Top Souvenirs to Bring Back from a European Cruise

Discover the finest gifts from Europe before you embark on your journey. 

From breathtaking coastal vistas to stunning skylines, along with tasting tours and off-road escapades, you’ll create countless memories on your European cruise. Even more fulfilling, you can share your adventures with friends and family by bringing home unique souvenirs from Europe.

How do you choose what’s worth your investment and what to leave behind? This handy guide for souvenirs to take back from Europe includes items that are easy to transport, practical, and representative of the cultures and countries you explore.

If you opt to bring back some delectable European treats to the United States, make sure to keep them sealed until the end of your cruise. U.S. Customs and Border Protection mandates that food items taken on or off the ship must be packaged and sealed.

They also restrict bringing fruits and vegetables on or off the ship. As for any wine products you purchase on land, our ship's crew will securely hold them until the voyage concludes.

Croatia

While Croatia might not be the first country that springs to mind when considering fashion, it is actually the birthplace of the modern necktie. Mercenaries from Croatia introduced it to France, where it quickly became a global sensation.

Be sure to grab a few of these signature accessories featuring designs like classic stripes or modern prints from any of the shops in the town of Dubrovnik.

Additional Croatian souvenirs and gifts to bring back include:

• Fruit preserves
• Lavender-infused soap
• Handcrafted wooden toys

England

In London and Dover, you’ll find a wide variety of items—ranging from T-shirts and keychains to handbags—proudly showcasing the Union Jack. Pick up a coffee mug featuring England’s flag and fill it with a quintessential English treat: tea. Explore the rich flavors of England’s beloved beverage, including Ceylon, Darjeeling, and classic black tea.

For more ideas on English souvenirs to bring home, consider:

• Pillboxes
• Shortbread cookies
• Umbrellas

Italy

You can’t go wrong with Italian leather products, such as handbags, belts, and shoes, from Florence, the heart of Italian leather craftsmanship. Gourmet gifts like pasta, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and limoncello—a traditional Italian liqueur—are also popular choices that everyone will love.

Other Italian souvenir ideas to bring home include:

• Handcrafted shoes
• Italian wine
• Murano glass items

Montenegro

During your cruise stop in the enchanting city of Kotor, you’ll notice that cats are beloved by the locals. In fact, Kotor boasts a museum dedicated to its feline friends. While visiting, be sure to check out the gift shop for cat-themed souvenirs to commemorate your stay in this charming Adriatic town.

Discover these additional souvenirs from Montenegro to bring home:

• Vranac red wine
• Lavender-based products
• Orthodox prayer beads

Greece

The mati, often referred to as the “evil eye,” makes for the perfect souvenir. It’s light, visually appealing, and steeped in local tradition. Featuring beautiful blue and white concentric circles that echo the azure waters surrounding the country, this ancient good luck charm is easily found during your cruise to Corfu. They’re small enough to collect a variety to share with loved ones back home.

Other Greek souvenirs worth considering are:

• Traditional Grecian pottery
• Handmade Greek soap
• Bouzouki, a traditional Greek string instrument.

Malta

Despite being one of Europe’s smallest countries, the island nation of Malta boasts a rich cultural heritage. After admiring its stunning architecture, consider taking home a piece of Maltese history in the form of miniature replicas. These handcrafted treasures are detailed reproductions of the island’s cathedrals, chapels, and traditional farmhouses.

Don't forget to check out these additional souvenirs:

• Intricate filigree jewelry
• Vibrant textile dolls
• Maltese nougat treats

Portugal

The most memorable souvenirs from Europe are those that bring back the essence of your travels. This is especially true for Portuguese seafood. While enjoying fresh seafood is essential in Funchal, Lisbon, and Leixões, you can't bring back a filet, so opt for some canned fish and a bottle of port wine to savor a taste of Portugal at home.

Here are some more top Portuguese souvenirs to consider bringing home:

• Products made from cork
• Beautiful ceramic tiles
• Crafts featuring rooster designs

Spain

As the leading producer of olive oil globally, Spain offers a wide array of olive oil bottles, easily found in Palma de Mallorca, Malaga, and Barcelona. For a milder taste, seek out smooth blends. Don't forget to grab a bottle of renowned Spanish wine, like Rioja, along with a wineskin for a perfect gift to bring back home.

Here are some additional Spanish souvenirs to consider taking home:

• Traditional handheld fan
• Castanets
• A bottle of Cava sparkling wine or Sherry

France

When you envision France, gourmet cuisine, exquisite wines, and iconic artworks often come to mind—and for good reason! France boasts some of the world’s most celebrated wines. While cruising to Marseille in the south or Le Havre in Normandy, don't miss the chance to pick up a bottle of Bordeaux or Champagne to relive that memorable experience back home.

For those who prefer alcohol-free souvenirs, consider these options:

• Miniature Eiffel Tower
• Artisan soaps
• Luxury perfumes

European cruises provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich culture and cuisine along the continent’s coast. Beyond the unforgettable memories and photographs, you can also bring home unique gifts that capture the essence of your travels in Europe.

Whether you’ve already secured your cruise vacation or are still in the planning stages, we’re excited to be a part of your journey! Explore our range of cruises to discover the ideal adventure for you and your family.