Souvenir Shopping and Local Markets in Portugal

Portugal is an amazing place for unique souvenirs. From traditional ceramics to handwoven textiles, you’re bound to find something special to bring back with you. The local markets are full of surprises, and the artisans here are incredibly talented. Want to know what items are worth buying and where the best markets are? Here’s a quick guide on how to shop like a pro while enjoying your time in Portugal.

Ceramics: Azulejos and Pottery

One of the most iconic Portuguese crafts is the “azulejo,” which are the colorful ceramic tiles you see everywhere. These tiles have been used to decorate buildings for centuries. The traditional patterns and vibrant colors make them an ideal souvenir.

If you want something more functional, you can also find beautifully painted bowls, plates, and vases in local markets. Each piece is uniquely hand-painted, often featuring traditional Portuguese motifs, like the rooster of Barcelos (another famous symbol).

Where to find them:

Check out the Feira da Ladra in Lisbon. It’s one of the most popular flea markets and offers tons of vintage azulejos. In Porto, the Mercado do Bolhão is a good option for locally made ceramic pieces. For high-end pottery, head to A Arte da Terra in Lisbon.

Portuguese Cork Products

Portugal is the largest producer of cork in the world, and the locals have come up with some creative ways to use it. You’ll find cork wallets, bags, hats, and even shoes. Cork is not only durable but also lightweight, making it easy to pack.

Plus, it’s eco-friendly, so you can feel good about supporting sustainable craftsmanship. If you’re looking for a souvenir that’s a little bit different, definitely go with something made from cork.

Where to find them:

Visit the Cork & Co store in Lisbon for contemporary cork designs. There are also plenty of cork products at the Mercado da Ribeira in Lisbon and the Loja do Mercado in Porto. Many vendors sell cork items at local craft markets, so keep an eye out!

Ginja: Portuguese Cherry Liqueur

If you’re more into edible souvenirs, grab a bottle of Ginja (or Ginjinha). This sweet cherry liqueur is a Portuguese favorite, especially in Lisbon and Alcobaça. Locals usually enjoy it in a small glass with a piece of soaked cherry at the bottom.

Bottles are pretty affordable, and it makes for a great gift. If you’re not sure how to transport glass bottles safely, many stores offer small travel-sized versions that are easier to pack.

Where to find it:

One of the best places to try and buy Ginja is A Ginjinha near Rossio Square in Lisbon. You can also find it in most markets and liquor stores across the country.

Handwoven Blankets and Textiles

Portugal is home to a longstanding tradition of textile weaving. From bright, handwoven wool blankets to intricate lace, textiles are a practical and beautiful souvenir option. These make perfect gifts or travel throws to remind you of your time in Portugal.

Serra da Estrela wool blankets are particularly popular, known for keeping you warm during those chilly winter months. You can find a variety of patterns, from stripes to geometric shapes, depending on the region.

Where to find them:

Go to Loja das Meias in Lisbon or Porto for premium-quality blankets. Feira da Vandoma in Porto is another great choice if you prefer to hunt for local finds in an open-air market setting.

Portuguese Wines and Olive Oil

Portugal produces some of the best wines and olive oils, both of which are worth taking home. Port wine from the Douro Valley and Vinho Verde from the northern regions are must-tries. Most wineries will also offer small bottles that are easy to pack for travel.

Olive oil is another prized product. You’ll find beautifully packaged bottles with labels that mark the region where the olives were grown. These make fantastic gifts or a delicious treat for your kitchen back home.

Where to find them:

Stop by Livraria Lello for a curated selection of local wines. Many food markets, such as Mercado do Bolhão in Porto or Mercado da Ribeira in Lisbon, have a wide range of olive oils and wines. Wine shops and supermarkets also carry these products.

Portuguese Sardines

Okay, this might sound weird, but canned sardines are super popular in Portugal! They’re not just any sardines though—they come in beautifully designed tins, often decorated with vibrant artwork. You can find sardines packed in olive oil, tomato sauce, or spices. They make a quirky yet delicious souvenir.

Where to find them:

Conserveira de Lisboa is a famous shop that’s almost 100 years old. The store looks like it’s straight out of a postcard, and they have shelves full of beautifully packaged sardines. You can also check out Loja das Conservas, which supports small producers from different regions in Portugal.

Portuguese Tiles (Replicas)

If you don’t want the hassle of packing ceramic azulejos, you can also buy replicas made from lighter materials like cork or wood. These replicas are just as colorful as the originals, and they’re much easier to carry. Many shops offer coasters, trivets, and small wall hangings using azulejo patterns.

Where to find them:

A Vida Portuguesa is a great store in Lisbon and Porto that sells high-quality replicas. They have small items like tile keychains and magnets as well, which are perfect cheap buys when you’re running out of luggage space.

Handmade Leather Goods

Portugal’s leather craftsmanship is fantastic. From hand-stitched belts to quality bags, the craftsmanship is impressive. Leather is sourced locally, and each piece is treated and designed in Portugal. These souvenirs are built to last and carry a timeless rustic charm.

Where to find them:

Visit the artisans’ market in Loulé (Algarve region) or Feira dos Horrores in Lisbon for a mix of handmade leather belts, backpacks, and more. You’ll also find independent shops across the country, especially in smaller towns.

Portuguese Embroidery

The islands of Madeira and the Minho region are famous for their intricate and beautiful embroidery. If you have a soft spot for handmade linens, this is a great souvenir idea. Hand-embroidered napkins, tablecloths, and towels are especially popular.

The detail and artistry are incredible, and no two pieces are exactly the same. Supporting local embroidery co-ops also means supporting the art of traditional handcrafting, which has been passed down through generations.

Where to find it:

Embroidery markets in Madeira or Viana do Castelo are known for their pieces. You can also find lovely options in Mercado da Madeira in Funchal or Armazéns Marques Soares in Porto.

Markets You Shouldn’t Miss

Lisbon: Feira da Ladra

If you love bargains and vintage finds, Feira da Ladra is where you’ll spend hours. Think of it as Lisbon’s famous flea market. It’s open on Tuesdays and Saturdays and is full of antiques, ceramics, and textiles. Get ready to haggle!

Porto: Mercado do Bolhão

Mercado do Bolhão is an indoor market bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s a great spot to pick up some traditional food products along with beautifully made crafts.

Algarve: Loulé Market

In the Algarve region, Loulé Market is a hit. It runs daily, with Saturdays being the busiest. You can find iconic ceramic pieces, hand-woven baskets, and even fresh local produce. Plus, the surrounding area is worth exploring after shopping.