Best local products to buy in the Greek islands

The Greek islands are as many and diverse as their local products, crafts and delicacies. From picturesque souvenirs to tasty snacks for your way home, each island is full of traditional creations that reflect its culture and history.

If you are a big fan of souvenirs and memorabilia, you might need a couple of tips (or an extensive guide) when cruising through the islands of Greece. On Ferryhopper, you can discover some of the best local products to buy in the Greek Islands and plan your ferry trip to get there!

Some of the local products that we recommend are:

• Wine
• Kumquat
• Mastic
• Ouzo
• Sponges
• Ceramics
• Almond Sweets
• Cheese
• Pistachios

Tasty moments of relaxation in Santorini

Santorini and its elegant wines

The renowned island of Santorini has much to boast about: sunsets, luxurious resorts, black beaches and stunning architecture. Another highlight of Santorini that deserves all the praise is its wine production. For those who prefer white wine, you can find the famous varieties of Assyrtiko and Aidani, while Mavrotragano is reserved for lovers of strong red wine.

There are plenty of wineries to try out the local varieties of Santorini. Read more about the top islands for wine lovers on Ferryhopper and combine island hopping with wine tasting!

Corfu and its versatile kumquat

Corfu is located in the Ionian Sea and welcomes countless tourists every year from all over the world. Its secret? It has something for everyone.

The same can be said for kumquat, the famous citrus fruit of Corfu that is used for sweets, spreads, jams and tasty liqueurs! You can find it in virtually everything! Not only is it tasty and versatile, but nutritional as well!

Chios and its famous mastiha products

Chios is the fifth largest island in Greece, with plenty of activities and rich traditions to explore! The production of mastic, however, is what steals the spotlight. You can find multiple local souvenirs and delicacies, such as sweets, beauty products, liquors and sunscreen with mastiha oil! We highly recommend visiting the Mastic Villages to try out this local treasure in all its glory and forms! 

And for those who want to dive a little deeper into the history of mastic production, Chios Mastic Museum is the place to be!

Pure mastic products in the making

Lesbos and its one-of-a-kind ouzo

The island’s world-famous drink is enough reason for you to plan a ferry trip to Lesbos! Its authentic, pure taste and traditional production will brighten up your holidays. Make sure to combine it with local snacks at a local ouzeri and visit the Barbayannis Ouzo Museum to learn about the family’s 160-year tradition in this tasty business!

Tip: the island of Lesbos is also known for its unparalleled olive oil. In every corner of the island, you can try out many different varieties and cherish their unspoiled taste!

Kalymnos and its natural sponges

Located in the Dodecanese, the island of Kalymnos is a unique destination with a rich history of sponge diving. By visiting the island, you can buy local sea sponges, learn more about sponge diving and bring home unique souvenirs! There are plenty of items for different needs, from personal care to cosmetics and art tools!

Sifnos and its beautiful ceramics

The island of Sifnos, located in the western part of the Cyclades, welcomes you with its unparalleled energy and traditional crafts. From its scenic port to the main settlement of the island, you can find ceramic vessels of all sizes and shapes decorating the streets. 

The most famous ceramic of Sifnos is flaros, known for its eccentric design and multiple variations. In the past, they were created for domestic use and placed on top of chimneys. Today, they are considered beautiful decorations for all to enjoy.

You can also find traditional pottery used in plenty of restaurants and bars. Make sure to visit the island’s craft shops to buy ceramics in numerous colors and fill your home with their unique aesthetics.

Different types of ceramics decorating the houses of Sifnos

Spetses and its mouthwatering almond sweets

What sets Spetses apart from other islands is that most beaches, attractions, resorts and activities are within walking distance. So, if you happen to be in the mood for something sweet, just walk to the patisserie of Politis or Klimis to try out local almond sweets and buy some for your way home! You can find both patisseries in Dapia, the new port of Spetses, as soon as you set foot on the island!

Crete and its countless types of cheese

Crete is one of the top holiday destinations in Greece, offering amazing views and experiences to all kinds of tourists. Now, if you happen to be a cheese lover, Crete is guaranteed to steal your heart! 

Though feta is a standard option, popular on every Greek island, here are a few additional options for your trip to Crete:

• Kefalotyri (sheep and goat cheese)
• Mizithra (whey cheese or mixed milk-whey)
• Graviera (similar to gruyère, a Swiss type of Cheese)
• Tiromalama (unsalted cheese that resembles Italian mozzarella)

Tip: the many different types of cheese in Crete are delicious snacks. If you’re looking to try out the island’s signature drink as well, check out raki, the nectar of Crete.   

Aegina and its authentic pistachios

Pistachios belong to the cashew family, and Aegina produces one of the world's most famous varieties! Thanks to its delicate, versatile flavor, there are countless products with pistachios that cater to all tastes. You can find raw pistachios, cosmetics, sweets and pistachio cigars, a delicacy filled with pistachio praline.

Raw pistachios in Aegina await you!

Where can I book ferry tickets to the Greek islands?

Ready to go souvenir shopping in the Greek islands? On Ferryhopper, you can discover all Greek ferry routes on our Map of ferries and book ferry tickets online! The beautiful local products of the Greek islands are just a few clicks away!