15 Unique Argentina Souvenirs You Must Buy In Buenos Aires

Ever found yourself at the airport, scrambling for last-minute souvenirs that don’t really capture the magic of your trip? We’ve all been there. Instead of settling for forgettable trinkets, why not bring home something that truly represents Argentina? Argentina souvenirs can be a great way to remember your trip and share a piece of the culture with friends and family. Whether it’s a jar of creamy dulce de leche, a beautifully crafted leather wallet, or a quirky Mafalda-themed gift, the right souvenir can instantly take you back to the streets of Buenos Aires.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best souvenirs from Argentina to buy in Buenos Aires, from delicious local treats to handcrafted treasures. Plus, I’ll tell you exactly where to go souvenir shopping in Buenos Aires, so you can skip the stress and enjoy the shopping experience. Let’s make sure your suitcase is packed with memories—not just stuff.

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Edible Delights: Taste Argentina at Home

Dulce de Leche

Dulce de leche is a must-try and the perfect edible gift from Argentina. It is a creamy caramel spread and a favorite treat for both locals and tourists.

I made sure to grab a few jars of dulce de leche. They made excellent gifts for friends!

Where to find dulce de leche? Dulce de leche is one of Argentina favorite products.

Look for brands like La Serenísima or Havanna for authentic flavors. You can find it in most supermarkets, but specialty stores often carry gourmet versions.

Alfajores

If you don’t feel like carrying jars, get a box of alfajores. Alfajores are two cookies glued together as a snack with dulce de leche.
Be careful how you stack them in your luggage. The cookies are quite fragile. My two boxes of alfajores arrived battered and a bit crumbled after more than 24 hours in the air. However, they were eaten with great gusto.

Where to find Alfajores? I bought mine in a Havanna shop. In my opinion, Havanna makes the best alfajores. Havanna coffee shops are not among the historic bars in Buenos Aires. Nevertheless, if you go to a Havanna coffee shop, don’t miss trying one of their specialty coffees. They are the best!

Argentine Wine and Local Delicacies

If you love good wine and delicious food (who doesn’t?), a bottle of Malbec or Torrontés is the perfect way to relive your trip—whether you’re sipping it at home or gifting it to a fellow wine lover. If you’re wondering what to buy in Buenos Aires, a bottle of Malbec from Mendoza is a must-have.

Malbec is Argentina’s signature red wine, known for its deep flavor and smooth finish.

Prefer white wine? Torrontés is an aromatic, crisp alternative. For the perfect gourmet gift set, pair your wine with artisanal salami, aged cheese, or raw Argentine honey, all of which make fantastic edible souvenirs from Argentina.

For the best finds, check out street markets like Feria de Mataderos or gourmet shops in Buenos Aires. Even regular grocery stores have an impressive wine selection—and the prices? Way more affordable than you’d expect!

🚨 Travel Tip: Before buying food as souvenirs from Argentina, check whether your country allows food products to be imported from abroad!

Mate Kits – The Quintessential Argentine Souvenir

If you’re looking for a truly authentic Argentina souvenir, a mate kit is a perfect choice.

Mate is Argentina’s national drink, a caffeine-rich herbal infusion steeped in tradition. A mate set typically includes a gourd (cup) and a bombilla (metal straw) for sipping the brew.

Drinking mate is a beloved tradition, and you’ll find a wide range of mate gourds and bombillas in markets and shops. During my trip, I picked up a beautiful handcrafted gourd with silver detailing. Some sets even come with yerba mate and storage containers, making them a perfect gift for beginners.

Look for authentic Argentina items made from materials like wood, ceramic, or traditional calabash. These make unique and practical gifts from Argentina. Don’t forget to buy yerba mate leaves to complement the mate kit.

Where to buy mate sets? You can find mate kits in almost any souvenir shop in Buenos Aires, but for high-quality, handcrafted options, visit local street markets like Feria de Mataderos. Buy handmade mate sets at the street markets. You will have traditional Argentine souvenirs and you will be supporting local artisans.

