What to bring from Lithuania as a gift – 20 best souvenirs
The goal of any tourist is to make shopping as comfortable and entertaining as possible. Indeed, shopping in this wonderful place will bring true satisfaction! A small country abounds with a huge amount of goods that are successfully combined with pleasant prices. Undoubtedly, any trip abroad is not complete without magical souvenirs. They do not buy them in order to please their relatives and loved ones. A souvenir, first of all, is a reminder for the tourist himself, as well as a wonderful opportunity to mentally return to those colorful moments experienced in a new city or place. So what to bring from Lithuania? It is better to stop your choice on a trip not on a simple trifle, but on a small piece of the country that tells about its history, preserving undisclosed secrets and mysteries of places.
Flax
The country is famous for its linen products. It is here that linen has been grown and processed for more than four centuries, creating an environmentally friendly, practical and hypoallergenic fabric. The material itself is pleasant to the touch, well breathable, has an antistatic effect. In Europe, especially in hot countries, flax is highly valued. Stylish and beautiful things from it are slim and look airy. When choosing linen clothing, it is worth remembering that this natural fabric comes only in muted shades. If the color scheme is very bright, this is a sure sign of an admixture of cotton or even synthetics.
The only linen material factory in Europe is located here, so tourists from neighboring Denmark, Germany and France come to Vilnius for shopping. Once in the production, you immediately understand that linen is not boring at all, because real masterpieces are created from it here. Although many operations have long been mechanized, the process of making matter from a plant is very long and laborious. Linen fabric is soft and coarse, so the price also depends on the processing of the raw materials.
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Wool products
The visiting card of Lithuania can be called the Wool House company. For more than 80 years she has been manufacturing and selling clothes made of natural wool and mohair. In addition to factory items, in cold weather you can buy practical hand-made products made of wool and knitwear. These are all kinds of handmade knitted shawls, hats, mittens and scarves with motifs that have become a tradition. It is noteworthy that all products, whether knitted toys, socks or outerwear, are created exclusively in a single copy and do not repeat each other.
Studying the range of street trading shops, you can see that woolen products in large quantities appear like mushrooms on all the counters just before Christmas. This is a wonderful gift for yourself and your loved ones for the holiday. The products are quite bright and original, with colorful local ornaments and Baltic patterns. Products are not cheap, but they will warm for more than one year.
Leather products
Today, Chinese fakes flooded the entire planet. But giving things made in China has long been considered bad taste. Upon arrival in any state, it is desirable to find a souvenir that will personify or resemble something traditional for him. For example, leather that never goes out of style. Wallets for men, wallets with many compartments for women are truly luxurious gifts for any occasion. You can find them here at every step. They are simply replete with various options and hundreds of modifications with the most amazing colors.
All this variety is sold by many companies, yet handmade items are considered the most colorful. We are talking about diaries with leather bindings, original key rings and covers for documents. Any fashionista will want to show off a new leather cosmetic bag or handbag, and more respectable ladies will not resist a leather folder with embossed or engraved. For a home interior, the markets even have wall clocks in a leather case, and for lovers of intoxicating beer glasses in binding. It makes sense to buy them in Lithuania, as they will last a really long time.
Cosmetics
The production of cosmetics from natural ingredients is located here, so shampoos, creams and even oral care products can be added to the list of gifts. On the territory of this country, they always maintain high quality products, but almost nothing is produced for export. The products of the Dzintars trademark remain the most demanded and high-quality products. The perfumes of this company are known far beyond the borders of this small country.
For several decades in a row, the Margarita trademark has been on the market of natural cosmetics manufacturers, which means that women should look for it on the shelves. It is sold in supermarkets or in highly specialized stores. The secret of the low price is the simplest composition and local ingredients. Many people also know the products of BIOK laboratorija. This is a local brand that Lithuanian beauties use more often than foreign famous brands.
Local brand clothing
The Baltic women have always been famous for their sense of style. Take, for example, the Soviet pop singer Laima Vaikule. She dresses very elegantly, with a certain charm, perhaps this is the merit of fashion designers. Walking along the city streets in Vilnius, you can enjoy not only the amazing history and culture, but also make purchases. Gedimino Avenue is just perfect for this pastime. The street on both sides is simply crammed with shops, and there are also shopping centers nearby where you can buy locally made clothes.
