Best Souvenirs From Argentina: What To Buy In Buenos Aires
When visiting Buenos Aires, you will want to pick up some souvenirs to bring a piece of Argentina back home with you. From traditional Argentine mate to unique antiques, the city offers a plethora of options for the best souvenirs from Argentina.
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Below you can find useful resources for planning your trip to Argentina. These are brands and services I trust and use myself. Click on the links to check them out.
Book your accommodation at the lowest cost at booking or hotels. Click on the links and book at the best price.
Compare the prices for your flights on skyscanner, although I recommend booking directly with the airline of your choice for better customer service.
Find the best tours and activities on viator and getyourguide. Some of them fill up quickly, so click on the links and secure your spot now.
Avoid paying high roaming charges. Stay connected with an eSIM from airalo.
No matter where you go: Never travel without travel health insurance.
Everything else that you might need to plan your trip to Argentina, you will find on my page of Travel resources.
Souvenir Shopping In Buenos Aires: Top Souvenirs To Purchase
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When exploring Buenos Aires, souvenir shopping is a fantastic way to bring home a part of the vibrant Argentine culture. Whether you are looking for Argentine mate or unique antiques, the city offers an array of options to choose from.
Here are some ideas of Buenos Aires souvenirs and popular items to look out for:
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Leather goods: Argentina is known for its high-quality leather products, so be sure to check out local leather shops.
Mate kits: Mate is a traditional Argentine drink made from a type of dried leaves. Look for mate kits, which typically include a gourd and a bombilla (metal straw). Don’t forget to buy yerba mate leaves to complement the mate gift.
Tango music and dance items: Tango is a significant part of the culture in Argentina. Consider picking up a CD of tango music or authentic souvenirs related to this iconic dance form.
Dulce de leche: This sweet, caramel-like spread is a favorite in Argentina. Look for jars of dulce de leche to bring back home and enjoy as a tasty souvenir.
Argentine wine: Argentina is known for its delicious Malbec wine. Buy a bottle or two as a souvenir of your time in Argentina.
Artisanal crafts: Buenos Aires is home to many talented artisans, so look for handmade crafts such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
Football memorabilia: Argentina is passionate about football (soccer). Pick up a jersey or other memorabilia from a local team such as Boca Juniors or the Argentine National Team. My son loved his white-and-blue-striped Messi jersey 😀.
Alfajores: These sweet, sandwich cookies filled with dulce de leche are a popular treat in Argentina. Look for boxes of alfajores to share with friends and family when you get back home. You will find the best alfajores in Havana shops.
Alpargatas: In Argentina, the alpargatas are traditional footwear commonly associated with the country’s rural and cultural heritage. They are simple, lightweight shoes, made with a canvas or cotton fabric upper and a flexible sole. Alpargatas are known for their comfort and breathability, making them ideal for Argentina’s warm climate.
I can tell you I’ve never had more comfortable summer footwear.
Mafalda themed souvenirs are popular among fans of the Argentinian comic strip character. From coffee mugs to t-shirts and keychains, there are a variety of items featuring the beloved cartoon. These souvenirs make for great gifts for friends or kids.
Overall, Buenos Aires offers a wide range of souvenir shopping opportunities. Be sure to explore local markets, shops, and boutiques to find the perfect memento of your time in this vibrant city.
Dulce De Leche Delights: A Sweet Treat To Remember
No trip to Argentina is complete without trying the famous dulce de leche.
You can bring home this sweet caramel spread coated in chocolate. These are the famous alfajores – two cookies sandwiched with dulce de leche. Alfajores make for great souvenirs or gifts to bring back for friends and family.
If you have a sweet tooth and love indulging in delicious desserts, then dulce de leche delights are a must-try! This decadent treat is made from slowly cooking sweetened condensed milk until it becomes thick, creamy, and caramelized. The result is a rich and luscious caramel sauce that can be used in a variety of desserts.
It is used as a filling for pastries, such as empanadas or churros. The combination of flaky pastry and creamy dulce de leche is a match made in dessert heaven.
It is often drizzled over ice cream or pancakes for a sweet and indulgent treat.
