Planning a trip to Mexico and want to pick up some of the best Mexico souvenirs of all time?
If so then you’ve come to the right place. After all, this post is positively brimming over with expert tips and tricks to help you find the best Mexican souvenirs ever.
This way, even after you return home you can still use the best souvenirs from Mexico to remember your trip fondly.
However, it can be difficult to know where to go and what to buy if it’s your first time in Mexico. I mean, you deffo want authentic AF Mexico souvenirs and not something lame like a cheap shot glass.
So, skip the overly touristy souvenir stalls and use this post to help you find the most authentic souvenirs in Mexico.
Trust me. I’ve been to Mexico more times than I can count and know exactly where to go (and not go) to shop til you drop while you’re enjoying this incredible country.
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Best Mexico Souvenirs Ever
1. Mexican Textiles
Wherever your Mexican itinerary takes you, one thing is guaranteed. You’ll always find large swathes of colorful handwoven textiles laid out across the streets of many Mexican towns.
And these amazing textiles include blankets, shawls, rugs, wall hangings, table runners, and more. Plus, local embroidery takes the form of flowers, animals, and intricate geometric shapes that help create some of the most beautiful Mexico souvenirs on this list.
In particular, Mexican blankets are some of the best souvenirs from Mexico ever since they can be used as a snuggly Netflix throw or as a summer picnic blanket.
Plus, textiles are one of the more awesome Mexican souvenirs on this list since they are lightweight and won’t compromise your baggage allowance.
So where can you find Mexican textiles? Well, pretty much anywhere. Just hit up any markets and small boutiques in the towns you visit. Honestly, you really can’t miss these vibrant colors.
Pro Tip: Unfold the textile before you purchase it. This way, you’ll know exactly what it’s actually used for and how big it is.
2. Pottery
Alongside the dreamy blankets, you’ll see a ton of Mexican-made pottery. The specifics of the pottery vary from city to city and region to region but it all makes for some of the best Mexico souvenirs on this list.
In particular, though, Talavera pottery is made using the method of tin-glazing earthenware in bold primary colors with decorative features.
Actually, Talavera pottery can trace its origins to Spain. But, the practice has thrived in Mexico and Mexican potters have put their own spin on the method.
And nowadays, the town of Puebla is one of Mexico’s principal centers for Talavera pottery.
On the other hand, there’s also barro negro (black clay), barro verde (green clay), and barro rojo (red clay) pottery as well.
In fact, these ceramic styles have long been associated with Oaxaca, where pottery has been fired for over 4,500 years.
So, naturally, Oaxaca is where you should go for the best assortment of products if you’re in the market for the best souvenirs from Mexico. In fact, you can even visit workshops, such as Alfarería Doña Rosa while you’re here.
Out of Oaxaca and Puebla, you can always find Mexican pottery in major cities popular with tourists.
And if you’re worried about cracking your lovely new Mexico souvenirs while bringing them back home then just wrap your pottery in your new shawl. Problem solved.
3. Alebrijes
Another area where Mexican craftspeople excel is wood carving.
So, all over the country, you’ll find hand-carved wooden figures. These include skulls, masks, animals, and general ornaments.
But, hailing from Oaxaca, alebrijes are a particular favorite. Because, the wood used to make these items is manipulated into the shape of a mythological or fantastical creature and then painted in bright colors.
In fact, the practice of making alebrijes only started in the late 1930s. However, this trend quickly swept the country and has become a favorite tradition.
Therefore, these whimsical figurines are now some of the best souvenirs from Mexico for friends, family, and travelers themselves.
And if you want one yourself, take a stroll down the walking street, Calle Macedonio Alcalá, and you’ll find scores of tiendas where you can pick up some high-quality alebrijes.
Or, even better, take a public bus to San Martin Tilcajete. This tiny town is overrun with artisanal, independent workshops where you can buy great Mexico souvenirs.
In particular, Jacobo and María Ángeles have a shop here where they sell alebrijes that are exhibited and sold all throughout the country.