Fashion & Accessories: Argentine Style to Take Home

Handcrafted Leather Goods – Stylish & Practical Argentina Souvenirs

Argentina is known for its incredible leather craftsmanship, and trust me, you don’t want to leave without picking up a piece for yourself! From stylish wallets and sleek handbags to rugged belts and classic leather jackets, there’s something for everyone.

During my visit, I found beautifully made leather wallets, purses, belts, and keychains at the street markets. These make the best gifts from Argentina.

If you’re looking for something unique, consider leather jackets or handbags. In Argentina, you will find a reasonably priced variety of leather goods. And the craftsmanship is unmatched!

Where to find the best leather in Buenos Aires? The street markets offer a wide variety of wallets, belts, purses, and key chains. Check out the San Telmo Sunday market, the Mataderos Fair, and the street markets in Recoleta and Palermo.

If you’re after a high-end leather jacket or handbag, check out artisan shops in Palermo and Recoleta.

Alpargatas – Argentina’s Most Comfortable Shoes

Looking for a souvenir that’s both fashionable and practical? Alpargatas are a must-have! These lightweight, breathable shoes are an Argentine classic, perfect for strolling the streets while exploring Buenos Aires attractions or just lounging at home.

Alpargatas are traditional Argentinean footwear commonly associated with the country’s rural and cultural heritage. They are simple and light. Alpargatas are made with an upper of canvas or cotton fabric and a flexible sole.

I bought a pair at the market in San Telmo. The stall had such a variety of colors and patterns that it was a challenge to choose just one pair. Trust me when I say I’ve never had more comfortable summer footwear! Alpargatas are easy to pack and make a practical yet unique gift from Argentina.

Where to get authentic alpargatas in Buenos Aires? Look for local artisans at the San Telmo Sunday Market or the Mataderos Fair for the best quality. Some of the artisans have shops in Buenos Aires, but they sell their alpargatas at the markets for lower prices.

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Silver & Alpaca Jewelry – Elegant, Handcrafted Argentine Souvenirs

If you’re looking for a sophisticated and timeless souvenir, silver, and alpaca jewelry make a perfect choice. Many designs are inspired by indigenous and colonial motifs, featuring intricate filigree work and delicate engravings. Whether it’s a pair of handcrafted earrings or an elegant bracelet, these pieces are stylish gifts from Argentina.

During my trip, I picked up a stunning silver ring in San Telmo, and every time I wear it, it reminds me of the vibrant energy of Buenos Aires. The quality is exceptional, and the craftsmanship speaks for itself.

Where to shop for silver jewelry in Buenos Aires? For authentic pieces, visit the artisan markets in San Telmo and Recoleta, where you’ll find skilled jewelers selling unique, handcrafted designs. For high-end pieces, check out reputable stores like Marcelo Toledo, known for exceptional Argentine silverwork.

Cultural & Artistic Treasures

Tango-Inspired Souvenirs – Bring the Passion of Buenos Aires Home

Tango is pure Buenos Aires—the rhythm, the passion, the elegance. If you’ve ever watched a tango performance in San Telmo or La Boca, you know how mesmerizing it is.

And the best part? You can take a bit of that magic home with you! During my visit, I found beautiful tango figurines, vinyl records of Argentine tango classics, and even handmade tango shoes in specialty shops in Buenos Aires. You can also pick up posters featuring iconic tango performers like Carlos Gardel.

You can find handmade tango shoes in specialty shops. El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore has a great collection of vinyl records and CDs of Argentine tango. Tango figurines and posters can be found in the street markets.

Gaucho Knives & Traditional Ponchos – Classic Argentine Cowboy Souvenirs

Gauchos, Argentina’s iconic cowboys, have long used beautifully crafted knives, often with ornate silver detailing, as essential tools for life on the pampas. These knives, known as facónes, are both practical and decorative, making them a unique and meaningful souvenir.

Ponchos are another must-have for those who appreciate Argentine craftsmanship. Made from high-quality llama or sheep wool, these traditional garments are both stylish and warm—perfect for chilly evenings. Whether you wear one as a fashion statement or simply want a piece of Argentina’s rich heritage, a gaucho poncho is a fantastic keepsake.

