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What To Buy From Portugal: 21 Finds I Loved as a Traveller
If you’ve read blogs about what to buy in Portugal, you’ve likely seen the same list — cork, wine, blue tiles, and famous desserts.
They are not wrong. But they are not the full story.
Before our 24-day trip across Portugal with my husband and child, I spent weeks researching what to buy there.
As a mid-range traveller and architect who notices craftsmanship, I wanted meaningful pieces, not items that would sit forgotten.
After travelling from Lisbon to Madeira, Sintra, Nazaré, north of Porto, and the Algarve, those generic lists felt incomplete.
Some traditional items were worth it. Others made less sense in person. A few favourites were not even on the usual lists.
Portugal is one of the most interesting places to shop in Europe, if you know what to look for.
In this guide, I’ll share what is worth buying in Portugal, what to skip, and where to shop without wasting money or suitcase space.
Portuguese drinks worth buying
1. Ginjinha – cherry liqueur
Ginjinha ( or Ginja) was the first Portuguese drink I tried in Lisbon, and it stayed with me all trip.
This traditional cherry liqueur is made by soaking sour cherries in alcohol with sugar and spices, served as a small shot.
Sweet, slightly tangy, and gently warming, it felt comforting without being too strong.
Ginjinha is one of the easiest things to buy in Portugal because bottles come in small sealed sizes that pack easily.
Many shops serve it in edible chocolate cups, and some gift packs include both.
2. Port wine
I kept seeing Port wine across Portugal, but waited to try it in Porto, where it belongs.
When I finally tasted it there, the Garaham’s brand it felt like dessert — rich, sweet, and strong enough to make you slightly tipsy.
Quinta Nova is another premium brand – sweeter and milder – You get them in Porto’s cathedral gift shops too!
Port wine is a fortified wine made by adding brandy during fermentation, giving it sweetness and higher alcohol.
It is one of Portugal’s classic drinks and reflects the country’s wine heritage. If you enjoy bold wines, this is a reliable souvenir.
When I finally tasted it there, it felt almost like a dessert — rich, sweet, and strong enough to make you slightly tipsy.
3. Madeira wine
I expected to love Madeira’s landscapes, but not its wine this much. I first tasted it in Funchal and liked it even more than Port.
Madeira wine is a fortified island wine with a slightly tangy, nutty flavour.
Centuries ago, it was made for long sea voyages, and producers developed a method of heating and ageing it, so it would not spoil.
That process is still used, which is why Madeira wine lasts months after opening.
If you love unique wine, then you Madeira wine is. must buy in Portugal.
Well-known producers include Blandy’s, D’Oliveiras and Justino’s. I tried Blandy’s and loved it.
Authentic Portuguese food products to look for
4. Queijo de cabra -Goat cheese
As a cheese lover, I often bring cheese home, like Gouda from the Netherlands or Rumi from Egypt.
So I was curious to try a Portuguese cheese.
Plus as a vegetarian who had very little option for local Portuguese food, I was depending on the cheese many times.
At Bolhão Market in Porto, a cheesemonger let me taste three varieties: Serra da Estrela, cabra, and São Jorge from cow’s milk.
The moment I tasted the “Cabra”- goat cheese from Brejo da Gaia label, it became my favourite.
If you are a cheese loving traveller, Queijo de cabra is a lovely Portuguese thing to buy.
It travels well if you buy a wax-coated wheel, which protects it during travel.
5. Piri piri sauce
One food souvenir I was curious about was piri piri sauce, made from African bird’s eye chilli brought during the colonial period.
Today, it is one of the country’s signature flavours.
Even though I am Indian and used to spice, I found piri piri surprisingly fiery.
The medium piri piri in olive oil from Campos Santos was strong enough to make a simple pasta fiery at home.
If you are looking for an inexpensive Portugeuse thing to buy, be it the Piri Piri sauce. The bottles are small, widely available, and easy to pack.
