Crete Shopping: Markets, Areas and Shops in Crete

Crete shopping offers a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern retail experiences. Visitors can explore local markets, boutique shops, and artisan workshops showcasing unique products such as handmade textiles, pottery, jewelry, and regional delicacies like olive oil and honey. The shopping culture in Crete emphasizes authenticity, with many items rooted in centuries-old techniques and traditions. From urban centers to village markets, shopping in Crete provides a chance to connect with the island’s history and creativity.

Crete offers a shopping experience that blends its cultural heritage with modern retail options. The Heraklion Central Market on 1866 Street is a hub offering fresh produce, herbs, cheeses, spices, and authentic Cretan products such as olive oil and thyme honey, alongside handmade crafts and souvenirs. For a more modern shopping experience, the Kasavetis Shopping Centre in Hersonissos provides a range of clothing, jewelry, and leather goods, alongside traditional products such as olive oil and honey. Heraklion’s Dedalou Street offers a mix of international brands, local boutiques, and handmade jewelry, making it a favorite for fashion enthusiasts. These destinations, whether historic markets or modern shopping districts, provide visitors with an experience, with culture and modern conveniences.

1. Heraklion Central Market

Heraklion Central Market is a historic marketplace located on 1866 Street in Heraklion, Crete. The market offers a wide range of goods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs, spices, cheeses, meats, olives, and seafood from the fishmongers on Karterou Street. It also features stalls selling souvenirs, handmade crafts, affordable clothing, and shoes, alongside small cafés and tavernas where visitors can enjoy local delicacies.

The Heraklion Central Market does not focus on specific brands but rather emphasizes local products and traditional Cretan fare. Visitors can find artisanal cheeses like graviera, thyme honey, and extra virgin olive oil among other local specialties. Heraklion Central Market typically operates from early morning until late afternoon, though specific opening hours may vary slightly depending on the season or individual vendors. Heraklion Central Market has been a central hub for daily shopping since ancient times, with remnants of old Heraklion still visible in its architecture. Heraklion Central Market is the most important sight of the Heraklion Markets that a tourist should visit.

2. Chania Municipal Market

The Chania Municipal Market, also known as the “Agora”, is an indoor market located in Chania, Crete. Chania Municipal Market is housed in a neoclassical structure built between 1909 and 1913, modeled after the market in Marseille. The market offers a diverse array of products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses like graviera and mizithra, olives, herbs, spices, and traditional Cretan goods such as raki and olive oil. Visitors can find handmade crafts, souvenirs, and textiles that reflect local craftsmanship. Chania Municipal Market primarily features local products rather than specific brands, it provides an authentic shopping experience with goods from small Cretan producers.

Agora is located at Sofokli Venizelou Square in Chania’s city center and typically operates Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 2 PM, with extended hours on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays until 8 PM. It is closed on Sundays except during special occasions like Christmas and Easter. The Agora holds significance as it was inaugurated by Prime Minister Eleftherios Venizelos shortly after union with Greece in 1913. It is built on the site of a former Venetian fortification bastion and represents an architectural jewel of Chania and one of the most impressive markets in the Balkans. Tourists visiting the Chania Markets should be aware that Chania Municipal Market is currently undergoing renovations expected to last until late 2025.

3. Kasavetis Shopping Centre, Hersonissos

The Kasavetis Shopping Centre in Hersonissos is a popular shopping destination located in the resort town on Crete. The market is known for its variety of shops and convenient location, caters to both tourists and locals. The center offers a wide range of products, including clothing, shoes, jewelry, leather goods, souvenirs, and traditional Cretan products like olive oil, honey, herbs, and raki. It also features stores selling children’s clothing, retro fashion, and high-end items such as fur coats and gold or sterling silver jewelry. Kasavetis Shopping Centre focuses on local products and handmade crafts, it also houses boutiques offering international brands and modern fashion.

Leather shops like Hatzis Leather are particularly notable for their handcrafted bags, belts, sandals, and accessories certified as authentic Cretan products. Visitors can also find casual wear, formal attire, and accessories to suit various tastes and budgets. The shopping center is located on the main road of Limenas Hersonissos, close to the beach and central tourist areas. Its central location makes it easily accessible for visitors exploring the town. The shops typically operate from morning until late evening during the tourist season (April to October), though hours may vary depending on individual stores.

4. Skridlof Street (Leather Lane), Chania

Skridlof Street, often referred to as “Leather Lane” or “Stivanadika,” is a narrow and historic street located in the Old Town of Chania, Crete. Skridlof Street offers a wide range of leather products, including bags, wallets, belts, shoes, and the iconic “stivania”—traditional Cretan boots. Many of these items are now manufactured elsewhere, some shops continue to offer handmade goods crafted in Chania.

