43 Best souvenirs from Portugal; unique Portuguese gifts for your loved ones

Discover the best souvenirs from Portugal and where to get them

There are many different types of Portuguese souvenirs on the market. This article will help you look for your favourite item by category. And before we start, please be aware of what you can and cannot bring back to your country! Later on, there will be more generic available on the topic.

Especially with fresh produce like Portuguese cheese and meats, there might be regulations that won’t allow you to bring these items back home. Always check with customs in the country you return to (including any stopovers you might have!) For now, let’s have a look at some amazing souvenirs!

Sustainable tourism

Also, here’s a quick word about sustainable tourism. We live in a world of overconsumption, and this post is not here to lure you into purchasing more things you don’t necessarily need. But as many people like bringing a memory back home, this post offers you all the options in Portugal. Try to buy Portuguese souvenirs from locals where possible and gifts that were made locally.

Portuguese handicrafts

Let’s start by looking at some typical Portuguese handicrafts. They are usable and decorative and have a special place in Portuguese culture. They make some of the best authentic Portuguese souvenirs you can find!

1. Cork products

You might already know that Portugal is one of the biggest cork suppliers worldwide! So next time you open that bottle of wine, chances are the cork came from Portugal! But besides cork, many more products are made from this natural material. Cork is a sustainable material harvested from the bark of cork oak trees. Besides, cork is lightweight, durable, water-resistant and buoyant. 

Cork products include handbags, purses, wallets, belts, notebooks, sandals, and more items. Coasters and placemats are other popular items, and they make great decorations. It is surprisingly affordable, but be mindful of stitching and quality when you buy your favourite cork products. A lot of cork grows in Alentejo. You can spot the trees easily if you have to be in the region. You can even take a real cork tour and learn more about this diverse material! 

2. Portuguese filigree jewellery

If you like a shiny souvenir from Portugal, filigree jewellery is a fabulous gift to bring home. The delicate metalwork is usually in gold or silver and has ornamental designs. They often have nature-inspired motifs like leaves, flowers and birds.

Filigree takes a lot of expertise to make, and the roots of the making process go back 5000 years! It was popular in Mesopotamian and Egyptian cultures, especially during Roman times. Nowadays, you’ll find earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets in Portuguese jewelry shops.

The precious metals, delicate threads, and handwork don’t make this the cheapest souvenir in Portugal, but one that will definitely steal the show! Filigree jewellery can be found in specialised Portuguese jewelry stores around the country.

3. Portuguese traditional ceramics

If you prefer beauty on the table, you’ll love Portuguese ceramics! The tableware is often handmade; besides being a functional solution, you’ll enjoy its stunning designs. They make some of the best authentic Portugal souvenirs. Portugal is rich in clay, so the material is easy to acquire. Besides dinnerware, you’ll see many other uses, including purely decorative pieces like ceramic tiles.

If you love Portuguese ceramics, you can visit cities like Caldas da Rainha, Alcobaça, Barcelos, and São Pedro do Corval. These towns are known for their beautiful artwork! You can, however, find Portuguese ceramics in most tourist shops and villages. Bordallo Pinheiro, Vista Alegre, Casa Cubista, and Costa Nova are well-known Portuguese ceramic brands.

4. Portuguese tiles (or make your own azulejo!)

The ceramic tiles in Portugal are known as azulejo tiles and are one of the best souvenirs from Portugal! They decorate the walls of houses, churches, fountains, train stations and many more spots. You can literally take a piece of Portugal home with you. The world-famous tiles come in all sizes and with different designs.

A popular place to buy them is the flea market Feira da Ladra, but the rumour is that some tiles are taken off (abandoned) buildings to resell. So, be mindful as to where they might come from. If you like a modern twist to your azulejo tiles, you’ll love Surrealejos! Or check out Sant’Anna Factory, which produces hand-painted Portuguese tiles.

5. A photoshoot in Lisbon

This souvenir is more of an experience, and you won’t have to worry about your baggage allowance flying home. During a photo shoot in Lisbon with me, you’ll visit the neighbourhood of Alfama (or any location of your choice during a private shoot).