6. Olive oil
When we sat down at a restaurant in Nazaré, the couvert bread arrived with olive oil.
And on our drive from Nazare to Sintra we passed wide olive groves.
That is when I realised how widely Portuguese olive oil is produced, especially in Alentejo.
In restaurants, I found it good, though not as exceptional as oils in Israel or Italy.
I still bought a bottle from Esporão and liked its balanced, peppery finish.
If you enjoy cooking, it is a practical souvenir. It reflects everyday Portuguese kitchens.
Edible souvenirs from Portugal that lasts
7. Nazaré peanut cookies (Broas de amendoim)
In Nazaré, I noticed local women in seven-layered skirts selling snacks on the street. And one of the many sncks I tried from them was Broas de amendoim, a traditional peanut cookie.
These cookies are crunchy, nutty, and surprisingly long-lasting. Unlike pastel de nata, which spoils quickly, these cookies travel well and stay fresh for days.
If you want to take home a taste of local Portugal that lasts longer, buy Broas de amendoim.
They are light and sold in simple packets that fit into your bag.
8. Dehydrated fruits
At Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal, I noticed colourful packets of frutas desidratadas among the fruit stalls.
They are Madeira fruits like banana, apple and pear, dried to preserve flavour.
I tried the banana version and liked its sweetness, though nothing beats fresh island fruit – but still good enough to keep eating.
If you want to take home something like candy from Portugal, but don’t want the same sugary stuff, frutas desidratadas that contains true Madeira flavours are the best.
9. UauCacau chocolates
Not everything on social media lives up to hype, but UauCacau chocolates from Funchal did.
I first noticed them while exploring Funchal’s farmer market. What makes these chocolates special is their local Madeira flavours.
Some are filled with Madeira wine and shaped like barrels, while others use island fruits like passion fruit, banana and mango.
Although UauCacau is not a centuries-old tradition, it still feels like a very local Portugal souvenir.
The boxes are well packed, easy to carry, and you can create your own mix.
10. Canned sardines
During a walking tour in Porto, I learnt how tinned sardines became important in the World Wars because they lasted and travelled well.
Today, Portuguese canned sardines are known as much for colourful vintage tins as for the fish.
They are one of the easiest edible souvenirs to carry. The tins are sealed, durable, and distinctly Portuguese.
You canned tuna and octopus too! I even got carrot patty exactly packed like sardines in a nicely designed tin! So canned Portuguese food now caters beyond just sardines.
I call it a double souvenir- You can eat the sardines and keep the tin as a keepsake.
Cultural souvenirs to buy from Portugal
11. Madeira flower seeds
Nothing feels better than buying flower seeds from Madeira, often called the floating garden of the Atlantic.
They reflect that lush identity, and many grow well in warm climates, which suited me in southern India.
Buying them felt richer because Rita at Funchal’s market explained plant care, spoke about Madeira’s identity, and insisted I try bolo do caco as a vegetarian in her country.
They are light, inexpensive, and easy to pack.
When they bloom in my mum’s garden, they bring back Madeira’s colours unexpectedly.
12. Portuguese books from the world’s oldest bookstore
If you enjoy books, buy one at Livraria Bertrand in Chiado Lisbon, founded in 1732 and recognised as the world’s oldest operating bookshop.
As an architect, the interior felt simpler than expected considering it’s oldness. but the experience becomes special after you buy a book.
The shop stamps the book to confirm it was bought there. It makes a thoughtful and unique gift of Portugal.
Instead of obvious titles, ask for a Portuguese author and locally famous book. I was recommended & bought Blindness by José Saramago.
13. Miniature Nazaré boats
After getting off the famous funicular, I found a tiny workshop in Sítio, Nazaré, by accident.
Inside, an elderly craftsman was making colourful miniature boats by hand. They are inspired by Arte Xávega fishing boats built to face Nazaré’s Atlantic waves, with high curved fronts.
