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I challenge you to go to Mexico City and leave empty handed.
Every part of Mexico has amazing handicrafts, and the capital city serves as a central bazaar where you can find treasures from across the country. From vibrant textiles to mouthwatering foods, I’ve got a list of the best souvenirs you can take home from your visit to Mexico City.
You’ll find almost all of the things on this list (except food items) at the Mercado Artesanal de la Ciudadela. But often the best souvenirs are the ones you just come across while visiting a place or doing something you love.
If you want ideas for more places to shop for handicrafts, check out The Best Places to Buy Souvenirs in Mexico City.
Let’s go shopping!
Ceramics (Ceramica)
If you go to the Museo Nacional de Antropología, you will know that Mexico has a long history of making beautiful ceramics, both decorative and practical. And you can bring some home! There are many styles to choose from.
1. Black pottery (barro negro)
This unique pottery from Oaxaca (specifically the town of San Bartolo Coyotepec) is distinguished by its dark, shiny surface and delicate hand-carved designs. These pieces come in many sizes and can be both decorative and functional. You’ll find everything from vases to candleholders.
2. Clay pots (cazuelas)
Cazuelas are those classic large clay pots that sit on the coals stewing guisados for hours. While it’s certainly not practical to bring a cazuela home, I won’t blame you for trying. You can find cazuelas in local markets; if you are willing to get lost in a market, Mercado Merced is probably your best bet.
3. Glazed pottery (Talavera)
Known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, talavera pottery is a hallmark of Mexican ceramics. Originating in Puebla, this ceramic is often shaped into plates, bowls, cups, vases, tiles, and decorative pieces.
Where to buy ceramics in Mexico City
You’ll find a good selection of ceramics at Mercado Artesanal de La Ciudadela, Uriarte Talavera (high quality) in Polanco, the gift shop at Museo de Arte Popular (MAP), and the gift shop at Cencalli Casa del Maiz y la Cultura Alimentaria.
Glass (Vidrio)
Mexico’s artisans (famously in Tonala, outside of Guadalajara) create hand-blown glass (vidrio soplado) pieces that are both practical and artistic. Look for colorful water or shot glasses, pitchers, and decorative ornaments.
4. Drinking glasses
The classic glasses are the bubbly glass with the blue rims, but you’ll also find colorful speckled glasses, wide-rimmed margarita glasses, and charming little shot glasses with cacti growing out of the bottom of the glass.
As a bonus, this glassware is often made from recycled glass.
Where to buy glass in Mexico City
You’ll find a good selection of glass souvenirs at Mercado Artesanal de La Ciudadela. There is also a glass factory/shop right in Roma Norte called El Resplandor Vidrio Soplado.
Textiles (Textiles)
Mexican textiles are truly wonderful. They have amazing geometric and floral patterns and are usually brightly colored. They make a wonderful souvenir or gift, and you don’t have to worry about anything breaking in your luggage!
5. Woven textiles (tejidos)
Handwoven pieces, such as table runners and placemats, showcase traditional Mexican designs and vibrant colors.
6. Embroidery (bordados)
Intricate embroidery (typically from Chiapas or Hidalgo) often features floral or animal motifs. Embroidered fabrics are perfect for clothing or home décor, and look great on pillowcases, runners, and table cloths. You can also find beautiful embroidered tortilla warmers that make a great gift.
Expect to pay more for hand-embroidered works than machine-embroidered.
7. Beadwork (Huichol)
Delicate beadwork originated among the Huichol people, and is therefore commonly referred to as huichol. This beadwork often adds vibrant patterns onto belts, jewelry, or decorative pieces. You can even find beautiful beaded dog collars!
8. Hammocks (hamacas)
Every traditional house in the Yucatán has a hammock—and you can too. Hammocks are lightweight, colorful, and perfect for relaxing on a hot day.
9. Carpets (tapetes)
You will find beautiful wool rugs that are hand-dyed with natural colors and woven into stunning designs. These rugs are typically made in Oaxaca, and more specifically in the town of Teotitlán del Valle.
10. Clothing (ropa tradicional)
There’s nothing more delightful than coming across some Mexican ladies in their traditional embroidered clothing. The most beautiful embroidery and woven textiles come from Oaxaca.
You too can try to pull off that look by picking up some blouses (huipiles) to rebozos (shawls) of your own.
Where to buy textiles in Mexico City
As always, the Mercado Artesanal de la Ciudadela is going to be your best one-stop shop for all things textiles. You’ll find more high-end shops and boutiques in Roma Norte and Polanco.
Paper (papel)
Mexican artisans use both modern and ancient methods of creating beautiful objects out of paper.
11. Papel picado
You know those fun strands of colorful, festive papers strung from ceilings and over streets? That’s papel picado!
