Greek Souvenirs: The Best Gifts to Bring Back from Greece

Greek souvenirs are one of the best parts of a holiday in Greece. However, not everything survives the trip home. Here are the souvenirs we love most, from Crete to Santorini, and all of them fit in a suitcase.

Greek souvenirs you can eat and drink

• Olive oil. Crete is famous for it. Buy a small tin rather than a glass bottle, because tins travel better.
• Thyme honey. Thick, dark and fragrant. A small jar makes a lovely gift.
• Mountain tea and herbs. Greek mountain tea, oregano and dittany from Crete are light and easy to pack.
• Santorini wine. Look for Assyrtiko, the island’s famous white grape. Also, try Vinsanto, a sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes.
• Raki or tsikoudia. The strong spirit Cretans offer after a meal. Above all, wrap it well.

Remember that most liquids must go in your checked bag. So check your airline’s rules before you buy.

Traditional Greek souvenirs to keep

• Komboloi. Greek worry beads. People click them through their fingers to relax.
• The evil eye. The blue mati is said to protect against bad luck. You will find it on bracelets, keyrings and wall hangings.
• Leather sandals. Handmade sandals are a classic. In fact, many shops will make a pair to fit you.
• Ceramics. Small bowls and plates with island patterns. Wrap them in clothes for the flight.
• Natural sponges. Light, useful and a traditional island product.

Greek souvenirs that last: your photos

Food runs out and sandals wear out. By contrast, a favourite photo stays with you. That is why we turn our own photographs from Crete and Santorini into gifts you use every day. For example, a personalised photo mug with the blue dome of Santorini brings the island back with every coffee.

In addition, you can add your own words, such as “Crete, summer 2026”. As a result, the mug becomes a souvenir of your trip, not just of Greece.

Gifts for someone who misses Greece

Some of the best gifts go to people who miss Greece, or who dream of going. For instance, a magic mug reveals a Santorini sunset when you pour in a hot drink. Meanwhile, the love heart mug suits a couple who fell in love on the islands.

Similarly, our photo bauble brings a Greek touch to the Christmas tree. Read our ideas in Personalised Christmas baubles for a Greek Christmas tree.

Where to read more

Want to learn more about the islands first? Then start with Crete and Santorini on Wikipedia, or read our own guides to the Santorini sunset and the Chania lighthouse.

All photographs in this article © Simov P Store. All rights reserved.