You came to Lithuania and you are looking for some Lithuanian souvenirs for your family or friends? I have some ideas for you. Most souvenirs mentioned in this article can be also found in different countries, but there are also some that are typical only for Lithuania. So let’s start.
AMBER
Amber is fossilized tree resin, which has been appreciated for its colour and natural beauty. Here we even call it the gold of Lithuania. You can find many things made of amber like necklaces, bracelets, earrings, decorations, paintings, magnets, etc.
BASKETBALL FAN GEAR
If you like basketball, Lithuania is the right place for you. Our men’s national basketball team is among the best ones in the world; thus fan gear is a great souvenir for basketball fans. The most popular item is scarf of the best Lithuanian basketball team “Žalgiris“.
FOOD
Of course you will not take Lithuanian cepelinai or šaltibarščiai as a souvenir, but Lithuanian cuisine is not only just that. Dark Lithuanian bread, which is heavy, moist and a little bit sweet, can be a nice souvenir. If you want something small you can try some Lithuanian honey. Also, Traditional Lithuanian cake šakotis (tree cake) might be a good idea. It is dry and sweet and it has a shape of a tree. It can be very small like a mug or even one meter high. Small ones can be found in many shops in the Old Town (just supermarkets, like Maxima, Iki, Rimi or smaller local shops, like “Senamiesčio Krautuvėlė” – Literatų st. 5).
ALCOHOL
Local beer is another thing all Lithuanians are proud of and it’s not without a good reason! In 2012 “Švyturys” beer was awarded with the gold medal in World Beer Cup. This is the most popular beer brand, but there are some others like Utenos, Kalnapilis, Gubernijos, Volfas Engelman and ect. Another distinctive alcoholic beverage is The Nines (999 or Trejos Devynerios). It is strong alcohol made of herbs. Some people call it “Lithuanian Jagermeister” because of similar flavour. In addition to that you can bring back some Lithuanian fruit wines, bitters, etc.
CLOTHES
Traditional linen clothes and sheets are as popular as amber. It is natural garment which keeps your body warm in Winter and cool in Summer. It is easy to wash it and it gets dry fast. Woollen things are also popular. Even in Summer you can buy woollen socks or gloves. Usually they are decorated with traditional patterns. Just walk along Pilies street, you will see plenty of places to buy souvenirs.
WOOD CARVINGS
Wood carvings look cozy. They are not only beautiful, some things can be really practical as well. Usually those carvings are sculptures, but also there are some more useful things like spoons or cutting boards. They will give some Lithuanian flavour to your kitchen for sure.
THE SCENT OF LITHUANIA
Lithuania probably is the only country in the world what has its own national perfume. The scent is a mix of bergamot, wild flowers, ginger, raspberry and grapefruit. It is added with base notes of amber, cedar, sandalwood, patchouli and “tree moss and tree smoke”. You can buy this unisex perfume in the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (Cathedral square 4) and it costs about 30 Eur.
LITHUANIAN SASH
It’s a ribbon decorated with traditional patterns, worn by both men and women. They are used in the traditional Lithuanian costume. Usually they are handmade so that’s why they are quite expensive.
All souvenirs mentioned here can be found in the most touristy street in Vilnius called Pilies street. There is a big variety of things to buy so I am sure you will find what you are looking for. And don’t forget about magnets and nice postcards.
Not sure where to buy Lithuanian souvenirs? Check out our recommendations here.
Maybe you need some more inspiration for your trip? Keep reading our blog or join one of our tours.