4. Tequila
One tequila, two tequila…
Yeah, while you’re in Mexico, there’s a high probability that you’ll guzzle a little more of the national spirit than you originally intended to.
Believe it or not, though, Tequila was actually created in the state of Jalisco during the 16th century.
In fact, the name comes from the town of Tequila, nestled at the foot of the ominously-named Tequila Mountain.
Of course, you can walk into any bar or liquor store around the world and find multiple brands of tequila on offer.
However, while traveling, you’ll get to try varieties only available in the country that make for great Mexico souvenirs. Plus, Mexican-produced blends stay true to the original 100% blue agave tequila.
To this day, much of Mexico’s production of tequila takes place in Jalisco, particularly in and around the capital, Guadalajara.
But, you can pick up a quality bottle of tequila at specialty liquor stores anywhere in the country if you’re looking for the best souvenirs from Mexico.
And, bear in mind that the top-tier tequilas might set you back around $50.
However, it’s worth it since tequila is one of the coolest Mexican souvenirs for your margarita-loving buddies back home.
5. Mezcal
Now, before there was tequila, there was mezcal (or, mescal).
And while Mezcal and tequila are both made using the agave plant, these two spirits are totally different.
Because, unlike tequila, mezcal has a smoky flavor that is based on how mezcal was prepared back in the early days.
See, old school Mezcal-makers would cook the hearts of the agave plant inside earthen pits. In turn, these were lined with lava rocks and plugged with charcoal and wood – creating a distinctive flavor that the spirit is known for today.
Now, most mezcal is made in Oaxaca, where agave espadin flourishes. So, if you spend time in the southern state, you can take distillery tours and tastings and then buy your favorite Mexican souvenirs there.
But, as with tequila, you can find mescal all over the country. So, if you’re in CDMX then go to Sabrá Dios in La Condesa.
After all, this is another of the best souvenirs from Mexico for your buddies who love adding curious new potions to their liquor cabinets.
Ah, but – a word of warning. Some bottles of mezcal contain a worm. So, pay attention when buying Mexico souvenirs.
6. Handblown Glassware
Well, if you do decide to pick up tequila or mezcal as one of your new favorite Mexico souvenirs, why not upgrade your gift with some glassware too?
Because another of Mexico’s most revered crafts is handblown glass. In fact, Mexico was one of the early pioneers for producing glass in North America.
That’s why today, glass blowers continue to practice centuries-old techniques as they use a metal pipe to blow onto a mass of molten glass.
Simultaneously, the artisan will then turn the glass and mold it into the desired shape, creating some of the best souvenirs from Mexico.
So, you can pick up duos and sets of glassware that include tumblers, margarita glasses, martini glasses, and pitchers.
Typical styles include a glazed rim in a striking color such as cobalt blue or ruby red.
You’ll also love that glassmaking in Mexico originated in the state of Puebla. It actually sits immediately southeast of Mexico City and you can take a day trip from CDMX.
But, how do you know if your Mexican souvenir is a legit piece of handblown glassware?
Well, hold it up to the sunlight and peer through it. If you can see streams of trapped bubbles, then you’re holding the real deal when it comes to Mexican souvenirs.
7. Huipil Womenswear
One of the loveliest Mexico souvenirs for women is a huipil. These are the traditional garments worn by indigenous women across the country.
Essentially, a huipil is a loose-fitting blouse or tunic composed of cotton and emblazoned with intricate embroidery.
You’ll also find that huipil varies based on where you are in the country, with short ones that you can wear as a shirt in many places.
On the other hand, longer styles work as dresses or beach cover-ups. They’re also super comfy and there’s a huipil out there to suit every woman’s personal taste.
Now, Huipils are available all over Mexico at markets and stores. However, the decorative motifs and styles change based on the region you are in.
Also, some huipiles are designed for everyday wear while others are more for special occasions, like weddings.
Incidentally, the town of Cuetzalán in the state of Puebla holds an annual festival known as the Coffee and Huipil Fair which is a great event to attend if you want to shop for proper Mexico souvenirs.
