Best Souvenirs & Things to Buy in Ireland
This list of authentic Irish souvenirs is definitely worth reading so you can decide what to bring home with you. As an Irish gal, I’ve been into countless tourist shops and been given gifts of many of the below items, but there are a few that stand out because of their quality and the meaning behind them.
My personal favorite Irish gifts I’ve received over the years include a Belleek pottery mug, a Waterford crystal bowl, which I use as a ‘fancy’ fruit bowl, and my Claddagh ring, which contains my birthstone. And because we live here, Irish food and drink is something we consume pretty much daily. We both love black pudding, but it has a bit of a love/hate relationship among tourists to Ireland, and my husband loves Jameson whiskey.
In this guide, as well as detailing my favorite Irish souvenir items, I’ve also included average prices and tips on how to spot genuine made-in-Ireland versions.
The Best Souvenirs from Ireland (From an Irish Girl)
1. Aran Sweaters
- Price range: expect to pay between €80 and €150 for a high-quality Aran sweater
Aran sweaters, or jumpers as they are locally known, are iconic symbols of Ireland. Originating from the Aran Islands off the coast of Galway, these sweaters are crafted from wool and feature intricate cable patterns. Each design has its own story, often representing the fishermen’s ropes or the island’s rocky terrain.
To make sure you’re buying an authentic Irish-made sweater, consider visiting reputable shops in the Aran Islands themselves, such as the Aran Sweater Market, which is also in Dublin by the way, or the Sweater Shop on Nassau Street in Dublin. The Blarney Woollen Mills in Cork is another great place to buy.
Look for labels that indicate the sweater is “Made in Ireland,” crafted from 100% wool, and be wary of mass-produced items that might be imported rather than locally made. Authentic Aran sweaters are traditionally hand-knit, featuring intricate patterns such as cable, diamond, and basket stitches, each with its own symbolic meaning. These patterns should be rich and well-defined. And genuine Aran sweaters will often have a slightly heavier feel and a natural lanolin scent, indicating high-quality wool.
2. Irish Whiskey
- Price range: from €25 for a good bottle of whiskey
Ireland is, of course, renowned for its whiskey, and no visit here would be complete without sampling this liquid gold. Try to tour one of the many distilleries and learn about the art of whiskey-making. Brands like Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore Dew are well-known globally, but you might also discover smaller craft distilleries like Blackwater Distillery offering unique blends.
Best whiskey tours in Ireland:
The duty-free shops at the airports here offer some of the best prices on Irish whiskey. So, unless you’re after a bottle that’s exclusive to the distillery, it’s wise to wait until you reach the airport to make your purchase. Plus, your purchase is tax-free, you won’t need to pack it, and it won’t count against your carry-on allowance!
3. Claddagh Rings
- Price range: expect to pay from €50 to €150, depending on the metal, gemstone, etc
The Claddagh ring, with its heart, hands, and crown design, is a timeless symbol of love, friendship, and loyalty. Originating from the village of Claddagh in Galway, these rings are traditionally given as tokens of affection – and so it’s one of the best gifts from Ireland to give to a loved one.
The ring is available mostly in silver and gold, and the heart in the middle can contain a gemstone like an amethyst.
The renowned design symbolizes the phrase, “Let Love and Friendship reign.” When the ring is worn with the crown facing away from the fingernail, it signifies that the wearer is in love or married. And wearing the ring with the heart pointing toward the fingernail indicates the person is unattached.
This ring holds the distinction of being the only one crafted in Ireland that was worn by Queen Victoria, and it later adorned the fingers of Queen Alexandra and King Edward VII. Throughout the years, the ring has been worn by numerous notable personalities, including Maureen O’Hara, John Wayne, Walt Disney, Prince Rainier of Monaco, and Princess Grace Kelly.
Buy one from reputable jewelry stores like Heart in Hands or a family-owned shop like Thomas Dillon’s, both in Galway, where the Claddagh ring originated. Or My Irish Jeweler in Sandyford, Dublin also offers a wide selection of Irish-made jewelry.
