HomeBlogs 8 Best Souvenirs to Buy in Egypt
No trip feels complete without taking a souvenir back home from the country you visited. It’s a great way to preserve memories of the places you explore. In Egypt, you can find more than just standard fridge magnets and pyramid miniatures. Here are eight memorable Egyptian souvenirs to consider during your trip.
Papyrus artwork is one of the most recognisable souvenirs in Egypt. It showcases intricate artwork and is made from the Papyrus plant. The art pieces often depict scenes from Egypt’s ancient mythology, Egyptian gods, pharaohs and the Nile.
Check for:
Where to Buy: Specialist papyrus institutes and trusted art shops in Cairo, Giza and Luxor.
Cartouche jewellery is among the most meaningful and useful souvenirs that you can buy for someone special. It’s an oval-shaped frame based on designs used around royal names in ancient inscriptions.
What makes it Special?
Where to Buy: Jewellery shops in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.
If you want to buy a popular yet traditional example of Egyptian textile art, you should go for Khayamiya textiles. You can find a variety of options to shop for, such as wall hangings, cushion covers, bags and table runners that would add an aesthetic touch to your home.
Smart Tip: Look closely at the stitching to differentiate between a handmade piece and an imitation.
Where to Buy: Cairo Textile markets
Authentic Egyptian Alabaster sculptures are a neatly finished piece of art. These are creamy stones commonly carved into candle holders, small statues, Canopic jars and deities.
Pro Tip: Always ask for a receipt or certificate of authenticity to make sure the item is not smuggled to avoid delays and suspicion at airports.
Where to Find: Reputable shops in Luxor
If you’re fond of handcrafted decorative pieces than you should make some space in your bags for these Egyptian pottery items. These hand-painted items are available in many forms, including mugs, small dishes, and decorative vases.
Useful tip: Ask the shopkeeper to pack the fragile item carefully for air travel.
Where to Buy: Fustat in Cairo, Tunis Village in Fayoum and workshops in Aswan.
Brassware is a great souvenir from Egypt. You can find a range of authentic pieces such as traditional metal lanterns, engraved bowls, serving trays and teapots. Many pieces feature geometric patterns reflecting traditional Egyptian craftsmanship.
Useful Tip: Bargaining is common at traditional souks. Politely negotiate the price before buying.
Where to Buy: Khan el-Khalili and metalwork shops in Historic Cairo
Essential oils have been a part of Egypt for many years. These are used for religious offerings, beauty and rejuvenation. The Egyptian perfume oils are a perfect souvenir for people who love fragrances.
What to Expect:
Where to buy: Perfume shops in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.
Egyptian cotton products are renowned worldwide. The cotton fabrics are soft, durable and highly absorbent. You can shop for bed linen, towels, stylish tops, scarves and even bathrobes.
Smart Tip: Check for products with labels stating '100% Egyptian Cotton' and buy from trusted retailers and certified stores to ensure authenticity.
Where to buy: Cotton shops in Cairo, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Luxor Souk, Aswan Souk and certified Egyptian cotton retailers.