The Ultimate Guide to Unique Souvenirs in Buenos Aires

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When visiting Argentina – and especially the capital city Buenos Aires – there are several traditional souvenirs that are popular among tourists. These souvenirs reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage and are often cherished as mementos of the trip. Argentina is known for a variety of products that are popular with both locals and visitors, and Buenos Aires is a true ‘piece of heaven’ for those who enjoy shopping. Here is The Ultimate Guide to Unique Souvenirs in Buenos Aires.

The Ultimate Guide to Unique Souvenirs in Buenos Aires.

What to buy? Some of the most sought-after Argentine souvenirs include:

Leather goods

Argentina is known for its high-quality leather products, including boots, belts, handbags, and jackets. The leather is often sourced from the country’s cattle ranches, and the craftsmanship is highly regarded.
   

Where to buy leather in Buenos Aires?

One of the well-known leather shops are Las Cabrera and La Casa de las Botas.

Read more about leather shopping in Buenos Aires.

Wine as a Distinctive Souvenir

Renowned globally for its robust flavors and distinctive varietals, Argentine wine encapsulates the spirit of the country’s lush vineyards, sun-kissed landscapes, and centuries-old winemaking traditions. This makes wine a great souvenir for wine entusiasts Argentina, particularly the famed wine regions of Mendoza, Salta, and Cafayate, boasts a diverse range of grape varieties. Malbec, Argentina’s flagship grape, takes center stage with its bold, velvety character, offering an unparalleled taste of the Argentine wine experience.

When selecting Argentine wine as a souvenir, consider exploring Malbecs from Mendoza’s high-altitude vineyards or Torrontés, an aromatic white wine synonymous with the Northwestern regions. Enhance your wine-souvenir experience by visiting local wineries, where you can immerse yourself in the winemaking process. Additionally, wine-related accessories like beautifully crafted corkscrews, glasses, or personalized labels add a touch of elegance to your chosen keepsake.
   

Mate and yerba

Mate is a traditional Argentine drink made from the dried leaves of the yerba mate plant. It is typically consumed in a gourd with a metal straw, and is a popular social drink throughout the country. Visitors can purchase mate gourds and straws, as well as bags of yerba mate to take home.

Argentines grow up drinking yerba mate, a traditional South American caffeine-rich infused drink, from an early age. Mate has also become popular in the US too. You can’t go wrong with buying a mate gourd with a metal pitillo (straw). Yerba is available in US grocery stores if you prefer not to have your suitcase and belongings smelling of mate.
   
Read more about Argentine mate.

Alfajores and Dulce de leche

Dulce de leche is a caramel-like sauce made from condensed milk, and it is a popular spread and ingredient in Argentine cuisine. Visitors can purchase jars of dulce de leche to bring home, as well as candies and other sweets made with the sauce. Alfajores are the traditional Argentine confection sandwiches consisting of two buttery cookies with a filling of dulce de leche; they are often covered in chocolate or powdered sugar.

Tango music and dance

Having started in Buenos Aires, tango has long been known as a social dance. Danced in close embrace, Argentine tango was started in the 19th century by workers. Tango is still a highly regarded cultural tradition in Argentina, and when visiting Bueno Aires, can purchase CDs and DVDs of tango music and instructional videos to learn the dance. You may also think of buying tango shoes as a souvenir.
   

Books

Even if you don’t actually want to buy books, you don’t want to miss this literary marvel: el Ateneo Gran Splendid, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the worlds. Situated at 1860 Santa Fe Avenue, this literary haven occupies a former theater, infusing literature with the magic of performing arts.

Artisanal crafts & Souvenirs:

Argentina is home to a variety of artisanal crafts, including ceramics, textiles, and wood carvings. These crafts are often made by indigenous communities and can be found in markets and shops throughout Argentina. No matter what you’re interested in, there is sure to be something that will make the perfect ‘memento’ or memory of your trip. Highly recommended places for souvenir shopping in Buenos Aires are the typical markets al Feria de Matadero, Feria San Telmo and others (see here souvenir shopping in Buenos Aires.)
   

Perfume

Situated on Avenida Alvear in Buenos Aires, Fueguia 1833 stands as a luxurious perfume boutique. Renowned for crafting scents using exclusively natural ingredients, it holds a prestigious status in the city. Fueguia 1833 extends its presence beyond Buenos Aires, with boutiques in New York, Tokyo, Moscow, and Milan. Notably, the original flagship perfume laboratory in Recoleta proudly represents the brand’s roots. Perfumer Julian Bedel draws inspiration from the aromatic essence of the Argentine countryside and the literary works of Jorge Luis Borges.

Silverwork:

Embark on a journey to embrace the elegance of Argentine silverwork, a quintessential souvenir capturing the country’s rich craftsmanship. Explore the bustling markets and artisan boutiques in Argentina, where you’ll discover intricately designed silver pieces, from traditional mate cups to contemporary jewelry. Each handcrafted item reflects the artistry and cultural heritage of Argentina, making it a timeless and cherished memento of your travels. The leading exponent of Argentine silverwork is the silversmith Juan Carlos Pallarols, who designs the presidential cane, among other pieces of great aesthetic value.
   

Soccer Jerseys:

Argentina’s true religion is “fúbol” (soccer/football), and soccer jerseys are a hot commodity. Indulge in the joy of soccer fandom by exploring Buenos Aires and discovering charming spots to buy soccer-related souvenirs, such as stylish jerseys and iconic T-shirts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local markets and dedicated sports shops, where you can find a variety of soccer memorabilia to celebrate your love for the beautiful game.”

Overall, Argentina offers a diverse range of products that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural resources. Whether you’re interested in food, drink, fashion, or art, there is sure to be something that will make the perfect souvenir of your trip.