Look for signs that the ring is made in Ireland, such as a hallmark stamp, which often includes the maker’s mark, metal purity, and the Irish assay office mark.
4. Irish Linen
- Price range: smaller items like tea towels or napkins usually range from €10 to €30
Renowned for its quality and craftsmanship, Irish linen is a luxurious souvenir that has been produced in Ireland for centuries. Whether you’re looking for tablecloths, napkins, or handkerchiefs, the fine texture and durability of Irish linen make it a worthwhile buy. Visit one of the many linen shops, like the Irish Linen House in Dublin, or factories to witness the skill and dedication that go into creating these exquisite pieces.
Some of the best Irish linen brands include:
- Thomas Ferguson Irish Linen, established in 1854 in Banbridge, Northern Ireland, is known for its durable, luxurious bedding and table linens made entirely in-house.
- Baird McNutt, in County Donegal, is a leading producer of fine Irish apparel and shirting fabrics, frequently highlighted by brands such as J.Crew.
- Stable of Ireland is a modern boutique brand celebrated for its stylish, high-quality linen accessories, scarves, and tablecloths.
- McCaw Allan is known for its exquisitely handcrafted damask table linens made from pure flax.
5. Celtic Jewellery
- Average price: Generally, you can find Celtic knot necklaces ranging from around €20 to €150
Celtic designs, with their intricate knots and spirals, are a quintessential aspect of Irish culture. Jewellery featuring Celtic designs can be found in many stores throughout Ireland, from high-end jewelers to small artisan shops.
One of the most popular choices is the Celtic knot, known for its endless loops and intricate designs, representing eternity and interconnectedness. For those drawn to symbolism, the Tree of Life is a beautiful option, embodying growth, strength, and harmony. And Tara brooches, inspired by ancient artifacts, are a good choice too.
6. Pottery and Ceramics
- Price range: mugs or small figurines usually range from €30 to €100
Irish pottery and ceramics are known for their craftsmanship and unique designs. Brands like Belleek and Nicholas Mosse are good ones to seek out. In my opinion, Irish pottery is a beautiful way to bring a touch of Ireland’s artistry into your home.
I recommend having these items shipped home for you by the store. Many larger stores and even some smaller ones will arrange this for you.
7. Connemara Marble
- Price range: a set of coasters usually ranges from €20 to €50
Known as “Ireland’s gemstone,” Connemara marble is a rare and beautiful stone found in the west of Ireland – in the Connemara region. Its distinctive green hue and swirling patterns make it a popular choice for jewelry, ornaments, and homeware.
We have some Connemara Marble coasters in our home, and they are a good item to buy from somewhere like Connemara Celtic Crystal and will easily fit in your luggage – no need to arrange shipping.
As for kids, one of the best gifts from Ireland for them is a pet rock made of Connemara marble. It’s a funny-looking creature with googly eyes but is a very popular item for families to buy.
8. Irish Musical Instruments
- Price range: a genuine tin whistle costs around €10
Ireland’s rich musical heritage is world-famous, and bringing home a piece of it is easier than ever. Traditional Irish music CDs, tin whistles, or bodhráns (Irish frame drums) are some of the best souvenirs from Ireland for music enthusiasts.
A tin whistle is probably the easiest option to take home with you, due to its small size. We learned the tin whistle in primary school here in Ireland (yes, I grew up and still live in Ireland), and so it holds a lot of nostalgia for me.
You will find tin whistles in pretty much every tourist store, but some of my favorite places to buy authentic ones include Walton’s Music, a well-established music shop in Dublin, and Custy’s Traditional Music Shop in Galway.
A bodhrán (pronounced bow-rawn; the bow is pronounced like ‘bow to the audience’) typically consists of a circular wooden frame ranging from 25 to 65 centimeters in diameter, with a goatskin or synthetic head stretched over one side. The best places to buy these are again Walton’s in Dublin and Custy’s in Galway.