When you walk the cobblestone streets, I will take memorable images of you (and your loved ones). After the shoot, you’ll receive at least 20 high-res images in your inbox. Curious? Check this whole post about photo shoots in Lisbon. 

Portugal food souvenirs

If you’re into foodie souvenirs, this will be your favourite section! Portugal is known for its fabulous food, and you can bring some culinary souvenirs back home (remember to check local customs on what you’re allowed to bring!).

The Portuguese gastronomy is terrific, and you can join food and drink tours throughout the country. So, let’s dive in and find some authentic souvenirs to enjoy even more after your holiday!

6. Portuguese sardines

You’ll see sardine shops on many corners in the bigger cities, and sardines are part of the Portuguese culinary tradition. After all, Portugal has a rich maritime history, and these iconic fish dishes are special in Portuguese culture.

The canned sardines are known as “Sardinhas de Conserva “, and the fish is typically caught in the Atlantic Ocean off the Portuguese coast. They make a great authentic Portuguese souvenir!

The Portuguese sardines are canned in olive oil or other flavours and sauces, but the traditional methods are a top priority. The Portuguese canned sardines are tasty, and the cans have stunning designs!

That makes it one of the best souvenirs from Portugal as they are a unique and flavourful gift. Brands like Ramirez, Comur, Tricana, and Santa Catarina are well-known for their quality canned sardines.

7. Buy Portuguese tarts

Another famous culinary treat on the streets of Portugal is the famous Pastel de Nata! Born in Belém and known as Pasteis de Belém (pasteis de nata is plural for pastel de nate), this custard tart is known worldwide. Try the original in Belém or enjoy one at Manteigaria or Fábrica da Nata. You can even try vegan ones at A Carioca.

They sell the custard tarts as souvenirs, too. Their handy packaging is easy to travel with, and you can eat it up to a few days after purchasing. Impress the homefront with these best souvenirs from Portugal! The Portuguese tarts are the best sweet treats!

8. Portuguese cheese Portugal

Are you more of a savoury type of person? There is a wide selection of excellent traditional Portuguese cheese! Queijo da Serra is often served in restaurants and is easy to get in supermarkets. Queijo da Serra da Estrela is produced by the sheep high in the snowy mountains of Serra da Estrela. It’s a creamy favourite!

Or enjoy the Queijo de São Jorge if you prefer a more mature cheddar-like cheese. These aged Portuguese cheeses are relatively strong but SO tasty! Other well-known Portuguese cheeses are Queijo Serpa, Queijo do Pico, Queijo de Évora, and Queijo de Azeitão.

9. Portuguese Sausages

In restaurants, you’ll also see plenty of sausages on the menu. Favourites are Chouriço, Farinheira, Alheira and Moira. Visit the Praça da Figueira market or buy your favourite in the supermarket.

10. Piri piri sauce

Portugal’s number one sauce is, of course, piri piri sauce! This hot sauce is typically made from crushed chilli peppers, lemon, pepper, garlic, bay leaves, salt, onion, vinegar, and oil. Piri piri stems from Mozambique and Angola, and explorers brought back this spicy deliciousness during the Portuguese colonial times. Piri piri chicken can be found on most menus in Portugal, and you can buy the sauce in most supermarkets.

11. Salt

There are many tasty salts you can bring home from Portugal. Flor de sal translates to salt flower and can be described as the “extra-virgin olive oil” of the salt world. The salt crystals are larger, and salt-producing towns are, for example, Castro Marim and Tavira in the Algarve. This salt comes from the Ria Formosa, but other Salinas in Portugal are located at Figueira da Foz and Aveiro.

12. Portuguese olive oil

To enjoy cooking with salt and other herbs, you might also want to check out Portuguese olive oil. Well-known brands are Gallo Azeite Colheita, Rosmaninho Superior, Oliveira da Serra, and Casa de Santo Amaro Grande Escolha.

Portuguese olive oil production occurs mainly in Alentejo and Trás-os-Montes. Some have a fruity, sweet flavour, whereas others have a ripe apple and fig aromas. Some olive oil is excellent for cooking, and others sparkle up your salad.

13. A Portuguese cookbook

Did you get hungry by now? Then, a Portuguese cookbook might come in handy! You can buy them in most bookshops, but not all are in English. A great selection of cookbooks is found at Livraria Bertrand in Chiado, the oldest bookshop in the world! They also have books in French, German and sometimes other languages.

