Shopping in Ikaria Island - authentic goods, best outlets, malls and boutiques

While being on holidays in Ikaria, don’t pass by truly Greek souvenirs. For example, different matopetra souvenirs are sold here. This stone is well-known among superstitious people. It is believed that matopetra protects from the evil eye. Even if you are not superstitious, you can buy this souvenir. It looks unusual and can be an interesting gift for your friend. One more unique Greek souvenir is komboloi, a local variant of beads. It is twenty beads strung on a solid thread. Komboloi is not a cult object, it is usually used for relaxation and concentration. Komboloi is a symbol of status for Greek people. Beads can be made of wood and even semi-precious stones.

Don’t pass by local fur item. You can buy nice high quality shoes or a bag at a good price on Ikaria. Local women earn money by producing embroidered napkins, tablecloths and towels. But remember that the low price for a large item shows that the product is not a handmade item and it was made here. It is usually a counterfeit brought to Greece from China. Many tourists buy local lace on Ikaria. There are several quite large jewellery shops on the island. Masters make accessories in unique Byzantine style which is used only in Greece. Furthermore, you can ask to make an item according to your own sketch.

Different types of pictures are sold on Ikaria: from landscapes to still lifes and portraits. The island was always known with its stunning views, unique constructions and a romantic legend about Icarus. So, the island has always been attracting masters from all over the world. Almost all of the Ikaria Inhabitants are orthodox Christians. That’s why you can find a large number of icons here: from simple patterns to carved images with a framework made of precious metals. Remember that they don’t have historical value. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Olive oil is widely produced and used on the Ikaria. It is obvious because oil is not only a souvenir product here. You will find a bottle of olive oil on every Greek kitchen. You can find oil in souvenir packages in the shape of amphorae or famous Greek characters. Moreover, you can buy a plastic 1-litre bottle or 3 and 5-litre jerrycans. If you have bought oil in a tin container, you should better pour it into a plastic bottle, otherwise, the taste of the product will be spoiled. The best product is cold-pressed Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. The second place goes to Virgin Olive Oil. Try to choose oil with low acidity level.

However, not all of the olives are used in oil production. Local markets and supermarkets offer a wide choice of olives. You can find delicious tinned olives with different toppings in local supermarkets. They are all of the same quality but have different taste. Fresh olives of different tastes are sold in local markets. There are many kinds of olives, so you should better try them all during your holidays and choose what you’ve liked most. Olive paste is a delicious Greek delicacy. Natural cosmetics have become popular in Greece and on Ikaria in recent times. Soap based on olive oil is extremely popular here. It is produced with different flavouring additives: lavender, pomegranate and even coffee. You can also buy natural creams, shampoos, shower gels and face masks. You should better buy these cosmetic products in pharmacies or specialized shops. The price can be lower on markets but you can't be sure about the composition of the goods.

Be sure to buy some local cheese and sweets from Ikaria. Baklava, lokum, nougat and kozinaki have a long shelf life and you can take them home. A nice bargain is a pack of local coffee. Greeks love this drink and produce it with great care. Don’t pass by local retsina. This kind of wine is usually served chilled, so look for it in refrigerators with beer. Pay your attention to local wine. Some of the most popular stronger drinks are anise vodka ouzo, grape vodka grappa and local cognac metaxa. Ouzo has a peculiar taste, you should taste it before buying a bottle of this drink for your friend. Greek ceramic tableware is a nice souvenir for those who want to set the table tastefully.