Holiday 2020: 8 Presents for the Traveler Obsessed with Europe

Do you have a friend or family member who never stops gushing about how much they love Europe? Make their holidays extra special by getting them a gift that reminds them of some of their favorite countries.

And while travel-related gifts are always appreciated, with travel halted around the world, these presents will feel extra-special this year as your loved ones eagerly wait to go back.

British Chocolate Set

This box of ten different chocolate bars that are popular in the U.K. will be a hit with anyone who’s been to England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. With anything from Double Deckers to Crunchies, this package is a great deal for full-sized candy bars.

If you’re worried about shipping chocolate from the U.K., check out some of the thousands of positive online reviews. The company seems to do a great job of packing and shipping their products, so you shouldn’t have a problem with mangled candy.

For the Love of Europe: My Favorite Places, People, and Stories

Rick Steves is and always will be the kind of European who travels. For the Love of Europe, his memoir released in July 2020, covers some of his favorite stories after over 40 years of travel.

In the book, Steves assembles 100 of his best memories from places like Portugal, Italy, and France. His signature humor and love of Europe are present on every page.

European Map Christmas Ornament

For an extra reminder of the continent every time they look at the tree, get this European map Christmas ornament for your loved one. It also works as a window decoration.

This ornament features a high-gloss finish with the map printed on both sides. It’s guaranteed to start more than one conversation with, “Hey, remember when …”

Lonely Planet Europe

Lonely Planet creates some of the highest-rated travel guides in the world. This multi-country, comprehensive guide to Europe features over 1,200 pages of information on every country.

You’ll find highlights of popular attractions, sample itineraries, and insider tips to save you time and money on your next trip. Full-color maps and images throughout the pages make it almost feel like you’re really there. Your friend or family member can use it to help them get through the difficult waiting period until their next trip.

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack

Originally invented for Swedish schoolchildren, these Fjallraven Kanken backpacks are surprisingly strong and hold a lot of gear. They’re extremely popular in Europe, so your gift recipient will blend in with the locals while wearing this on their next trip.

This design holds 16 liters of storage and has a front zipper pocket, two side pockets, and an inside sleeve. Top tote handles allow you to carry it at your side, and the snap features provide extra security. Built for durability and functionality, this backpack should last for years to come. And, on top of that, they come in dozens of colors!

Scratch off Map

This fun world map allows you to scratch off the countries you’ve already been to. It’s a great conversation starter and a good way for your friend to casually brag about the many countries they hit on their last train ride through Europe.

The map measures 17 by 22 inches, so it’s large enough to see all the countries clearly without taking up the entire wall. This version also comes with a bonus U.S. map so that you can keep track of all the states you’ve been to as well.

European Snack Mix Box

If chocolates from the U.K. weren’t enough, grab this European snack mix box too. Each box contains a combination of candy, cookies, chocolates, and more that are popular across the entire continent.

All items are manufactured in their respective countries, so you know you’re getting the real thing. You’re guaranteed at least eight snacks, sometimes with the promise of a few more thrown in.

Pasta Grannies Cookbook

For the person who dreams of Italy, Spain, and every other place with fantastic pasta, this cookbook will teach them how to make it on their own. Although it focuses mainly on Italian dishes, these pasta-making skills can be used to create Spanish fideo and Greek orzo in the future.

If your friend has ever dreamed of learning to make pasta from an Italian nonna, this book will give them the right instructions and insight on how to do so. It also features stories about the amazing women who have shared their recipes with the world.