There is also a bookstore at the LX Factory, Ler Devagar, which sometimes has English cookbooks. Or check out Azul Concept Store for a beautiful selection of cookbooks (and other coffee table stunners!).

14. A copper cataplana

A cataplana might also be handy when you love cooking fish and have your Portuguese cooking book in hand. This cooking pot is perfect for seafood dishes. If you’ve ordered cataplana during your holiday, you know why it’s so great!

The copper pot is often hand-hammered and is a traditional way to cook dishes on the stove. There is a shop on Rua Santo António da Sé (crossing Rua da Padaria), close to the cathedral Sé de Lisboa, where you can buy them. It’s not the easiest to transport, but it’s a unique present from Portugal!

15. Portuguese tea

To digest all this goodness, it’s time for a cup of tea! There are specialist tea shops in Portugal, such as Companhia Portugueza do Chá in Lisbon. Or enjoy Lisbon Tea Co’s flavours with Madeira Wine, pastel de nata tea, black or green tea from the Azores or Ginginja Tea. In Óbidos you can find similar teas in the shop Mercearia d’Óbidos. They also have a fantastic selection of handmade chocolates!

Portuguese liquors

Besides Portuguese food and wine, there are many stronger alcoholic delicacies on the market. These unique Portuguese souvenirs have some restrictions, so check the customs regulations of your final destination. Let’s take a look at the liquor you can buy in Portugal.

17. Ginjinha

Ginjinha, for example, is a drink you’ll easily find in Óbidos or the streets of Alfama in Lisbon. Ginjinha, or Ginja, is made from ginja berries and tastes a bit like cherries. The sour cherry liqueur is often served with one berry in your shot glass, which can be made from chocolate. Try the drink in Ginjinha sem Rival or A Ginjinha, close to Rossio Square in Lisbon. You can also buy bottles here to bring home. What a tasty and wonderful souvenir!

18. Eduardino

A lesser-known liquor is Eduardino, which is made from Ginjinha! It also contains anise, and the sweet drink goes easy on the palette. You’ll spot the clown Eduardino, who invented the drink on the label. He was a regular at Ginjinha sem Rival and started blending Ginjinha with other flavours. Eduardino was born and has been trademarked since 1908. Ginjinha lovers should definitely try this tasty beverage as well!

19. Beirão

Beirão is an alcoholic drink from the Beira region. It was founded in 1940, but the liquor was made well before that time. It’s made from 13 botanicals, herbs and spices. Although that might sound like German Jägermeister or English Pimms, it tastes pretty sweet. It’s one of the most consumed alcoholic spirits in Portugal and is made at Quinta do Meiral.

You can drink it neat, with ice or mixed as a cocktail. For example, remove the Cachaça from a Brazilian Caipirinha and add Beirão inserted: the Caipirão. You’ll also often see a combination of lime, ginger ale and Beirão. You can also find Beirão filled chocolates and even Beirão flavoured ice cream. Nom!

20. Medronho

On the other hand, Medronho is a stronger spirit and should be handled with care. Medronhos Brandy (FireWater) originates from the Algarve, where the Medronho trees easily grow. You can visit Casa do Medronho in the Monchique Municipality to learn more about the Medronho trees and the distillation process.

The Medronho is picked in late September and early October. After fermentation and distillation, a clear and robust alcoholic drink is ready to be enjoyed!

Tip: Book a Jeep Tour in the Algarve and enjoy a Medronho tasting!

21. Madeira Rum

If you visit the Portuguese island Madeira, you can try the tasty Madeira Rum! Rum da Madeira is often called sugarcane spirit and is made from sugarcane juice. Madeira Rum House in Funchal offers tasting sessions where you learn more about the history of the rum, and, of course, you get to try several types of rum. There are four distilleries on the island, and you can taste each one.

