Best Souvenirs from Guatemala: A Guatemalan Souvenir Guide

Guatemala is one of Central America’s most captivating colonial cities, and it’s also a standout destination for authentic shopping. Strolling its cobblestone streets leads you to open-air markets, artisan cooperatives, and family workshops where every piece carries a story. Buying souvenirs here supports local artisans, preserves centuries-old Mayan and colonial techniques, and lets you bring home a true piece of Guatemala—whether that’s a handwoven scarf, a bag of volcanic-soil coffee, or a work of folk art.

10 Best Souvenirs from Antigua Guatemala

Handwoven Textiles (Huipiles, Scarves, Table Runners).

Antigua’s textiles are woven on traditional backstrap looms by artisans whose patterns often reflect their village identity. You’ll see vivid colors and symbolic motifs in huipiles, scarves, table runners, and shawls. In Antigua’s Central Market and fair-trade co-ops such as Nim Pot, expect scarves to range roughly from Q120–Q250 (about $15–$32) and huipiles from Q300 and up. When possible, look for labels that name the weaving cooperative or town—your purchase then directly supports the maker.

Jade Jewelry.

Revered by the ancient Maya as a symbol of life and protection, Guatemalan jade remains one of the country’s most meaningful souvenirs. In Antigua, reputable workshops like Casa del Jade and Jade Maya offer pendants, rings, and earrings, with small pieces starting near Q200 (about $25) and elaborate sets reaching into the hundreds. Authentic jade feels cool and heavy; reputable sellers provide certificates of authenticity so you know you’re taking home the real thing.

Guatemalan Coffee.

Thanks to volcanic soils and high-altitude growing regions, Antigua’s coffee is smooth and chocolatey with a clean finish. Pick up freshly roasted beans from the Central Market, specialty shops near Parque Central, or farmer co-ops such as De La Gente. Bags commonly cost Q50–Q120 ($6–$15). Choose whole beans for freshness and look for origin labels like Antigua, Huehuetenango, or Atitlán to sample distinct regional profiles.

Ceramics from San Antonio Palopó.

The cobalt-blue pottery and hand-painted ceramics you’ll spot around Antigua often originate from San Antonio Palopó on Lake Atitlán. Bowls, mugs, plates, and vases feature bold color and traditional motifs, with small mugs starting around Q30 ($4) and larger statement pieces reaching Q200+ ($25+). Wrap ceramics in clothing or bubble wrap before flying to keep them safe in transit.

Wooden Masks and Handicrafts.

Hand-carved masks used in traditional dances—and today sold as striking wall art—are one of Guatemala’s most distinctive crafts. Alongside masks you’ll find carved figures, toys, and kitchen tools in Antigua’s Central Market and, further afield, at Chichicastenango’s market. Quality masks typically run Q150–Q300 ($20–$40). Hand-painted details and small carving irregularities signal a human touch rather than a factory finish.

Leather Goods.

Skilled leatherworkers around Antigua produce durable belts, wallets, sandals, and handbags that blend everyday utility with artisanal pride. Shops along 5a Avenida Norte and stalls in the market sell wallets near Q150 ($20), sandals around Q250 ($32), and bags generally between Q300–Q500 ($40–$65). Because these items are hand-stitched and built to last, they make practical souvenirs you’ll use for years.

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Artisanal Chocolate.

Guatemala’s cacao heritage dates to the Maya, who flavored chocolate with spices and used it in ceremony. In Antigua, chocolaterías such as ChocoMuseo let you sample bars and hot cacao mixes seasoned with cinnamon and chili. Most bars fall between Q40–Q80 ($5–$10). Pair a chocolate gift with local coffee for a delicious taste of place.

Traditional Dolls (including Worry Dolls).

Textile dolls dressed in regional attire and tiny worry dolls—muñecas quitapenas—are both beloved keepsakes. Textile dolls typically cost Q50–Q150 ($6–$20), while sets of worry dolls in colorful pouches often sell for Q20–Q40 ($3–$5). According to tradition, children share their worries with the dolls and place them under the pillow for a calmer night’s sleep, making them both meaningful and feather-light to pack.

Local Artwork.

