Crete isn’t just Greece’s largest island — it’s a full-on sensory experience. Picture sun-drenched hillsides, sea views, ancient ruins and food so good you’ll want to bottle it up and take it home. Luckily, you can. If you're wondering what to buy in Crete, this island is packed with local treasures — from edible delights to handcrafted goods — that make for memorable souvenirs.
Whether you’re exploring the charming town of Chania or browsing open-air markets with the scent of herbs and olive oil in the air, there’s no shortage of special items to take home. Here’s your guide to the best Crete souvenirs worth packing in your suitcase.
1. Cretan Olive Oil
Let’s start with liquid gold. Olive oil from Crete is some of the best in the world — cold-pressed, full-bodied and rich with the island’s sun-kissed flavors. Many families have been producing olive oil for generations, often using traditional stone mills and organic farming practices.
Small-batch bottles make for thoughtful gifts, especially if you pick them up from a local farm or cooperative. Bonus: You can usually sample them before you buy.
2. Local Wines & Raki
Crete is home to a blossoming wine scene with indigenous grape varieties like Vidiano, Liatiko and Kotsifali. You’ll find red, white and dessert wines that reflect the island’s unique terroir. Another local favorite? Raki — a strong, clear spirit traditionally served after meals as a gesture of hospitality.
Wine and spirit shops across the island carry beautiful bottles to bring home and some even offer tasting experiences so you can choose your favorites.
3. Handmade Soaps & Natural Skincare
Crete’s abundance of olive oil, herbs and botanicals make it a hotspot for natural beauty products. Handmade soaps infused with lavender, chamomile, rosemary and goat’s milk are not only soothing — they’re also easy to pack.
Many are made at local workshops and come in beautifully-rustic packaging. These Crete souvenirs are perfect for pampering yourself — or gifting a little slice of Mediterranean luxury.
4. Cretan Honey
If you want to bring a taste of Crete back home, don’t skip the honey. The island’s bees forage among wild thyme, pine and mountain herbs, producing rich, fragrant honey that’s thicker and more flavorful than your average store-bought jar.
Look for jars labeled “thyme honey” or “pine honey” in local markets. Spread it on toast, drizzle it over yogurt or enjoy it by the spoonful.
5. Spices & Herbal Teas
From mountain-grown oregano to sage, bay leaves and blends for souvlaki or lamb, Cretan spices are a great way to enhance your cooking at home. You'll also find herbal teas made from native plants like diktamos (Cretan dittany), a calming herb used since ancient times.
Local herb shops and market stalls often sell pre-packaged teas and spice mixes, ready to go straight into your suitcase.
6. Cretan Cheese
Cretan cheeses are legendary — especially graviera, a hard sheep’s milk cheese with a nutty, buttery flavor. You might also come across myzithra or anthotyros, two soft cheeses used in traditional pastries and desserts.
Many stores offer vacuum-sealed packaging, so you can safely take some home. Add a jar of olives or fig jam for a complete gourmet gift set.
7. Leather Goods From Chania
The town of Chania is known for its “leather street” — a row of workshops and boutiques where artisans handcraft sandals, bags, belts and wallets from high-quality leather. Designs range from traditional Greek styles to more modern, fashion-forward pieces.
If you're looking for a souvenir you can actually use, a handmade leather bag or pair of sandals is a smart — and stylish — choice.
8. Cretan Knives
A symbol of Cretan heritage and pride, traditional Cretan knives (machairia) were once carried as part of everyday life. Today, they're beautifully-crafted keepsakes featuring carved wooden or horn handles and engraved blades.
They’re sold in specialty shops and often come with ornate cases. While they make excellent gifts or display items, be sure to check customs regulations before bringing one home.
9. Ceramics & Pottery
From rustic pitchers to hand-painted dishes and olive oil jars, Crete’s ceramics reflect the island’s long-standing artistic traditions. You’ll find pieces in earthy tones or adorned with Minoan-inspired patterns, perfect for serving food or decorating your kitchen.
Smaller items like bowls or mugs are great for packing and won’t break the bank.
10. Woven Textiles & Embroidery
Crete has a strong tradition of loom weaving and embroidery, with many women still producing textiles by hand in rural villages. You can find tablecloths, runners, cushion covers and scarves featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
These one-of-a-kind items add a warm, personal touch to any home — and serve as a beautiful reminder of your time on the island.
Shopping Excursions in Crete
If you’re looking to combine culture with shopping, consider one of the guided excursions that offer insight into Cretan traditions and local craftsmanship. These tours give you a chance to explore and shop without rushing:
- The Treasures of Cretan Culture
- Visit the Anoskeli Winery and olive oil estate to sample and shop for olive oils and local wines. Learn the art of traditional soap making at Fisika Soap Workshop — where you can browse skincare products made from organic Cretan olive oil. Afterwards, enjoy guided time in Chania’s charming Old Town for history, handmade goods and leisurely shopping.
These outings are perfect for travelers who want to understand the story behind what they’re buying — and take home something truly authentic.
What to Buy in Crete?
If you’re wondering what to buy in Crete, consider purchasing rich olive oils and golden honey to embroidered textiles and artisan leather goods. These souvenirs capture the island’s deep-rooted traditions, flavorful cuisine and handmade charm. They’re not just items — they’re stories in tangible form. Whether you’re browsing the market stalls of Chania, touring a mountain winery or walking through a coastal village, you’ll find plenty of ways to bring the soul of Crete home with you.
Keep ExploringWant to learn more about the Crete adventures that await you? Check out these guides:
