What to buy from Portugal: the 29 most unique souvenirs to bring home!

Looking for the best souvenirs from Portugal? This country, with its picturesque beaches, medieval architecture, and rich gastronomy, offers a plethora of unique keepsakes to take home. If you've planned a trip and are wondering what souvenirs to bring back, this guide will give you excellent ideas.

Don't worry if you're struggling to choose from the variety of Portuguese souvenirs. Here you'll find the top shopping choices, both for yourself and for your loved ones when you're asking "what to buy from Portugal"!

Portugal stands out for the variety of its local products and handmade items. From beautiful ceramic tiles and cork materials to Port wines and traditional cheeses, you're sure to find the perfect gift or memento.

Check out the top 29 souvenirs from Portugal worth buying!

# Portuguese Ceramics (Azulejos)

Discover the charming Portuguese ceramic tiles, known as azulejos, a depiction of Portuguese art. These elegant ceramics adorn various items from kitchenware to decorative elements, as well as buildings such as churches, houses, and public spaces.

Azulejos are a fundamental element of Portuguese tradition, with their art dating back to the 14th century. Initially, they were decorated with colourful designs, but gradually the timeless blue and white became established. If you are looking for an impressive gift, you will find them in almost every corner of Portuguese cities.

Note: If you wish to add a Portuguese touch to your home or someone else's, azulejos are a wonderful choice for decoration.

# Barcelos Cockerel Figurine & Related Products

The Barcelos cockerel, Galo de Barcelos, represents one of Portugal's most significant national symbols. Based on a traditional 12th-century legend, it symbolises happiness and love, making it one of the most beloved souvenirs for visitors.

This colourful and decorative symbol is found in various forms, from ceramics and wooden items to embroidery and other decorative objects. The Barcelos cockerel adorns many items, such as t-shirts, postcards, aprons, toys, and wooden sculptures, offering a distinctive and special gift from Portugal.

# Portuguese Jewellery

Portuguese jewellery is among the most popular souvenirs, and not just because it doesn't take up much space in luggage. These wonderful pieces, with their intricate motifs, are examples of rich Portuguese craftsmanship developed since medieval times. You will mainly find silver and gold jewellery with filigree techniques.

# Cork Products

Portugal, a global leader in cork production, offers a plethora of products made from this material, mainly from the Alentejo region. Cork is used in bags, wallets, shoes, umbrellas, and other items, thanks to its lightness and waterproof properties. It is one of the most sustainable and practical souvenirs you can get from Portugal. Keep an eye on the labels to avoid buying products made in China.

# Handmade Portuguese Soaps

Portuguese soaps are a good choice for souvenirs. Handmade and packaged with great care, they are made from natural ingredients such as olive oil, animal milk, fruits, honey, and local flowers.

These soaps are recognisable for their uniqueness and are a popular choice for tourists who want to take a piece of Portugal home. Their fragrances and distinctive designs will constantly remind you of your wonderful trip to Portugal.

# Portuguese Guitar

For music lovers, the Portuguese guitar is a captivating magnet. If you visit Portugal, you will probably be impressed by fado music, with its melancholic and intense character. The Portuguese guitar, a 12-string, pear-shaped instrument, is an integral part of fado and makes an ideal souvenir for musicians or those wishing to learn to play.

# Portuguese Embroidery

Portuguese embroidery, especially from the Madeira region, is one of the most traditional and beloved art forms in Portugal. With a history of over 150 years and at least 3,000 embroiderers, Madeira embroidery is offered in a plethora of options such as scarves, tablecloths, clothes, kitchen and bath towels. 

# Tram Models, Cars and Vintage Toys

Tram, car, and train models are among the most characteristic souvenirs of Portugal, with particular value for vintage enthusiasts. These tram models are a tribute to Lisbon's historic trams and make ideal keepsakes.

They are available in various materials, such as metal, plastic or fabric, and are perfect for collectors or lovers of vintage toys.

# Football Shirts and Scarves

Football is one of the most beloved sports in Portugal. Having deep roots in the country's culture, it's no wonder that football team jerseys and scarves are popular souvenirs. The national love for football is reinforced by Cristiano Ronaldo, the famous Portuguese footballer.

For football fans, a visit to the CR7 Cristiano Ronaldo Museum in Funchal, Madeira, will introduce you to the career and life of the legendary athlete.

# Leather Shoes and Belts

Portuguese leather crafts, such as shoes and belts, stand out for their quality and elegance. Portugal, with a long tradition in leather craftsmanship since the 16th century, has established itself as one of the leading countries in Europe for leather products. 

# Traditional Arraiolos Carpets

Arraiolos carpets, with their rich history and artistry, are another unique manifestation of Portuguese heritage. Made in the village of Arraiolos, these handmade carpets are characterised by their diverse motifs and vibrant hues, making them a unique decorative element for any space.

# Paper Products Inspired by Portugal

For affordable and attractive souvenirs, Portuguese paper products are an excellent choice. They include paper replicas of famous Portuguese symbols, such as the Barcelos cockerel and azulejos. These paper items are easy to transport and capture the essence of Portuguese culture, making them ideal to add to your collection.

# Portuguese Literature 

Enhance your library with a Portuguese literary work. The country offers a rich variety of literary genres, from historical books and travel guides to fiction. Here you'll find everything from Camões' classic "Lusíadas" to contemporary works by authors such as Saramago and Gomes de Amorim.

# Couto Medical Toothpaste

Couto medical toothpaste has been an essential self-care product in every Portuguese home since 1932. With its cleansing and antiseptic properties, it makes a practical and useful souvenir. Its striking orange packaging and retro style make Couto toothpaste stand out in every shop.

# Statue of Our Lady of Fátima

Our Lady of Fátima is considered the patron saint of Portugal. This statue, depicting the Virgin Mary dressed in a long tunic with hands in a prayer pose, is considered a symbol that will bring luck and protection to your home.

Gastronomic souvenirs from Portugal

Portugal offers a rich gastronomic experience, ideal for food lovers. If you're interested in food and drink souvenir options, there are many interesting choices.

# Portuguese Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Portuguese olive oil, with its fruity taste, is known for its quality. Produced in six different regions of Portugal, it offers a variety of flavours, from bitter and sweet to milder ones. 

# Portuguese Cheese

Portuguese cheeses rival those of France and Switzerland in quality. With a plethora of options from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk, the most famous is Serra da Estrela, a soft and spicy cheese. Other excellent choices include the hard goat's cheese Transmontano and Rabaçal cheese.

# Portuguese Sardines

Canned sardines are one of Portugal's most characteristic products. In Lisbon's Baixa, you'll find an impressive variety of colourful cans, some with historical events depicted on the back. It's an opportunity to bring home a unique and delicious souvenir.

# Pasteis de Nata

Pasteis de nata or pastéis de belém are among the most famous sweet treats in Portugal, known for their fluffy cream and crispy base. They originate from the Jeronimos Monastery in Belem, where they were first made 300 years ago. Today, you'll find them in many bakeries throughout Portugal, usually sprinkled with cinnamon or icing sugar.

# Ovos moles de Aveiro

Ovos moles de Aveiro, also known as Aveiro sweet eggs, are a traditional Portuguese dessert originating from the Aveiro region. The recipe contains eggs, sugar, and various types of flour, creating a unique result. They are also available packaged in various shapes and can be kept for up to six weeks.

# Presunto

Presunto is Portuguese dry-cured ham, similar to Italian prosciutto and Spanish jamón. If you're a fan of cured meats, this will delight you, served in thin slices on a charcuterie platter.

# Peri-peri Hot Sauce

The spicy peri-peri sauce is a popular souvenir from Portugal. It originated during the Portuguese colonial era and consists of African chillies, garlic, lemon, vinegar, paprika, and other spices. It's ideal for marinades and makes an easy and practical souvenir for your return.

# Portuguese Canned Goods

Portuguese canned goods, such as honey and jam, are wonderful sweet additions to your kitchen. Portuguese honey Mel da Serra de Monchique is known for offering a unique taste with notes of lavender, heather, and eucalyptus, and is considered one of the top choices in the country.

# Paupério Biscuits

For a sweet and traditional souvenir, Paupério biscuits are ideal. These biscuits, made since 1874, remain popular throughout Portugal, especially in the Valongo region. They are available in beautifully packaged boxes or tins with vintage Art Deco designs, adding a charming aura to your kitchen.

Portuguese Wines

Portuguese wine is a distinctive souvenir, with exquisite options you can explore:

# Port Wine

The famous Port wine, with its sweet and rich flavours, is an almost essential souvenir from Portugal. It is mainly produced in the Douro Valley and other northern regions. For a full experience, visit the Douro Valley for a tasting and explore the diversity of grapes and traditional winemaking methods used.

# Madeira Wine

Madeira is one of Portugal's most famous wines, with its classic black vintage packaging. It is a wine found in sweet and dry versions. The dry variety is usually served as an aperitif, while the sweet is used as a dessert wine. On the wine's home island, Madeira, you will find the widest range of options, but it is also very easy to find in Portugal's larger cities.

# Moscatel de Setúbal

Moscatel de Setúbal is a wine from southern Portugal, made from Muscat of Alexandria grapes. It is known for its tasting notes of dried fruits, honey, and caramel, and is an excellent choice for dessert. 

# Ginjinha Cherry Liqueur

Ginjinha, the sweet and sour cherry liqueur with notes of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, is very popular in Portugal. Enjoy it as an aperitif or a digestif before or after your meal. Its preparation dates back to 17th-century monks. 

Where to Buy Portuguese Souvenirs

Throughout Portugal, you'll find souvenir shops on every corner, making the search for the perfect keepsake a breeze. In Lisbon, in particular, there are several open-air markets offering unique items such as handicrafts, Portuguese olive oil, and canned sardines.

Tips for Buying Portuguese Souvenirs

Buying souvenirs in Portugal is an exciting experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Avoid buying Portuguese tiles from the Feira da Ladra market in Lisbon, as many of these ceramic tiles have been removed from buildings and other structures, which makes their sale (and purchase) illegal.
• Check the expiration dates of food items such as canned sardines, wines, baked goods, and cured meats.
• Check the origin of items, as many products are sold as Portuguese but come from other countries.
• Make sure you have enough space in your luggage for the souvenirs you will buy.

Authentic Souvenirs from Portugal

When searching for the perfect souvenir, you have many options: from Portuguese ceramics and traditional olive oil, to Barcelos cockerels and aromatic cosmetics. Portugal offers a plethora of edible and non-edible items, giving every visitor the opportunity to bring a piece of Portugal home.

Don't waste time and book cheap flights now and off you go to Portugal with Travelo.gr - and of course, when you wonder "what to buy from Portugal", you'll refer to our article here where you have the top souvenirs ready to bring back to Greece as gifts for your loved ones!