The best fashion and gift stores Crete

This family jewelry store, run by artisan jewelers from father to son, is located in the busiest street of the old town. Here you will find jewellery with an authentic style, inspired by the Minoan period, and works of art rich in symbols of Greek mythology. You will also find all sorts of watches and souvenirs from the island, which is bound to be a gift for you or your loved ones to bring back from your holidays. The staff is French-speaking, and prices remain reasonable for quality objects.

Cretan tradition is dominated by song and music. The sound of the Cretan lyre and the lute have accompanied folk songs and dances for a long time. Nowadays, Cretan musicians take up many of these songs and continue the tradition with new compositions. Cretaphon participates in its own way in the perpetuation and dissemination of Cretan music: you will find the widest range of original CDs in brand new packaging. Real traditional Cretan music of high quality from only two euros!

Located in the heart of Ierapetra, this jewellery shop run by Sonia, a very welcoming Cretan, is the address to advise you if you are looking for typical Byzantine or modern jewellery. A large number of handcrafted jewels, in gold, silver or with precious stones, will please you by their originality at rather accessible prices. In the shop there are also replicas of hand-made Byzantine icons. Don't hesitate to go through the shop door, there is something for every wallet!

Here you will find handcrafted icons, which are based on the classical traditions of Byzantine art, as maintained and handed down by the great masters in the field, notably the monks of Mount Athos (which explains the name of this shop). Bringing back an icon of Byzantine style can be a wonderful gift for loved ones, or a beautiful souvenir for oneself, but it should be noted that it is not a cheap purchase, which is quite justified by the know-how and materials needed for this art.

Through her vibrantly coloured ceramics and paintings, Alexandra has succeeded in a challenge that few Cretan artists would have dared: to combine traditional Cretan symbolism with a modern vision of art. Her works are the aesthetic witnesses of the inspiration she found when returning to Vatolakkos, the village of her ancestors. Before visiting her showcase, keep in mind that Alexandra's cheerful curved pottery is made on the island, following processes used by her Minoan ancestors 3,000 years ago.

The Byzantine Iconography Workshop of E. Krassagakis is a tiny historical and folklore museum in Crete. A fervent antique dealer, one of the few still to be found in Greece, a well-known auctioneer and restorer, it has real treasures to offer. One can still admire a diving uniform and scuba diving suit dating back to the beginning of the 20th century that belonged to a sponge fisherman, carpets dating back to the 19th century, chandeliers, paintings, among others. A certificate of authenticity will be delivered to you. Possibility of delivery abroad.

Small shop of colorful handcrafted pottery, a mix of Minoan models and oriental influence. Eli and her husband Nakis keep the long Cretan tradition of ceramics alive. In their small shop you can find unique objects, created by themselves on the spot or in their workshop located in Agia Galini: everyday objects or purely decorative, to please oneself or to give as a gift. The owners, very kind, are always available to answer all questions about their craft, their inspiration and their know-how.

Irmelia, named after the first names of the two daughters of the owners, is a store where you can find a wide range of inexpensive jewelry as well as decorative items that will bring a cosy touch to your home. All the items offered are original creations of Greek artists: bracelets, rings, pendants, earrings and necklaces in semi-precious stones, silver, smalt... The collection addressed to children, girls and boys, is a nice surprise. A very good solution for your gift ideas.

A shop of traditional products where the welcome is in French. Large selection of organic or award-winning olive oils. You will also find an important department of cosmetic products based on natural elements such as olive oil. Handcrafted ceramics, objects carved in olive wood, wines, dried aromatic plants... An ideal shop to find Cretan gifts to bring back from your stay. The products are presented with taste and the ranges are wide enough for everyone to find what they are looking for.

Looking to bring back a beautiful gift from your trip to Crete? In this store you will find beautiful kοpanelli (laces) made by the women of the village in the purest Cretan tradition. It is a weaving technique whose origin is lost in time. The lace is woven with the help of a dozen wooden sticks that are placed vertically on a small loom. The lace design is placed on the koussouni, a term that is most likely derived from the French word "coussin".

The Argaloom is a real Ali Baba's cave for vintage lovers. The shop offers a wide selection of original clothes and accessories: here you will find something to satisfy your desires, for those who like to rummage around in search of the unique piece to bring back from holidays. The prices are advantageous, which is always appreciable, especially to make a small gift. A good alternative address in the heart of Hania's old town, which is a change from the more classic shops in the surrounding area.

For those who like to hunt or collect kitsch or original objects, Mayaba Store unveils a fairytale world, an accumulation of figurines, rag dolls, candles, light garlands, leather goods and other accessories, mostly handmade. A little Ali Baba's cave! For those who are looking for typical products, this is not where you will find your happiness, go on your way. But lovers of flea markets and second-hand clothes will be delighted to dive here for a few moments, for themselves or to bring back a small gift to relatives