Antigua’s painters capture volcano silhouettes, bougainvillea-framed streets, and lively markets in bright, expressive canvases. Street artists and small galleries offer original paintings and prints; smaller works often start near Q100 ($13), while one-of-a-kind canvases vary by artist and size. If you’re flying, ask for an unframed canvas you can roll to protect it and save space.

Guatemalan Rum (Ron Zacapa).

If you prefer an edible or drinkable souvenir, Guatemala’s award-winning Ron Zacapa rum is aged in the highlands and known for its smooth, layered character. You’ll find bottles in Antigua’s liquor shops and at La Aurora International Airport’s duty-free stores, usually between Q400–Q600 ($50–$75). It makes a refined gift—and a memorable nightcap once you’re home.

Where to Shop in Antigua Guatemala

Mercado Central, Antigua Guatemala

Mercado Central is Antigua’s beating heart, a chaotic yet enchanting labyrinth where the city’s daily life comes alive. From the moment you step inside, the scent of ripe mangoes, roasted corn, and fresh herbs fills the air, while vendors call out to showcase their stalls. Spread across multiple levels, this market is more than a shopping destination—it’s an immersion into Guatemalan culture.

On the upper floors, you’ll find vibrant artisan stalls overflowing with textiles, pottery, and woodwork. A handwoven scarf typically costs Q120–Q250 ($15–$32), while hand-carved wooden masks range from Q150–Q300 ($20–$40). These aren’t mass-produced souvenirs but carefully crafted pieces that carry Mayan and Guatemalan symbolism. Prices are negotiable, but bargaining respectfully is part of the experience.

Venture deeper, and the food court is where Mercado Central truly shines. Rows of small comedores (family-run eateries) serve traditional dishes like tamales, pepián (a spiced chicken stew), and hearty soups for as little as Q20–Q30 ($2.50–$4) per meal. A favorite among locals and budget-conscious travelers alike is Comedor Marleny, where hot bowls of chicken soup and tamales are served with genuine warmth. Unlike tourist-focused restaurants in central Antigua, here you’ll eat shoulder-to-shoulder with market workers and families.

The ground floor offers a kaleidoscope of produce—from ruby-red lychees and creamy avocados to Guatemalan staples like black beans and fresh herbs. Everything is brought in daily from farms in the surrounding highlands. Many fruits and vegetables are organic by default, making them both healthier and cheaper than supermarket alternatives.

What sets Mercado Central apart from smaller markets is its scale and variety. You can buy handcrafted jewelry one moment, then step into a stall selling handcrafted wooden furniture or leather sandals the next. Wallets start at Q150 ($20) and leather bags from Q300 ($40), lasting souvenirs you can use every day. The market even houses practical essentials such as household items, clothing, and an ATM inside the yellow building for those needing cash.

While it can get crowded, especially on weekends, the energy is what makes Mercado Central unforgettable. Come with small bills in quetzales, keep an open mind, and be ready to wander for hours. More than a shopping trip, it’s a living museum of Guatemalan food, craft, and community.

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San Martín de Porres Market

San Martín de Porres Market is smaller and more neighborhood-focused than Mercado Central, but it’s equally worth a visit for those who want to see how locals shop in Antigua. Located just outside the busiest tourist areas, this market is a hub for families buying their weekly groceries, making it an authentic slice of daily life.

Fresh produce is the highlight here. The selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables is impressive—ripe tomatoes, bananas, papayas, and chilies fill the stands, alongside legumes, corn, and herbs. Prices are noticeably lower than in tourist-oriented shops, with most produce costing Q5–Q10 ($0.65–$1.30) per pound, making it one of the most affordable ways to eat fresh in Antigua. For meat and fish lovers, butcher stalls allow you to pick your cuts on the spot, ensuring freshness and quality.

What sets San Martín apart is its personal touch. Regular visitors are remembered by name, and vendors often greet repeat customers like old friends. Shopping here feels more like joining a community than simply making a purchase. Many residents appreciate that sense of connection, and for travelers, it offers a chance to engage directly with Antigua’s people outside the tourist bubble.

Food safety and organization are areas that could improve—the market sometimes struggles with crowding, particularly on weekends, and stalls selling clothes or shoes are mixed in with food vendors. Still, that raw authenticity is part of the charm. Some vendors are even pooling resources to add rainproof coverings and improve drainage, showing how the community is committed to making it better.