You can pick up a few packs to take home and give your own home a festive touch.
12. Papier mâché (cartonería)
Mexican artisans actually use paper or papier mâché to make a lot of little decorative knickknacks. Colorful little skulls and skeletons are common souvenirs made from paper.
Piñatas are also typically made from papier mâché…but good luck getting one of those home!
13. Bark paper (amate)
Amate is paper made from the bark of the mulberry tree using pre-hispanic methods. The most common amate souvenirs are color or black ink paintings depicting religious or cultural events. Depending on the size and intricacy, they run from affordable to exorbitant.
Where to buy paper souvenirs in Mexico City
Calle de Mesones (east of the Zócalo) is a whole street dedicated to paper items, where you should be able to find papel picado. They also sell it at the Mercado Artesanal de la Ciudadela! Museum and some shops in the Mercado Coyoacán. You’ll find papier mâché and amate souvenirs all over, including at those two mercados and the gift shop at the Museo de Arte Popular (MAP).
Wood carvings (talla de madera)
The tradition of carving wood ranges from simple wooden spoons to elaborately carved and painted alebrijes. All of them make for a good souvenir.
14. Alebrijes
These whimsical, brightly colored wooden figures represent mythical creatures and are famously from Oaxaca.
The gold standard of alebrijes is the Taller Jacobo y Maria Angeles. We have been to their workshop in San Martin Tilcajete (Oaxaca) and their alebrijes are stunning—and priced accordingly. The larger, more detailed alebrijes go for thousands of dollars.
As you wander the markets of Mexico City, you will find plenty of lovely alebrijes of all sizes and levels of detail/quality.
Remember that alebrijes are all hand-painted, and the more detailed and beautiful the alebrije, the higher the price.
15. Spoons and Molinillos
If you are into practical gifts and souvenirs, a wooden spoon is just the ticket. If you want to get fancy, pick up a molinillo and use it at home to froth up your hot chocolate.
Both are cheap and lightweight and won’t take up too much space in your suitcase or carry-on.
Where to buy alebrijes and wood carvings in Mexico City
Of course you will find a large selection of simpler alebrijes at the Mercado Artesanal de la Ciudadela! Museum shops like the one at the Museo de Arte Popular (MAP) have more curated, higher-quality alebrijes. For a lovely selection higher-end alebrijes, stop in at the Casa del Obispo in San Angel when you go to the Bazar Sábado. A beautiful and decent-sized alebrije will run in the hundreds, if not thousands, of US dollars.
You will find spoons and molinillos in just about any market. There is a stand at the end of the Tuesday Tianguis Condesa that has a great selection of wooden spoons.
Skulls and Skeleton Figures (Calaveras)
There’s nothing more iconically Mexican than a skull figurine!
16. Calaveras
Crafted from clay, papier-mâché (cartonería), stone, or ceramic, these iconic figures are often painted in bright colors and adorned with flowers or patterns. They come in all shapes and sizes, human and animal. The ladies are called Catrinas!
Where to buy calaveras in Mexico City
I mean, it’s hard to NOT find calaveras on your trip to Mexico City. For a large selection, you know you’ll find them at the usual spots: the Mercado Artesanal de la Ciudadela, as well as museum shops and some shops in Mercado Coyoacán.
Jewelry (Joyería)
Don’t have room in your bags for large souvenirs? No problem! Mexican artisans make some truly beautiful jewelry from all kinds of materials, and it doesn’t have to break the bank.
17. Silver (plata)
Mexican silver, especially from Taxco, is renowned for its quality and craftsmanship. You’ll find beautiful silver earrings, bracelets, pendants, and more. Look for the 925 stamp for (supposed) authenticity.
18. Earrings (aretes), rings (anillos), and necklaces (collares)
If you wear dangly earrings or want a statement ring or necklace, you will be delighted by the handcrafted pieces on offer in Mexico City. They often feature traditional motifs crafted using natural stones, or Huichol beadwork.
19. Bracelet (pulsera)
Bracelets make a great gift or souvenir, and you’ll find plenty to choose from, and for any budget. They have the typical tourist bracelets with round stones, woven bracelets, leather bracelets, and fine silver bracelets.
Where to buy jewelry in Mexico City
If you can’t make it to Taxco, don’t worry. There are shops in Mexico City specializing in Taxco silver and countless other markets like La Ciudadela and Bazar Sabado (in the tents) where you can find a great selection of jewelry.
Paintings and Drawings (Pinturas y Dibujos)
For me, the best souvenir is a unique work of art that reminds me of a place or experience.
20. Paintings, prints and drawings
In Mexico City, you’ll find a ton of local artists creating vibrant paintings and drawings depicting Mexican landscapes, culture, or abstract styles. And of course, all the Frida and lucha libre tributes.