The word “laba dena” is not only an invariable Lithuanian greeting, but also the name of the famous brand Labadiena. She produces clothes for everyday use, such as baseball caps or sweatshirts. The youth series is so popular that many even wear it to clubs. Men's and women's clothing is represented by the Atsikeli ir varai brand. The manufacturers have made a funny, slightly clumsy image of a horse's head that they put on every model, whether it's a black dress or a regular sweater, as their trademark. Only Grizas is in good demand in Europe, all the rest are practically unknown outside the country.
Medications
There are pharmacies in almost every locality, but it is not a fact that they will work until late in small towns. There are also very few 24-hour establishments, they are mainly located in the capital. For Russian tourists, an important advantage will be that all pharmacists are Russian-speaking, therefore, it will be much easier for both to explain themselves or find an analogue. As for specific diseases, as in tropical regions, there is no need to fear. They often take with them a standard package of medicines that they use at home.
Many compatriots have long been buying pills, drops and potions abroad. In Lithuania, their prices are much lower. As for the new law, it came out to stimulate competition between pharmaceutical manufacturers. Now in pharmacies, patients who were prescribed the drug for the first time or after a long break will be given drugs at a minimum cost. This is done so that people do not overpay for drugs, and pharmaceutical companies reduce prices.
Amber jewelry
In the list of souvenirs, the solar stone can be given almost the main place. The stone is not necessarily used for jewelry, all kinds of souvenirs are made from them. Amber products not only fascinate with their beauty, but are also useful for humans. In addition to stimulating various organs, the mineral helps to heal wounds and cuts, and has bactericidal properties. Science has proven that its healing properties are not a myth.
Amber is a symbol of all the Baltic countries, but it was Lithuania that became the leader of the amber coalition. Due to this, the mineral is proudly called “Lithuanian gold”. In jewelry departments, amber framed with precious metals looks simply amazing. It emphasizes the brilliance and unique shade of gold, and the special glow of silver. Souvenir shops sell jewelry made of solar stone, as well as paintings, figurines, small things for the home. Interestingly, this mineral is electrified, and when heated, it emits a coniferous aroma. It cannot be scratched, it does not react to acetone. Everything else is fake.
glass products
The beauty of glass jewelry fascinates in the same way as amber products, although they cost much less. Local glassblowers have long been accustomed to working with this material. Sometimes it seems that glass objects are definitely endowed with some kind of inexplicable magic that does not let go of the eyes of buyers. You can circle the rows for hours, admiring the beautiful handmade items.
Street shops are full of colored glass vases, bright flowers and unusual animals. Crockery, figurines, and home accessories of all colors and sizes will be a great alternative for a gift, for example, to your wife or your parents. In addition, for your beloved, you can buy cute inflated earrings or a ring.
Ceramics
Burnt clay often fascinates tourists with its lines and bizarre shapes. By creating this or that product, potters endow them with magical properties. At least that's what the market sellers say. According to legend, ceramic bells are able to protect their owner from evil spirits, and house candles bring comfort and peace to the house. As for small fairy-tale characters, they attract good luck.
Mugs and goblets engraved with city towers and houses are popular souvenirs. They are sold everywhere and the choice is too huge, so an unprepared tourist can spend money in vain. Prices for ceramics are different everywhere, which means that it is better not to make a purchase right away. Bypassing several places, you can decide on the cost and subject. In addition, right in the workshop you can create a clay souvenir yourself.
Wood products
Lithuania is not so rich in original souvenirs, but some things still gained worldwide fame. The local people are very fond of wooden toys. They are made by hand in numerous family workshops and sold wherever possible. An important feature of all these dolls, cubes and horses is the fact that they are all completely harmless to children. Even the coating for wood consists entirely of natural ingredients. Traditionally, linseed oil and natural paint based on cow's milk are used.
It is a real pleasure to give such toys to your child. Sky-high prices are not set for them. In addition, along with toys, puzzles and puzzles, they usually buy wooden boxes, kitchen utensils and other household accessories for the hearth. Often, during shopping, tourists look for exclusive gizmos, and for a symbolic amount.
