Bringing home a piece of Athens is a way to hold onto the rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences of your trip. Whether you're strolling through the ancient streets of Plaka or browsing the lively markets of Monastiraki, the Greek capital offers a treasure trove of unique keepsakes. Peruse handcrafted sandals, myth-inspired jewelry, and olive oil straight from the source. The best gifts from Athens reflect the city’s soul and timeless charm. Here's a guide to the most meaningful and memorable items to bring back from your trip.
Greek Mythology Books and Illustrated Editions
There’s nothing quite like Greek mythology! Mythology books and illustrated editions make for memorable gifts that provide a sense of meaning and connection to Athen’s living history. The city comes alive with stories and symbols, whether it’s in coffee table book format or graphic novels. Read about Zeus, Athena, and Poseidon while standing in the Pantheon’s shadow. Read about Greek gods while seeing their statues atop the Acropolis or amidst ancient temples and ruins.
THN’s recommendation for Greek mythology books in both Greek and English: Politeia Bookstore
Greek Delicacies: Honey, Spices, and Cheese
Capture the taste of Greece with authentic local honey, cheese, and spices. Greek honey has a distinct flavor and often reflects hints of thyme, pine, and wildflower. Traditional spices from the country are harvested on the islands and from the hillsides. Common spices include oregano, mountain tea, and sage. Traditional Greek cheese, like feta, graviera, and kasseri, can easily be found vacuum-sealed and ready for travel. Supporting local small businesses and honoring the dedication of family farms is the way to go for these gifts!
THN’s recommendation for Greek spices: Bahar is a spice shop that’s been around since the 1940s.
Komboloi (Greek Worry Beads)
Greek worry beads, known as Komboloi, are culturally rich and significant keepsakes. A beloved part of everyday Greek life, the beads are used for meditation and relaxation. Some are made of amber, coral, or resin, while others are crafted from olive wood. Finding komboloi crafted by artisans is a great way to choose a personal and unique gift while supporting local commerce. In some shops, you can even choose your own beads to design a customized komboloi.
THN’s recommendation for Komboloi (Greek Worry Beads): Kombologadiko (The Worry Bead Shop)
All Things Olives
All things olive-related in Greece are steeped in thousands of years of tradition. Greek extra virgin olive oil is easily recognized for its rich aroma and low acidity. Cold-pressed, small-batch, local, and organic options are the way to go for this souvenir! Shops in Athens boast colorful ceramic jars for serving olives and bottles for displaying oil in the kitchen. Look for PDO labeling for your gifts (Protected Designation of Origin). Pair a bottle of oil with Kalamata olives, tapenade, and sea salt for a perfect gift bundle!
THN’s recommendation for all things olives: Pantapoleion tis Mesogeiakis Diatrofis (The Mediterranean Diet Gourmet Grocery Store)
Mati (Evil Eye) Jewelry and Decor
The mati, or evil eye, is an ancient and deeply significant cultural symbol in Greece. The tradition tracks back to ancient Greece, Rome, and the Middle East over 3,000 years ago. Though not originally tied to the Greek Orthodox religion, more modern takes on the mati have evolved to include religious symbols such as crosses and icons. The classic design is a blue eye, blue believed to be the color that wards off evil. The mati symbolizes protection against negative energy and envy. To gift someone a mati is to offer them good luck and protection.
THN’s recommendation for a mati (Greek evil eye): Museum of Cycladic Art Shop