Where to buy art in Mexico City
The absolute best places to find that perfect print or painting are the Bazar Sábado in San Angel (only on Saturdays) and the artist market in Coyoacán (only on weekends). There are also art galleries sprinkled through Roma and Condesa, if that’s more your speed.
Home Décor (Decoración del Hogar)
The Mexican aesthetic so dreamy…bright colors, bold patterns, natural fibers. You too can bring a little bit of Mexico home with you with some practical, yet beautiful, home décor items.
21. Mirrors (espejos)
Jazz up your foyer or bathroom with a beautiful punched-tin Mexican mirror. You can find these mirrors of any size at the artisan markets and other shops around town. Just know that getting it home will probably cost you more than what you paid for it.
22. Enamel dishes
Calling all hipsters! You can find an amazing selection of cute enamel dishware in many colors at Utilitario Mexicano in the Juárez neighborhood. Almost everything in the store is made in Mexico.
Where to buy home décor in Mexico City
You can find these and other home décor items at artisan shops in San Ángel, Coyoacán, or La Ciudadela market.
Stone (Piedra)
In addition to traditional gem stones that you find everywhere, Mexico also specializes in volcanic stones.
23. Molcajetes
The molcajete is a volcanic stone mortar and pestle that is a kitchen staple in Mexican households. If you want the perfect tool for grinding spices or making salsa or guacamole, look no further.
Just note that they are very heavy! And you cannot take a molcajete in your carry-on—it will not get through security.
If you decide that’s not going to work for your travel plans, you can always support Mexican artisans by ordering online from Cemcui. They have traditional molcajetes as well as more modern designs (we have this one at home). Just note that it will be more expensive and will take longer…but you won’t have to schlep a molcajete around or try to figure out how to get it home.
24. Obsidian (obsidiana)
Obsidian is a shiny black stone (actually volcanic glass) with sharp edges when chipped. The Aztecs and other inhabitants of pre-Columbian Mexico valued obsidian as a perfect material to make cutting tools, weapons, and ritual objects.
If you believe in the woo woo, obsidian is said to have magical healing and protective qualities. Plus it’s pretty. For not too much money, you can go home with some obsidian in the form of jewelry, or little decorative sculpture in a shape of a pyramid or warrior, etc.
25. Pre-Columbian (Aztec/Mexica) Themed Art
Pre-Columbian art is badass. While you can’t take any of the real stuff home, you can find smaller modern interpretations to take home as a souvenir. You’ll find a great selection of stone sculptures at Mercado Artesanal de La Ciudadela, on the left as you enter Puerto 4 (door 4).
Where to buy stone handicrafts in Mexico City
You can find molcajetes in local mercados.
There is no shortage of obsidian in and around Teotihuacán.
And of course you’ll find all of these things at the Mercado Artesanal de La Ciudadela.
Food (Alimentos)
Food in Mexico City is amazing, but you can’t take those tacos home with you. There are, however, some specialty items that you can take home and that will make a great souvenir or gift!
30. Mole Paste (pasta de mole)
If you don’t have the patience to mix forty ingredients to get that classic mole taste at home, pick up some authentic mole paste at a local mercado. They sell it pre-packaged or by weight. Just note that you might not be able to take mole paste in your carry-on.
31. Sweets (dulces tradicionales)
Try alegrías (amaranth treats), cajeta (goat’s milk caramel), or camotes (caramelized sweet potato) for a sweet taste of Mexico. If you want to go really traditional, head to Dulcería Celaya in the Centro Historico.. You probably won’t have a clue what to get, so just roll the dice. Just note that these sweets don’t have preservatives, so eat them fresh.
32. Spices (especias) and specialty blends
Stock up on authentic Mexican spices like achiote, epazote, or Mexican oregano (yes, it’s different!) at any market. It’s also fun to try new blends for corn-based pre-hispanic drinks like atole or champurrado.
Just make sure you are only bringing dried (not fresh) spices home.
Spirits (Tequila and Mezcal)
Tequila and mezcal are on the rise world-wide. And they can only come from one place: Mexico. Tequila and mezcal can make a great souvenir if you find a really special one and if you are willing to do some packing/shipping acrobatics to get it home.
I recommend that you learn more about tequila and mezcal before investing in it. I say “investing” because to get quality products, not stuffed with additives, it’s going to cost you. But if you appreciate the craftsmanship, it’s worth it!
33. Tequila
You’d think the best place to buy tequila is in Mexico, but I’m not sure that’s true anymore. It seems like they are saving the best for export to the US. For the most part, it’s not even cheaper to buy in Mexico. And you still have to figure out how to get it home. If you want to buy tequila, go somewhere where they know their stuff, like El Liquor Store in Roma Norte.
