Souvenir shopping has changed. The keepsakes we look for on holiday have more meaning than ever before; they speak to the cultural identity of a destination we love, representing both memory and experience.
Here, well-travelled journalists, authors, interior designers, content creators and fashion designers share the one thing to buy from some of the best-loved destinations from around the world.
Although the CF team will always be partial to a kitsch fridge magnet or two, finding the right keepsake from our travels has become a signifier of taste and status. Our love of them goes beyond just showing off though, they remind us who we were and how we felt in a certain place. As we move away from disposable shopping, we move towards items with longevity that imbue craftmanship and workmanship, but where to find the most enduring and beautiful souvenirs?
We called upon the experts to share their tips of what to buy from the places they know and love the best. This is what they told us.
DESTINATION: IBIZA, SPAIN
SOUVENIR: VINTAGE HIPPY DRESSES
EXPERT: OLIVIA VON HALLE
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“My favourite summer destination is Ibiza – it’s such a cliché, but every summer we rent a beautiful Finca and spend a couple of weeks there with my husband, the kids and various friends. While there I have a habit of buying beautiful hats or fringed dresses, channeling my inner Ibiza hippy goddess. My go-to is Vicente Ganesha in Ibiza Old Town, which has reached cult status for its vintage finds. You never know what you’ll unearth there, but you know it’ll always be good.”
DESTINATION: ST LUCIA, THE WEST INDIES
SOUVENIR: BARON WEST INDIAN HOT SAUCE
EXPERT: STEPHANIE YEBOAH, AUTHOR
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“Every time I visit Saint Lucia, my favourite place in the world, I make it my mission to always purchase at least four bottles of Baron West Indian Hot Sauce; a Saint Lucian-made hot sauce consisting of Scotch Bonnet peppers and mustard. I remember first eating it at the Naked Fisherman Bar & Grill located in Gros Islet, and fell in love with the warm and tangy flavours. I bought three bottles there and then, and every time I return to the island, I always make sure to go to the marketplace in Castries to top up on some more to bring home.”
DESTINATION: AMALFI COAST, ITALY
SOUVENIR: CAMEO JEWELLERY
EXPERT: ANNA VITIELLO, CONTENT CREATOR
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“More than anything, I find myself buying fine jewellery when in Naples or along the coast. My family is from a nearby town called Torre del Greco, once a coral fishing town and the birthplace of Cameo jewellery, beautiful motifs hand-carved into gemstone, glass or shell. It’s also the place that inspired my love of jewellery. Although they are few, there are still a lot of incredibly skilled artisans keeping this special technique alive and they become heirlooms, not just souvenirs. Head to workshops such as Aucella, Arte Italiana and the many others along Via Montedoro and watch them hand-carve the shells and turn them into pieces of art; it’s quite special to watch. Beyond cameos, roam the Borgo Orefici in Naples and find many beautiful independent jewellers dotted around the city, and explore the independent boutiques that line the coast from the city all the way along. I always return to Bimonte, a family-run jewellery shop located in Sorrento – as well as the generations-owned ones in our town.”
DESTINATION: PARIS, FRANCE
SOUVENIR: NOSE FRAGRANCE
EXPERT: FRANKY ROUSELL, JOLIE DESIGN STUDIO FOUNDER
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“I spend a lot of time in Paris for work and pleasure, and absolutely love it for extra special souvenir shopping. I always bring back a perfume from Nose – they do bespoke consultations which makes the purchase so much more memorable. It’s the only fragrance store in the world that I’ve found like it. I picked up my first ever bottle of Zenology from here, and it will forever remind me of Jolie’s first studio. Scent has such strong memory association, so is always a worthwhile souvenir choice. I also love nipping into Merci Paris for a little trinket or two, specifically, their roll-on fragrance oils, candles, or something from their tableware collection. They do the most beautiful coloured linen table cloths.”
DESTINATION: IBIZA, SPAIN
SOUVENIR: IBIZA SALT
EXPERT: LAUREN STEVENSON, AISLE 8 FOUNDER & CEO
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“Ibiza is my spiritual home and every time I return, I stock up on Sal de Ibiza, or commonly known as Ibiza Salt. It comes in a chic ceramic pot with a small spoon and immediately takes me back to golden hour tapas with salt sprinkled Ibizan tomato salad or grilled fish. It’s harvested using the island’s famed salt flats and, honestly nothing compares. I buy mine from local supermarkets where I stock up with pots as gifts and then bags to top up my salt mill and ceramic pot at home. I never buy it at the airport as it’s way more expensive and never feels as special as buying it in the local supermarket or the Sal de Ibiza store on the road-side.”
