Bringing back a souvenir from Albania isn't always straightforward! Indeed, major cities are filled with tourist gifts that aren't always particularly local… Yet, the country boasts an exceptional wine-making heritage and local craftsmanship! From raki to embroidery, passing through gliko, ceramics, and the art of the kilim: here's a list of Albanian artisanal gifts…

A bottle of raki (THE souvenir to bring back from Albania)
   

The quintessential souvenir gift to take back from Albania is a bottle of raki! Also called rajika, this spirit is the national drink of Albania – and, more broadly, a very popular spirit throughout the Balkans.

Made from red or white grapes (raki rrushi) or plums, this distilled alcohol can also be produced from peaches, apricots, figs, apples, or quinces depending on the region. Depending on the recipes, it can also be infused with various herbs.

This very strong spirit (around 40–50°) is a sign of hospitality. It's notably served on major occasions, such as weddings or births, as an aperitif or digestif. Considered a "grandmother's remedy,