Each piece is handmade and feels personal. It is one souvenir that feels close to my heart.
If you want something reflecting Nazaré’s coastal heritage, this is meaningful purchase. Ask for careful wrapping, as they are delicate..
14. Miniature trams
Before visiting Portugal, I was excited about the historic trams and funiculars. After riding them in Lisbon, Porto and Sintra, it was clear why they are iconic.
That is why miniature tram models make a meaningful souvenir.
Most shops sell maroon Tram 28 of Lisbon, but I preferred the yellow Porto trams, which felt calmer. So I bought a yellow Porto miniature.
These models are metal, feel sturdy, and travel well in a small box.
15. Portugal football accessories
I knew Portugal loved football, but understood the obsession when I saw football and club merchandise everywhere.
My husband, a football fan, made sure we entered a Força Portugal store in almost every city.
Força Portugal is the official retailer for national team jerseys and club merchandise from Benfica, FC Porto, Sporting CP and SC Braga.
He bought his favourite Ronaldo jersey before a match in Porto.
The best part was chatting with the staff. Mention a club and the supporter behind the counter proudly defended their team.
Even if you are not a big fan of football, a scarf or cap of Portugal football team is an easy cultural souvenir.
Must buy Portuguese traditional crafts
16. Azulejo tiles
As an architect, I always wanted to bring home a piece of Portugal’s azulejo tradition. These hand-painted tiles define Portugal’s streets, churches, and façades.
When I mentioned buying old tiles at Feira da Ladra in Lisbon, a friendly Portuguese co-passenger in Carris bus warned me some might be stolen from historic buildings.
So I chose a new decorative tile with a Lisbon tram scene instead. It still represents the tile tradition, without the ethical concern.
But surely, azulejo tiles is one decorative item worth buying form Portugal, just need to be careful to buy ethically sourced ones.
17. Wicker products
One of the most memorable moments of our 24 days Portugal trip was the wicker basket ride in Monte, Funchal.
Watching the drivers handle the sledges made me curious about how they were made – after all I am an architect & writer who studies handicrafts and writes about them.
Later, at the Madeira Handicraft Workshop in Funchal, I learnt they are woven from willow using a craft linked to Camacha.
Beyond the sledges, artisans also make fruit baskets, trays, and decor.
If you enjoyed the Monte ride, a wicker basket or tray is a meaningful souvenir.
Wicker is light but bulky, so ask the shopkeeper to wrap it well and pack it near the top.
18. Filigree jewellery
In medieval town Óbidos, I stepped into Museu da Filigrana and was drawn to delicate gold pieces with lace-like patterns. They stood out for their detail.
Portuguese filigree is a northern craft made by twisting fine gold or silver threads into motifs like the Heart of Viana.
As an Indian woman who loves gold, I was amazed by the detail.
If you want a traditional Portuguese craft and don’t mind spending more, filigree jewellery is a beautiful souvenir. I still regret not buying one.
Look for the Filigrana de Portugal certification stamp to ensure authenticity.
19. Cork bags and accessories
One souvenir I kept seeing everywhere in Portugal was cork products.
From Lisbon to Madeira, even small shops sold cork bags, wallets, and accessories- because Portugal produces over half of the world’s cork, which explains its presence in many items.
I liked the cork bags most, and we bought one along with small gifts for family, a lens box and an eyewear case.
I even found a cork yoga mat at Cork & Co, where I bought a pencil pouch.
Cork products make a practical Portuguese souvenir because they are light, durable, and easy to carry.
Be careful, as some cheaper items sold in souvenir shops are synthetic.
At the cork store I learnt, real cork feels textured, shows natural patterns, and has no plastic backing.
Unique brands in Portugal
20. Ementa fashion brand
We first heard about Ementa from our tuk-tuk guide on the way to Chiado. Later, when I asked young locals at cafe and hotel receptionists about Portuguese fashion brands, many told us to check out Ementa.
