Looking for the perfect souvenir to bring back from your trip to Mexico? From bustling city markets to independent artisans in small villages, you’re sure to find a unique piece to keep the memories of your trip of a lifetime alive for years to come.
Culture and creativity: Find the perfect souvenir in Mexico
Each area of Mexico has its own rich history, culture, and traditions. Wherever you’re visiting, you’ll find impressive handicrafts, artwork, and specialist foods and drinks — all of which make the perfect souvenir or gift for a loved one. With this shopping guide, you can explore the highlights of Mexico’s talented craftspeople from region to region.
Ready to discover some must-have souvenirs? Grab your passport, check Mexico’s entry requirements, and you’re all set.
Northern Mexico
Tijuana and surrounding areas aren’t just known for their spectacular nightlife. You’ll find many skilled local artisans who create one-of-a-kind pieces which make the perfect souvenir.
Beautiful Textiles and Traditional Leather Goods
Mexico’s northern region is renowned for its distinctive fabrics and superb quality leather products. In particular, cities like Monterrey and Chihuahua are excellent places to discover markets and specialized shops. You’ll find beautiful decorative textiles and clothing, all made by hand by skilled artisans. Why not treat yourself to some new leather boots, a belt, or a bag for a stylish souvenir you can wear?
Handmade Glass Art
Northern states like Jalisco are known for their world-class glassware, an excellent buy for travelers looking for a unique souvenir. From intricate vases to colorful drinking glasses, the region is home to highly skilled glass artists, who hand blow each delicate piece. Visit Tlaquepaque, a suburb of Guadalajara, which is popular with visitors for its glassblowing workshops. Here, you can see artisans at work and buy their unique pieces.
Central Mexico
If you’re traveling to see Mexico City’s ancient ruins, or the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Guanajuato, you’re sure to come across some of these unique handicrafts while visiting the region.
Colorful Ceramics and Pottery
Central Mexico, particularly the city of Puebla, is renowned worldwide for its exquisite Talavera pottery. All pieces of this style of ceramic ware are hand-painted with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Choose a Talavera mug for a useful souvenir, or opt for a decorative item to bring the charm of Mexican handicrafts to your home. You’ll find that each area of central Mexico has its own style of ceramics, with unique patterns and techniques.
Intricate Jewelry
Taxco, a charming town just 3 hours south of Mexico City, is the historic heart of Mexico’s silver industry. Silver has been mined here since the 18th century, and the area’s incredible jewelry is still a main attraction for visitors. You can find traditional and modern designs, and high-quality pieces that make for timeless keepsakes. Remember to look for the .925 stamp to make sure you’re purchasing genuine sterling silver.
Southern Mexico
The country’s southern region is famous for its Mayan and Zapotec ruins, as well as its pristine beaches and great surfing. You’ll also discover a rich culinary history, and impressive craftsmanship in the south of Mexico.
Handmade Clothing and Decorative Embroidery
Much of southern Mexico, especially Oaxaca and Chiapas, has a rich tradition of creating colorful textiles and intricate embroidery. For a souvenir you can easily carry and even wear during your trip, opt for a traditional embroidered blouse, hand-stitched bag, or a huipil — a stunning tunic-style garment that’s been worn throughout Mexico for generations. The Mercado de Benito Juárez in Oaxaca City is a great place to find these treasures!
Tasty Local Delicacies
No trip to southern Mexico would be complete without sampling Mezcal. It’s a delicious traditional spirit made from agave, and for obvious reasons, it makes a very popular souvenir. You can even visit a local mezcaleria to learn about how this iconic drink is made and purchase a bottle to take home. The region is also known for its rich mole sauces and premium quality chocolate — perfect souvenirs for food lovers.
Tips for shopping in Mexico
Haggling is common in Mexico, especially in markets and smaller stores. Unless the price is clearly stated, as it may be in larger stores or museum shops, it’s up for negotiation! Here are some top tips to help you get a good deal:
- Aim for middle ground — Offer a price that’s lower than you’re willing to pay so that you have room to meet in the middle.
- Be friendly — A smile is always helpful! Respectful customers are more likely to get a better price.
- Buy several items — If more than one product catches your eye, offering to purchase a bundle will likely get you a better deal.
- Bring cash — Don’t forget to carry cash when out shopping, particularly if you’re visiting remote areas.
Final Thoughts on Getting a Great Souvenir in Mexico
Buying from local vendors and craftspeople is a fantastic way to show support and respect for Mexico’s cultural heritage. Take the time to purchase a souvenir mindfully, and it’s sure to become a meaningful memento of your time in this beautiful country.