 thousand years BC. Many large Minoan vases were discovered in Crete, in which oil was stored and transported. 9 thousand years have passed, and there are still many craftsmen making ceramic products on Crete.

There are 2 villages in Crete: Margarita (Rethymno region) and Trapsano, where you can try to make your own masterpiece from clay. Vases, bowls, plates, dishes, wall reliefs, statues and sculptures - this is what you will find in many shops and stores in Crete. Well, bringing homemade souvenirs from the island of Crete is doubly pleasant and unusual.

Local crafts

Near the city of Chania there is a unique place where more than 30 artisans have gathered - the Verekinthos Arts and Crafts Village. It was built specifically to provide local artisans with a space where they could live and create. The project took more than 30 years to create and helped preserve ancient crafts that would otherwise cease to exist.