Chania (Chaniá) is the largest city of western Crete, a port of about 108,000 people with a Venetian harbour, an Ottoman-era Old Town and easy access to Samaria Gorge, Balos and Elafonisi.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Cretan olive oil
Extra-virgin olive oil in tins or bottles.
Price: EUR 8-20 per litre (USD 9-23)
Where: Shops on Skridlof and Halidon streets
Thyme honey and herbs
Local honey and dried mountain herbs (dittany, oregano).
Price: EUR 5-12 (USD 6-14)
Where: Skridlof Street shops
Raki (tsikoudia)
Clear grape spirit sold in bottles.
Price: EUR 8-15 (USD 9-17)
Where: Skridlof and Halidon streets
Leather sandals, bags and boots
Handmade leather goods from Leather Street and the Stivanadika corner.
Price: Sandals about EUR 30-60 (USD 35-69); price not confirmed
Where: Skridlof Street and Stivanadika
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Shopping districts
Neighbourhoods known for retail.
Skridlof Street (Leather Street)
Stivanadika
Halidon Street
Bargaining tips
Negotiate like a local.
Prices are fixed in most shops on Skridlof Street; asking for a discount on two or more items sometimes works.
Compare leather quality by smell and stitching before buying.
Check labels on olive oil and honey for the producer and origin.
Customs & restrictions
What you can and can't take home.
Currency: Euro (EUR); 1 EUR is about 1.15 USD.
Vat: VAT is included in marked prices (24 percent standard rate).
Tax Free: Non-EU residents can claim VAT refunds from shops offering Tax Free forms; present the form and unused goods at the airport customs desk.
Sunday Trading: Most souvenir shops open in summer on Sundays; other shops may close.