When embarking on a journey to a new country, you’re bound to be exposed to new and exciting things while exploring. And what’s an adventure without bringing a piece of the trip back home? While picking up a pen or fridge magnet may be an easy option, your travels and loved ones deserve much more special souvenirs.
Italy, with its rich history and culture, offers an array of extraordinary gifts that truly encapsulate this wonderful destination. However, deciding what to buy can be overwhelming. Fear not, our expert team at Expat Explore has come to the rescue with a handpicked selection of unforgettable souvenirs that you or your loved ones will cherish!
Related: While in Italy, be sure to check out these 10 travel highlights.
These are our top recommendations for interesting souvenirs to purchase in Italy:
Exquisite Italian leather
Boasting a long legacy of quality leather craftsmanship, Italy is still home to some of the best tanneries in the world. Its tanning heritage traces its roots back to the Etruscans in the 8th century BC. The Etruscans developed the method of vegetable tanning leather, a technique that endures even today.
The tradition of vegetable tanning is preserved in Tuscany, and tanneries in this region continue to produce some of the highest-quality leather in the world. If you find yourself visiting this remarkable region, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this centuries-old craft and culture. Acquiring a handcrafted leather bag or a pair of artisanal sandals is the perfect way to do that. Leather has always had a place in attire, from ancient Roman armour and sandals to modern shoes and handbags. Even leading fashion brands like Prada and Gucci began as leather goods stores!
If your Expat Explore adventure stops in Florence, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in this tradition at the Leonardo Leather & Gold shop. Here, you will not only witness the fascinating leather-making process but also explore the showroom of meticulously crafted leather products. You will also have the opportunity to bring a piece of Italian heritage home with you.
Related: If Prada and Gucci get you going, make sure you know about the best destinations for fashionable travellers!
They won’t whine about wine
We don’t know anyone who has ever complained about receiving an excellent bottle of wine as a gift, and in Italy, you will be spoiled for choice!
The history of wine in Italy dates back to before 1000 B.C., and this destination boasts more indigenous grape varieties and wine-growing regions than any other country. In fact, Italy produces more wine varieties than anywhere else on Earth! With such a rich history and a plethora of options available, you’re sure to find a bottle that suits both your taste and budget. So, what better way to express your appreciation for this stunning country than by supporting one of its most significant industries and bringing a bottle (or six) of wine home with you?
Related: Be sure to check out the world’s top wine regions!
Liven up your life with Limoncello
If your journey leads you to the enchanting realms of Southern Italy, there’s one experience that simply can’t be missed – delighting in Limoncello. Limoncello is a lemon liqueur that is traditionally served chilled as a digestif following a meal. This zesty elixir is born from the peels (sans the pith) of St. Teresa or Sorrento lemons. They undergo a transformation as they steep in spirit alcohol, allowing the essence of citrus to blend with the spirit. This extract is then sweetened with a special sugar syrup to create a refreshing, lemony libation. Purchasing a bottle of Limoncello (you can even get tiny ones!) is the perfect way to bring back an authentic ‘taste’ of Italy to your loved ones.
Related: After trying Limoncello, why not try these other iconic drinks from around the world?
If you’re venturing to Venice, consider:
Lace for a loved one
Burano is an enchanting island in the Venetian Lagoon. It is renowned for its vibrant, colourful streets and a cherished tradition of lace-making that traces its origins back to the 16th century. The island even houses a lace museum, where you can delve into the rich history and techniques of the craft.
Wandering through the charming streets, you’ll find numerous shops that showcase a wide array of beautifully handcrafted lace items. Choose between delicate tablecloths and elegant shawls to ornate wedding veils and dresses. While we don’t necessarily recommend that you buy your mother-in-law a wedding dress, she’ll likely appreciate a handcrafted lace souvenir from this island that is as unique and intricate as the craft it’s known for.
Glass gifts to glitter back home
The island of Murano is famed for its historic tradition of glassblowing. This serves as the reason that millions of tourists choose to visit this island every year. Murano glassmaking is incredible to behold. The glass artists continue to employ time-honoured techniques that have been perfected over centuries. Murano also houses a fascinating museum that boasts over 4000 handcrafted glass items to muse at.
You might be concerned that blown glass items like goblets and vases are too fragile for travel. Fear not, for there are still many small yet sturdy glass gifts to choose from. These include pendants, figurines, paperweights, and even picture frames.
Related: Read the guide to Venice attractions if this city is on your itinerary.
Now that you know which gifts to get, why not book an Italy tour with Expat Explore?