DESTINATION: INDIA
SOUVENIR: A PASHMINA
EXPERT: SHEENA BHATTESSA, CITIZEN FEMME FOUNDER
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“I love souvenirs that are not only beautiful but also practical – something you can use again and again, each time sparking memories and stories. I used to be all about the classic fridge magnets, but these days, I much prefer souvenirs that people truly fall in love with. A pashmina from India has become my go-to, and Ahujasons is the perfect place to find one. There’s something undeniably special about stepping into their stores (all across India) – the understated elegance, the rich textures, and the sense of history woven into every piece. These pashminas aren’t just accessories; they’re wearable works of art. Whether I’m picking up a soft, neutral stole for a friend or treating myself to a bold, intricately designed shawl, I know I’m choosing something timeless, luxurious, and rooted in tradition. It’s the kind of gift that feels thoughtful and personal – who wouldn’t love that?”
DESTINATION: THE COTSWOLDS, UNITED KINGDOM
SOUVENIR: LOCALLY-MADE CHEESE
EXPERT: LAURA BUTLER-MADDEN, GROVE ENGLAND FOUNDER
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“The Cotswolds is endlessly inspiring to me – the beauty of the landscape, the history, and the gentle pace of life all create such a sense of calm. I love discovering the independent spots that give the area its soul and taking friends exploring when they visit. One shop I always recommend is the Cotswold Cheese Co, which offers so many delicious local options. Rollright made in the beautiful village of the same name is a favourite – it’s so delicious and creamy.”
DESTINATION: MARRAKESH, MOROCCO
SOUVENIR: TAMEGROUTE PLATES AND MUGS
EXPERT: KELLY EASTWOOD, CONTENT CREATOR & SUSTAINABILITY ADVOCATE
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“I’m a huge fan of Morocco and have gotten to know it well. From the swirling souks of Marrakesh, I’m drawn to souvenirs that retain their beauty and purpose long after I return home. The deep-green Tamegroute plates and mugs, with their imperfect glaze and history-rich craft, are favourites I reach for daily, and I’m equally captivated by one-off pieces of bold, striking jewellery that feel inseparable from the city itself. All are easily found in Souk Semmarine, an undercover market in the heart of the city. If a trip to Marrakesh isn’t possible, Arbala offers an online collection of authentic, colourful Moroccan interior treasures with the same enduring charm.”
DESTINATION: ATHENS, GREECE
SOUVENIR: LEATHER SANDALS
EXPERT: KATIE SILCOX, CITIZEN FEMME MANAGING EDITOR
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“I live in Athens, so have had some time to find out which souvenirs are truly worth buying. While foodies will be in souvenir heaven in Greece – olive oil, oregano, honey, ouzo! – it’s also a great country to purchase leather. We’re talking sandals, bags, wallets, belts… the list goes on. You can’t go wrong with Ancient Greek Sandals, and what better place to pick them up in than their home city, Athens? Find their flagship store at 3-5 Kolokotroni Street in the centre of the city. But in Athens, you’re spoilt for choice. Melissinos Art (16 Tzireon) led by Pantelis Melissinos, is a great choice – he studied at Parsons School of Design and has designed footwear for many a celebrity. Or, for more affordable options, visit Achillion Sandals (97 Adrianou) where a pair starts from around €30, or the 1937-established George Keramidas Leather Goods Shop (77 Pandrosou) for backpacks, bags and belts. Elina Linardaki is the spot for fun, more-is-more designs; her creations are stocked at Mourtizi Shoes in Athens, as well as at Nammos Village in Mykonos and Chambre in Paros.”