22. Poncha

• Sugar cane rum
• Three to five tablespoons of Portuguese honey
• The juice of two lemons

Another unique drink in Madeira is Ponha, and it’s one to put on your to-try list! It originates from Câmara de Lobos, but you can drink it all over the island. The most famous bar is Taberna da Poncha on the VE4 road on the island. The bar serves different flavours, such as passion fruit and orange. The original Poncha recipe contains:

Don’t miss these uniquely Portuguese cosmetics

23. Benamôr 1925

Portugal offers some lovely beauty products and soaps you can bring home. A much-loved brand is Benamôr 1925 made from natural ingredients sourced in Portugal. They sell soaps, face creams, hand and foot creams, shampoo, and gift sets. The company was founded in 1925 in Lisbon, and the original ingredients used were lemon, rose, aloe vera, and almond oil. Queen Amélie loved their products, and it’s still one of the most beloved beauty brands in the country.

24. Claus Porto

If you love hand soaps, you’ll enjoy using the soaps made by Claus Porto. They have stores worldwide, but you can visit the Lisbon store on Rua da Misericórdia 135 or the Porto store on Rua das Flores 22. The boxes alone are stunning and can be reused. The bath & body products come in different fragrances, and they also sell cologne.

Claus Porto has been in business since 1887. Two German entrepreneurs, Ferdinand Claus and Georges Schweder, decided to open a soap and fragrance store in Porto. Claus Porto’s factory is still producing the lovely smelling soaps in Porto.

25. Castelbel Porto

Castelbel Porto has a shorter history, but the luxury brand is a favourite of many. In 1999, Aquiles Barros was a professor of Chemistry at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto. An American brand asked him to produce luxury-scented soaps, and in 2000 production started. Castelbel has stores in Braga, Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, and Lisbon.

26. DVINE

DVINE is a brand that was developed in 1970 in the Medinfar Lab (part of the Medinfar Group). This pharmaceutical group specialised and developed a range of cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. They looked for natural beauty and found it in the Douro Valley (hello grapes!). You can buy DVINE products in Portuguese pharmacies or online.

27. Lisbão

Soaps in the shape of an azulejo tile? Lisbão sells these beauties. Find them in pop-up stores such as Madalena à Janela or local markets (check their Instagram). They are made with vegetable oils and wrapped by hand. The name comes from Lisboa (Lisbon) and sabão (soap). Charles Do Rosário started this fun brand in 2011 to raise people’s awareness about cultural heritage in Portugal. With success!

28. Barral

Barral has been around since 1835, focusing on skincare for the whole family. The complete range of high-quality products makes Barral the specialist brand in hydration and an immediate reference in the skincare and health segment. They had products for all ages, including babies and children. The Barral brand has a dedicated research and development team under dermatological control. You can find the flagship pharmacy on Rua Augusta in Lisbon.

Clothing and fabrics

A useful souvenir from Portugal is made from fabric! There are many different products, depending on your preference. Here is a selection of products to choose from.

29. Portuguese lace

Vila, do Conde (in northern Portugal) is known for its lace in Portugal, but Peniche has a long history of this craft. You can purchase the bobbin lace products at craft fairs and local stores. If you are in Vila do Conde, you can visit Museu das Rendas de Bilros, an actual Bobbin Lace Museum!

You can also visit the Bobbin lace exhibition that happens annually in Peniche in July. Table runners and tea towels are some of the most common products made from lace, but you will discover many variations.

30. Portuguese Embroidery

Besides lace, embroidered linen has been loved by the Portuguese people throughout the centuries. The linen is not only beautiful but also a functional souvenir from Portugal! You might find some from local artisans at Feira da Ladra flea market in Lisbon (Tuesdays and Saturdays), or you can visit Ricami Veronica on Rua Augusta in Lisbon. They made unique Portuguese embroidery designs for you on the spot!

31. Football Merchandise

A fan of Benfica or Cristiano Ronaldo? It will be hard to miss this souvenir in Portugal. Most tourist shops sell football-related products such as balls, jerseys, towels, hats, and socks. Benfica and Sporting (Loja Verde Official Store) have official stores in Lisbon. In Porto, you can find official FC Porto apparel.

32. Portuguese leather

Portugal has a rich history of leather craftsmanship, and the quality really stands out. Visit Campo de Ourique Market in Lisbon if you would like to buy some handmade leather. You’ll find Portuguese leather shoes, belts, bags, gloves, and more.

