Asunción, the capital of Paraguay, combines colonial charm with relaxed South American culture.

It’s known for its friendly locals, vibrant markets, and traditional crafts, offering visitors a genuine shopping experience away from the tourist hotspots of more commercial cities.

Whether you visit the craft stalls in Loma San Jerónimo or Mercado 4, you’ll discover many unique items to take home, each reflecting Paraguay’s history, nature, and identity.

Top 10 Souvenirs from Asunción

1. Ñandutí Lace

One of Paraguay’s most iconic crafts, ñandutí is a delicate, web-like lace inspired by spider webs. It’s traditionally made by hand using a small circular frame and is often found as table runners, doilies, coasters, or framed art. Commonly found at craft markets and cultural shops, ñandutí is a favorite among visitors for its beauty and cultural significance.

2. Ao Po’i Embroidered Clothing

Ao po’i is a lightweight cotton fabric embroidered with floral or geometric patterns. Often turned into blouses, shirts, or handkerchiefs, ao po’i is ideal for warm weather and commonly worn throughout Paraguay. Based on local recommendations, authentic pieces are often found in small workshops or artisan cooperatives in and around Asunción.

3. Tereré Sets

Tereré is Paraguay’s national drink — an herbal infusion served cold, similar to mate but refreshing and perfect for hot days. A proper tereré set includes a guampa (cup), bombilla (metal straw), and thermos, often crafted from leather, wood, or stainless steel. These are commonly found in downtown Asunción, especially near parks or cultural centers.

4. Filigree Jewelry (Filigrana)

Made from fine silver or gold threads twisted into intricate shapes, Paraguayan filigree jewelry is both elegant and uniquely local. Earrings, pendants, and rings crafted in Luque (just outside Asunción) are a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a wearable piece of Paraguayan craftsmanship.

5. Hand-Carved Woodwork

Wooden items like bowl sets, serving spoons, masks, and religious carvings reflect the country’s indigenous and colonial heritage. Carvings are commonly found at artisan fairs and souvenir shops, particularly near the riverside or in Loma San Jerónimo.

6. Guaraní-Inspired Items

Paraguay’s indigenous Guaraní culture still plays a strong role in everyday life. Crafts inspired by Guaraní designs, such as woven bracelets, pottery, or hand-painted textiles, are available at artisan stalls and cultural exhibitions. These items are especially popular among those looking for meaningful, heritage-based souvenirs.

7. Leather Goods

Paraguay is known for its cattle industry, and leather belts, wallets, purses, and tereré holders are often made by hand and stitched with traditional patterns. These goods are durable, practical, and commonly found at both Mercado 4 and smaller leather workshops around the city.

8. Yerba Mate (for Tereré)

You can’t bring home a tereré set without yerba mate to go with it. Locally produced blends, sometimes flavored with mint, citrus, or herbs, are widely sold in supermarkets and market stalls. Vacuum-sealed bags are ideal for travel and make easy, packable gifts.

9. Traditional Musical Instruments

Small, handmade versions of instruments like the Paraguayan harp, maracas, and guitars are commonly sold as decorative souvenirs. While full-size instruments are also available, miniatures make for a unique and music-filled keepsake.

10. Paraguayan Sweets

If you’re looking for an edible souvenir, local favorites include dulce de leche, mburucuyá (passionfruit) jam, and artisan cookies or candies sold at food stalls and specialty stores. These treats are often packaged for travel and make great gifts.

Where to Shop in Asunción

• Mercado 4: A sprawling local market where you’ll find everything from lace and leather to tereré sets, clothing, and spices. Busy, bustling, and full of character.
• Loma San Jerónimo: This colorful, artsy neighborhood is known for its murals, galleries, and small craft shops selling handmade Paraguayan souvenirs.
• Panteón de los Héroes Area: Around this central landmark, you’ll find small shops selling ñandutí, ao po’i, and artisan jewelry.
• Shopping del Sol / Paseo La Galería: While these are modern malls, some stores specialize in high-quality Paraguayan handicrafts and gifts.

Shopping Tips for Asunción

• Visit artisan cooperatives when possible. These shops often sell authentic items directly from rural communities and support local craft traditions.
• Bargain politely at open markets. Negotiation is acceptable at Mercado 4 and similar markets, especially if you’re buying more than one item.
• Ask about the origin. Many vendors are happy to explain where their goods come from and how they’re made — a great way to ensure what you’re buying is truly local.
• Keep an eye on customs rules. Pack yerba mate, sweets, and wood items carefully, and check import limits for food or plant-based goods.
• Bring cash. Many small vendors and market stalls don’t accept cards, so it’s best to carry Paraguayan guaraní when shopping.

Final Thoughts

Souvenir shopping in Asunción is a journey through Paraguay’s rich culture — one that highlights its indigenous roots, colonial history, and strong sense of tradition. From handwoven lace to a leather-wrapped tereré cup, the items you’ll find here are more than just keepsakes — they’re symbols of a country that proudly blends the old with the new.

Exploring Asunción’s markets and workshops offers not just a chance to shop, but a chance to connect — with makers, with history, and with a quieter, more authentic side of South America.