Buenos Aires is full of unique souvenirs that reflect Argentine culture, tango, and local craftsmanship. Here’s a detailed guide for first-time visitors:
🛍️ Best Places to Buy Souvenirs in Buenos Aires #
1. San Telmo Market #
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What to find: Antiques, tango memorabilia, leather goods, vintage jewelry, artisanal crafts.
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When to go: Sundays are best (street fair + market).
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Tip: Bargaining is common—especially for non-fixed-price stalls.
2. Recoleta Handicraft Fair #
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What to find: Traditional textiles, ponchos, mate sets, handmade jewelry, ceramics.
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When to go: Saturdays and Sundays.
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Tip: Excellent for high-quality, locally made products.
3. Palermo Soho & Palermo Hollywood Boutiques #
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What to find: Local designer clothes, handbags, artisanal chocolates, unique home décor.
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Tip: Trendy, creative items—less “touristy” than central markets.
4. La Boca (Caminito Street) #
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What to find: Colorful souvenirs, tango figurines, football memorabilia (especially Boca Juniors items).
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Tip: More touristy; prices higher, so be ready to haggle.
5. Galerías Pacífico (Downtown) #
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What to find: Upscale Argentine brands, leather goods, gourmet food, books.
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Tip: Beautiful architecture inside; great if you want shopping + sightseeing.
6. Airport Duty-Free Shops (Ezeiza / Aeroparque) #
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What to find: Argentine wines, chocolates, alfajores, small leather goods.
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Tip: Convenient for last-minute souvenirs.
🛒 Popular Argentine Souvenirs #
| Item | Description | Where to Buy | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alfajores | Sweet cookies with dulce de leche | Supermarkets, cafes, specialty stores | $2–5 |
| Mate & Bombilla | Traditional tea set | Recoleta fair, San Telmo | $5–15 |
| Leather goods | Jackets, wallets, handbags | Palermo, Galerías Pacífico | $30–200+ |
| Tango memorabilia | Figurines, posters, CDs | San Telmo, La Boca | $5–30 |
| Argentine wine | Malbec, Torrontés, blends | Wine shops, supermarkets, airport | $10–25 per bottle |
| Ponchos / textiles | Handwoven from Patagonia | Recoleta, artisan fairs | $20–60 |
| Football jerseys / scarves | Boca Juniors or River Plate | La Boca shops, sports stores | $30–80 |
✅ Tips for Souvenir Shopping #
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Cash is preferred for small vendors; credit cards for boutique stores.
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Haggle politely in markets (San Telmo, La Boca).
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Check quality → leather and textiles vary a lot; buy from reputable shops for authenticity.
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Avoid overpacking → leave room for heavier items like wine or leather.