Where to buy gaucho knives and ponchos? Head to Mataderos Fair, where local artisans sell handmade knives with intricate designs. For ponchos, artisan markets in Buenos Aires offer a variety of colors and patterns, ensuring you find one that suits your style.

Fileteado Porteño – Buenos Aires’ Most Eye-Catching Art Style

This colorful, swirling art form has decorated everything from street signs to buses and storefronts for over a century, making it one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. That’s fileteado porteño, an art form unique to Argentina. Originally used as a way to embellish horse-drawn carts, fileteado has become a symbol of Buenos Aires’ vibrant culture.

You can find hand-painted signs with your name, decorative plaques, or even everyday items like trays and coasters featuring this lively art style.

During my visit, I picked up a small hand-painted fileteado sign, and now it hangs in my kitchen as a daily reminder of my trip to Argentina.

Where to buy fileteado porteño art? San Telmo Market is the best place to find authentic, handcrafted fileteado pieces. You can also visit specialty art shops and workshops where local artists showcase their work.

A Book from El Ateneo Grand Splendid – A Unique Souvenir for Book Lovers

Bookworm or not, you can’t leave Buenos Aires without stepping into El Ateneo Grand Splendid. Housed in a former grand theater, this jaw-dropping bookstore is the perfect place to pick up a unique literary souvenir. This stunning literary haven is housed in a former grand theater, making book shopping an unforgettable experience. In this stunning bookstore in Buenos Aires, you’ll find everything from Argentine literature in Spanish to translated classics.

When I visited, I picked up a couple of Spanish-language books for a friend of mine and myself. Even if you don’t read Spanish, the experience and ambiance are unforgettable. Pick up a book as a unique souvenir from Argentina and enjoy a coffee in the café located on the former stage.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Pick up a book by an Argentine author like Jorge Luis Borges or Julio Cortázar as a meaningful souvenir.

Quirky & Fun Argentina Souvenirs

Football Jerseys & Memorabilia

For football fans, Argentine football gifts make an exciting keepsake. From Argentina soccer merchandise like national team jerseys and scarves to memorabilia featuring legends like Lionel Messi, there’s plenty to choose from.

My son told me the one gift he wanted me to bring back for him from Argentina was a Boca Juniors jersey. Sure enough, I bought one and he loved it.

Where to find Argentina soccer merchandise? You will see tons of options in the souvenir shops, including jerseys, key chains, mugs, and flags. Look for official merchandise in the official stores to ensure authenticity and quality. I picked up an official Boca Juniors jersey at an Adidas store in Buenos Aires.

Hand-Painted Ceramics

If you’re looking for a vibrant and authentic piece of Argentina to take home, hand-painted ceramics are a fantastic choice. These colorful, decorative pieces are not just souvenirs—they are works of art that capture Argentina’s rich culture and craftsmanship.

From intricately designed plates and bowls to stunning decorative tiles and mugs, Argentine ceramics are a feast for the eyes. Many designs are inspired by indigenous and colonial influences, featuring bold patterns, floral motifs, and geometric details that make each piece unique. Whether you’re picking up a delicate tea cup or a large serving platter, these ceramics add a touch of Argentina to your home and make fantastic gifts.

I loved browsing through the artisan markets, watching skilled craftsmen meticulously hand-paint each piece with incredible detail. It was hard to choose just one!

Where to buy? The best places to find authentic, handcrafted ceramics are Feria de Mataderos and the artisan markets in Palermo. These markets showcase the work of local artists, ensuring you take home a one-of-a-kind treasure while supporting traditional craftsmanship.

Handmade Crafts

If you’re looking to buy a souvenir that is unique, you’ll love the variety of handmade gifts in Argentina. You will find woven textiles from the Andes, beautifully carved wooden items, stunning handmade jewelry, pottery, and even traditional Argentine ponchos and musical instruments.