DESTINATION: LIMA, PERU
SOUVENIR: VICUNA AND ALPACA KNITWEAR
EXPERT: ALEJANDRA DE LA PUENTE, ELEPHANT FAMILY HEAD OF PHILANTHROPY
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DESTINATION: PORTO, PORTUGAL
SOUVENIR: VINHO VERDE
EXPERT: ELLA MANSELL, CITIZEN FEMME JUNIOR CULTURE EDITOR
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DESTINATION: PROVENCE, FRANCE
SOUVENIR: VINTAGE SCARVES
EXPERT: ALICE JOULE, JOULES CREATIVE DIRECTOR
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“I’m a big fan of Provence, and love wandering through the vibrant markets of the south of France. I always find hidden treasures that add to my wardrobe, the amazing weekly market in the streets of Valbonne is brilliant for vintage pieces – I picked up an incredible silk scarf there last year that perfectly captures the joyful colours of the region. These vintage finds serve as timeless reminders of the places I’ve explored. These finds don’t just fill my suitcase – they enrich my creative spirit.”
DESTINATION: VENICE, ITALY
SOUVENIR: GLASSWARE
EXPERT: SCARLETT CONLON, JOURNALIST
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“I know that every corner of the country has something that generations of craftspeople have specialised in for decades if not centuries, but the glasswork of the Venetian lagoon is so mesmerising in its alchemy that I find it hard to resist every time. This is something that you can really invest in long-term and build your personal collection, from glasses and plates, to little home-design knick-knacks that make you smile every day. I’ve collected all manner of glassware from Murano and Burano for years, but recently I came across Artistico Bombon in Burano, a small glass workshop run by Giosue and son Giorgio. They handmake the most stunning glassware that I have made it my mission to buy all of. On my last trip I bought six beautiful bottle stoppers in lapis blue and sea-green and I use them in wine and water bottles everyday – they just bring such a special touch. Often souvenirs get consigned to shelves or drawers, but when you buy or start collecting something relatively simple but something that you can use and love on an everyday basis, that’s when you really bring your travels home.”
DESTINATION: MALLORCA, SPAIN
SOUVENIR: CERAMICS
EXPERT: RACHEL STORY, CITIZEN FEMME STYLE DIRECTOR
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“My family has a place in Mallorca, so I’m lucky to call the island a home away from home. Deia is a particularly magic spot, known for its cultural legacy, art, and now insta-famous cala. With a long-standing reputation as an artists’ haven, it’s the perfect place to discover local creative talent to take home as a special souvenir. From the rotating artist exhibitions at Belmond’s La Residencia to the charming Ceramics by Joanna, where you’ll find hand-painted serving platters and bowls adorned with lemons and other island-inspired motifs.
DESTINATION: PARIS, FRANCE
SOUVENIR: LE PETIT MARSEILLAIS BODY WASH
EXPERT: BECKI MURRAY, CITIZEN FEMME BEAUTY & WELLNESS DIRECTOR
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“Forget the Eiffel Tower, the true Parisian icons (for beauty-lovers at least), are the city’s legendary pharmacies. Overlook how clinical they appear, at spots like Citypharma in Saint-Germain, Pharmacie du Four, and Pharmacie Monge, you’ll find an absolute treasure trove of under-the-radar gems that are true souvenirs for your skin. (And your friends and family will actually thank you for them). Keep an eye out for the A313 retinol cream and Cattier clay masks, which smooth-skinned Parisians use to keep wrinkles at bay. However, the bodycare aisles are my favourite, where you can find Le Petit Marseillais body washes for pennies. Instantly dryness-banishing, every time I pick up a new scent, it helps me evoke the memories of my latest trip to Paris.”
DESTINATION: GALWAY, IRELAND
SOUVENIR: AN ARAN JUMPER
EXPERT: AMY ANDERSON, KINDRED OF IRELAND FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
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“There’s something timeless and deeply rooted about the Irish Aran jumper, but what Irish designer Colin Burke does with it is something really special. His Maureen sweater is a modern reimagining of the traditional hand-knit, made from 100% wool and entirely produced by hand in the west of Ireland. It’s sculptural, elegant, and emotionally connected to the island’s craft heritage, but with a modern twist. You can buy it directly from Colin’s online shop or visit his studio by appointment in Galway.”
DESTINATION: YORKSHIRE, UNITED KINGDOM
SOUVENIR: A WHITBY HAMPER
EXPERT: RUTH ALICE RANDS, HERD FOUNDER
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DESTINATION: DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
SOUVENIR: OUDS
EXPERT: BIBIANA OBAHOR, CITIZEN FEMME HEAD OF DESIGN
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“Forgive the humble brag, but I usually get the ‘omg who smells so good?’ comments whenever I wear the gorgeous ouds I stock up on every time I’m in Dubai. Either head to the city’s Deira Perfume Souk, who have an extensive selection, or take it a step further and head to The Perfume Bar in Dubai Mall, where you can actually blend your own custom fragrance. It’s super personal and sounds chic to say ‘it’s custom’ when someone asks what you’re wearing.”
