
Souvenir Shopping (Self Guided), Mexico City
Mesoamerican civilizations established open-air marketplaces for trade and commerce, and after the Spanish conquest, many important pre-Colombian markets continued to operate throughout the New World. Often atmospheric and interesting, neighborhood markets are hands down the best places to shop for fruits and vegetables, but also for crafts, antiques, paintings, art objects, jewelry, and more. Take this self-guided walk to get a practical orientation in bringing home something truly original from Mexico City.
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Souvenir Shopping Map
Guide Name: Souvenir Shopping
Guide Location: Mexico » Mexico City (See other walking tours in Mexico City)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 4
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Mexico » Mexico City (See other walking tours in Mexico City)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 4
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- La Ciudadela Market
- Jardin del Arte Sullivan (Sullivan Garden of Art)
- Plaza del Angel Antique Center
- Zona Rosa Crafts Market
1) La Ciudadela Market
La Ciudadela is a Mexico City experience: an exposure to its color, the variety of its crafts and the charm of its people. Go even if just to browse a bit; you will likely come away with a woven wallet, table runner or purse, small pottery boxes for friends or a serving piece for your table, toys for the children in your life, or one of the many other offerings. Prices are good, but it it best to start with "Cuánto cuesta?" (Spanish for "How much?") and it helps to know a few numbers so that you can bargain (which most vendors will) a price. If you can not master the numbers, take a small pad, point to it when you ask "Cuánto cuesta?" and then write your offer and haggle that way (but remember that many of the items are not that expensive to begin with). Fairness gets you a long way.
The market is made up of many different stalls, so if you have time, be sure to work your way to the center, comparing prices and quality, before you buy. Also, many of the vendors selling smaller items only take cash while others accept credit cards as well (though, in case of the latter, there will be far less negotiating on price).
The market is made up of many different stalls, so if you have time, be sure to work your way to the center, comparing prices and quality, before you buy. Also, many of the vendors selling smaller items only take cash while others accept credit cards as well (though, in case of the latter, there will be far less negotiating on price).
2) Jardin del Arte Sullivan (Sullivan Garden of Art)
The Sullivan Garden of Art (Jardín del Arte Sullivan) is a vibrant outdoor art fair held every Sunday near the historic center of Mexico City, in a neighborhood called Colonia San Rafael. The roots of this artistic gathering trace back to the 1950s when aspiring young artists faced challenges exhibiting their creations in traditional galleries and shows. To overcome this, they took the initiative to showcase and sell their artworks outside their studios and in local parks.
One of the primary spots for this grassroots art movement was at the base of the "Monumento a la Madre" (Monument to Mothers) in Sullivan Park. Over time, this organic art fair gained popularity, and in 1959, the "Asociación Jardín del Arte," a non-profit civil association affiliated with the Instituto Nacional de la Juventud Mexicana, was formed to support and manage the event.
Since its inception, the Jardín del Arte Sullivan has provided a platform for numerous talented artists. Some of them, like Rodolfo Morales, have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their artistic careers. The fair's impact has been substantial, contributing to the establishment of second and third art markets in the San Ángel neighborhood and attracting a diverse community of around 700 members.
One of the primary spots for this grassroots art movement was at the base of the "Monumento a la Madre" (Monument to Mothers) in Sullivan Park. Over time, this organic art fair gained popularity, and in 1959, the "Asociación Jardín del Arte," a non-profit civil association affiliated with the Instituto Nacional de la Juventud Mexicana, was formed to support and manage the event.
Since its inception, the Jardín del Arte Sullivan has provided a platform for numerous talented artists. Some of them, like Rodolfo Morales, have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their artistic careers. The fair's impact has been substantial, contributing to the establishment of second and third art markets in the San Ángel neighborhood and attracting a diverse community of around 700 members.
3) Plaza del Angel Antique Center
Located in the heart of the vibrant Zona Rosa district, this shopping plaza boasts an array of 50 charming shops dedicated to offering antiques and collector's items, open seven days a week. The seasoned shop owners, with their decades of experience, have cultivated close relationships with avid collectors, particularly those ready to invest between $10,000 to $30,000 on truly invaluable antiques. Even if you're not on the hunt for a purchase, the plaza offers a fascinating exploration of unique old books, maps, china, sacred art, furniture, armor, and various other collector's items. Rest assured, while wandering around the plaza, concerns about your safety or the security of your wallet are unfounded, thanks to the establishment's impeccable reputation.
For an even more enriching experience, plan your visit on a Saturday or Sunday. During these days, an additional 100 sellers set up their stalls in the nearby square, creating a lively flea market atmosphere. This dynamic setting encourages the art of bargaining, especially in the flea market area, where a delightful assortment of well-preserved vintage pieces and high-end antiques are artfully displayed on rugs and folding tables.