No matter how you choose to enjoy it, dulce de leche delights are a sweet treat that is sure to make an impression.
Leather Jackets And More: Explore Buenos Aires’ Leather Shops
Buenos Aires is known for its high-quality leather products, including leather jackets made from the finest materials. Take a stroll through the various leather shops in neighborhoods like Villa Crespo or Recoleta. You will find unique antiques, belts, and even leather goods customized to your preference.
On Sunday markets throughout the city, many stalls sell hand-made leather goods, such as belts, wallets, and handbags.
Where To Find Authentic Argentinean Souvenirs
For authentic Argentinean souvenirs, a visit to the historic San Telmo Market is a must. This market is Alladin’s cave of distinctive souvenirs, genuine leather products, and unique antiques.
San Telmo Market: A Shopper’s Paradise
One of the must-visit places in Buenos Aires is the historic San Telmo Market. Don’t miss out on the authentic experience of shopping for unique pieces in this vibrant market. San Telmo Market in Buenos Aires, Argentina is a paradise if you are looking for unique and locally-made goods.
This historic market is located in the heart of the San Telmo neighborhood, known for its colonial architecture and bohemian vibe.
The market is open on Saturdays and Sundays only.
Vendors are selling everything from antiques and handicrafts to vintage clothing and jewelry. You can also find a wide variety of souvenirs, including traditional Argentine items like mate gourds, leather goods, and tango music.
In addition to shopping, San Telmo Market is a great place to experience the local culture and see tango dancers performing on the streets.
Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir, or just want to soak up the atmosphere of Buenos Aires, San Telmo Market is a must-visit destination for any shopper.
Mataderos Fair
Mataderos Fair is a vibrant and colorful Sunday market located in the outskirts of Buenos Aires.
It offers a unique glimpse into Argentina’s history and culture, with stalls selling a variety of gifts and souvenirs such as yerba mate, ponchos, alpargatas, and home-made food. You can also find hand-carved wooden gifts and gaucho knives.
The fair is a hub of national pride, with Argentines proudly displaying their culture through traditional artisan products. At Mataderos Fair you will also find a stage with local musicians performing traditional music and dances.
TIP: In the local markets, not all vendors accept credit cards, so always bring cash in Argentine pesos and check the blue dollar rate before exchanging currency.
Useful Travel Resources For Souvenir Hunting In Buenos Aires
When looking for unique souvenirs to bring back home, consider exploring leather shops in neighborhoods like Villa Crespo or Recoleta. From customized leather jackets to belts and antique pieces, you’ll find a range of one-of-a-kind items to remind you of your trip to Argentina.
Exploring Patagonian Souvenirs
Must-Have Souvenirs From Patagonia
When venturing through Patagonia, several must-have souvenirs encapsulate the essence of this beautiful region. From intricate handcrafted items to unique pieces reflecting the natural wonders of the area, there’s something for everyone to cherish.
Handmade wool products: Patagonia is known for its high-quality wool, so pick up a traditional poncho, hat, scarf, or pair of gloves made from locally sourced wool.
Local art: Patagonia is home to many talented artists who create stunning paintings, sculptures, and pottery inspired by the region’s natural beauty.
Patagonian Handmade Chocolate is one of the best products to buy as a souvenir in Ushuaia.
Postcards and photos: Don’t forget to capture the stunning landscapes of Patagonia with postcards, photos, or prints to remember your trip.
Locating Local Artisanal Products in Ushuaia
If you are seeking authentic Patagonian souvenirs, look at el Paseo de los Artesanos, a covered market near the port.
Have a look at Mercado del Jardin for the best handmade chocolate (it is a small shop at the end, to the left side) and other souvenir items.
And stop at La Ultima Bita souvenir shop. They can even send your postcards.
These venues offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship of skilled artisans who create traditional items such as wool textiles, chocolate, and wood carvings, providing you with a chance to take home a piece of Patagonian culture.
To wrap it up: In conclusion, when it comes to picking out the best souvenirs from Argentina to take back home, it all boils down to personal preference. Whether it’s local crafts, artwork, or even delicious treats, the best souvenirs are the ones that hold sentimental value and bring back fond memories of your trip.
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