Prices are very budget-friendly across the board. Fresh tortillas can be bought for just Q2 ($0.25), and simple prepared meals range from Q15–Q25 ($2–$3.25). For visitors who enjoy exploring smaller, less touristy corners of Antigua, San Martín de Porres provides a more intimate and grounded market experience.

While Mercado Central dazzles with scale and variety, San Martín de Porres stands out for its neighborly atmosphere. It’s where authenticity meets affordability, making it ideal for travelers who want to stretch their quetzales while experiencing the warmth of everyday Guatemalan life.

Practical Buying Tips for Antigua Shoppers

Exploring Antigua’s markets is one of the most rewarding ways to experience local culture, but to make the most of your visit, it helps to know a few insider tips. These practical guidelines will help you shop respectfully, avoid common mistakes, and bring your treasures home safely.

Bargain Respectfully

Haggling is a normal part of market life in Guatemala, but it should always be done with kindness and respect. Start by offering about 20–30% lower than the asking price and work your way up. Keep in mind that every quetzal you spend goes directly to the artisan or vendor’s family, supporting their livelihood and helping to preserve traditional crafts. A scarf that costs Q150 ($20) may represent days of weaving, so think of bargaining as finding a fair price, not just the cheapest deal.

Check Authenticity

Many items in Antigua are handmade, but not all are authentic. With jade jewelry and Mayan textiles, always ask where and how the piece was made. Reputable cooperatives and artisan stalls will gladly share details about their process and the symbolism in their designs. For example, jade pieces from Casa del Jade or Jade Maya are genuine and often certified, while authentic huipiles can cost anywhere from Q300–Q600 ($40–$80) depending on the intricacy of the work. Asking questions shows respect for the craft and ensures you bring home something truly meaningful.

Bring Cash

While a few larger shops accept credit cards, most market stalls operate on a cash-only basis. Carry small bills in quetzales to make transactions easier and avoid overpaying. ATMs are available around Antigua, but they charge fees, and some may run out of cash on busy weekends. If you’re buying higher-value items like jade jewelry or leather goods, ask for a receipt—it may be required by customs when you re-enter your home country.

Pack Smart

Protect your souvenirs by packing them carefully. Wrap fragile ceramics in clothing for padding, and nest smaller bowls or mugs inside larger ones to save space. Always carry delicate items, like glass or jewelry, in your personal bag rather than checked luggage to avoid breakage. Consider bringing a reusable tote or packing cubes before your trip—these make it easier to separate delicate purchases from heavier items.

Save Space with Textiles

If your luggage space is limited, prioritize items like textiles and dolls. Handwoven scarves, table runners, or traditional worry dolls are lightweight yet meaningful, making them excellent souvenirs. A folded huipil barely takes up more space than a t-shirt, yet it carries centuries of Mayan weaving tradition. Textiles also make excellent gifts because they’re easy to share and pack, unlike bulky or fragile souvenirs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Shopping in Antigua’s markets is an adventure, but many travelers still wonder about the best timing, pricing, and logistics. To make your experience smoother, here are some additional FAQs that cover practical details not often mentioned but very helpful to know.

1. What is the best time to visit Antigua’s markets for shopping?

Morning hours, especially between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., are ideal for visiting markets. Vendors are freshly stocked, the crowds are lighter, and you’ll often find the best produce and handicrafts before they sell out. If you prefer a lively atmosphere, afternoons are busier and full of energy, but prices may be slightly less flexible.

2. Can I ship souvenirs from Guatemala instead of carrying them home?

Yes, several artisan shops and jade cooperatives in Antigua offer international shipping services for larger or fragile items like furniture, ceramics, or artwork. Shipping ensures your purchases arrive safely, but it can be expensive, averaging Q800–Q1,200 ($100–$150) depending on weight and destination. Always ask for tracking and insurance if you choose this option.

3. Are souvenirs cheaper in Antigua compared to other parts of Guatemala?

Antigua’s markets are slightly more expensive than smaller towns because of the heavy tourist traffic. For example, a handwoven scarf might cost Q150 ($20) in Antigua but closer to Q100 ($13) in villages around Lake Atitlán. However, Antigua offers convenience, variety, and quality assurance—making it worth the extra cost if you’re short on time.