shopping & packing for Greece
Packing for Greece is trying to strike the perfect balance between chic island-hopping ease and practical wanderlust — preparing can be a challenge.
Whether you’re wandering cobbled streets in Athens, ferry-hopping between Cycladic isles, climbing olive-grove hills or sipping ouzo by the sea, you want luggage that’s light enough to handle stone-strewn alleys and unpredictable weather, yet stylish enough to fit in with the effortlessly elegant vibe of Greek summers.
Breathable linens and cottons, sundresses and flowing skirts, a swimsuit or two, a sunhat, sunglasses, comfy walking shoes for those marble pavements, and a light layer for cooler nights or breezy ferry rides — all these belong in your suitcase.
But packing isn’t only about clothes. Everyday essentials include: a refillable water bottle, a compact beach bag, sunscreen, a scarf or wrap, a versatile daypack, and even a European plug adaptor if you’re bringing gadgets.
And once you’re there, shopping becomes part of the joy: Greece offers plenty of quality items worth bringing home — from handmade sandals and linen pieces to ceramics, local delicacies, and souvenirs that won’t just clutter your backpack, but remind you of olive-scented sea breezes and Mediterranean sunsets.
Tips for packing
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Start with a small, very sturdy suitcase, ferries and cobblestones are brutal on luggage.
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Hard-shell bags handle stacking, dragging and tight storage far better than soft cases.
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Pack light breathable fabrics, Greece gets hot and stays hot.
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Choose shoes with grip, marble and cobblestones are a slip-and-swear combo.
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Bring a light jacket or wrap for ferries and breezy evenings.
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Keep one modest outfit for monasteries, they do check.
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Sunscreen is easy to find and high quality, especially from Lidl or local pharmacies.
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Keep valuables, meds and chargers in your day bag, never in checked luggage.
Tips for Shopping
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Expect excellent value in linen clothing, leather sandals and natural beauty products.
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Prices jump in tourist hubs, so compare before buying.
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Greek pharmacies are outstanding for skincare, suncare and wellness items.
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Supermarkets, including Lidl, are great for affordable essentials and local foods.
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Cash helps in smaller villages, markets and family-run shops.
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Buy regionally, each island specialises in different crafts and products.
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Ceramics, jewellery, textiles and edible souvenirs pack well and make reliable keepsakes.
- One of the best things about leaving Athens until the end is doing most of your shopping there and not dragging it around the islands with you.
Do I really need a small suitcase?
Yes. You’ll thank yourself every time you drag it over ancient cobblestones or lift it onto a ferry or up endless flights of stairs. Larger bags become a liability fast.
What should I absolutely not forget?
Comfortable walking shoes, a light wrap or jacket, a modest outfit for monasteries, and your essential medications. Everything else is replaceable.
Is sunscreen hard to find or expensive in Greece?
Not really. There is a wide range of price points.
Greek pharmacies stock excellent brands with superior quality in line with strict EU guidelines, and supermarkets like Lidl have well-priced options.
Bring some to start, then top up locally.
What are the best things to buy in Greece?
Linen clothing, leather sandals, ceramics, natural beauty products, honey, herbs and local foods, especially olive oil. Quality is usually excellent.
Is shopping cheap in Greece?
It depends. Local products can be great value, but tourist hotspots inflate prices. Compare a few shops before committing.
Do I need cash?
Cards are widely accepted, but small villages, markets and family-run shops still prefer cash, so keep some on hand.
Or head to our SHOP!
All items are personally curated by our Editor, including several amazing Greek brands
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