For an even more enriching experience, plan your visit on a Saturday or Sunday. During these days, an additional 100 sellers set up their stalls in the nearby square, creating a lively flea market atmosphere. This dynamic setting encourages the art of bargaining, especially in the flea market area, where a delightful assortment of well-preserved vintage pieces and high-end antiques are artfully displayed on rugs and folding tables.
4) Zona Rosa Crafts Market
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Mexico City's Zona Rosa, at the intersection of Londres and Avenue Florencia, lies the Zona Rosa Crafts Market (Mercado de Artesanias Zona Rosa) - a true haven for those seeking an authentic and delightful shopping experience. Known for its diverse array of goods, this popular market is akin to an Aladdin's cave, where visitors can discover a myriad of unique and exquisite handcrafted items.
The Zona Rosa Crafts Market features an enchanting assortment of products, ranging from mass-produced trinkets to exclusive one-of-a-kind designs. Among the most prominent offerings are the alluring pearl and amber works, showcasing the region's remarkable craftsmanship. Additionally, you'll encounter stunning fire opal pieces; however, it's important to note that most of these are synthetically produced, so if you seek genuine, natural fire opals, you might need to inquire carefully.
The market is a treasure trove of silver jewelry, and the shopkeepers take pride in being transparent about distinguishing authentic sterling silver from other materials. Should you desire to acquire a fine piece of silverwork, they will guide you with their expertise. Meanwhile, if you're interested in non-silver goods, such as ceramics and shirts, you'll be delighted to find that their quality surpasses that of many other places.
Tip:
While you're in the neighborhood, check out the numerous jewelry stores, art galleries and boutiques. Zona Rosa also features many trendy sidewalk cafés and nightclubs.
The Zona Rosa Crafts Market features an enchanting assortment of products, ranging from mass-produced trinkets to exclusive one-of-a-kind designs. Among the most prominent offerings are the alluring pearl and amber works, showcasing the region's remarkable craftsmanship. Additionally, you'll encounter stunning fire opal pieces; however, it's important to note that most of these are synthetically produced, so if you seek genuine, natural fire opals, you might need to inquire carefully.
The market is a treasure trove of silver jewelry, and the shopkeepers take pride in being transparent about distinguishing authentic sterling silver from other materials. Should you desire to acquire a fine piece of silverwork, they will guide you with their expertise. Meanwhile, if you're interested in non-silver goods, such as ceramics and shirts, you'll be delighted to find that their quality surpasses that of many other places.
Tip:
While you're in the neighborhood, check out the numerous jewelry stores, art galleries and boutiques. Zona Rosa also features many trendy sidewalk cafés and nightclubs.
Walking Tours in Mexico City, Mexico
Create Your Own Walk in Mexico City
Creating your own self-guided walk in Mexico City is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historic Center Walking Tour
Mexico City is the oldest capital in the Americas and is one of the two founded by indigenous people. Originally known as Mexico Tenochtitlan, the city was built by the Mexicas (aka Aztecs) in 1325. According to a legend, the Mexicas' principal god, Huitzilopochtli, pointed out the site of the future settlement with an image of a golden eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus, devouring a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Historic Center Food Tour
A combination of history and tradition in Mexico City permeates all aspects of life, including food. For centuries, food and drink have been an inseparable part of the city's culture. Within Mexico City's bustling historic center, you can find a variety of culinary gems that offer a taste of what we call diverse Mexican cuisine.
One of the must-visit spots here is the San Juan Market.... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
One of the must-visit spots here is the San Juan Market.... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Zona Rosa Walking Tour
Zona Rosa, or "Pink Zone" in English, is a vibrant neighborhood near the historic center of the Mexican capital which is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse cultural scene. The neighborhood's name comes from the pink-colored tiles abundantly used to pave the local streets.
The area rose to prominence in the early 20th century as a residential district for the wealthy... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
The area rose to prominence in the early 20th century as a residential district for the wealthy... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Chapultepec Park Walking Tour
Nicknamed "the Lungs of Mexico City", Chapultepec Park is a vast oasis of lush greenery in the heart of the Mexican capital, sprawling over 686 hectares of land, providing a vital source of oxygen for the city. Rich in natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere, throughout centuries, this park has inspired various works of literature, poetry, and visual art, further... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Coyoacan District Walking Tour
Translated from the Nahuatle language as “The Land of Coyotes”, Coyoacán is a relatively quiet neighborhood in the southern part of Mexico City. Formerly a rural village, over the years Coyoacán has become a rich pocket of art and history in the capital, closely associated with some iconic figures of the 20th century and the tumultuous times in which they lived.
One of its most famous... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
One of its most famous... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
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