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Top 15 Mexico souvenirs to bring home from your trip
Discover the best Mexico souvenirs to bring home—from handcrafted silver to spicy sauces, artisan pottery, and traditional hot chocolate.
That tiny sugar skull sitting on your bookshelf. The handwoven blanket that brightens your living room. The bottle of premium tequila you’re saving for a special occasion. These aren’t just plain Mexico souvenirs — they’re tangible memories that bring Mexico home with you long after you’re back.
Mexico’s markets and workshops offer some of the most unique souvenirs you’ll find anywhere. Skip the tacky t-shirts and mass-produced magnets. Instead, explore the markets of the best Mexican cities for souvenir shopping, such as Mexico City or the workshops of Oaxaca.
In this Mexico travel guide through souvenir shopping, you’ll discover the best souvenirs from Mexico, where to get them, and how to bring them home.
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Things to buy in Mexico: Our top 15 best souvenir ideas
Discover some of the best things to get from Mexico — from edible delights to wearable art.
1. Taxco silver jewelry: Mexico’s metalwork masterpieces
Mexican silver jewelry stands out for a good reason. In Taxco, a town perched in the mountains of western Mexico, silversmiths have been perfecting their craft since the colonial period. Their workshops produce everything from delicate filigree earrings to bold statement necklaces, often inspired by pre-Hispanic patterns.
2. Tequila and mezcal: Spirits with soul
No trip to Mexico is complete without bringing home a bottle of its famous spirits. Tequila ranges from crystal-clear blancos to amber-colored añejos mellowed in oak barrels. For something with more character, try mezcal — tequila’s smokier, more complex cousin that varies greatly depending on where it’s made.
And yes, some mezcal bottles do contain the infamous “worm” (actually a moth larva), though premium brands focus more on the quality of the spirit than this touristy gimmick. Look for bottles from established distilleries in Jalisco, and grab some traditional drinking vessels to complete the experience back home.
Next time you raise a glass of tequila, thank the Aztecs. They created its ancestor in the 16th century — a fermented agave drink called pulque. When Spanish colonizers brought distillation techniques, the modern spirit was born. Today, authentic tequila comes only from specific regions and must contain at least 51% blue agave — though premium brands proudly advertise their 100% blue agave content.
3. Mexican traditional hot chocolate: Ancient flavors in a modern kitchen
Mexican chocolate is an entirely different experience than the average candy bar. Dating back to Mayan and Aztec traditions, these chocolate discs blend rich cacao with cinnamon, almonds, and sometimes chiles for a complexity you won’t find anywhere else.
In Oaxaca and Puebla, visit traditional chocolate makers (chocolaterías) where you can watch the process and buy Mexican chocolate discs to make authentic hot chocolate.
Don’t forget to pick up a wooden molinillo whisk — the traditional tool used to create the signature frothy texture that makes Mexican chocolate so unique. Mexican hot chocolate discs also make fantastic souvenirs from Mexico for your friends.
Traveler’s tip
Go beyond your plain hot chocolate (chocolate caliente) and try Champurrado, a type of hot chocolate drink, but thicker — made with masa harina (corn flour), chocolate, cinnamon, and sometimes anise or piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar). It’s part of a traditional group of drinks called atoles.
4. Talavera pottery: Centuries of ceramic artistry
Talavera pottery is a traditional craft with deep roots in Mexican culture. Ever seen those blue-and-white ceramics that practically scream “Mexico”? That’s Talavera pottery, and Puebla is where you’ll find the real deal. This UNESCO-recognized craft dates back to the 1500s and blends Spanish techniques with local artistry.
Not just any pottery can call itself Talavera, though. Only certain workshops in Puebla make authentic pieces using local clay and traditional pigments.
Whether you’re looking for decorative tiles with intricate patterns, serving platters, or a statement bathroom sink, these hand-painted pieces are beautiful home decor and cultural artifacts. They’re not the most packable souvenirs, but they’re definitely among the most stunning souvenirs from Mexico.
5. Sombreros: Not just Mexican folklore
The sombrero deserves more respect than its reputation as a tourist prop might suggest. Traditional Mexican sombreros represent serious craftsmanship — made from finely woven palm or wool felt, an authentic piece can take weeks to create and last for decades with proper care.