Where to find traditional handmade items from Argentina in Buenos Aires? At the street markets – San Telmo Sunday market, Mataderos market, and the street markets in every neighborhood of Buenos Aires.

Traditional crafts from indigenous communities include woven textiles, carved wooden items, and unique accessories. Find them at Feria de Mataderos or Recoleta Craft Fair.
Colorful ceramic plates and handmade crafts from indigenous communities make for meaningful gifts. Check out Feria de Mataderos or artisan markets in Palermo.

Mafalda-Themed Gifts – Fun & Unique Argentine Souvenirs for Kids

If you’re shopping for kids (or even nostalgic adults!), Mafalda-themed gifts are a fantastic option.

Mafalda is Argentina’s most beloved cartoon character, a witty and socially conscious little girl who has been a cultural icon for decades. You’ll find her and her friends featured on everything from mugs and notebooks to T-shirts and plush toys.

These souvenirs are colorful, and fun, and make for a great alternative to traditional Argentine keepsakes. Whether it’s a quirky notebook for school or a cute Mafalda doll, these gifts are guaranteed to bring a smile to any child’s face. Plus, they’re lightweight and easy to pack—perfect for last-minute shopping!

Where to buy Mafalda-themed souvenirs? You can find them in bookstores and gift shops throughout Buenos Aires, particularly in tourist areas and specialty stores dedicated to Argentine culture.

Where to Go Souvenir Shopping in Buenos Aires: Recap

There are lots of souvenir shops in Buenos Aires. They mostly sell the “made in China” stuff that you will find everywhere else in the world.

I loved exploring the street markets instead. San Telmo Sunday Market, Mataderos Fair, and even smaller neighborhood markets are great for finding Argentina handicrafts, artwork, antiques, and local food.

• San Telmo Sunday Market – Best for antiques, mate sets, and tango-themed gifts.
  • 🚨 Expert Tip: San Telmo neighborhood is known for its colonial architecture and bohemian vibe and is a one of the best areas to stay in Buenos Aires. The market is only open on Sundays.
• Plaza Serrano Market in the Palermo neighborhood – a great spot for high-quality artisanal items, such as handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, and clothing by local designers.
• Palermo Soho – A trendy area with boutique shops selling leather goods and fashion.
• Mataderos Fair – Perfect for gaucho knives, ponchos, and folkloric crafts.
  • 🚨 Expert Tip: Mataderos Fair is a vibrant and colorful Sunday market located on the outskirts of Buenos Aires. If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path things to do in Buenos Aires, hop in a taxi on a Sunday and go to the Mataderos Fair.
• El Ateneo Grand Splendid – A stunning bookstore where you can find Argentine literature.

📖Read: Is it safe to explore street markets in Buenos Aires?

Final Tips for Buying Souvenirs in Argentina

• Know Argentina currency exchange rates – In the local markets, not all vendors accept credit cards, so always bring cash in Argentine pesos and check the blue dollar and the MEP rate before exchanging currency.
• Beware of counterfeit items – Stick to reputable stores for authentic goods.
• Check customs regulations – Some food items like cheese and fresh meat may not be allowed in your home country.

🎁 Take a Piece of Argentina Home—And More! 🇦🇷

Found the perfect souvenirs? Now, make your Buenos Aires experience even more unforgettable! From wine tastings and tango shows to off-the-beaten-path city tours, explore Argentina beyond the shops with these top-rated experiences.

👇 Check out the best tours in Buenos Aires and book your next adventure! 🚀✨

FAQ

Conclusion: What Will You Take Home?

Argentina souvenirs should be more than just stuff—they should remind you of your trip every time you see, wear, or taste them. Whether it’s a smooth leather wallet, a mate set to start a new habit, or a bottle of Malbec to share with friends, the best souvenirs are the ones that bring Argentina back to life for you.

Before you shop, compare prices, support local artisans, and double-check what you can bring through customs.

What’s on your Argentina souvenir wishlist? Drop a comment below! And if this guide helped, check out my other Argentina travel tips to make your trip even better. ¡Buen viaje!

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