8. Lucha Libre Mask
Lucha libre, the Latin American equivalent of wrestling, is a pop-culture phenomenon in Mexico.
And wrestlers, or luchadores, perform their craft with pizazz. So, a typical match will see them fusing elements of wrestling with aerobatic maneuvers and a touch of theater.
Plus, luchadores wear funky masks, or máscaras, throughout the tournament. These garments cover the entire face and are festooned with motifs that come in a variety of colors.
In fact, the masks are a reference to the early days of the sport. See, during its inception, luchadores would paint their faces to resemble warriors.
And, it’s these masks that reflect this practice and that now make for one of the best souvenirs from Mexico.
And while Lucha libre masks are fairly common across the country, it’ll be easier to track down the mask of a specific wrestler in Mexico City.
Therefore, check out Deportes Martinez on the cusp of Centro and Roma Norte and El Mascarero Shop in Roma Norte.
Meanwhile, Solar Lucha Libre in Centro hosts autograph signings with the luchadores for anyone who loves lucha libre and is after the best Mexico souvenirs ever.
9. Chocolate and Cocoa
Naturally, one of the “sweetest” things to buy in Mexico is chocolate.
After all, Mexico is the birthplace of chocolate and it’s made from the fruit of the cacao trees that grow in Mexico and in other Latin American countries too.
And, Mexican chocolate truly is some of the best on the planet. So, while you’re vacationing, do not resist the opportunity to nurse a mug (or nine) of spicy hot chocolate.
Traditionally, this is made with unsweetened cocoa powder and a chunk of bittersweet chocolate. Usually, it’s mixed with vanilla extract, cinnamon, anise, and chili powder for added flavor.
Although, recipes vary.
So now, where to buy it? Well, chocolate is one of the most widespread Mexico souvenirs of all time.
But, you can always swing by Chocolates Curryer in CDMX to procure fashion gift boxes from the counter.
Although, if you get a chance, head to Comalcalco in the state of Tabasco for the best some of the best food-related souvenirs from Mexico.
After all, this area is responsible for around 70% of the country’s cocoa production. So, chocolate and cocoa stores outnumber grocery stores here.
Besides, you’ll also have the chance to brush up on your chocolate-making trivia at Hacienda Jesús María while you’re here.
10. Silver Jewelry
Now, you’d think nailing wood carvings, embroidery, glassblowing, and moreish chocolate would be quite enough.
But, no. Mexico is also one of the world’s definitive manufacturers of silver jewelry and accessories.
And while silver in Mexico is high-quality, you’ll easily spend a heck of a lot less on it here than you would in the US or Europe.
In particular, the teeny town of Taxco in the state of Guerrero is synonymous with silver production in Mexico.
So, take a stroll through the downtown area and you’ll find the streets overflowing with silver depots where you can buy jewelry and ornaments that make great Mexican souvenirs.
In fact, Taxco is an easy day trip from Mexico City. Therefore, most tour buses usually stop at a couple of silver stores on the way to or from the city.
However, silver jewelry is still a bit of a splurge when it comes to shopping for Mexico souvenirs.
And, FYI, store assistants tend to treat potential customers to free-flowing tequila and mezcal in an effort to get them to purchase more Mexican souvenirs.
Therefore, this is one of the best souvenirs from Mexico for those closest to your heart.
11. Día de Los Muertos Figurines
Día de Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is one of the most fascinating celebrations in Mexico.
Because everyone turns up to honor deceased loved ones by erecting shrines and gathering as a family. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like it.
And regardless of whether you visit Mexico for Día de Los Muertos, you can still find figurines in honor of the festival for sale all year long.
See, these jovial collectibles usually depict skeletal figures in their best clothes.
So, females don huipil while gents sport dapper suits. And, they’re often accompanied by musical instruments and floral garlands.
But, you can also find animal versions and painted skulls too.
