While there are endless options for Canadian souvenirs, a few are considered the most classic and must-buy items for any tourist visiting Quebec. We don’t want anyone to leave this great country empty-handed, so I made this list of the best Canada souvenirs to help you choose the most appropriate parting gift for your trip to Quebec.
Canada is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse culture, and friendly locals. As a popular travel destination, it’s no surprise that tourists often look for unique souvenirs when they visit Quebec, and since we’re in Canada, we aim to please.
Remember to get something for your family and friends back home. It might help convince them to join you on your next journey.
Classic Souvenirs From Canada You May Want
Canada T-shirt or Sweatshirt – These items are a staple for any tourist and can be found in most gift shops across the country. They often feature the iconic red and white maple leaf, the Canadian flag, or popular Canadian symbols such as beavers or moose. These t-shirts serve as one of the best gifts from Canada and are a fun addition to anyone’s wardrobe.
Hockey Gear – Hockey is the most popular sport in the country, and hockey stores and equipment are readily available. If you’re a sports lover or have a loved one who is,a commemorative puck or signed jersey is a classic souvenir from Canada. And when in Quebec, a Habs (Canadiens de Montréal) t-shirt will always be a score!
Indigenous Art and Crafts – Dreamcatchers, totem poles, and Inuit carvings are highly recommended. These items are beautiful and carry significant cultural and historical value. They are a great way to support local indigenous communities and bring a piece of Canadian culture home. Just be sure you are buying from a local vendor, as many corporations offer similar products to greedily try and capture some of the local indigenous market for themselves.
Best Quebec, Canada Souvenirs From Your Travels
Maple Syrup – Known as the “liquid gold” of Quebec, maple syrup is deeply ingrained in the province’s culture and history. With over 7,000 maple syrup producers and 72% of the world’s maple syrup production, Quebec is the world’s largest producer of this sweet liquid. Tourists can find various forms of maple syrup, from traditional glass bottles to maple butter, cookies, and even maple-flavoured whiskey.
Bonhomme de Neige Plush Toy – This cute and cuddly souvenir represents Quebec’s love for winter and its iconic winter festival, the Carnaval de Québec. Tourists can find these plush toys in various sizes and designs, making it a perfect souvenir for kids and adults.
Cuisine – Aside from maple syrup, Quebec is the foodie province of Canada and offers a variety of different options that are delicious and worth taking home with you. Cheese curds are among the most popular due to their shelf life and flexible storage needs. You can also sample some locally smoked salmon or indulge in a sugar pie. All of these can travel and most certainly won’t be found as easily in other parts of the country.
Souvenir Food from Canada
Lastly, no visit to Quebec is complete without trying some of its famous Canadian snacks and treats. Not only do these make great souvenirs, but they also offer a taste of Canadian cuisine and make delicious gifts for friends and family back home.
- Ketchup chips (I loooooove these)
- All dressed chips
- Montreal bagels
- Ice cider and ice wine
- Microbrewery beers
- Pea soup mix
- Poutine mix (available in any grocery store in powdered format)
- Maple taffy and butter or even maple candies
- Tim Hortons donuts
- Blueberry products from Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
- Coffee Crisp chocolate bar
- Salt from the Magdalen Islands
- Montreal Steak Spices
- Jos Louis cakes
- Montreal Expos Memorabilia
Avoid These Canadian Souvenirs
Some souvenirs are commonly considered tacky and overpriced, and tourists should think twice before purchasing them.
- One of Canada’s most popular yet tacky souvenirs is the maple leaf-shaped refrigerator magnet. While it may seem like a quintessential symbol of the country, these magnets are often overpriced and can be found in almost every souvenir shop.
- Another overpriced and tacky souvenir in Canada is “Made in China” merchandise with a Canadian flag or iconic Canadian symbol printed on it. These items are typically low-quality and sold to unsuspecting tourists at inflated prices. Not only is this a waste of money, but it also diminishes the cultural and local authenticity of Canadian souvenirs.
- Purchasing t-shirts and hats with stereotypical phrases or images may seem fun and humorous to remember a trip to Canada. However, these items are often marked up in price and can be found in many non-Canadian shops. Instead, consider purchasing clothing and merchandise from Canadian-owned and operated companies that produce their goods ethically. Same for postcards. Encourage local artists!
While there are many Canadian souvenirs to choose from, the most classic and must-have items are Quebec maple syrup, t-shirts, and Canadian snacks and treats. My favourite though are postcards and local artwork. These items not only serve as a reminder of your trip but will also give your friends and family back home a small glimpse into how great Quebec really is.
- Quebec Packing List: What to Bring
- 5 Best Quebec Fishing Resorts
- Spring Packing List for Quebec
- Quebec Road Conditions – Everything You Need to Know to Drive Here
Looking for Tours, Activities and Planned Outings?
When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa and sometimes even Expedia. It’s first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.
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