If packing a full-size sombrero seems daunting, look for miniature versions that make perfect decorative pieces. They capture the same craftsmanship in a suitcase-friendly size.
6. Day of the Dead figurines: Celebrations of life and memory
Calaveras, the sugar skulls and figurines of Día de los Muertos, (one of the most popular Mexican festivals), are Mexico’s most iconic souvenirs. More than just decorations, they reflect a poignant Mexican tradition that views death as part of life’s continuous cycle.
While traditional sugar skulls are edible (though more decorative than tasty), you’ll find beautiful ceramic and papier-mâché versions to take home. Each region has its own style, so you can collect more than one!
7. Alebrijes: Fantastical creatures from dreams
Oaxaca’s famous alebrijes — fantastically painted wooden animals and mythical creatures — showcase the playful creativity of Mexican folk art. These whimsical designs originated with artist Pedro Linares, who reportedly saw them in fever dreams.
No two pieces are alike. Local artisans use imaginative color combinations and patterns. From small animal figures to large sculptures, alebrijes are perfect conversation-starting Mexican souvenirs.
8. Mayan and Aztec masks: Wall art with history
Those wooden masks you see hanging on walls all over Mexico aren’t just decorative — they’re deeply rooted in ancient traditions. Handmade and often featuring gods and spirits from Mayan and Aztec mythology, they’re souvenirs from Mexico that are both beautiful and meaningful.
Each region puts its own spin on the craft. In Chiapas, you might find jaguar designs, while other areas use different woods, colors, and symbols. Pick one that speaks to you — they make great wall art and are easy to pack.
9. Mexican chili powders and spices: The true taste of Mexican cuisine
Want to bring a bit of Mexican cuisine home? Start with authentic spices and seasonings. Mexican chili powders come in many varieties — from smoky chipotle to fruity ancho chiles.
Markets offer freshly ground spices packaged for travel, and vendors often provide cooking tips. Beyond chiles, look for Mexican vanilla from Puebla and Veracruz — considered some of the world’s best.
The best part? Spices and vanilla packs are flat, weigh almost nothing, and can easily be passed through customs. They’re among the easiest souvenirs from Mexico to bring home.
10. Barro negro and barro rojo: Pottery with ancient roots
Oaxaca’s black clay (barro negro) pottery has roots in pre-Columbian times, but the modern high-gloss finish was developed in the 1950s. These stunning pieces range from decorative to functional dishware.
For a different look, check out barro rojo (red clay) pottery from Michoacán, with its earthy tones and intricate designs. Both styles connect modern homes to ancient Mexican ceramic traditions and represent traditional craft at its finest.
11. Mexican coffee: Morning memories
Mexico is one of the world’s top coffee producers, with excellent coffee beans grown in Chiapas, Veracruz, and Oaxaca, all great places to visit on a budget while in Mexico. Mexican coffee offers a mild, balanced flavor with gentle chocolate and nut notes — perfect for everyday drinking.
Visit local coffee shops in Mexico City to buy freshly roasted beans directly from the source. Many specialty producers can explain the unique characteristics of their coffee beans and help you find the perfect roast to recreate your Mexican morning ritual at home.
12. Lucha libre memorabilia: Colorful wrestling traditions
Mexico’s colorful wrestling tradition is a cultural phenomenon with masked heroes, villains, and dramatic storylines. Lucha libre souvenirs — from authentic masks to action figures — capture this fun, uniquely Mexican entertainment.
In Mexico City, visit Arena México or shops like Máscaras Deportivas El Hijo del Santo for authentic merchandise. These fun items make great gifts for sports fans, pop culture enthusiasts, or kids.
13. Hot sauces and salsas: Heat in a bottle
Mexico’s hot sauces range from mild, flavorful salsas to fiery concoctions. Each region has its own specialties, with distinct chiles and techniques.
Look for bottles with quality ingredients and proper sealing for travel — many producers offer tourist-friendly packaging. Hot sauce makes a flavorful and easy-to-pack Mexican souvenir.
14. Traditional textiles: Woven stories
The huipil — a traditional embroidered blouse — is one of Mexico’s most beautiful textile traditions. Each region has unique patterns and techniques, and some garments take months to complete.