9. Waterford Crystal
- Average price: ornaments or glasses start at around €50 to €100
I’m certain you’ve heard of Waterford Crystal! It’s famous for its amazing craftsmanship and timeless beauty, making it a sought-after collectible, and it’s a symbol of luxury here in Ireland. Many couples used to receive Waterford Crystal items as wedding gifts – I know my parents did.
Each piece is carefully handcrafted by talented artisans in Ireland, and its pieces are known for their clarity, detailed designs, and brilliant sparkle.
Of course, the best place to buy Waterford Crystal is directly from the source at the House of Waterford Crystal in Waterford City. There, you can take a guided tour of the factory, witness the craftsmanship firsthand, and purchase pieces from their extensive collection. They will also ship any items home for you, so you don’t have to worry about packing the items in your luggage.
Jerpoint Glass Studio in Kilkenny is another excellent choice, offering hand-blown glassware with vibrant colors and unique designs. And master glassblower Róisín de Buitléar is known for her contemporary and artistic approach to glass. You can buy her pieces in many places, like the Grey Heron in West Cork.
10. Traditional Food
- Price range: from €10 – €15 for a box of locally produced chocolates
For a taste of Ireland, consider bringing home some traditional Irish foods. Black pudding (Clonakilty Black Pudding is my choice), soda bread mix, and locally-produced jams (I really like the brand Follain) are just a few examples.
I’m a huge chocolate fan, and some of my favorite small, local places to buy from include Skelligs Chocolate in Kerry, Hazel Mountain Chocolate in the Burren, and in Dublin, The Proper Chocolate Company is a great option.
When selecting food items, ensure that they are properly packaged for transport.
11. Scented Candles
- Average price: starting from €20 for a medium-sized candle
Many Irish brands like La Bougie, based in Kinsale, create candles inspired by the country’s natural beauty, blending fragrances like wildflowers, sea salt, and peat. A scented candle is a simple yet evocative memento that can transport you back to the serene Irish countryside with just a flicker of a flame.
12. Tweed cap
- Price range: expect to pay anywhere from €30 to €70 for a standard tweed cap
Tweed caps are a timeless fashion staple that mix tradition, craftsmanship, and practicality. Known for being durable and stylish, these caps are usually made from top-notch wool, keeping you warm and protected from the weather.
The unique patterns and natural colors of Irish tweed mirror the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the region, making them not just functional but also a piece of art. Buying one also means supporting traditional artisans, as many are handmade by skilled weavers using age-old techniques.
If you’re thinking about getting a genuine Irish tweed cap, you can check out local boutiques and specialty stores in Ireland. Places like Magee 1866, a family-owned business in Donegal Town, and Hanna Hats, located in Ballybofey, Donegal. Donegal is famous for its amazing tweed.
Tax Free Shopping in Ireland:
Shopping tax-free in Ireland is possible for American tourists and other non-EU tourists looking to make the most out of their purchases. As a non-EU resident, you are eligible to claim a refund on the Value Added Tax (VAT) paid on goods bought in Ireland, provided you take them home with you. To optimize your savings, follow these steps:
- Request a Tax-Free Form: When making a purchase, ask the retailer for a tax-free shopping form. Not all shops participate in the tax-free scheme, so look for the “Tax-Free Shopping” sign or inquire beforehand.
- Complete the Form: Ensure that all details on the form are filled out correctly, including your name, passport number, and address.
- Keep Receipts and Goods Accessible: Retain all receipts and keep your purchased items in their original packaging, as you might need to present them for inspection at the airport.
- Claim Your Refund at the Airport: Arrive at the airport early and head to the customs area to have your forms stamped. Afterward, submit the forms at the designated refund booth or mailbox to get your VAT refund, which could be returned to you via credit card, check, or cash.
- Understand the Fees: Be aware that service fees may apply for processing the refund, so factor this into your savings calculations.
Slainte!
I really hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite things to buy in Ireland and that it’s given you some inspiration on what to take home with you.
While you’re here yoy may also enjoy reading –
Understanding Irish Place Names (The Gaelic meaning of Irish towns and cities)
