What to Buy When Shopping in Santorini

Santorini is one of those magical destinations where every view feels like a postcard and every alleyway holds a hidden gem. Beyond the iconic whitewashed buildings and stunning caldera views, this Cycladic island offers plenty of treasures for shoppers. Whether you're hunting for keepsakes or gifts, knowing what to buy in Santorini will help you bring a piece of its beauty back home.

From handmade crafts to local delicacies, here are 10 must-have Santorini souvenirs to look for when shopping on the island.

1. Santorini Wine

Thanks to its volcanic soil and sunny climate, Santorini produces some of Greece’s most distinctive wines. Look for bottles of Assyrtiko, a crisp white wine or Vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes. Many shops offer gift sets with wine, local cheese and olives.

2. Donkey-Themed Gifts

Donkeys are iconic symbols of Santorini, famously seen carrying travelers up the steep cliffs. You’ll find their charming likeness on everything from ceramic figurines and magnets to textiles and tote bags. These playful souvenirs capture a bit of Santorini’s personality.

3. Handmade Pottery

Local artisans craft beautiful pottery inspired by traditional Greek designs. Whether it’s a hand-painted bowl, decorative plate or olive oil dispenser, pottery makes a functional and artistic reminder of your visit.

4. Olive Oil Products

Santorini’s olive oil is prized for its rich, peppery flavor. Look for artisan bottles of extra virgin olive oil, as well as olive-based beauty products like soaps, lotions and scrubs. These are perfect for foodies and wellness lovers alike.

5. Greek Spices and Herbs

Capture the flavors of Greece with packets of dried oregano, thyme and rosemary. Specialty shops also sell spice blends perfect for recreating traditional Greek dishes at home.

6. Santorini Jewelry

The island’s boutiques and galleries offer a wide selection of handcrafted jewelry. Look for designs featuring lava stone, sea glass or the iconic blue-and-white color scheme of Santorini’s architecture.

7. Traditional Textiles

From embroidered linens to handwoven scarves, Santorini’s textile shops showcase beautiful handmade goods. These textiles often feature traditional Greek patterns and are lightweight, making them easy to pack.

8. Local Art & Photography

Santorini’s landscapes have inspired artists for centuries. Pick up original paintings, prints or photographs depicting the island’s famous sunsets, churches and cliffside villages to bring a touch of Greek beauty into your home.

9. Natural Beauty Products

Take home the island’s natural beauty with locally made skincare products. Items infused with volcanic ash, sea minerals and olive oil are popular for their nourishing properties and make for unique gifts.

10. Greek Leather Sandals

For a fashionable and functional souvenir, invest in a pair of handcrafted Greek leather sandals. Simple yet timeless, these sandals are a staple of Greek style and are perfect for summer strolls back home.

Discover Santorini Shopping Excursions

Make the most of your visit with these excursions that combine sightseeing with ample time to explore local shops and markets:

1. Island of Santorini and Oia Village Discover the postcard-perfect village of Oia with its charming art galleries, cafés and artisan shops. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local bodega, learning how Santorini’s volcanic soil influences its unique varietals, before concluding the day with free time in the capital city of Fira for shopping and sightseeing.
2. Oia & Fira Town Explore Santorini’s most iconic villages with a guided stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets of Oia and Fira. Enjoy free time to browse fine shops, relax in cliffside cafes and snap photos of the caldera views
3. Pyrgos Village with Mezes and Wine Visit Pyrgos, a historic village with remnants of a Venetian castle and an 18th-century monastery. Savor traditional mezes and local wine at the island’s oldest winery, followed by free time in Fira for shopping and exploring.

What to Buy in Santorini?

When planning what to buy in Santorini, consider local wines, olive oil products, handmade pottery and donkey-themed souvenirs. Jewelry, textiles and natural beauty products also make wonderful gifts or keepsakes. Shopping in Santorini is as much about the experience as it is the items — think quaint boutiques, artisan markets and scenic streets lined with treasures waiting to be discovered.

For more inspiration on visiting Santorini, explore these helpful guides on what Santorini is known for and the best time to visit Santorini.