Travel to Crete > Travel Info > Shopping Tips

Shop Opening Times
Cretan markets open at about 7:30 a.m. Monday to Saturday, close around midday, reopen around 5 p.m. and stay open until at least 8pm. In resort areas, many shops are open until around 11 p.m. in summer.

Tax and Allowances
Non-EU residents can reclaim Value Added Tax (VAT) on most goods by presenting the relevant receipt at Customs on departure. Non-Eu travelers can also buy wines, spirits, tobacco, perfumes and other goods in duty-free shops at Chania and Heraklion airport.

Prices and Bargaining
Most ticket prices are firmly fixed. It is a good idea to ask for a better price in art and craft shops.

Cash or Credit
Most traders and shop owners prefer cash to credit cards and sometimes pass on to you the percentage charged by the credit card company, which can be as much as 5 percent.

Read Also:

• Budget Ideas