Montevideo, Uruguay’s laid-back capital on the Río de la Plata, offers a mix of historic charm, beach-town ease, and South American tradition. Whether you’re exploring the colonial buildings of Ciudad Vieja, relaxing on the rambla, or browsing one of the city’s many artisan markets, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to bring a piece of Uruguayan culture home with you.

From mate cups to local leather goods, here’s your guide to the best souvenirs to buy in Montevideo — along with local shopping tips and where to go for authentic finds.

Top 10 Souvenirs from Montevideo

1. Mate Cups and Bombillas

Drinking mate (a traditional herbal tea) is a national pastime in Uruguay, and hand-carved gourd cups (mates) along with metal straws (bombillas) make a perfect cultural souvenir. You’ll find them in leather-wrapped, silver-trimmed, or wood-burned designs — often sold in sets.

2. Uruguayan Leather Goods

Montevideo is known for high-quality leather products — wallets, belts, handbags, and jackets — all crafted from durable cowhide. These are commonly found in artisan shops and at markets, and often made in-country by small workshops.

3. Tannat Wine

Uruguay’s signature red grape, Tannat, produces bold, earthy wines that are gaining global attention. Bottles are widely available in wine stores and supermarkets across the city, and many are suitable for travel.

4. Alfajores

These sweet sandwich cookies, often filled with dulce de leche and covered in chocolate or powdered sugar, are a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Available in supermarkets and bakeries, they come in beautifully wrapped boxes that make great gifts.

5. Uruguayan Wool and Knits

The country has a long tradition of sheep farming, and Montevideo’s markets feature hand-knitted scarves, ponchos, and wool hats. Look for items labeled “hecho en Uruguay” (made in Uruguay) for authentic pieces.

6. Handmade Ceramics

Local potters sell colorful cups, dishes, and bowls often painted with tango dancers, coastal scenes, or gaucho imagery. These pieces are commonly found at weekend art fairs or small galleries in Ciudad Vieja.

7. Tango and Candombe Music CDs or Art

Uruguay has a rich musical heritage, from the African-influenced candombe to classic tango. Pick up a CD, vinyl, or art print celebrating these traditions — often found in record shops or craft markets.

8. Yerba Mate (the Tea Itself)

If you’re buying a mate cup, why not take home some yerba mate too? There are many Uruguayan brands, and locals can be passionate about which is best. You’ll find them in grocery stores or specialty tea shops.

9. Cowboy-Inspired Gaucho Gear

Uruguayan culture has strong gaucho (cowboy) roots, and you’ll sometimes find traditional knives (facones), silver belt buckles, or embroidered belts that reflect this rural heritage. Some are decorative, others practical.

10. Dulce de Leche and Local Jams

Uruguay’s creamy dulce de leche is sold in jars of all sizes and tastes far better than any store-bought version abroad. Local jams — especially those made from quince, fig, or guava — are also popular and easy to pack.

Where to Shop in Montevideo

• Mercado del Puerto (Ciudad Vieja):

Though best known for its parrillas (grill restaurants), this market also has vendors selling artisan crafts, leather goods, and mate sets — great for cultural and culinary souvenirs.

• Feria Tristán Narvaja (Sundays only):

One of the city’s largest flea markets, stretching for blocks, with everything from books and antiques to music and crafts. A fantastic place to browse like a local.

• Manos del Uruguay (Various Locations):

A fair-trade brand featuring handmade wool clothing, accessories, and home goods, made by local women. A great stop for authentic, ethically produced items.

• Punta Carretas Shopping & Montevideo Shopping:

These malls house local wine stores, specialty food shops, and Uruguayan brands, offering more curated and higher-end gift options.

• Cultural Centers and Museum Gift Shops:

Shopping Tips for Montevideo

Places like the Museo del Carnaval or the Museo Torres García often sell art books, prints, and small crafts reflecting Uruguay’s artistic heritage.

• Pay in Uruguayan pesos. Most markets and small vendors prefer cash, though larger shops accept credit cards.
• Look for “Industria Uruguaya.” This label ensures the item was made in Uruguay — not imported from neighboring countries.
• Ask about customs-friendly packaging. Dulce de leche, jams, and yerba mate are often sold in sealed, travel-safe containers.
• Sample before you buy. At wine shops or gourmet delis, many offer tastings of tannat wine or sweets.
• Don’t skip the Sunday market. If you’re in town over the weekend, the Tristán Narvaja market is the best place for local finds.

Final Thoughts

Montevideo is a city that moves to its own rhythm — easygoing, soulful, and quietly creative. Whether you’re sipping mate, unwrapping handmade wool scarves, or savoring a jar of local dulce de leche, your souvenirs will reflect more than your trip — they’ll carry the warmth and flavor of Uruguay itself.