DESTINATION: JAIPUR, INDIA
SOUVENIR: BLUE POTTERY PLATES
EXPERT: ROSANNA FALCONNER, CREATIVE CONSULTANT & TEXTILE DESIGNER
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“Blue pottery is a heritage craft that is so unique to Jaipur (the Pink City of India where I live for much of the year), that it can only be authentically produced here. It was awarded G.I. (Geographical Indication) in 2009, and made with quartz-based dough unlike any other pottery in the world, which is typically made of clay. The handcrafted process takes 20-25 days with over 45 steps. I always encourage friends and visitors to go to the studio of award-winning craftsman Shilp Guru Gopal Saini and his talented daughter Garima Saini to discover everything from vases and bowls to soap dishes and beads. It’s a true treasure trove. If you have time, take a Rajasthan Studio masterclass in the craft with the two of them, for an opportunity to hand-paint your own plate to take home.”
DESTINATION: THE HIGHLANDS, SCOTLAND
SOUVENIR: A CASHMERE SCARF
EXPERT: MORAG TURNER, CITIZEN FEMME ENFANT EDITOR
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“Whenever I’m up in the Scottish Highlands visiting family, I make sure I pop into Johnstons of Elgin as the brand’s Elgin head office and flagship store is just a short drive from my Speyside home. It’s cashmere heaven. From every conceivable style of gorgeous sweater and adorable little knits for children, to the amazing interiors section with stunning throws in a range of beautiful colours and patterns, I always find something I love. The shop always has an amazing sale basket with scarves too, where you can pick up a real bargain. Once I’ve finished shopping, I stop in at the wonderful tearoom for a cuppa and a cake with my mum before we head home with our cashmere haul.”
DESTINATION: CAPRI, ITALY
SOUVENIR: DECORATIVE OBJETS
EXPERT: DANA ALIKHANI, MUZUNGU SISTERS CO-FOUNDER
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“As a repeat visitor of Capri, I’ve developed a few shopping favourites. This summer, I’ll be picking up the most incredible lobster-shaped silver ice bucket from Michele Pagano, an artfully curated showroom full of rare or unique interiors items, from ceramics to soft furnishings. I’ve also invested in a pair of handmade artisanal leather sandals from Da Costanzo, a long-standing footwear institution with previous clients including Jackie Kennedy, Sofia Loren and Clark Cable. I also never leave the island without a slice of my favourite torta caprese from Pasticceria da Alberto.“
DESTINATION: SUFFOLK, UNITED KINGDOM
SOUVENIR: PASTRIES & BAKED GOODS
EXPERT: EDWINA GIEVE, CLARY & PEG CO-FOUNDER
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“The historic village of Orford in Suffolk is the perfect escape from London, and we go there as often as we can to visit family. When our children were smaller, we used to go a couple of times a month, so we know it very well. Pump Street Chocolate has always been our first stop on a Saturday morning. They serve the most amazing array of pastries, chocolate and cakes – bear claws and brownies are the children’s favourites, I love the Sugars Palmier and my husband opts for the Eccles cake. We always top up our tea order with pastries for a second breakfast; everything is so delicious and their seasonal fair – hot cross buns and mince pies – have had whole articles dedicated to them.”
DESTINATION: EVERYWHERE
SOUVENIR: TERRACOTTA BOWLS
EXPERT: MOLLY GODDARD, DESMOND & DEMPSEY CO-FOUNDER
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“I love collecting. Some (read my husband), would say I love hoarding. My home is full mostly of things collected on holiday; rugs from Greece, great big jugs from Mexico, a tin postcard that I framed in an ornate gold frame from India. The pot plants in my home are full of rocks I collected on beaches and lugged home in handbags. With a fear of our home becoming too ‘eclectic’ alongside the practicalities of travelling with toddlers who do not share in my fondness for antique markets and souks, my new souvenir of choice is terracotta bowls to be adored on the Templeton pink walls of our kitchen. I love that everywhere you go has their version of a terracotta bowl. Some are antique, others are by modern ceramists. Together, on the wall almost blending into the pink, they feel uniformed and at home.”
Photo credit: If Only If
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