What to Buy in Santorini: The Best Souvenirs in Santorini

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What to Buy in Santorini? Santorini is stunning—and so are the prices. If you’ve visited, you know what I mean. While nearly everything on the island leans toward the expensive side (including water and snacks!), that doesn’t mean you have to leave empty-handed. If you’re selective, you can bring home a few meaningful souvenirs that reflect the island’s charm without breaking the bank.

Here’s what I recommend buying in Santorini, especially if you want to bring home something more unique than a refrigerator magnet.

Local Pottery is What to Buy in Santorini

Santorini’s handcrafted pottery is absolutely beautiful and reflects the island’s deep artistic traditions and cultural heritage. Each piece is a unique work of art, shaped and painted by skilled local artisans who have often learned their craft through generations of family practice. You’ll find a wide variety of items, from intricately designed decorative plates and elegant wine jugs to charming olive bowls and serving dishes, all made from local clay. Many are adorned with traditional Greek motifs—like meanders, olives, and geometric patterns—or hand-painted scenes of Santorini’s iconic whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and stunning caldera views. These ceramics make for stunning souvenirs or gifts, offering both functionality and a tangible connection to the island’s timeless beauty.
Tip: Pottery can be pricey, so shop around before committing. Smaller pieces like ceramic magnets or coasters are a more budget-friendly option if you’re tight on space or funds.

Flowy Dresses & Lightweight Fashion

Those breezy, beautiful dresses you see in every boutique? They’re hard to resist. Perfect for hot weather, these flowy cotton or linen pieces are ideal for summer and often feature embroidery or Santorini-inspired prints.
While they might not be cheap, you’ll likely wear them long after your trip. I bought this dress and belt there and loved it!

Olive Oil & Olive-Based Products are What to Buy in Santorini

You can’t go wrong with high-quality Greek olive oil—it’s a staple of Mediterranean cuisine and renowned worldwide for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. Whether used for cooking, drizzling over salads, or dipping fresh bread, a bottle of premium Greek olive oil makes a thoughtful and authentic gift. For an extra touch, look for varieties infused with herbs like oregano, rosemary, or thyme, or even garlic, which add a delightful twist to traditional recipes.
Many shops in Greece and abroad offer olive oil-based products such as soaps, lotions, and skincare items. These are often crafted using traditional methods and local ingredients, offering a natural and luxurious alternative to commercial beauty products. Not only are they effective and gentle on the skin, but they also carry the essence of Greece’s rich agricultural heritage.

Bonus: These beauty products smell amazing and are often made with natural ingredients.

Santorini Beauty Products

Santorini’s volcanic soil and unique plants inspire many local beauty products. Volcanic ash is a popular ingredient. It’s full of minerals and helps detox the skin. You’ll find it in face masks and scrubs. These products cleanse and refresh, leaving your skin feeling renewed. Aloe vera, which thrives in the island’s arid climate, brings soothing hydration and healing benefits—perfect for calming sun-exposed skin. And yes, even donkey milk is a key ingredient in many local skincare lines. Donkey milk is rich in vitamins and fatty acids. This makes it especially nourishing and gentle, even for sensitive skin. You’ll find moisturizers, cleansers, and handmade soaps. All are made in small batches with natural ingredients. Local makers use time-honored techniques. These products are gentle, effective, and full of island charm. They help keep your skin healthy and glowing.
These products make for luxurious yet practical souvenirs you’ll actually use.

Spices and Seasoning Blends are What to Buy in Santorini

A small bag of Greek herbs makes a great souvenir. Try oregano, thyme, or rosemary, all grown in Mediterranean sun. You can also find custom spice blends made for popular dishes like souvlaki, grilled meats, or classic tzatziki. These blends add authentic Greek flavor to your cooking at home. They’re aromatic, easy to use, and full of tradition. Best of all, dried herbs and spices are lightweight and compact. They fit easily into your luggage without any hassle. Some shops even offer beautifully packaged sets, perfect for gifting or displaying in your kitchen.
Look for shops selling spice kits or local seasoning blends labeled with Santorini branding. They make great gifts for foodie friends, too.

Jewelry

Santorini’s jewelry shops are full of artistry and charm. They offer a wide variety of pieces that blend Greek tradition with modern style. One of the most popular items is the evil eye bracelet. It’s believed to protect against bad luck and is often made with colorful beads, glass, or precious metals. You’ll also find gold-plated necklaces, rings, and earrings. Many feature classic Greek patterns or symbols like the meander (Greek key) and the spiral of eternity.

Designs in blue and white—reflecting the island’s famous buildings and sea views—are especially popular. They make beautiful and meaningful souvenirs. Shops carry both fine jewelry with gold and stones and more affordable costume pieces. There’s something for every taste and budget. Many boutiques also sell items made by local artisans. These are great if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind, handmade gift.
Look for local artists or shops that use lava stone or sea glass for something uniquely Santorini.

Santorini Wine or Spirits

If you’re checking a bag, pick up a bottle of Assyrtiko wine, Santorini’s signature white wine made from grapes grown in volcanic soil. Some shops also carry local ouzo or mastiha liqueur.
Just make sure it’s properly packed if you’re flying!

Final Tips:

• Greece’s islands offer a mix of luxury and tradition. Whether you’re cruising or flying, steer clear of the prices in touristy areas (especially Oia) and discover better deals on handmade goods in Fira or Pyrgos.
• Always ask if items are locally made or imported—some “Greek” souvenirs are actually mass-produced elsewhere.
• Pack light on the way to Santorini so you have room to bring back your treasures!

Santorini may be pricey, but if you choose wisely, you’ll bring home souvenirs that are not only beautiful but also tell the story of your time on this unforgettable island. Whether it’s a bar of handmade soap or a statement dress, your keepsakes will remind you of whitewashed walls, blue domes, and that Aegean breeze.

Have you brought home a favorite souvenir from Greece? Let me know what it was!