9 Unique Souvenirs To Bring Home From Portugal

The canning industry in Portugal may not be as booming as it was back in the 20th century, but it’s still going strong, especially in places such as Matosinhos. Here, you can tour the canning factory Conservas Pinhais and sample its delicious tinned sardines drizzled with Portuguese olive oil or mixed with a spicy tomato sauce. The cans usually come wrapped in colorful vintage packages, making it one of the most unique Portuguese gifts.

Best for: Foodies

Where: In supermarkets across the country and specialized stores such Conserveira de Lisboa and Conservas Pinhais

Portuguese pottery and ceramics make for an excellent souvenir. From hand-painted azulejos (tiles) to cabbage-shaped bowls and minimalistic mugs, you could redo your whole kitchen from here. Explore classic designs at the Vista Alegre shop or buy Portuguese ceramics in bulk at Cerâmicas na Linha. Alternatively, design your own tile by joining a tile painting workshop.

Best for: Art lovers and interior design fans

Where: Ceramic shops in towns such as Caldas da Rainha and São Pedro do Corval.

Fortified vinho do Porto is produced in the picturesque Douro Valley and aged in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can sip refreshing vinho verde hailing from the Minho, and the ancient vinho de talha from Alentejo. You canFortified vinho do Porto is produced in the picturesque Douro Valley and aged in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. You can find your favorite on a Porto wine tasting before you decide which one to bring home. You can buy a fairly affordable bottle at the supermarket, but if you want a wider choice of labels, you’re best off visiting a wine shop, touring a local winery, or heading out on a Porto wine tasting to find your favorite before you decide which one to bring home.

Other Portuguese wine varieties are produced in other regions such as Minho, famous for its refreshing vinho verde, and the Alentejo where you’ll find the ancient vinho de talha aged in ceramic amphoras just like the Romans did back in the day.

Best for: Wine lovers

Where: Douro Valley and the Alentejo

The Alentejo is a hub for many handmade Portuguese crafts, including textiles. Here you can find the elaborate Arraiolos carpets influenced by old Moorish designs and the mantas alentejanas, blankets weaved in the village of Reguengos de Monsaraz. Wool production is also popular in the center of Portugal, especially near Serra da Estrela where you’ll find the Burel Factory. The brand produces a variety of fashion pieces, from winter coats to bags and shoes, all made with Portuguese wool. Meanwhile, the north is popular for its embroidery designs, such as the handkerchiefs of Viana do Castelo.

Best for: Fashionistas and fans of home decor

Where: Souvenir shops such as A Vida Portuguesa and local brand outlets

Soaps may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Portugal gift ideas. But the country has been perfecting the art of artisanal soaps for centuries, as brands such as Claus Porto have been leading the way since 1887. Now, the Porto-based shop has widened its offerings to include home fragrances, colognes, and creams, all while keeping its authentic vintage packaging. If you're looking for something different, though, you won't have to look far: Other Portuguese brands that specialize in beauty products include Castelbel and Benamôr.

Best for: Mothers and romantic partners

Where: Throughout Lisbon and Porto

Much like wine, Portugal has its own protected cheese regions. Serra da Estrela and Azeitão are famous for their buttery cheeses, while the Azores islands produce sharp and tangy blocks that can mature over a period of three to 24 months. You can source many of these at a local supermarket, but if you’re looking for a cheese tasting you’re best off hitting up a wine bar, queijaria (cheesemonger), or joining a Portuguese food tour.

Best for: Cheese lovers and amateur chefs

Where: Alentejo, Serra da Estrela, Azeitão, and the Azores

Home to the largest cork oak forest in Europe, Portugal has found endless ways of using cork, from interior design to fashion. It's even made it to space thanks to its excellent thermal insulation properties. It takes 25 years to grow a cork oak tree, but to get really high-quality cork it takes another nine years to harvest it. Learn about the cork industry at Planet Cork inside WOW Porto (and stop into the gift shop for a souvenir) or tour a cork forest in the Alentejo.

Best for: Discerning travelers looking for a sustainable gift

Where: Alentejo and souvenir shops across the country

The town of Viana do Castelo is famous for its jewelry-making traditions. Among the most iconic motifs is the coração de Viana, a heart-shaped jewel made with threads of gold or silver to resemble lace. The piece was originally created in the 18th century as a gift to Queen Maria I, but these days you’ll see it in a variety of formats, including small earrings, necklaces, and rings.

Best for: Chic friends, romantic partners, and parents

Where: Viana do Alentejo and jewelry shops across the country

Eggs, sugar, and butter are the main ingredients used in the pastéis de nata, Portugal’s iconic custard tarts. You’ll see these in pastry shops called pastelarias all over the country, but you can also buy them in a pack to share with your friends back home. Even better, join a pastel de nata baking class and learn to make your own sweet batch, including vegan alternatives.

Best for: Anyone with a sweet tooth

Where: Everywhere (including the airport), but Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon holds the original recipe