Argentina is a land of wines and there’ll always be space in the suitcase for some Malbec, not to mention a jar of dulce de leche or the famous mate gourd and gaucho knives. But there are plenty more authentic and distinctive things that represent the magic and experience of Argentina.
1 and 2. Mafalda and The Eternaut: iconic comics
In Mafalda, Quino’s precocious, wise little girl shares her perspective on the world with humor and tenderness. She has become a cultural icon in several different languages and in addition to the renowned original paperback editions, you can now get the full set as a book.
The Eternaut, meanwhile (a global hit on Netflix), is a work of science fiction that was first published in 1957, written by Héctor Germán Oesterheld, with drawings by Francisco Solano López. Set in a Buenos Aires ravaged by deadly snowfall, the story has become a symbol of collective resistance. Juan Salvo, the protagonist, embodies the spirit of communal struggle.
Both titles are available in collector’s editions and in different languages. There’s also a wide range of merchandise that includes t-shirts, mugs and notebooks. T-shirts with iconic phrases from The Eternaut such as “You can’t be saved alone” or “The only true hero is a collective hero” are some of the most popular. The same is true of Mafalda, such as her famous question: “Daddy, can you explain why humanity works so badly?”
3. Argentina soccer jerseys: the pride of three stars
Since 2022, the jersey of the Argentine football team has featured three gold-bordered stars to mark a glorious chapter in the national team’s history. The triumph in Qatar, following an unforgettable final in France, didn’t just crown Lionel Messi as an idol for the ages but also led to enormous celebrations across the country. The jersey, along with hats, flags and other products with the AFA shield have become much more than a sporting memento: they’re a symbol of identity, emotion and belonging. Putting a shirt with the three stars in your suitcase means taking some of that collective joy with you. It’s a homage to the famous “Scaloneta” team, who have become legends of world football.
4. Yerba with identity: much more than mate
Buying yerba mate as a souvenir means sharing a genuine part of Argentine culture. Of course, there are different styles for each palate: yerba con palo is mild and balanced, ideal for beginners, sin palo (or peeled) has a more intense and bitter profile, mixtures with herbs such as mint, chamomile or lemon beebrush add digestive and aromatic notes, flavored versions add touches of fruit such as orange and red fruits, the organic versions appeal to the environmentally conscious, those dried using the barbecue method have a distinctive smoky flavor and there are also yerbas designed specially for tereré, a traditional guaraní drink meant to be drunk very cold. Of course, you’ll need to buy a mate gourd and bombilla straw to go with it.
5. Artisanal alfajores: a classic reinvented
Industrial alfajores are famous and many are excellent but the artisanal versions are winning over gourmandes with a sweet tooth with their creativity. To offer just one example Goulue have reinvented the recipe with homemade dough, generous fillings and chocolate or glaze coating (they also make a line of alfajores with Malbec). Entre Dos, meanwhile, is a Mendozan creation that delivers surprising combinations such as chocolate mousse, nuts, or dulce de leche with sea salt. Their thoughtful presentation and rich flavor make them an irresistible treat.
6. Patagonian chocolate: southern sweetness
Patagonia doesn’t just have stunning landscapes. It is also home to some of the best chocolate makers in the country. In Bariloche, San Martín de los Andes and Ushuaia, brands such as Rapa Nui and Mamuschka make slabs and bonbons using their own carefully developed recipes, quality ingredients and a charming aesthetic. The only problem is that you might be tempted to try them during the journey.
7. Barbecue tools
Asado isn’t just a meal, it’s a ritual. Once you’ve been seduced by the process, you’ll want to have a go yourself. A set of tongs, engraved board or artisanal knife, or even a small portable grill, might well be the perfect memento. Many of these sets come with a leather case and make ideal gifts. You really can take Argentine fire back home, and of course accompany it with a glass of Argentine wine. If you’d like to know more about Argentine souvenirs, click here