Skridlof Street is known for its high-quality leather products rather than specific brands, emphasizing local craftsmanship and designs. In addition to leather goods, visitors can find jewelry, ornaments, souvenirs, and hand-crafted embroideries. Skridlof Street is located near the harbor in Chania’s Old Town, making it easily accessible for tourists exploring the area. The shops on Skridlof Street typically open from 9 AM to 11 PM Monday through Friday and from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekends. Tourists visiting Skridlof Street should be prepared for an atmosphere, especially during the tourist season when organized tours often include this iconic lane.

5. Dedalou Street, Heraklion

Dedalou Street in Heraklion is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the city, known for its mix of international brands and local boutiques. Shoppers can find well-known brands like Zara and Marks & Spencer alongside local stores that sell items such as handmade jewelry, traditional Cretan crafts, and artisanal products. The shops on Dedalou Street generally open from 9 AM to 9 PM, although hours may vary slightly depending on the season and individual store policies.

Tourists visiting Dedalou Street should take advantage of its central location to explore not only the retail offerings but also the cultural landmarks. Visitors are encouraged to explore the side streets off Dedalou, where they can discover cafes and smaller shops offering a more intimate shopping experience.

6. Rethymno Farmers’ Market

The Rethymno Farmers’ Market is an authentic open-air market held in Rethymno, Crete. The market is primarily aimed at local consumption, providing fresh, seasonal produce directly from farmers. Visitors can find a variety of fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, grapes, beans, apples, pears, and herbs. The market offers local specialties like olive oil, honey, and cheeses.

Rethymno Farmers’ Market is located opposite the Municipal Gardens in Rethymno and operates every Thursday from early morning until around 2:00 PM. It is a spot where locals gather to purchase their weekly groceries, creating a lively atmosphere filled with the scents and colors of fresh produce.

The market itself does not hold significant historical importance, it reflects the traditional Mediterranean lifestyle that has persisted in Crete for generations. Tourists visiting the Rethymno Farmers’ Market should be prepared for a genuine local experience.

The market is an excellent place to interact with vendors who often speak some English and are eager to share stories about their products. It’s advisable to arrive early for the best selection and to bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards. The market provides an opportunity to taste and purchase authentic Cretan ingredients that are perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

7. Kitropeltia Area, Agios Nikolaos

The Kitroplatia Area in Agios Nikolaos is a shopping district located near the central beach and just a short distance from Lake Voulismeni. Visitors can find a variety of products, including traditional Cretan goods such as olive oil, honey, herbs, and local wines. The area is home to several boutiques and specialty stores where tourists can purchase items that are not typically found in larger commercial centers.

The shops in Kitroplatia generally operate from morning until late evening, especially during the tourist season when the area is with visitors. Although the area itself does not hold significant historical importance, its proximity to historical sites like the ancient city of Lato. Tourists visiting Kitroplatia should be prepared for an atmosphere where they can enjoy both shopping and views of the sea. The cobblestone streets and traditional architecture create a backdrop for exploring local shops.

8. Laiki Agora (Farmer’s Market), Chania

The Laiki Agora (Farmers’ Market) in Chania is an outdoor market held several times a week in different locations around the city. It is known as “Laiki” in Greek, this market is where farmers and small producers sell fresh, locally grown products directly to consumers. Visitors can find a wide variety of goods, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, herbs, spices, honey, olive oil, cheeses such as graviera and mizithra, fresh fish, flowers, and even live chickens or rabbits.

The Laiki Agora focuses on local products rather than specific brands, with most vendors offering their own farm-grown produce or handmade goods. It is held in different locations throughout Chania on specific days: Thursdays in Nea Hora and Saturdays near the Old Market Hall on Minoos Street. The market typically operates from early morning until 1–2 PM. Laiki Agora itself does not have historical significance, it reflects a long-standing tradition in Greece of connecting farmers directly with consumers.

Tourists visiting the Laiki Agora should be prepared for an atmosphere filled with crowds of locals shopping for their weekly supplies. Haggling over prices is common and often welcomed by vendors. Visitors can enjoy sampling local delicacies like honey or olives while exploring the market’s colorful stalls.

9. Verekinthos Arts & Crafts Village

The Verekinthos Arts & Crafts Village, located between Souda and Tsikalaria near Chania, Crete, is a destination dedicated to preserving and showcasing traditional Cretan crafts. The village enclave is home to over 30 workshops where artisans create and sell a variety of handmade items, including ceramics, sculptures, jewelry, glassware, leather goods, textiles, and traditional musical instruments.

Verekinthos is located 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the center of Chania and is easily accessible by car. The workshops are generally open to the public from 10 AM to 4 PM, with some extending their hours into the evening. The name “Verekinthos” references a mountain linked to the mythical sons of Zeus, who were said to be protectors and teachers of the arts. The Verekinthos Arts & Crafts Village frequently hosts cultural events and festivals that celebrate Cretan heritage.

