Shopping in Elounda, Crete: what to buy and when to go to Agios Nikolaos
Elounda is small, and its shopping is mostly boutiques and souvenirs. For a wider choice, drive 15 minutes to Agios Nikolaos.
- Elounda has small boutiques, souvenir shops and local Cretan products.
- For fashion, leather and jewellery, go to Agios Nikolaos, about 12 km away.
- Agios Nikolaos holds a weekly market every Wednesday.
If you are staying in Elounda, you will find small gifts and local products. For serious shopping, plan half a day in Agios Nikolaos.
What to buy in Elounda
Elounda is a small resort on Mirabello Bay, better known for its hotels than its shops. Around the harbour and promenade you will find independent boutiques, souvenir shops with handmade ceramics and shells, Cretan herbs, spices, olive oil and olive-oil soap, and olive-wood kitchenware (source: GreekBoston). See our Elounda guide.
Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos is about 12 km away, roughly 15 minutes by car. Around the lake and harbour there are fashion labels, leather goods, jewellery, local cosmetics, bookshops and galleries. A market is held every Wednesday, with fresh produce, crafts and souvenirs; go in the morning and confirm details locally.
What to take home from Crete
| Product | Why |
|---|---|
| Cretan olive oil | among Greece's best known |
| Thyme honey | a classic local product |
| Herbs and mountain tea | light and easy to pack |
| Olive-oil soap | cheap, easy gift |
| Olive-wood utensils | a useful souvenir |
For kosher food and Shabbat see Chabad in Crete. More shopping: Heraklion, Chania, and the VAT refund guide.
FAQ
Is there a mall in Elounda? No. There are boutiques and small souvenir shops; Agios Nikolaos has more choice.
When is the Agios Nikolaos market? Every Wednesday. Go in the morning.
How far is Agios Nikolaos from Elounda? About 12 km, roughly 15 minutes by car.
What should I buy in Elounda? Olive oil, herbs, olive-oil soap, olive-wood utensils and handmade ceramics.