And while Día de Los Muertos is celebrated across Mexico’s 32 states, it’s huge in CDMX. Smaller villages in Michoacán and Oaxaca also pull out all the stops when it comes to this iconic celebration.
So, these are the best places to find handmade, hand-painted Day of the Dead ornaments.
And for the best selection when it comes to Mexico souvenirs, check out Galería de Arte Popular Mexicano and Día de Muertos Store in San Ángel, CDMX.
12. Beach Wrap
A nice and simple Mexico souvenir that is practical, pretty, and thrifty to boot.
So, yeah, beach wraps are a must for any avid traveler.
Besides coming in handy when flinging over a damp bathing suit, they double up as a head scarf in place of a hat.
After all, nobody wants a lobster-red scalp or to ruin their hat when they shove it in their backpack.
Plus, beach wraps come in super handy while strolling around religious buildings. Or, they work as a blanket for an impromptu picnic.
Yup, with endless uses and barely any weight added to your luggage allowance, beach wraps are a useful and wallet-friendly souvenir.
I mean, this might work out as one of the best souvenirs from Mexico for you especially if you’re traveling along the coast.
However, towns in the Yucatán Peninsula as well as Puerta Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Sayulita always have a solid offering of beach wraps.
You’ll also love that they are available in all kinds of colors and patterns that include floral, animal prints, geometric shapes, and beyond.
Because honestly? You can never have too many sarongs in your closet as you search for the best souvenirs in Mexico.
13. Molinillo
So, a molinillo (moh-lee-NEE-yoh) is another one of the most practical Mexico souvenirs that you can pick up during your trip.
Well, at least if you want to perfect your homemade hot chocolate it is. And, who doesn’t really?
Because just in case you’re not in the know, a molinillo is a traditional wooden whisk used throughout Latin America.
In fact, it was carefully crafted to produce the perfect foam atop a giant mug of hot chocolate – and that’s an endeavor I can totally get behind.
So, you basically place the end of the molinillo into a giant batch of chocolate and position the handle between your palms. Then as you rub your hands together, the whisk will work its magic.
It’s also worth noting that woodworkers craft molinillos from a single piece of wood and craft rings that are both decoration and that create the desired finish.
Molinillos are also sold in most tourist-centered towns. Although, you’ll have more options in the southern states where hot chocolate is part of everyday life.
Therefore, for the best Mexico souvenirs check out markets, gift stores, and flea markets. And, if you do buy chocolate for anyone back home, this is the ideal accompaniment.
14. Vanilla
Of course, Madagascar is touted as the realm of vanilla. But, Mexico seizes the top spot for having the best vanilla on the planet!
Actually, Mexico is the OG of vanilla agriculture. But, since its discovery, the spice has been transplanted to other tropical areas with similar climates.
And Mexico’s finest and most fragrant vanilla is produced in the state of Veracruz. And, what makes it different from Madagascan vanilla is that here wild bees pollinate the orchid.
Vanilla extract is then used in baking and for concocting Mexican-style hot chocolate and iced coffee at home.
Therefore, a bottle is easily one of the best souvenirs from Mexico for your culinary-minded friends.
But, do not rush into your local Mexican grocery store. This stuff is likely synthetic and imported. Likewise, a lot of markets flog artificial vanilla extract as the real deal.
Actually, it’s pretty tricky to find real pure vanilla, even in Mexico. Basically, avoid anything listing “coumarin” as an ingredient.
Because believe it or not, the pure Mexican vanilla bean actually carries a higher price tag than silver.
However, if you can’t make it to Veracruz then you’ll need to go to a specialty store. And The Mexican Vanilla in CDMX is one such place that sells authentic vanilla products as perfect Mexican souvenirs.
15. Salsa
Yes, okay, Mexican salsa is a fairly common export. And, yes, you’ll easily find it for sale at your local grocery store.
But, when in Mexico you can stock up on artisanal salsas made using produce from the country.
So, these condiments will be crafted from eye-watering habanero peppers since habanero salsa is for only those of us with the bravest taste buds.
