Dear Blanca,
I’m planning a trip to Lisbon and I’m wondering what souvenirs to bring home for my family back in the states. Do you know what kind of mementos Lisbon is known for? Any advice?
Adrian
Top Souvenirs to Take Home from Lisbon
Dear Adrian,
When it comes to traditional and unique gifts from the city, you have tons of options. Let’s look at a few of them:
Portuguese Tiles (Azulejos)
These handcrafted, brightly colored tiles add a unique flair to any home. They are also all over Portugal, so these are super traditional and super Portuguese. Just make sure not to buy antique ones. They are usually taken off buildings and there is a horrid black market.
This store sells individual tiles and some incredible pieces of art.
Pottery (Particularly Bordalo Pinheiro)
Portugal is HUGE on pottery and ceramics. You can pick up pieces from the most famous artist in Portugal, Bordalo Pinheiro. There are various stores in the city of Lisbon selling his wares. There are plenty of pottery stores around. Window shop before purchasing as prices will vary. Be careful if you go to the Feria de Ladras, they will try to pass off replicas as the real thing.
Embroidered Fabrics
You will have plenty of choice when it comes to fabric and lace typically sewn by experienced locals. IF you want to get real Portuguese, see if they have an embroidered bread basket. They are super cute and super useful.
Cork Products
Portugal makes up 70% of cork exports to the world. Cork is awesome and the coolest thing is that you can get almost anything made out of cork. Here you can buy:
- Cork shoes
- Cork hats
- Cork purses
- Jewelry
- Kitchen Stuff
- And almost anything you can imagine
Pasteis de Nata
If there is something you can find almost anywhere in Lisbon it is Pasteis de Nata. They were invented in Belem and you can get them at any pastelaria. I do suggest that you just pick up a couple packs at the duty free in the airport. This way you don’t have to worry about packing them in your luggage. Also, make sure you are seeing whoever you’re buying them for fairly soon after you return since they do expire.
Portuguese Olive Oil
In all of my travels I have tasted tons of olive oil. While my favorite is still Croatian, Portuguese Olive Oil is nothing to sneeze at. Besides, you can get it at great prices here.
Canned Fish
Don’t go to those fancy sardine shops you will see downtown or at the airport. Hit up a good supermarket like El Corte Ingles. They have a great selection (more than just tuna and sardines) and pick up some real Portuguese canned fish with lots of sauces. Some of the seafood available in tins includes:
- Salmon
- Razor Clams
- Stuffed Squid
- Mackerel
- Garfish
- Mussels and more
If you’d like to get these items, I’d suggest heading to the Feira da Ladra flea market, storefronts in the city center, and the Mercado da Ribeira. Also, make sure to check out the Alma Lusa designer store for a variety of treasures.
I hope this advice helps you out, and I’m sure your family will be delighted with the souvenirs from Lisbon. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Sincerely,
Blanca