One even said it felt like a true Portuguese brand. Ementa is a Lisbon-based label known for bold graphics and textured fabrics.
I visited their Chiado shop, and the designs felt modern, urban, and skate-inspired. The pieces stood out for their textures.
I saw corduroy jackets with playful embroidery and jacquard denim trousers with abstract patterns – surely chic.
I did visit other brand stores like Natura, which was excellent, but it is Spanish. So, if you want a modern Portuguese brand locals wear, this feels authentic, not touristy.
21. Flabelus Lisboa shoes
After hearing that even Emily in Paris featured an Iberian shoe brand, I became curious about quirky labels in Portugal.
That is how I came across Flabelus Lisboa & visited the store on my way to Sao Pedro de Alcantara viewpoint.
Flabelus is a Spanish brand with a strong presence in Lisbon. They make velvet ballerina flats with bold colours, contrast trims, and delicate straps.
I tried a pair although I was just there to check, and they felt soft and comfortable. Most designs are for women, with a few men’s styles.
I still regret not buying the least expensive pair. Portugal was more affordable than expected, and I could have invested in a pair.
Though not purely Portuguese, it is a stylish Lisbon find if you enjoy playful footwear.
Things you might consider buying in Portugal
Fabrics
Portugal has colourful printed cotton and woven fabrics sold in small textile shops and markets. Designs often show regional patterns like sardines, Atlantic waves, Madeiran stripes, and the rooster motif.
They can be worth buying if you sew or enjoy handmade home décor.
I enjoyed browsing them in Funchal, but unless you have a project in mind, fabric is difficult to justify carrying home.
Portuguese speciality hats
Traditional Portuguese hats reflect region and profession more than fashion. Examples include the green Campino hat in Ribatejo and the wool Barrete de Vilão worn in Madeira.
The most practical one for travellers is the straw boater hat used by the Monte toboggan drivers.
Made from braided wheat straw, it is light and wearable. If buying one, this is the only style that works for everyday use.
Ceramics
Portuguese ceramics are everywhere, but after visiting Cappadocia and Delft in the Netherlands, I did not find most pieces distinctive.
However, Bordallo Pinheiro brand impressed me.
They create playful ceramics inspired by nature, especially cabbage-leaf plates and vegetable-shaped bowls. If you enjoy artistic tableware, this Portuguese brand is worth considering.
Estremoz dolls
In Óbidos, I noticed clay dolls with expressive faces and detailed costumes, often arranged as nativity scenes.
The shopkeeper explained they were inspired by the Bonecos de Estremoz tradition.
The authentic dolls are handmade in Estremoz and recognised as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A certified set costs about €190.
Many shops sell similar versions, but they are not originals. If you want the real craft, visit Estremoz itself and a workshop there.
You can combine Estremoz visit it with a day trip to Évora from Lisbon.
Queijo da Serra da Estrela
Often called the king of Portuguese cheeses, Serra da Estrela is a PDO sheep’s milk cheese from the mountain region.
When young, it is soft and spoonable, with a rich, buttery, tangy flavour.
It pairs well with Port wine. I tasted it but preferred cabra cheese, though many travellers value its creamy texture and heritage.
Fátima statue
Statues of Our Lady of Fátima are widely sold in churches and shops across Portugal.
They are meaningful for Catholic pilgrims and rooted in Portuguese religious history.
I respected the devotion, but it was not something I would bring home.
Feitoria do Cacao chocolates
Feitoria do Cacao is a Porto-based bean-to-bar brand highlighting cacao origins by country.
The flavours are clean and balanced, good for travellers who enjoy artisanal chocolate.
Out of curiosity, I picked up the India bar at Bolhão, but I still prefer UauCacau for flavour and creativity.
Galo de Barcelos (Rooster)
A colourful black, red and yellow rooster symbol based on a legend where a wrongly accused pilgrim was saved when a roasted rooster crowed.
You will find it everywhere — magnets, plates, keychains and tiles. It became so common that it felt imposed rather than special.
