Portugal is a fascinating Southern European country that’s situated on the Iberian Peninsula and faces the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a popular destination that offers tourists a relaxing environment, good food, and excellent hospitality. But it’s also a good option for those who enjoy shopping for interesting items and foods. So, what can you expect to find here? Well, there’s Ginjinha, a tasty liqueur, a wide range of cork products from wallets to shoes, and olive oil manufactured by notable brands. Check out our comprehensive list of what to buy in Portugal, and plan your upcoming trip, accordingly!
1. Ginjinha
One of the first things you should buy when visiting Portugal is one of its most popular liqueurs: Ginjinha. It’s made from alcohol, cinnamon, ginja berries, sugar, and water, and is often served with a piece of fruit inside a shot glass. You’ll find that plenty of bars and restaurants in Alcobaça, Lisbon, and Óbidos serve this delicious liqueur, and there are a variety of Ginjinha brands that originate from these regions. So prepare to taste a few varieties before settling on a favorite to bring home to your friends and family.
2. Cork accessories
Did you know that Portugal produces some of the most amazing cork products? If you spend some time browsing the shops in Lisbon, you’re bound to come across many interesting handmade souvenirs and products made from cork. Expect to find stylish bags, backpacks, belts, floor tiles, wallets, shoes, wine cork stoppers, and even yoga mats. Since Portugal produces over half of the world’s cork, it’s no surprise that you can buy so many interesting cork products here.
3. Barcelos Rooster
The Rooster of Barcelos is a popular symbol in Portugal, and it’s based on a 17th-century folk tale. It tells the story of an innocent pilgrim who was about to be hanged but was saved at the last minute by a rooster who crowed while sitting on top of the magistrate’s table. Of course, there are variations to this story, but the Barcelos Rooster has come to represent honesty. This is a great gift or souvenir for that special someone who has always been honest with you.
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4. Port wine
Ginjinha isn’t the only alcoholic beverage you should purchase when visiting Portugal. Port, or vinho do Porto, as known by the locals, is a red wine that is often sweet, but there are also dry and white variations. Due to its sweetness, it’s best enjoyed as a dessert after dinner with good company. It’s made from grapes that originate from the Douro region of Portugal, and it undergoes an extensive fortification process that gives it its unique flavor.
Portugal Tour Guide
Ana Cristina Paiva
I am an australian-born Portuguese living in Lisbon since I was 8 years old. I studied Tourism and became a Licensed Guide and I absolutely love my job! The Portuguese landscape, history, food, traditions have won me over and I hope to share all this with you! I live in an historical neighborhood and believe that the best way to get to know a city is by walking. During the tours I hope to answer your questions and curiosities, proving a memorable and fun learing experience.
Tours by Ana-cristina
5. Azulejos ceramic tiles
Many travelers who visit Portugal are fascinated by the stunningly beautiful tiles that adorn houses, churches, schools, bars, restaurants, and palaces around the country. These glazed tiles feature ornamental art in a single color, usually blue, and originate from Arab and Persian countries. Nowadays, they’re a regular fixture in Portugal, Spain, Italy, and even the Philippines. Common designs consist of geometric shapes and mosaics, but religious scenes are also quite popular. Consider bringing a few of these home with you if you’re planning on doing some interior decorating.
6. Canned sardines
The Portuguese love their fish - so much so that canned sardines is one of their most sought-after delicacies. A tasty fish that regularly comes out of Portugal’s waters, it has steadily risen in popularity. One of the country’s leading sardine canning factories is Conservas Pinhais that’s located near Porto. They’re renowned for their unique artisanal canning technique and four types of canned sardines, namely, sardines in olive oil, spiced sardines in olive oil, sardines in tomato sauce, and sardines in spiced tomato sauce. Don’t forget to purchase all four of these variants to bring home to friends and family, and expose them to some of the most delicious sardines in Europe.
7. Olive oil
All Southern European countries are renowned for producing delicious and wholesome olive oil products. Portugal’s no slouch in this department, as they have a wide range of excellent options that should satisfy even the pickiest of olive oil aficionados. When in Lisbon, or any other city, town, or village in Portugal, don’t forget to visit a local market to pick up a bottle or drum of olive oil. Several notable brands include Azcoa, Casa De S.Miguel, Camoes, Dalla-Bella, Herdade do Esporoa, Oliveria Da Serra, and Victor Guedes, among others.
8. Pottery
Portugal’s picturesque countryside is littered with many villages that are home to artisans specializing in unique handicrafts. You’ll also find plenty of artisans in the Azores and Madeira Islands who make breathtakingly beautiful pottery and other ceramic items. If you’re seeking a unique-looking bowl, plate, or vase, then you’ll likely find it in Portugal. If you don’t have time to visit an artisan’s studio, check out the various pottery and handicraft stores in and around Lisbon’s city center.
9. Pastéis de Belém
Pastéis de Belém or Portuguese egg tart is one of the country’s most popular delicacies, and for good reason. It’s an unforgettable, mouthwatering treat that consists of cinnamon, custard, egg yolks, milk, sugar syrup, puff pastry, and vanilla bean. You’ll find it at most Portuguese bakeries and confectioneries, but you’ll probably want a prepackaged option to bring home with you. If that’s the case, then purchase a box or two of Pastéis de Belém, a brand renowned for its secret recipe.
10. Filigree jewelry
There’s no denying that filigree jewelry will capture the attention of anyone due to its attractive and intricate structure. Ancient Greeks and Etruscans once adorned their bodies with filigree jewelry. Later on, Portuguese and French jewelers continued producing these types of ornaments. Expect to find plenty of gorgeous and interesting pieces when perusing Lisbon’s jewelry and souvenir shops. Take the plunge and purchase one for that special someone.
Many fascinating items
There’s no shortage of unique and fascinating items that you can buy when visiting Portugal. There’s the Barcelos Rooster, a national symbol that represents honesty, canned sardines that are among the tastiest in Europe, and Pastéis de Belém, a mouthwatering egg tart. None of these will break the bank, and some even make for excellent gift items.
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