π Supermarkets on the Islands
Anyone spending their Greek vacation in a holiday apartment or who enjoys cooking for themselves almost always asks the same question:
Is there a Lidl on my island?
The answer is: Yes β in many popular holiday regions.
Lidl operates around 230 stores in Greece under the name “Lidl Hellas,” spread throughout the country.
The stores are also located on several islands β offering low prices, a wide selection, and a mix of Greek and international products.
Below you will find an overview of all Greek islands with Lidl stores, shopping tips, and information on prices and opening hours.
Lidl in Greece β a brief overview
Lidl has established a strong presence in Greece in recent years.
The stores are modernly furnished, usually with an in-store bakery, a fruit and vegetable section, a refrigerated section, and a smaller non-food area.
One difference compared to Germany is immediately noticeable to many:
The selection is somewhat smaller,
the range is more focused on Greek products,
and there are often regional specialties β olives, cheese, wine, and yogurt from the country.
Why Lidl is so popular with vacationers
For travelers, Lidl is a convenient option:
low prices,
well-known brands,
reliable quality,
and card payment accepted almost everywhere.
Especially on islands, where smaller supermarkets are often more expensive, you can save a lot of money at Lidl.
It’s ideal for stocking up for a week’s vacation, a road trip, or a day at the beach.
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Islands with Lidl stores
Here are the islands we currently know of where there is at least one Lidl store:
Crete
Crete is by far the most important island for Lidl.
There are around 15 stores, spread across all regions β from Chania in the west to Sitia in the east.
Stores can be found in Heraklion, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra, Moires, Chersonissos, and other locations.
So, if you have a vacation rental or are traveling by car, you’ll almost always find a Lidl nearby.
Rhodes
There are several Lidl stores on Rhodes, including in Rhodes Town, Faliraki, and along the main road towards Lindos.
They are conveniently located between hotel areas and coastal roads β ideal for everyday shopping.
Kos
There is also a Lidl store on Kos. It is located on the main road between Kos Town and Kefalos.
Those staying in Tigaki, Marmari, or Kardamena can reach it in 15β30 minutes by car.
Corfu
Corfu has several Lidl stores: one in Corfu Town and others in the south near Lefkimmi.
They are easily accessible and often popular with locals, as the island is densely populated.
Zakynthos
The island of Zakynthos has a Lidl store near the airport and not far from the capital.
Convenient for those arriving by rental car or ferry.
Kefalonia
A Lidl store is located just outside Argostoli, the capital.
Many vacationers shop there on their way to their accommodations in the south of the island.
Lefkada
On Lefkada, there is a Lidl supermarket north of the town, on the main road towards Nidri.
For vacationers with holiday apartments in the area, it is the best place for bulk shopping.
Lesbos
In Mytilene, the island’s capital, there is a modern Lidl store.
It is also heavily used by locals and is open year-round.
Lemnos
The relatively large island of Lemnos also has a Lidl supermarket in Myrina.
It is mainly used by locals and seasonal visitors.
Samos
On Samos, there is a Lidl store between Vathy and Pythagorio.
It is easily accessible and popular with vacationers staying in the east of the island.
Chios
The island of Chios also has a Lidl store near the capital.
It is one of the northernmost Greek islands with a Lidl store.
Syros
In Ermoupoli, the capital of the Cyclades, there is a Lidl supermarket.
It is open year-round and is used by both locals and tourists.
Thassos
For several years now, there has also been a Lidl branch on Thassos, right near Limenas, close to the ferry port.
Evia
Evia is the second largest island in Greece and is connected to the mainland by a bridge.
Several Lidl branches are located in and around Chalkida, as well as in Kymi on the east coast.
Salamina
The island off the coast of Athens also has a branch in Aianteio.
Salamina is especially popular with Athenians who spend their weekends there.
Santorini
There is also a Lidl on Santorini, in Karterados near Fira.