Although, you will be amazed at the scope of salsas available in Mexico and which can be taken home as legendary Mexico souvenirs.
In fact, salsa taqueria, salsa roja, and salsa verde are just some of the usual varieties of cooked and blended sauces you can buy to take home with you.
But, look out for salsa de aguacate which contains a dash of creamy avocado to help tone down all that spice.
Also, keep your eyes peeled for gourmet grocery stores and artisanal stands at markets that serve up incredible salsa too. Plus, if you visit a market, you’ll likely get to taste it before you buy it.
16. Coffee
I mean, is there anything that Mexico doesn’t excel at?
Because Mexico has emerged as a leading producer of coffee throughout the world. And that makes sense since their organic beans create a light-bodied flavor, making it more accessible to those who are new to coffee.
See, in Mexico, the traditional café de olla fuses coffee and spices that are then served in an earthenware pot.
And Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Veracruz are all principal coffee-growing states in Mexico where you can easily procure the nectar of the Gods.
Therefore, if you want to drink it from the source, you’ll need to visit a plantation in southern Mexico.
But, fortunately, you can pick up a bag of beans or ground Mexican coffee anywhere in the country while shopping for the best souvenirs from Mexico.
And hot brands to look out for include Pluma Hidalgo, Allegro Coffee, and Cafe Garat.
However, if you stumble upon an awesome coffee shop, there’s a high chance that the cafe sells beans.
And apart from your coffee-loving pals, coffee is one of the best souvenirs from Mexico to treat yourself to.
I mean, every sip of your morning brew will whisk you right back to your trip as you enjoy one of the best Mexican souvenirs of all time.
17. Amate Paper
Now, how about one of the Mexico souvenirs that was once banned from sale in the country?
I’m talking about amate paper, an artisanal paper produced in the northern uplands of the Puebla state.
Now, this ultra-luxe paper was created by stripping bark from a nettle, fig, or mulberry tree.
Then, the bark is boiled and left to soak in water overnight. In the morning, it is beaten with a flat stone until it becomes the pulp that is used to make the paper.
Now, each tree produces a different texture but the Spanish eventually banned the use of amate paper because it was associated with witchcraft.
Today though, this lovely paper – predominantly manufactured in San Pablito – is prized by Mexican artists and is used as a base for many stunning pieces.
Therefore, be on the lookout for pieces made from amate paper that are on display in galleries. Or, you can treat your artistic chums back home to a couple of pieces that make for the best souvenirs from Mexico.
Just Google (or ask at your hotel) for art supply stores in your chosen destination and you should be able to find some.
18. Achiote
Native to Latin America, achiote (ah-chee-oh-tah, -tuh) is a vibrant red spice extracted from the Bixa orellana shrub.
And in Mexico, the main cultivation ground for achiote is the Yucatán Peninsula.
Also known as annatto, achiote is sometimes used purely as a food colorant for aesthetic purposes.
But, it can also be combined with other species to create a complex flavor that can be found in tacos, marinated meats, and fish.
Therefore, Achiote is one of the best souvenirs from Mexico for the chefs in your life. And you can buy it in the form of seeds, ground, and even as a paste.
After all, sprinkling a pinch in homemade Mexican dishes will add intricacy of flavor that you just can’t get with regular spices.
And best place to buy the freshest achiote is at markets. But, we’re talking authentic food and fresh produce markets.
Although, you can generally find one of the best souvenirs from Mexico on sale in local grocery stores too.
19. Leather Goods
Whichever markets you wander through during your Mexican travels, you will be confronted by an array of leather trinkets.
These vary from coin wallets and handbags to belts and sandals and easily make some of the best Mexico souvenirs of them all.
And that’s mainly because leather goods are known for their quality and to be long-lasting.
Production techniques are also slow in order to prepare the leather for the creative process which is usually done by hand.
Although, we’ll let them off the hook if they revert to using a sewing machine to create the best souvenirs in Mexico.
After all, this process ultimately boosts the resistance, durability, and comfort of the product.