But if you want Portugal’s unofficial national symbols, bring a rooster figurine home.
Souvenirs not to buy in Portugal
Best shopping areas in Portugal’s main cities
Lisbon
Porto
Algarve
Madeira
Other Smaller cities
Things to know before going shopping in Portugal
How to spot authentic vs tourist-trap items
Our tuk-tuk guide Thomas in Lisbon suggested Cork & Co for genuine cork. He did not ask us to mention his name, which made it feel genuine.
VAT Refund for Tourists in Portugal
Non-EU visitors in Portugal can claim VAT refunds on purchases above €50 in one shop. You need a tax form, receipt and airport validation.
The process is not always smooth. I have claimed VAT refunds in six EU countries, including Portugal, and it feels time-consuming unless the amount is high.
I explain the full process in my EU VAT refund guide.
Cash or Card? Payment Methods in Portugal
Visa and Mastercard work well in stores and restaurants. In markets, I used cash.
I avoided using my card at flea markets due to skimming risks in tourist areas.
Can you bargain in Portugal while shopping?
Bargaining is uncommon in Portugal.
You can politely ask once for a small discount, but do not negotiate aggressively like you do in Istanbul grand bazar.
Instead of reducing the price, shopkeepers may offer a small gift depending on your spend.
When we bought Port wine and sardines, we received small gifts like keychains instead of a discount.
Conclusion
What shopping in Portugal felt like for me
As an architect who studies regional crafts, I found Portugal stronger for handicrafts than Austria, Germany, and parts of Greece.
Regional identity still exists. Workshops survive.
Local specialities are taken seriously, even by younger locals.
What stood out most were the people. Shopkeepers were open and chatty.
I learnt how locals feel about tourism, especially in Funchal, through simple conversations with shop staff.
If you visit Portugal in off-season like we did in November, shops are quieter and staff have more time.
My personal recommendation — what to buy from Portugal
If I had to narrow it down to best 5 things. to buy from Portugal, I would pick :
- Ginjinha for sharing
- Madeira flower seeds for a lasting bloom,
- Miniature Nazaré boats for handmade charm,
- Cabra cheese for it’s uniqueness
- Stamped book from Livraria Bertrand.
These five felt personal, regional, and truly Portuguese.
As a traveller, here is a short summary
How easy is it to shop in Portugal markets with a baby?
Portugal is very baby-friendly. By law, anyone with infants can skip queues, so we rarely waited with our 10-month-old son.
Many shopkeepers were warm and playful with our son. Some even carried him while we browsed.
At Cork & Co in Lisbon, staff offered a private room if I needed to feed him.
The only challenge is cobbled flea market streets. A stroller can be difficult. A baby carrier works much better in Portuguese markets.
FAQ
What to buy in Portugal supermarket
Olive oil, affordable Port and Madeira wine, and goat cheese are the best supermarket buys. Always check for “Made in Portugal” on the label.
Where to buy Portugal Jersey
Buy Portugal football jersey from Força Portugal stores for licensed national team merchandise. Flea markets usually sell unofficial versions.
Does Portugal market have pickpockets?
Yes, especially in busy tourist areas and flea markets. Keep your bag zipped and avoid using your card at crowded stalls.
Can you visit Portugal markets without knowing Portuguese?
You do not need to know Portuguese to visit or shop in local markets. Many shopkeepers speak basic English, especially in tourist areas.
Still, learning a few simple Portuguese phrases helps. When things get tricky, you can use Google Translate. Keep your mobile phone with good internet connectivity while travelling.
Is Portugal airports duty-free good to shop?
Yes, Porto, Funchal, and Lisbon airport duty-free shops have a good range of local Portuguese products you can choose from, unlike other airports that are mostly filled with usual brands. Lisbon Airport’s duty free feels like a mall with both national & international brands.
What is your favourite thing you bought from Portugal? Let us know in the comment section below.
