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When exploring the lively culture of Mexico, shopping for unique and authentic items is an essential part of the journey. The range of things to buy in Mexico is truly impressive, be it handcrafted art or culinary delights. Whether you’re wandering the streets of Oaxaca or visiting a local market in Mexico City, the country offers countless souvenirs that reflect its rich heritage. These items truly make for wonderful gifts and long-lasting memories.
10 Iconic Things To Buy In Mexico
Looking to bring home something special from Mexico? Here is a list of exclusive and fancy items worth buying during your visit.
1. Talavera Pottery
Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia / Wikimedia Commons
Talavera pottery, known for its brilliant colours and traditional patterns, originates from the city of Puebla. Artisans create these hand-painted ceramics using techniques dating back to the 16th century. You’ll find plates, tiles, bowls, and vases adorned with intricate floral and geometric motifs. Authentic Talavera is certified and made only in specific regions. This pottery captures the colonial and indigenous fusion that defines so much of Mexican culture, and it’s a standout piece for any home.
Where To Buy: La Ciudadela Market, Uriarte Talavera, Mercado El Parian
Average Price: $300 – 4,000 MXN / ₹1,440 – 19,200
2. Barro Negro
Photo: Slevinr / Wikimedia Commons
Barro Negro, or black clay pottery, is a distinctive art form from Oaxaca. It’s known for its glossy black finish, achieved through a unique firing process without the use of paint or glaze. Artisans often sculpt the clay into detailed candle holders, vases, and figurines. Barro Negro’s roots lie deep within Zapotec traditions, reflecting the region’s heritage. It’s a striking and elegant souvenir that combines artistry with cultural storytelling, making it a standout item among Mexican crafts.
Where To Buy: San Bartolo Coyotepec, Colectivo 1050°, Benito Juárez Market
Average Price: $400 – 3,000 MXN / ₹1,920 – 14,400
3. Alebrijes
Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia / Wikimedia Commons
Alebrijes are fantastical wooden sculptures painted in vivid colours and detailed patterns. They often represent imaginary creatures that combine features from different animals. Originally popularised in Mexico City, alebrijes have become iconic in Oaxaca, where artisans carve them from copal wood. No two are alike, making each piece uniquely personal. Alebrijes make excellent decorative items and are also among the most popular things to buy in Mexico for kids due to their playful forms.
Where To Buy: San Martín Tilcajete, Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela
Average Price: $500 – 5,000 MXN / ₹2,400 – 24,000
4. Handwoven Rebozos And Sarapes
Photo: Fernanda Méndez / Wikimedia Commons
Rebozos and sarapes are traditional Mexican textiles that showcase the country’s weaving heritage. A rebozo is a long shawl often worn by women, while a sarape is a colourful blanket or wrap used by men. Artisans craft both on handlooms using cotton, wool, or silk, and they feature various patterns reflecting regional styles. Lightweight and easy to pack, they make meaningful and practical souvenirs. Buying one supports the preservation of traditional Mexican weaving techniques.
Where To Buy: Tenancingo, Mercado de Artesanías, La Ciudadela
Average Price: $400 – 1,200 MXN / ₹1,920 – 5,760
5. Oaxacan Mezcal
Photo: CarlosVanVegas / Wikimedia Commons
Mezcal is a smoky, artisanal spirit distilled from agave and has its roots in Oaxaca. Unlike tequila, which uses only blue agave, mezcal can be made from various types of agave, giving it a wide range of flavours. Many mezcal producers still use traditional methods, such as roasting agave in underground pits and distilling in clay or copper stills. Bottles often feature hand-labelled designs and occasionally include a worm or scorpion. It’s a cultural experience in a bottle and a great gift for anyone who appreciates craft spirits or wants to bring back a taste of Mexico.
Where To Buy: Mezcaloteca, La Europea Mercado Benito Juárez
Average Price: $600 – 3,000 MXN / ₹2,880 – 14,400
6. Lucha Libre Masks
Photo: amanderson2 / Wikimedia Commons
Lucha Libre, or Mexican wrestling, is a cultural phenomenon, and the colourful masks worn by wrestlers are instantly recognisable. These masks represent different characters, from heroes to villains, and carry deep symbolism. Available in markets and souvenir shops throughout the country, they are fun collectables and great gifts for fans of sports or pop culture. Children especially love them, making them one of the top things to buy in Mexico for kids. Lightweight and affordable, they also make for fantastic conversation starters and costume pieces back home.
Where To Buy: Arena México shops, Mercado Sonora, La Ciudadela Market
Average Price: $100 – 800 MXN / ₹480 – 3,840
7. Olinalá Lacquerware
Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia / Wikimedia Commons
Olinalá lacquerware comes from a small town in the state of Guerrero, where artisans handcraft wooden boxes, trays, and decorative items using natural oils and minerals. Each piece is hand-painted with detailed designs, often floral or geometric, and finished with a fragrant lacquer derived from native plants. This traditional craft dates back centuries and blends indigenous and colonial techniques. The result is luxurious, durable artwork that’s perfect for collectors or as a standout display piece.
Where To Buy: Olinalá, Fonart, La Ciudadela
Average Price: $1,500 – 8,000 MXN / ₹7,200 – 38,400
8. Mexican Coffee Beans
Photo: Bronisław Dróżka / Wikimedia Commons
Mexico produces some of the world’s finest coffee, particularly from regions such as Chiapas and Veracruz. These high-altitude areas yield beans with smooth, rich flavours and aromatic profiles. Buying locally roasted beans from a market or boutique coffee shop allows you to take a piece of Mexico’s coffee culture home. Packaged attractively and easy to transport, Mexican coffee beans make excellent gifts for coffee lovers and are a delicious reminder of your travels.
Where To Buy: Café Passmar, Café Avellaneda, Café Brujula
Average Price: $150 – 600 MXN per 500g / ₹720 – 2,880
9. Lupita Dolls
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
Lupita dolls are traditional papier-mâché figurines originally made in the 19th century as an affordable alternative to porcelain dolls. Dressed in colourful, often traditional Mexican attire, these dolls are hand-painted and reflect scenes from everyday life. They can be found in markets and artisan shops across the country. Perfect for decorating shelves or as gifts, these dolls are a memorable souvenir that embodies the warmth and creativity of Mexican artisans.
Where To Buy: La Ciudadela Market, Dolores Olmedo Museum, Folk Art stores in Tlaquepaque
Average Price: $800 – 3,500 MXN / ₹3,840 – 16,800
10. Handcrafted Huaraches
Photo: Huaracheblog / Wikimedia Commons
Pre-Columbian Mexico handcrafted the leather sandals, Huaraches. Traditionally made by weaving leather strips into durable soles, they’ve evolved into fashionable footwear that’s both comfortable and sustainable. You’ll find them in markets across the country, particularly in Michoacán, where skilled shoemakers continue to craft them by hand. Huaraches come in a variety of styles and colours and are great for everyday wear. As a souvenir, they represent both Mexico’s artisanal legacy and practical style, offering comfort and character in equal measure.
Where To Buy: Mercado 20 de Noviembre, Artisan shops in Michoacán, La Ciudadela
Average Price: $300 – 1,200 MXN / ₹1,440 – 5,760
From colourful fabrics to handmade pottery, these well-known items show the rich craft and traditions found across Mexico. Buying souvenirs is more than just taking home gifts – it’s a way to support local makers and learn about the culture. From decorative pieces to clothes and fun items for kids, there’s something for everyone. Want to explore more? TripXL offers travel packages that help you enjoy and experience the real Mexico.
Cover Photo: Chris Luengas / Pexels