Many travelers do their first major shopping trip here after arriving.
Islands without Lidl
To our knowledge, some well-known holiday islands do not yet have a Lidl branch, such as:
Mykonos,
Paros,
Naxos,
Milos,
Karpathos,
Skiathos,
Skopelos.
Other supermarket chains, such as AB Vassilopoulos, Sklavenitis, My Market, Masoutis, or local chains, handle the supply there.
Prices are usually somewhat higher, especially for imported products.
Prices & Product Range
The price level at Lidl in Greece is comparable to that in Germany, often only slightly higher.
Some examples from our recollection:
| product | Average price |
|---|---|
| 1 liter of milk | 1,40 β¬ |
| 1 kg of bread | 1,50 β¬ |
| 6 x 0.5 l water | 1,20 β¬ |
| 1 kg tomatoes | 1,80 β¬ |
| 1 kg apples | 2,00 β¬ |
| 1 bottle of olive oil (1 l) | 6β8 β¬ |
| 1 pack of feta | 2,50 β¬ |
| 1 beer (0.5 l) | 1,00 β¬ |
Overall, basic foodstuffs are quite inexpensive, while imported items (e.g., German branded products, cheese or sausage) are slightly more expensive (not all).
Many Lidl stores also carry regional products, including:
Olives and olive oil from Crete,
Honey from Thassos,
Cheese from Naxos,
Wine from the Peloponnese or Santorini.
Opening Hours & Payment
MondayβSaturday: generally around 7:45 a.m.β9:00 p.m.
Sunday: mostly closed, sometimes open in tourist areas (e.g., Syros or Rhodes)
Payment: Cash or card payment (EC, VISA, Mastercard, Maestro)
Deposit System: There is no deposit on bottles or cans in Greece.
Tip: During peak season, many stores are very busy β it’s best to shop in the morning.
Tips for Shopping on the Islands
Shop right after arrival:
If you arrive by ferry or plane, you’ll often find a Lidl supermarket on your way to your accommodation. This saves you trips later.
Arrive early:
Fruit and vegetable sections are freshest in the morning.
Bring your own bags:
Plastic bags usually cost a few cents; paper bags are also available cheaply.
Don’t panic if shelves are empty:
Restocking can take some time on islands, especially after storms or ferry cancellations.
Be aware of Sundays:
Only a few stores are open on Sundays; this is strictly regulated by law.
Compare with other supermarkets
| Chain | spread | Price level, our impression | remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lidl | almost all the larger islands | cheap | A mixture of Greek and German products |
| AB Vassilopoulos | widespread | medium | large selection, good quality |
| Slaveitis | mainly mainland | cheap | many private labels |
| My Market | many islands | medium | fresh produce, modern |
| Masoutis | Northern Greece | cheap | often family-run |
| Critics | Crete & Dodecanese | medium | many regional products |
Is it worth shopping at Lidl?
For self-caterers on the islands: definitely yes.
A wide selection of groceries,
fresh baked goods,
stable prices,
parking even at larger stores,
and reliable opening hours.
If you’ve booked a holiday apartment or flat, you can do your entire weekly shopping here β significantly cheaper than at the mini-market on the corner.
Conclusion
Lidl is present on many Greek islands and has established itself as a staple for holidaymakers.
Whether on Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Kos, Zakynthos, or Santorini β you’ll usually find a store within easy reach.
Only smaller islands and some of the Cyclades remain without Lidl so far.
The stores offer solid prices, familiar products, and reliable infrastructure.
Those staying longer or traveling with family especially benefit.
π In short:
Lidl is available on around 15 Greek islands.
Crete has the densest network of stores.
Prices are fair and stable.
Shopping is convenient, even with a card.
Mostly closed on Sundays, except in tourist areas.
In our opinion, Lidl in Greece is therefore the best place to shop while on vacation β practical, affordable, and familiar, yet still with a typical Greek character.