You can find a variety of independent boutiques, galleries, and huge, air conditioned shopping malls throughout Mexico’s major cities selling local goods, crafts, and big-name brands all at reasonable prices. Craft centers, such as Mexico City’s Mercado de Artesanias, are great places to browse if you’re not looking for anything in particular, and bartering is usually in the norm in markets such as these.

However, the best deals are likely to be found in the smaller cities and towns, which tend to have an array of roadside vendors and vibrant, colorful markets. Usually the best time to visit the stalls is during the run up to one of the country’s many festivals when they are brimming with local handicrafts representing the upcoming celebration.

Mexico has a number of trademark products which make for tasteful souvenirs and gifts to take back home. Pottery is a traditional part of Mexican culture, dating back to the Mayans and Aztecs, and pieces, from the very basic to the extremely elaborate, can be picked up at stalls and markets around the country, with the some of the best tiles and ceramics found in the distinguished Uriarte store in Puebla.

However, if you are more interested in getting your hands on some high-quality silver, the best place to start is the hillside town of Taxco in the state of Guerrero. Although there is a seemingly endless supply of silver products throughout the country, make sure to check for the .925 stamp, which indicated that the item is sterling and authentic. Traditional Mexican textiles are also extremely popular throughout the country and embroidered garments such as shawls, sashes, and blouses, in addition to hand-woven rugs, blankets, and leather accessories are all widely sold here.