Shopping in Heraklion, Crete: the market, shopping streets and malls
Heraklion's best shopping is in the old market and the streets around it. Don't expect big malls.
- Heraklion's central market is on 1866 Street, selling souvenirs, spices, cheese, fruit and cheap clothes.
- Talos Plaza in Heraklion is called Crete's largest shopping centre, but it is small, about 9,000 square metres.
- Recommended souvenirs: raki, wine, herbs and local sweets.
If you're after a big mall, you'll be disappointed. In Heraklion, shop on foot in the market and the Old Town, and set aside a morning for it.
Heraklion shopping: what to expect
Heraklion is Crete's largest city and has plenty of shops, but no big malls. Most shopping happens in the old centre: the market, the streets around it and the lanes leading down to the harbour. You can cover it on foot in a morning. Our Heraklion city guide.
Heraklion market: 1866 Street
The central market is on 1866 Street. The street is named after one of Crete's major uprisings against Ottoman rule. It runs from Meidani Square to Kornarou Square, with 1821 Street running parallel.
In the market you'll find:
- souvenirs
- cheap clothes and shoes
- fruit and vegetables
- herbs and spices
- cheese and meat
- small cafés and tavernas along the street
Fishmongers sell from stalls on nearby Karterou Street. The cross streets have more shops, supermarkets, a bank and an indoor car park. (Explore Crete)
The source we checked doesn't give the market's opening hours. As elsewhere in Greece, go in the morning. Many shops close on Sundays.
Shopping centres in Heraklion
| Place | Where | What's there |
|---|---|---|
| Talos Plaza | Heraklion waterfront | about 9,000 m², dozens of clothes and shoe shops and a cinema; called Crete's largest shopping centre |
| Mall Hersonissos | Limenas Chersonissou | souvenirs, a few clothes shops and cafés; more a resort shopping strip than a mall |
Source: In Your Pocket. Reviews of Talos Plaza are mixed, and one visitor described an upper floor that was largely empty. (In Your Pocket)
Staying in Hersonissos? See kosher food and Chabad in Hersonissos.
What to buy in Heraklion
Greeka recommends raki, wine, herbs and sweets as Cretan souvenirs. Village mini-markets sell fruit, vegetables and dairy. (Greeka)
A few tips:
- Olive oil and other liquids: if you're flying with hand luggage only, check the liquids limit at security.
- VAT refund: non-EU residents can claim VAT back on larger purchases. How tax-free shopping works in Greece.
- Kosher: local food products usually carry no kosher certification. Kosher food and Shabbat in Heraklion.
Heraklion shops: practical tips
- Start at the market in the morning, then carry on to the Old Town and the harbour.
- Market prices are usually fixed, but at souvenir stalls you can ask for a discount if you buy several items.
- For international brands there's more choice when shopping in Athens.
More on the island: Crete.
FAQ
Is there a big mall in Heraklion? Not really. Talos Plaza is called Crete's largest shopping centre, but it is small, at about 9,000 m².
Where is Heraklion market? On 1866 Street in the city centre, between Meidani Square and Kornarou Square.
What should I buy in Heraklion? Raki, wine, herbs, spices and local sweets. You'll find all of them at the market.
Are Heraklion shops open on Sundays? Many shops are closed on Sundays. Souvenir shops in tourist areas are often open. Check before you go.