Cake “Shakotis”
Friends will be especially delighted with the traditional Lithuanian cake “Šakotis”. This is a business card and a must-have decoration for weddings and holidays. It has long been prepared only for special events, and today it is sold in all pastry shops. Its distinctive feature is not only an amazing way of cooking on an open fire, but also a wonderful taste and an original shape resembling a prickly hedgehog. In translation, its name means “branched”. And indeed, it seems to consist of many small branches and is somewhat reminiscent of a Christmas tree.
According to legend, “Shakotis” appeared quite by accident. At a cooking competition in honor of the queen, one unfortunate cook, Yozas, spilled dough on a spit spinning over a fire. The queen was delighted with the result, and subsequently gave her hand and heart to this culinary specialist. So since the 16th century, rich egg dough has been wound on a skewer. Part of the dough drains and hardens, forming sweet icicles. It is packaged in 100 g or 1 kg, and transported in cardboard boxes. Shelf life 6 months.
Pergale Chocolate
Russian tourists still bring home Pergale, because there are no sanctions on chocolate. Pergale brand dark chocolates are made from exclusive varieties of natural cocoa beans. It is valued as a strong and rich natural dessert, and has been produced at the confectionery factory since 1952. It has refined taste characteristics and perfect quality, besides it is made according to original old recipes. Real gourmets note that exclusive tiles give real pleasure from consumption, although they are a bit sweet.
Pergale chocolate products are also found on domestic shelves, but not the entire range. Chocolate products are produced with the addition of no less tasty ingredients. Only in Lithuania there are varieties – milk with lavender or black with beets, as well as with caramelized almonds and orange slices, which are sold with and without state symbols. A distinctive feature of chocolate products has become a powerful and tart aftertaste, as well as a delicate aroma, giving a long and touching aftertaste. This is the perfect gift for kids and adults for any occasion.
Meat delicacies
Gastronomic joys await wandering gourmets in this wonderful land. This place is famous for its own production of meat, flour, dairy products and sweets. The quality of food is strictly monitored, so there is a lot of food in the grocery departments, which is not a shame to bring home as an edible present. Whoever cannot forget the taste of Soviet sausage, which for some reason disappeared from Russian shelves in an instant, will have a chance to feel it again. It can be found under the name “Tarybine”, which means “Soviet” sausage.
The range of farmers' markets here is huge. Of the unusual delicacies, it is advisable to taste a smoked delicacy of minced pork with bacon, garlic and spices, wrapped in a stomach called kindzyukas, smoked pork ears, and appetizing sausages with the addition of herbs and mushrooms. Fans of natural products will like sausages on traditional rye bread – Skilandis. This is a popular street food in Vilnius served with stewed sauerkraut. Locally produced products do not have factory packaging; therefore, they will not be allowed to cross the border. Do not despair, because all the gastronomic delights can be enjoyed on the spot.
Bakery products
Europe is known for its hot bread consumption culture, where the development of mini-bakeries and hot bread shops has long been widespread. In Russia, these establishments have just begun to appear. Experienced tourists, who have come to these parts not for the first time, immediately run to stock up on bread. Especially from rye flour. It seems surprising, but having tried this pastry once, you can hardly confuse it with something else.
Visiting travelers certainly praise Baltic pastries. This is not surprising, because it is always fresh, tasty, of high quality. Many bakeries strictly adhere to the principles where the freshness and exclusivity of their products come first. The pride of the enterprises are European, no one produced in Russia varieties of bread, as well as modern technologies for the production of bakery products. On the road, they take homemade bread with cumin, which does not spoil for a long time.
apple cheese
For those who know a lot about delicacies, this delicacy is definitely worth bringing home. This is not a sour-milk product, as many people think. And no cheese at all! It got its name due to its shape, which looks like two drops of water on a cheese head. The product resembles a tight dark viscous marmalade. Apple cheese is often prepared in combination with nuts and dried fruits. It's impossible to put into words how amazing he is.
