Top 15 Souvenirs to Purchase in Corfu

Do you have a sense of adventure? Are you drawn to destinations steeped in Old World charm? Looking to pack a variety of enchanting locations into one thrilling trip?

If so, booking a European cruise with Dinogo® will likely address all these desires and more. The next step is to ensure the island of Corfu is included in your travel itinerary. Nestled between Greece and Italy in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is rich in diverse history.

Here’s our curated list of 15 souvenirs you can find while exploring this stunning Greek island.

1. Marble Carvings

While you explore the city of Corfu, you'll notice that many historical buildings are crafted from marble. A notable example is the impressive arched gateway at the Old Fortress, adorned with intricate carvings.

The main entrance of the Ionian Parliament features inscriptions in both Greek and English carved into its marble facade. Inside, the Church of St. George showcases stunning architecture constructed entirely from pure marble.

In the shops of Corfu, you can find beautifully crafted local marble statues, coasters, and other unique carvings, allowing you to take home a piece of the city's artistry.

2. Olive Oil Soap

In Corfu, olive oil is not just for culinary uses. Local artisans have been crafting exquisite soap from olive oil for over 150 years.

This olive oil soap cleans, softens, moisturizes, and disinfects the skin. You can also find other products on Corfu that incorporate additional local ingredients such as herbs, honey, and kumquats.

3. Olive Wood Kitchen Items

For unique kitchen essentials, seek out items made from olive wood. Craftsmen in Corfu hand-sculpt olive wood to create utensils and other kitchen tools that are both beautiful and practical.

Look for wooden bowls, pitchers, cutting boards, rolling pins, and mixing spoons.

4. Leather Sandals

While exploring Corfu, consider purchasing a classic item worn by locals for centuries: leather sandals. Made from locally sourced leather and characterized by their simple, timeless design, these Greek sandals are handmade and designed for durability.

You can also find a range of stylish leather products in Corfu, including handbags, wallets, and wrist cuffs.

5. Tavli

Enhance your game night with family or friends by trying Tavli, the Greek adaptation of backgammon. Although it uses the same board, checker-style pieces, and dice, Tavli has its own unique set of rules.

Discover how to play this ancient game from welcoming locals, and explore various shops across the island for beautiful, handcrafted Tavli boards.

6. Ceramics

Among the many souvenirs from Corfu, the ceramics stand out as some of the most exquisite. Artisans skillfully shape clay to create unique items such as plates, bowls, vases, pitchers, and more. You can watch these craftsmen at work in various studios and shops throughout the island.

7. Lace and Embroidery

Looking for a new tablecloth, some placemats, or a few doilies? Across Corfu, you'll find shops that offer handmade Greek lace and embroidered items.

Stop by and pick up a few pieces for yourself or your loved ones. Crafted using techniques passed down through generations, each of these items is unique and won’t take up much space in your luggage.

8. Worry Beads (Komboloi)

For a truly authentic keepsake, consider acquiring some worry beads, known in Greece as komboloi. You'll enjoy the rhythmic clicking sound they make as the beads glide between your fingers.

These worry beads come in a variety of materials, including amber, coral, glass, wood, and plastic.

9. Coffee Products

With its fine grind and strong flavor, Greek coffee is typically sweetened with sugar and enjoyed slowly.

Extend the enjoyment of Greek coffee well beyond your visit to Corfu by purchasing coffee beans, a special brewing pot known as a briki, and a selection of colorful demitasse cups.

10. Mati, The Greek Eye

Looking for a good luck charm? According to Greek folklore, jewelry featuring the evil eye, called matiasma or mati for short, is a perfect choice.

This blue glass eye is believed to ward off negative energy and harmful glances.

Throughout Corfu, the evil eye motif can be found on a wide range of jewelry, including bracelets, necklaces, rings, and pendants.

11. Dried Herbs

For those who love to cook, Corfu offers a rich selection of dried herbs perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes.

Look for oregano, red saffron, basil, thyme, and sage to share the delicious flavors of the Greek Isles with your loved ones.

Once you're back home, try your hand at preparing delicious Greek dishes such as souvlaki, moussaka, and gyros paired with a zesty tzatziki sauce.

12. Ouzo

During your time in Corfu, you'll likely enjoy sipping ouzo, an aperitif that boasts strong flavors of anise, fennel, cardamom, cloves, coriander, and cinnamon.

If you find the taste appealing, consider buying a bottle of ouzo to take back home with you.

Keep in mind that when purchasing alcohol, each adult can buy one liter duty-free, which Dinogo staff will hold for you until the conclusion of your voyage.

13. Honey

Corfu's lush and fertile landscape yields not only the products already mentioned but also exquisite golden honey.

You can find jars of honey in various shops around the island, along with related items like bee pollen, royal jelly, or beeswax candles.

14. Kumquat Products

A notable local product of Corfu is the kumquat, which is among the few regions in Greece where this fruit is cultivated.

These small, orange-like fruits are transformed into delectable fruit preserves known as spoon sweets and are often enjoyed on top of Greek yogurt.

Consider buying a jar of these tasty candied kumquats or a bottle of vibrant neon-orange kumquat liqueur, perfect for sipping post-dinner or mixing into cocktails.

15. Flokati Rug

Bring a touch of Greece into your living space with a genuine flokati rug.

Crafted using a time-honored technique developed by Greek shepherds, these plush wool rugs typically feature an off-white color, but you can now find them in a wide variety of shades. Flokati rugs are available in numerous shapes and sizes to suit any decor.

If you're dreaming of a vacation filled with stunning destinations, consider embarking on a Dinogo cruise ship through Europe. Make sure to include a stop in Corfu for an unforgettable experience and bring home a unique souvenir. From olive oil and leather sandals to dried herbs from the island, there's something for every traveler to cherish.