What to Buy in Ireland: When it comes to souvenirs, Ireland has a lot to offer. From traditional crafts to modern innovations, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the best Irish souvenirs that you should consider buying during your trip.
Best Food Irish Souvenirs
Irish Chocolates: If you have a sweet tooth, don't miss out on trying some Irish chocolates. Look for brands like Butlers or Lily O'Brien's, known for their delicious and indulgent creations. From creamy truffles to rich dark chocolate bars, there's something to satisfy every craving.
Whiskey: Ireland is famous for its whiskey, and you can't leave without trying or taking some home. Look for brands like Jameson, Bushmills, or Teeling. You can find a variety of flavors and types, from single malt to blends. If you're unsure, ask for recommendations at a local pub or visit a whiskey distillery for a tasting.
Cheese: Irish cheese is a true culinary delight that any cheese lover should explore. From the popular and beloved Cashel Blue to the hidden gems like Cnoc Dubh, each cheese tells a story of Ireland's lush landscapes and rich dairy heritage. So, go ahead and indulge in a full Irish cheese selection – it's the perfect way to add a touch of deliciousness to your life.
Irish Honey: If you're planning a trip to the beautiful Emerald Isle, you might be surprised to learn that Ireland is buzzing with small farms producing top-notch raw honey. And let me tell you, not only is this honey absolutely delicious, but it also supports the bees and their important role in maintaining biodiversity.
Best Irish Souvenirs to Wear
Aran Sweaters: One of the key features of Aran sweaters is their material. They are typically made from pure wool, which not only adds to their warmth but also gives them a luxurious feel. The wool used in these sweaters is carefully selected to ensure the highest quality and durability. So not only will you be able to stay warm, but you'll also be able to enjoy your sweater for years to come.
Claddagh Rings: This traditional Irish symbol has been around for centuries and carries a significant meaning of love, friendship, and loyalty.Claddagh rings are not only cherished in Ireland but have gained popularity worldwide. They make for a thoughtful gift, whether it's for a loved one, a friend, or even yourself. The versatility of Claddagh rings is another reason for their appeal. You can find them in various materials like gold, silver, or even adorned with gemstones. There are also different styles available, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your taste.
Donegal Tweed: This a type of fabric that was first produced in Northern Ireland and has since become popular throughout the country. It is commonly used for jackets, vests, caps, and other clothing items. The most well-known region for producing Donegal Tweed is County Donegal, but you can find it in various places. If you have knitting skills, you can buy a ball of tweed and create a unique vest to remind you of Ireland. However, if you prefer ready-made items, it's recommended to purchase one instead.
Best Irish Souvenirs to Decorate Your Home
Christmas Decorations for the Tree: This is one thing we always do when we travel. We pick up some decoration for our tree that reminds us of our travels and often brings back fond memories of our trips. Irish Christmas decorations can be a great way to remember your travels and create lasting memories. There are many options available, such as ornaments featuring traditional Irish symbols like shamrocks, Celtic knots, or Claddagh rings.
Irish Linen: Ireland is famous for its high-quality linen, which is made from flax. Linen products such as tablecloths, napkins, and handkerchiefs not only make for elegant souvenirs, but they are also practical and durable.
Irish Pottery: When it comes to pottery, Ireland has a rich and vibrant history that stretches back centuries. The art of creating ceramics has been passed down through generations, resulting in a wide range of exquisite and unique pieces that showcase the skill and creativity of Irish potters.
Connemara Marble: Connemara marble is indeed a unique and beautiful stone found only in the Connemara region of Ireland. Its distinct green color and intricate patterns make it highly sought after for jewelry, sculptures, and decorative items. The varying shades of green, from light to deep emerald, give each piece of Connemara marble a unique and captivating appearance. It's a wonderful souvenir that captures the natural beauty of Ireland and its rich geological history.
Waterford Crystal: Waterford Crystal is indeed a popular choice for souvenirs, known for its exceptional clarity and purity of color. To ensure you are purchasing genuine Waterford Crystal, look for the Waterford acid stamp on the piece. This stamp can be quite small, so you may need a magnifying glass to spot it.
Musical Instruments: Looking for a unique Irish souvenir to bring back home? Well, look no further than the traditional Irish bagpipe, also known as the Uilleann pipes, or perhaps a fiddle. These musical instruments not only serve as beautiful decorative pieces but also hold a special place in Irish culture and history. They not only add a touch of Irish charm to your home but also offer an opportunity to connect with the rich musical heritage of Ireland. Just remember, while they may not be essential, they can certainly be a fantastic addition to your collection.
Irish Cookbook: Buying an Irish cookbook is a wonderful way to experience the local cuisine and bring a piece of Ireland back with you as a souvenir. Irish cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, such as Irish stew, colcannon, soda bread, and traditional desserts like apple pie and bread pudding. Look for cookbooks that feature authentic Irish recipes and explore the rich culinary traditions of Ireland. Enjoy cooking and savoring the flavors of Ireland!
Irish Children's Books:
We bought several books for our young grandchildren to enjoy on Irish folklore. They absolutely loved them. Children's books make for lasting souvenirs
that can be cherished and enjoyed for years to come, reminding them of their visit to Ireland and sparking their imagination. Overall, it's a thoughtful and meaningful gift choice for young kids.
Irish Wool Blankets: One of the things that make Irish wool blankets so special is the fact that they are made from natural wool. This means that they are not only soft and comfortable, but also durable and long-lasting. The wool is sourced from local Irish farms, where sheep are raised in lush green pastures. So, when you wrap yourself in an Irish wool blanket, you can be sure that you're experiencing the authentic feel of Ireland.
Pro Tip: Tax-free purchases for non-EU travelers. Visitors to Ireland from outside the European Union (EU) can buy goods in Ireland to take home with them and benefit from tax relief.
If you’re not familiar with VAT, it’s a tax that’s included in the price of your purchase of goods and services in Ireland. Now, while the % of VAT charged will differ depending on the goods or service that you’re purchasing, the standard VAT rate is 23%.
We learned that in Ireland, we could only get the form if we spent over 75€ in each shop. So you may want to combine your souvenir shopping to one or two places to take advantage of the program. you will need to fill out the form for each purchase and turn it in at the airport, after passing through security.
Tax relief is not allowed on services, for example, hotel accommodation, meals, or car hire. The visitor must provide proof that they are a visitor from outside the EU when making each purchase. The proof includes evidence of the place of residence, inbound and outbound flight dates, and a signed declaration. When buying souvenirs in Ireland, remember that you need to ask for the form, it is not always offered at the time of purchase.
Here is a more in depth article by the Irishroadtrip.com
Finally remember, these souvenirs are not just objects; they represent the culture, heritage, and craftsmanship of Ireland. When you bring them back home, they will serve as a reminder of your trip and the memories you made. So, take your time to explore local shops, talk to artisans, and choose something that truly resonates with you. Enjoy your shopping and bring a piece of Ireland's charm with you wherever you go!
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