Let’s be real—most of us love bringing back a little piece of a place we’ve visited, right? Whether it’s something to remind us of the trip or gifts for family and friends, souvenirs hold a special place. Albania, with its rich culture and traditions, has plenty to offer in this department!
Bring home fantastic souvenirs from your own vacation to Iceland.
Here’s a rundown of what you should consider picking up before you leave this beautiful country.
1. Albania Olive Oil
If you’ve been to Albania, you know how much the locals love their olive oil—and for good reason! It’s high-quality, fresh, and made from olives grown in the sun-soaked Mediterranean climate. Grab a bottle (or two) of cold-pressed olive oil from a local market or small producer for a truly authentic taste of Albania. Traditional Albanian Textiles
Albania has a long history of textile-making, and you can find beautiful handmade rugs, blankets, and embroidered items. Many of these pieces are crafted using traditional patterns and techniques passed down through generations. Look for items like qilim (woven rugs) or tablecloths with intricate embroidery—perfect for adding a unique, cultural touch to your home.
2. Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu Memorabilia
Albania’s national hero, is everywhere—from statues to coins to keychains. You can find all sorts of souvenirs celebrating his legacy. A miniature bust, a mug, or even a Skanderbeg brandy bottle (more on that below) makes a meaningful and historical keepsake.
3. Albanian Wine and Raki
Speaking of drinks, Albania has some incredible wine made from local grape varieties like Shesh i Bardhë and Shesh i Zi. If you prefer something stronger, grab a bottle of raki, the traditional Albanian spirit. It’s potent, but it’s a favorite among locals! Some regions even flavor their raki with herbs or fruit for an added twist. Raki is also applied into your body (mostly in the back) to help with high fever or release contractions.
4. Handmade Ceramics and Pottery
Albanian pottery is a beautiful reminder of the country’s artistry. You’ll find handcrafted bowls, plates, and mugs, often decorated with earthy tones and simple yet elegant patterns. These make excellent gifts or charming additions to your kitchen.
5.Bunk’Art Miniatures
Albania’s history with bunkers is fascinating—there are thousands of them scattered across the country, built during the communist era. Now, you can take home a mini version of these bunkers as a quirky and unique souvenir. They’re available as magnets, paperweights, or small sculptures.
6. Albanian Folk Music CDs or Vinyl
If you’re a music lover, check out traditional Albanian folk music. It’s deeply emotional and rooted in the country’s history and culture. You can find CDs or even vinyl records featuring iso-polyphony, a UNESCO-recognized style of singing, or other regional music.
7. Byrek Recipes or Cooking Accessories
Have you fallen in love with Albanian food? Bring it home with you! Grab a recipe book or pick up cooking tools like a traditional rolling pin for making byrek (Albanian savory pies). It’s a fun way to keep your Albanian experience alive in your own kitchen.
8. Local Honey and Jams
Albanian honey is fantastic—pure, natural, and made from bees that pollinate wildflowers in the mountains or countryside. You can also find jams made from locally grown fruits like figs, cherries, and plums. These make delicious and thoughtful gifts for food lovers.
9. Photos and Memories
Okay, this might sound cheesy, but hear me out—your best souvenir is the moments you capture and the memories you create. Albania’s landscapes, from its rugged mountains to its stunning beaches, are picture-perfect. Take lots of photos and maybe even pick up a scrapbook or photo album to showcase your adventures.
So there you go—plenty of ideas for bringing a piece of Albania home with you. Whether it’s food, art, or something historical, you’ll have a little reminder of this incredible country to cherish forever.