10. Talos Plaza, Heraklion

Talos Plaza is a prominent shopping and entertainment center located in Heraklion, Crete, known for its modern retail and leisure facilities. It is located at the intersection of Sofokli Venizelou, Minoos, and Pelasgon Streets, it offers a convenient location near the city center and along the coastal road. This lifestyle center spans 9,000 square meters (2.22 acres) and provides a diverse array of shopping options, including fashion, accessories, electronics, and more. Notable brands available at Talos Plaza include Peacocks, OVS, Yamamay, and Bata, catering to various tastes and preferences.

Visitors can enjoy a range of dining options with restaurants and cafes such as Starbucks, Flocafe Espresso Room, Goody’s, and Pastarella at Talos Plaza. The plaza also features an Odeon cinema with eight auditoriums and 1,500 seats, making it a popular destination for entertainment. The opening hours for retail stores are typically from 10 AM to 9:30 PM, while cafes may open earlier and close later. Tourists visiting Talos Plaza should know that it offers free underground parking from 2:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily, making it an accessible destination for those exploring Heraklion.

Where are the shops concentrated in Crete?

Shops in Crete are primarily concentrated in major towns, each offering a unique shopping experience.

In Heraklion, Dedalou Street and 25th August Street are known for international brands and local boutiques, while the Heraklion Central Market on 1866 Street offers traditional goods like local produce and souvenirs.

Chania’s Old Town features the Municipal Market (Agora) with over 70 stalls of Cretan goods and Skridlof Street, famous for leather products. Agios Nikolaos’s Kitroplateia area hosts boutique shops with handmade jewelry, unique clothing, and Cretan art.

In Agios Nikolaos, the Kitroplateia area is home to boutique shops offering handmade jewelry, unique clothing, and Cretan art in a relaxed atmosphere.

Is there a shopping district in Crete?

Yes, shopping districts are primarily found in the major towns and cities of Crete.

Find below a list of the shopping districts in Crete’s cities.

• Heraklion. Heraklion features several prominent shopping streets such as Dedalou Street, Dikeosinis Street, 1866 Street, and 25th August Street. These areas are known for their mix of international brands and local boutiques, offering everything from fashion and accessories to traditional Cretan products like olive oil and honey.
• Chania. The Old Town of Chania is a major shopping district, characterized by its narrow streets lined with shops selling handmade ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, and Cretan herbs.
• Rethymno. The Old Town is the primary shopping district in Rethymno. Its medieval streets are filled with shops offering clothes, shoes, jewelry, and souvenirs
• Agios Nikolaos. In Agios Nikolaos, 28th October Street is a pedestrianized shopping street that serves as the city commercial activity. It features a variety of shops selling clothing, accessories, local art artifacts, and traditional Cretan products.
• Ierapetra. Ierapetra does not have a large shopping district like other Cretan towns, it hosts a local street market on Psyllinaki Street every Saturday. This market offers local traditional products such as olive oil, honey, herbs, and fresh produce

How to shop in Crete?

Crete offers a diverse shopping experience, including traditional markets, local village markets, and high-end shopping areas. Visitors can explore the Heraklion Central Market for traditional Cretan products like olive oil and cheeses. For a local touch, village markets in Archanes and Anogeia feature handcrafted goods. High-end shopping is available on Dedalou Street and 25th August Street in Heraklion, where international brands can be found.

What currency is used while shopping in Crete?

The official currency used in Crete is the Euro (€), as Crete is part of Greece, a Eurozone member. The Euro has been Greece’s official currency since 2002, replacing the drachma. In Crete, both coins and banknotes are used, with coins ranging from 1 cent to 2 € ($2.00, £1.73( , and banknotes from 5 € ($5.00, £4.33) to 500 € ($500.00, £432.78), although larger notes like 200 € ($200.00, £173.11) and 500 € ($500.00, £432.78) are less commonly used for Crete shopping. Tourists can use cash or cards, with ATMs widely available.

Is shopping in Crete duty-free?

No, shopping in Crete is not generally duty-free, as it adheres to Greece’s VAT regulations. However, duty-free shopping is available at Heraklion and Chania airports for travelers departing the EU. Crete’s airport stores offer tax-exempt products such as cosmetics, perfumes, spirits, tobacco, jewelry, and local specialties like olive oil and honey. Services like “Reserve & Collect” allow passengers to pre-order items online and pick them up before departure..

Are there car rental shops near the stores in Crete?

Yes, Crete car rentals are widely available near shopping areas. Major towns such as Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, and Ierapetra have numerous car rental services located near city centers, ports, and airports. Renting a car from a local car rental company like Rental Center crete is highly recommended for exploring Crete’s shops and attractions at your own pace.