And, while leather is widely available around the globe, there’s something truly remarkable about artisanal leather products from Mexico.
And the states of Chiapas and Yucatán (in particular, the city of Valladolid) are where you’ll find some of the best leather products in the country.
Plus, smaller leather items take up minimal baggage space. And if you see a pair of boots you can’t resist, you can always just wear them on the flight home!
20. Mole Mix
Mole, originating from the Nahuatl mōlli, is a sauce and marinade commonly used in Mexican cooking.
Typically, it consists of a fusion of chiles, spices, and nuts. Although, it’s not uncommon to find occurrences of chocolate or cocoa in there too.
And while there are dozens of varieties of mole in Mexico, you’ll probably have worked your way through a decent selection while dining at local Mexican restaurants.
However, while in Mexico you’ll find that local markets sell a wide variety of mole powders.
And since mole is thought to come from Oaxaca or Pueblo (oh yes, a gentle rivalry there), these are the best places to start your mole explorations.
But, mole is widely used across Mexico so you can find it at a local market near where you’re staying.
Yup, it’s another one of the coolest Mexico souvenirs for your foodie pals – or yourself if you fancy jazzing up your cooking.
21. Huichol Beaded Jewelry
The Huichol (wee-chl) are indigenous people of Mexico that are primarily from the central northwest regions and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains.
And Huichol culture is interwoven with mysticism with their principal deities being Tayaupá, the sun god, and Nacawé, the goddess of the rain.
Meanwhile, Huichol people are known for their beautiful arts and crafts, including embroidery and beadwork.
Therefore, Huichol beaded jewelry has become a beloved fixture at Mexican boutiques and markets where you can purchase the best Mexican souvenirs.
Accessories come as necklaces, earrings, and bracelets made with striking beads – all of which are hand-sewn to create head-turning geometric designs as well as figures of skulls, flowers, and Frida Kahlo.
As a result, these intricate and gorgeous pieces of jewelry are the best souvenirs from Mexico for the special people in your life. Such as your mom, favorite aunt, or best friend.
In particular, Jalisco, Nayarit, Zacatecas, and Durango are the best states to buy Huichol beaded accessories. But, you’ll find that the stock does make its way to other major cities too.
22. Folk Instruments
Okay, musical instruments are one of the Mexico souvenirs that might pose a problem when it comes to packing.
But, if you’ve got the space, you’ll make someone’s day! Besides, a pair of maracas isn’t going to prove much of a challenge when trying to pack things into your suitcase.
And these fun handheld shakers are available in Mexican markets and stores, as well as in other Latin (and Caribbean) destinations too.
Plus, they come in a wide variety of colors and patterns – while others are unpainted but feature etchings on the instrument itself.
Another great trinket that is widely available across cities and at stalls near historic attractions is the ocarina. This little wind instrument is like a whistle, and is uber-popular with kids.
But, some other instruments that feature in folk music genre include flutes, Mexican harps (arpa jarocha), and cantaros – percussion instruments made from clay.
23. Toys
But, what about the best souvenirs from Mexico for kids?
Well, I’m glad you asked. Alright, so kids in Mexico are all over tablets, video games, and brand merch.
But, the country continues to hone in on the art of traditional wooden toys. And, these are a rad pick for your younger nieces and nephews.
So, products to seek out include baleros and trompos, which are small and packable, since kids can play with them and even learn cool tricks too.
Another of Mexico’s coolest crafts are títeres, or puppets. Actually, these are used for kid’s play but also in puppet theater.
And they’re even a great Mexican souvenir for adults since they look neat when hung up as part of your interior decor.
See, pre-Hispanic production of títeres is linked with the state of Tlaxcala where you can learn more about their history at the National Puppet Museum.
However, you can find these Mexican souvenirs on sale at markets in most towns, including at La Ciudadela in Mexico City.
Map of the Best Mexico Souvenirs
Additional Mexico Resources You’ll Love
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best Mexico souvenirs of all time.
Tell me, did your fave Mexico souvenirs make the list? If not then let me know below.
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