34. Mezcal
The best place to buy mezcal is Oaxaca…but there are a lot of great options in Mexico City. Start by doing a mezcal tasting at a place like Bla Bla Bla Salud! or Mis Mezcales in Roma Norte, and buy what you like from them. The artisanal mezcal is the best! They can usually also arrange shipping (for a fee).
Vintage
Mexico City is vintage heaven!
35. Albums (discos), Books (libros), Cameras (cámaras), Toys (juguetes)
You’ll find all sorts of vintage items from Mexico and abroad to fill your shelves. Some of the flea markets feel like a giant estate sale. You’re sure to find something.
36. Clothes (ropa vintage)
Looking for furs, bellbottoms, or vintage jeans? Mexico City probably has something for you. If you have the patience to peruse the hangars, you’ll find something.
Where to buy vintage stuff in Mexico City
Your best bet for vintage finds is the weekend flea markets at Tianguis la Lagunilla (Sunday), Tianguis del Chopo (Saturday), Jardin Dr. Ignacio Chávez (Saturday and Sunday). You’ll also find some vintage shops here and there.
Perfume (Perfume)
It seems there is a Fraiche on every corner in Mexico City, so if you want a knock-off scent, they’ve got you. But you’ve got other options.
37. Specialty perfume
Brands like Xinú offer unique, artisanal scents inspired by Mexico’s flora. The shops themselves are works of art, where you can try out the scented oils, perfumes, candles, and soaps.
Where to buy perfume in Mexico City
For unique scents, head to Xinú boutique in Polanco or Juarez.
Religious Items (Artículos Religiosos)
There are few countries more religious than Mexico. So if the spirit moves you, religious items like crosses (cruces) and hearts (corazones) can be a great memento of your trip to Mexico City.
26. Specialty Coffee (café)
Mexico has some excellent coffee growers, notably in the states of Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Veracruz. There are plenty of excellent third-wave coffee shops and roasters in Mexico City where you can taste these coffees and buy a bag to bring home. Some of our favorite places to buy single-origin Mexican coffee beans in Roma/Condesa are Cumbé, Café Chiquitito, and Blend Station (they will all grind it for you if needed).
27. Chocolate
Mexico is the birthplace of chocolate, so what better souvenir than bringing home some fine xocolatl to eat or drink! Learn all about the history and cultivation of this amazing bean at the Museo del Chocolate, and head to their little chocolate shop to get a few single origin bars. You can also visit Tout Chocolat or Ki´Xocolatl in Condesa for some of the finest chocolates around.
28. Fresh Tortillas (tortillas frescas)
There’s no Mexican meal without tortillas! Take home some freshly made tortillas, bonus points if you get tortillas made the traditional way (using nixtamalization). You can get vacuum-sealed traditional tortillas (red, yellow, or blue corn) to go at Maizajo.
29. Dried Chilies (chiles secos)
If you plan on making Mexican food at home, Mexico City is a great place to stock up on a variety of chilies, such as ancho, guajillo, or chipotle. You can buy chilies by weight at any local market.
38. Crosses and hearts
Cross- and heart-shaped objects often come in tin, wood, or ceramic, adorned with vibrant colors and designs. You can hang them on your wall or place them on a shelf.
Where to buy religious souvenirs in Mexico City
You’ll find religious items at artisan markets like La Ciudadela or San Ángel. If you make it up to the Basilica de Guadalupe, you’ll have your choice of religious-themed souvenirs at the gift shop!
Lucha Libre Masks (Mascaras)
The lucha libre wrestling mask has become almost as iconic as the sombrero when it comes to Mexican pop culture.
39. Lucha libre masks
These masks come in a variety of colors and designs, each representing a famous luchador. Who is your favorite? Make sure to pick up a mask before you go to a match!
Where to buy lucha libre masks in Mexico City
You can find lucha libre masks just about anywhere. You’ll have a great selection around the Arena México on match nights. The souvenir shops at Mercado Coyoacán (across from the park) also have a great selection.
Final Thoughts
Phew. The shopping possibilities in Mexico City are literally endless.
If you see something you love, buy it! Every time you look at it, it will remind you of that amazing trip you had to Mexico City. Perhaps it will spark conversations with friends.
And there is never a downside to supporting a people and their culture through the arts!
You might also enjoy…
The Best Places to Buy Souvenirs in Mexico City
10 Classic Restaurants in Mexico City That Have Stood the Test of Time
7 Off the Beaten Path Things to Do in Mexico City
Soaring Over Mexico City: How to Ride the CDMX Cablebús
Mexico City’s Monumental Arch: Monumento a la Revolución
Turbulent Times: Exploring Mexico City’s Museo Nacional de la Revolución