Which souvenirs can you buy in Crete?

Find below a list of the top souvenirs to buy in Crete.

• Olive Oil. Cretan olive oil is world-famous for its exceptional quality and taste. Visitors can find extra virgin olive oil in beautifully packaged bottles or tins at local markets, grocery stores, and souvenir shops.
• Olive Wood Products. Handcrafted from pruned olive trees, these eco-friendly items include kitchen utensils, cutting boards, bowls, and decorative objects. It is known for its durability and natural beauty.
• Religious Icons from Monasteries. Crete’s spiritual heritage is reflected in its handmade Byzantine religious icons. It is painted wooden pieces, often depicting saints or biblical scenes, are available at monasteries and specialty shops.
• Cretan Jewelry: Inspired by Minoan designs and traditional Cretan motifs, handmade jewelry includes gold-plated or silver pieces adorned with patterns. Cretan Jewelry is one the most authentic souvenirs to buy from Crete.
• Greek or Cretan Recipe Book. Cretan cookbooks offer a look into the culinary secrets, featuring recipes for dishes like dakos, moussaka, and tzatziki. These books are widely available in souvenir shops and make a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves Mediterranean cuisine.
• Thyme Honey. Cretan thyme honey is a premium product known for its flavor and health benefits. It is made from the nectar of wild thyme flowers and is often sold in jars at local markets or specialty stores.
• Cretan Raki (Tsikoudia). Cretan Raki is made from grape pomace and often served after meals. Bottles of plain raki or flavored varieties like rakomelo (with honey) can be purchased at liquor stores or local distilleries.
• Herbs and Spices. Crete’s markets are filled with fragrant herbs like oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. These organic spices are essential to Cretan cuisine and make excellent souvenirs for cooking lovers.

Are there grocery stores in Crete?

Yes, there are numerous grocery stores in Crete, ranging from large supermarket chains to smaller local markets. Here are some of the prominent supermarket chains and grocery stores you can find across the island:

• Sklavenitis. Sklavenitis is one of Greece’s largest supermarket chains and has multiple branches across Crete. It offers a wide variety of groceries, fresh produce, household items, and local products like olive oil and honey, making it a favorite for both residents and visitors.
• Lidl. Lidl is a German discount supermarket chain with several locations in Crete and known for its competitive prices on groceries, household goods, and electronics. It also stocks local Cretan products alongside its international offerings.
• Chalkiadakis Super Markets. Chalkiadakis Super Markets is a family-run supermarket chain with 41 stores across Crete, Chalkiadakis specializes in fresh produce, local delicacies, international brands, and organic products. It is a trusted choice for locals seeking high-quality groceries.
• Synka (INKA): Synka is a local Cretan supermarket chain with branches throughout the island emphasizes local products such as Terra Creta olive oil and Golden Crete honey. It is ideal for those looking to support the local economy.
• AB Vasilopoulos. AB Vasilopoulos is a prominent Greek supermarket chain operating in Crete, offering a comprehensive selection of groceries, bakery items, fresh produce, and personal care products. It is known for its high-quality own-brand items.
• Masoutis. Masoutis is a Greek supermarket chain that offers groceries, fresh food, household items, and electronics. Masoutis is known for its well-organized stores and a good selection of both local and international products.

Are there online shops in Crete?

Yes, Crete and Greece has a variety of online shopping options, especially for traditional products and local specialties. Here is a list of notable online shops and their offerings:

• Skroutz.gr. Skroutz.gr is a Greek e-commerce platform that aggregates products from various Greek retailers. It features a wide range of items, including electronics, home goods, clothing, and specialty food products. It is not exclusive to Crete but a reliable option for finding competitive prices and delivery services across the island.
• Greek Flavours. Greek Flavours is an online store specializing in authentic Greek products, including Cretan delicacies. Customers can order items like extra virgin olive oil, thyme honey, cheeses (like graviera and anthotyro), raki, and traditional pastries.
• MyCretanGoods.com. MyCretanGoods.com is dedicated to Cretan products. The e-shop offers a wide selection of local goods such as honey, olive oil, herbs, handmade pasta, wines, raki, and natural cosmetics made with olive oil and beeswax. It also provides corporate and gift options with worldwide delivery.
• Cretoikos.com. Cretoikos.com eshop focuses on premium-quality extra virgin olive oil from Crete as well as other traditional products like honey, marmalades, and olive oil-based cosmetics. It emphasizes authenticity and offers international shipping with tracking options.
• Cretashop.gr. Cretashop.gr specializing in Cretan goods, this site features traditional foods like dakos rusks, carob products, herbs, and local spirits. It also sells natural cosmetics and decorative items that reflect the island’s culture.

Last updated on January 15th, 2025