33. Other clothes

Many souvenir shops in Portugal also sell other clothes and fabric items. Think of tote bags, socks, hats, towels, baby rompers and t-shirts.

Traditional gifts from Portugal

34. Galo de Barcelos (the Barcelos rooster)

If you think of Portugal, you might quickly think of the famous Barcelos rooster. Galo de Barcelos, or the Rooster of Barcelos, has become a symbol for the country, and you’ll see the rooster in every souvenir shop.

Barcelos is a city in the northwest of Portugal, and the Barcelos rooster is the star of a folktale. Long story short, a pilgrim from Galicia was suspected of stealing silver and was sentenced to death. The Galician pilgrim claimed his innocence before a judge and added, “It is as certain that I am innocent as that rooster will crow when they hang me.“

A banquet was happening then, including a roasted rooster on the table. As soon as the man was hanged, the rooster stood up and crowded. Luckily, the rope and knot weren’t tightened enough, and the pilgrim went free. There are more stories about the rooster, so who knows which one is true… it makes it one of the best souvenirs from Portugal! That’s for sure!

35. Fado related souvenirs

When you spend some time in Portugal, you’ll also quickly hear singing from traditional restaurants. Fado is a traditional music form with tales about the past, longing, and other poetic subjects. If you are in Lisbon, remember to visit the Fado Museum in Alfama!

If you can, join a Fado show in one of the restaurants to immerse yourself in this tradition’s beauty. Afterwards, you can buy a CD or USB stick with songs from local Fado singers. Amália Rodrigues was one of the most famous Fado singers, and you’ll see her portrait on many vinyls and CDs.

36. Portuguese guitar

Ok, this one is challenging to bring home, but musicians might be interested in buying a Portuguese instrument! The Portuguese guitar is a great souvenir from Portugal as it has a chordophone with 12 strings in six courses.

The pair-shaped instrument will definitely stand out in your collection! Guitarra Portuguesa is used in Fado music and can be bought in certain music stores. Salão Musical de Lisboa on Largo do Carmo has a colourful selection, and Casa da Guitarra is perfect for when you visit Porto.

Arts & crafts and other best souvenirs from Portugal

There are many more best souvenirs from Portugal to bring home, many of which are typical collectors’ items. Here is a list with some ideas.

Best souvenirs from Portugal: regional products

You can buy most souvenirs all over Portugal, but some are better to buy in certain locations.

• Best souvenirs to buy in Lisbon: Benfica merchandise, pastel de nata from Pasteis de Belém, Portuguese Azulejos, Ginjinha, and ceramics
• Best souvenirs to buy in Madeira: Poncha, Madeira Wine
• Best souvenirs to buy in Alentejo: Wine, olive oil and cork
• Best souvenirs to buy in Porto: Port Wine, Tapte Puxado (rugs and blankets)
• Best souvenirs to buy in the Algarve: flor de sal (salt)

What not to bring home!

There are also some things that you should not be taking home! You shouldn’t bring sharp objects in your hand luggage, so be mindful of that. Also, liquids over 100 ml aren’t allowed in your hand luggage. To avoid saying bye-bye to your favourite bottle of wine, buy them at the airport. The prices are similar to in stores.

Where to buy your souvenirs in major Portuguese cities

You can buy Portugal souvenirs on almost every street corner, but some places are standing out on your souvenir shopping spree!

FAQ Best Portugal Souvenirs

Conclusion about what to buy in Portugal

As you can see, you might want to bring an extra suitcase to go shopping! A lot of unique pieces made the list of best souvenirs from Portugal. From dessert wine to embroidery and pastel de nata to jewellery.

Other popular souvenirs are Port wine, tea towels, cork products, the Barcelos rooster, Portuguese pottery, olive oil, and Portuguese literature.

Remember to buy in Portugal from local artisans where possible. Which ones surprised you or would you be most interested in? Have a wonderful trip to Portugal!

More shopping in Lisbon options:

• 9 Markets in Lisbon; Discover the best places to shop
• Discover the best places for shopping in Lisbon
• Where to find the best shopping malls in Lisbon
• LX Factory Lisbon: Shops, offices, street art and restaurants
• Enjoy the vibe at the iconic flea market Feira da Ladra Lisbon
• 40+ Best souvenirs from Portugal

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