Look for handwoven blankets, table runners, and wall hangings from Chiapas and Oaxaca. These colorful pieces often tell stories through traditional geometric designs.
15. Milagros and religious folk art: Faith and creativity
Milagros (“miracles”) are small metal charms traditionally used as religious offerings in Mexican Catholic churches. These tiny votive pieces come in shapes representing specific needs — hearts for love, limbs for healing, and houses for protection.
Religious folk art also includes intricate crosses, santos figures, and retablos (painted miracle scenes). Whether you’re drawn to their spiritual or artistic value, they represent a vibrant part of Mexican culture and make for heartfelt souvenirs from Mexico.
Souvenirs from Mexico: Where to shop for authentic finds
Finding the perfect piece often comes down to where you shop. Skip the generic shops and head to places known for quality and craftsmanship.
Local markets: Where authenticity shines
For the most authentic souvenirs at reasonable prices, nothing beats local markets.
- Mexico City has Mercado de la Ciudadela, a central spot with crafts from all over the country under one roof. On weekends, Bazaar Sábado in San Ángel is a must for high-quality artwork and handicrafts.
- Oaxaca’s markets are packed with colorful textiles, ceramics, and handmade food products from local artisans.
- Puebla specializes in Talavera pottery and traditional textiles — it’s the place to find museum-worthy ceramics.
Get there early for the best selection, bring small bills, and don’t be afraid to haggle (respectfully — handmade items are valuable).
Mexico City souvenirs: Best neighborhoods and shops
Beyond markets, Mexico City has a wide range of souvenir shopping options — from traditional artisan shops to upscale boutiques.
- Zócalo area: Explore shops in the historic center of Mexico City for classic crafts, religious art, and traditional souvenirs in a colonial setting.
- Coyoacán: This artsy neighborhood is known for its bohemian vibe and artisan markets. Look for hand-painted pottery, jewelry, and textiles made by local creators.
- Polanco: Upscale boutiques and concept stores feature modern takes on Mexican design — perfect for premium souvenirs and elegant keepsakes.
- Folk Art Museum shop (Museo de Arte Popular): A curated selection of museum-quality Mexican folk art, ideal for serious collectors (expect higher prices).
- La Ciudadela recap: Well worth mentioning agan — Mercado de la Ciudadela is also located in Mexico City and offers a broad overview of Mexican crafts under one roof.
Artisan workshops: Straight from the source
For truly special pieces, visit artisan workshops where you can watch craftspeople at work.
- In Taxco, silversmiths create world-famous jewelry.
- In Oaxaca, artists craft brightly painted alebrijes.
- In Puebla, potters shape and paint authentic Talavera ceramics by hand.
Buying directly from the makers ensures authenticity and offers a deeper connection to the tradition behind your souvenir. Some studios require appointments, but many welcome walk-ins.
Essential travel tips for souvenir shopping
The best souvenirs from Mexico do more than sit on a shelf — they bring your trip’s textures, tastes, and traditions into everyday life. Whether it’s silver jewelry from Taxco, mezcal from Oaxaca, or artisan crafts from a local market, these items add lasting value to your journey.
As you finalize your Mexico packing list, leave room for the unexpected treasures you’ll want to bring home. Before filling your suitcase with Mexican treasures, keep these in mind:
- Learn customs rules: Check import restrictions on food, alcohol, or plant-based goods.
- Get documentation: For valuable items, ask for certificates of authenticity.
- Pack smart: Bring bubble wrap or ask about shipping options.
- Stay street smart: Use official taxi stands or apps if carrying valuables.
- Stay connected: A good eSIM for Mexico is easier to get than a local Mexican SIM card, and it helps with navigation, translation, and price checking.
Remember that if your baggage allowance is scarce, you can always make the souvenirs yourself by taking lots of amazing photos and storing them in a cloud for safekeeping. For that, you’ll need unlimited data, and Holafly eSIM for Mexico will provide you with just that for the entire duration of your stay.
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With a background in English literature and a focus on storytelling, I’ve turned my interests in travel and technology into a career helping others stay connected abroad. Originally from Serbia, I work remotely with my husband, experiencing local cultures firsthand and bringing that perspective to my writing for Holafly. Fun fact: before focusing on content creation, I was a professional volleyball player.