They buy sweet cheese heads in cafeterias, pastry shops, as well as at city fairs. The recipe for this delicacy is as unique as its taste. They take chopped apples, sprinkle with sugar, leave for a day. The mixture is boiled until the juice evaporates. Cinnamon, vanillin are added to the finished concentrate and given a special shape. After about 10 days, the product dries to the density of cheese, it is wrapped in parchment and stored for as long as you like. Apple cheese goes well with a muffin and butter, eaten for breakfast.
Tinctures and liqueurs
Fans of Bacchus are brought presents in the form of various liqueurs and balms. An alcoholic drink with the symbolic name “Three Nines”, which appeared in the 14th century, gained popularity. Its recipe is rather complicated: 9 items each from the earthly, underground and heavenly worlds. There are 27 ingredients in total. The taste is very specific, and all because the potion is healing. According to ancient belief, only the combination of three powerful forces of nature, and not a mixture of different types of herbs and roots, infused with alcohol, cures all diseases. The strength of this drink is 35 degrees.
In roadside shops, alcohol is poured into small containers, which allows you to taste several items. Good sets in a miniature container “Zalgiris”. Honey tincture has a 75-degree strength and excellent quality. They drink it not only as an aperitif, but also add a couple of drops to coffee. For women, it is advised to purchase sweet liqueurs Krupnikas, Cherry Žagare, Bočiu. The following companies are worthy of attention: Dainava, Palanga and Sokoladini – in fact, they deserve excellent reviews.
Beer
The assortment and quality of Lithuanian beer is reminiscent of Czech and German, but it is also inexpensive for the price. The most famous brands that make hop nectar only from natural ingredients are Svyturys, Utenos, Kalnapilis. Traveling Russians should be aware that they are allowed to carry no more than 3 liters of alcohol per person. Do not be upset, because it is not necessary to take beer home to your homeland, it is enough to try its taste pleasures on the spot.
To learn more about interesting varieties, you can visit any tour of Vilnius, where an experienced guide in Russian will tell you in detail about the art of brewing. Tours usually include visits to small private breweries, popular establishments, atmospheric pubs. In them you can also taste about 4 types of foamy drink.
Smoked eel
Traditional Baltic cuisine, like Jewish cuisine, is high in calories and is downright intended for lumberjacks. All dishes are insanely delicious, but upon returning home, this fact must be somehow explained to your nutritionist. The most delicious delicacies include smoked eel, which is also very good for health. Buy it in big supermarkets. A fragrant bundle with an appetizing smoked filling inside will become an unbroken version of a present, for example, for a best friend or workmate.
A delicacy product is rightfully considered because of its excellent taste and high cost. This fish is quite rare, so prices are creeping up. Eel is a nimble fish that swims at night near the bottom. It's almost impossible to catch her. Smoked – it is just perfect, so tourists who have tasted tender juicy white meat at least once, arriving a second time, cannot deny themselves the pleasure of visiting a fish store.
Midus
According to archaeologists, Meedus began to be made before the birth of Christ. It is made from water, lime or flower honey and yeast, with the addition of juices. Previously, mead was kept in dishes made of wood, clay and even leather, today it is packaged in glass bottles. Midus can rightfully be called popular, because from time immemorial it was drunk by both rich and poor, and was also considered a ritual drink. Today it is sold in all grocery stores.
An alcoholic drink of golden color varies in strength and is available in various variations. To change the taste, berries, herbs and even oak acorns are put into it. The fermentation process takes place in metal barrels at a temperature of 8-10°C for 1 year. The container is stored in cellars at wineries. Low-alcohol mead is so weak that it is served with dessert dishes, but the strongest mead can contain about 15-20 degrees of alcohol and is served as an aperitif before the main meal.
Home Decor at Flying Tiger Copenhagen
You can make your home cozy with the help of home accessories. Products in the form of mirrors, paintings, sofa cushions, floor mats will not only decorate the room with their presence, but also add a designer accent to the interior. Flying Tiger Copenhagen is a design corporation with furniture and whimsical homewares.
The brand's home accessories and décor elements are presented in a completely new format and are divided into the following categories: for the home, toys, furniture, stationery, electronics, sports, gadgets and much more. The concept of the store is built on the principle of emotional shopping, which means you need to buy something to make yourself happier.