You can remember a city in many ways: through photos, stories, and tastes. But sometimes you want an object that reminds you of that place every time you see or use it. In Quito, that object might be a handwoven poncho, handmade jewelry using traditional methods, illustrated prints, ceramics, chocolate, or carefully chosen folk art. Whether you’re visiting lively neighborhoods like La Floresta or San Marcos, these items capture the spirit of Quito’s rich culture.
This blog isn’t just a list of places to buy souvenirs. It’s a guide for those who want to bring home more than just a fridge magnet—they want to take home stories, crafts, and the diverse culture of Quito. From colorful markets with independent artisans in La Ronda to concept stores featuring Ecuadorian designers in the historic center, and shops that also serve as museums and cultural archives. Consider joining walking tours in the historic center of Quito to fully experience local art and culture while exploring artisan shops.
1. Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal: the classic choice that never disappoints
The La Mariscal Artisan Market is often the first place travelers think of when asked, “Where can I buy souvenirs in Quito?” This is no surprise: the market started as a spot for street artisans and now has nearly 200 shops selling textiles, ceramics, leather goods, jewelry, paintings, and other traditional items from all over Ecuador. Located in the lively La Mariscal neighborhood, the market’s energetic vibe matches its surroundings perfectly.
Walking through the market feels like a quick tour of Ecuador: alpaca ponchos, Otavalo tapestries, carved wooden figures, masks, musical instruments, seed jewelry, embroidered wallets, and much more. It’s a great place to compare prices, learn about crafting techniques, and talk directly with the makers or sellers. While visiting La Mariscal Artisan Market, you can also explore nearby spots like Plaza Foch and enjoy the many bars and restaurants around.
Even though it’s popular with visitors, it’s still a top spot to find gifts for any budget—from small souvenirs for friends or coworkers to valuable folk art pieces for collectors.
Details about La Mariscal Artisan Market
- Best for: buying in bulk and comparing variety and prices.
- What to look for: textiles, ponchos, rugs, wallets, costume jewelry, wooden and ceramic art.
- Tip: take your time to browse several aisles before choosing; many items repeat but vary in quality and finish.
2. La Baronesa Lifestyle: modern design in the Historic Center
If you want something more unique, La Baronesa Lifestyle is a must-see. This concept store in the Historic Center features works by Ecuadorian designers—hats, accessories, clothing, design objects, and small treasures carefully chosen for style and quality.
Visiting La Baronesa changes how you think about souvenirs—you move from simple mementos to stylish design pieces you might find in any major city. These items reflect Andean and coastal culture through their materials, colors, and inspiration. It’s perfect for fans of slow fashion, small brands, and stories behind each item.
Each brand usually has a real person behind it—designers or artisans working with local workshops. The store shows how Ecuador blends tradition with modern style—not just typical folk art but fresh takes on old techniques and symbols.
Details about La Baronesa Lifestyle
- Best for: those wanting special fashion or accessories with a Quito feel but global style.
- What to look for: hats, accessories, clothing from local designers, lifestyle items.
- Tip: ask staff about the designers behind each piece; there are often interesting collaborations to discover.
3. Tienda Quito: where the city comes to life in a shop
Tienda Quito is more than a store—it’s a tourist center in the heart of Quito’s Historic Center that offers information, services, and products connected to the city’s and country’s heritage. You’ll find over 200 100% Ecuadorian items made with traditional methods, showcasing the stories, flavors, and styles of Quito and other areas.
Here you can buy everything from fine cocoa chocolates, coffee from small farms, local wines and spirits, to silver jewelry, textiles, artwork, stationery, home decor, and modern design pieces. It’s the perfect spot for gifts that blend usefulness, beauty, and a clear story about where they come from. This makes it a must-visit on any Quito travel list.
Tienda Quito also acts as an “official showcase” for the city: many products are connected to community tourism projects, creative businesses, and brands focused on fair trade, sustainability, or preserving traditional knowledge. Shopping here supports local artisans and helps keep Ecuadorian design alive.
Details about Tienda Quito
- Best for: carefully chosen gifts with the “Quito” and “Ecuador” label; great for visitors, delegations, or corporate presents.
- What to find: gourmet foods, coffee, chocolates, artwork, textiles, design accessories.
- Tip: take time to read product labels—each one usually shares a story about its place, community, or creative project.
4. Pimkay: Sharing Ecuadorian Culture Through Craft and Community
Pimkay is a brand and store known for high-quality Ecuadorian crafts, working directly with artisan communities from across the country. It helps promote Ecuadorian culture and keeps traditional art skills alive. Their products include woven items like shigras and bags, coats, ponchos, jewelry, ceramics, and home goods—all made by hand and in an ethical way.
Shop at Pimkay
How shopping at Pimkay is different
Shopping at Pimkay feels different from a typical market: each item is carefully arranged, focusing on quality, design, and staying true to the brand’s style. Here, you can see how traditional crafts are turned into modern products—like bags that fit perfectly in European or North American cities but are made with Ecuadorian materials and hands. This not only shows the richness of Ecuadorian culture but also supports local communities in a sustainable way.
Supporting artisans through purchases
The brand openly shares its connection with the workshops and communities it works with, so every purchase directly helps artisans and their projects. Pimkay also hosts workshops where visitors can experience the creative process and learn about the meaning behind each craft.
More about Pimkay
- Best for: anyone wanting unique pieces for their wardrobe or home that have a story and great craftsmanship.
- What to look for: shigras, bags, clutches, coats, ponchos, painted dishes, masks, and decorative items.
- Tip: if you find something you love, don’t wait too long to buy—it’s often made in small batches.
5. Olga Fisch Folklore: When Craft Becomes Tradition
Olga Fisch Folklore is a well-known place for Ecuadorian folk art in the center of Quito. Started in the 1940s by Hungarian-Ecuadorian artist Olga Fisch, the shop and museum have spent many years collecting, protecting, and updating Ecuador’s handmade crafts, showing the beauty of local art.
Inside, you’ll find carefully chosen rugs, tapestries, ceramics, jewelry, and other decorative items made with help from artisans in different communities. The space feels special because every item is picked with care and respect for its history. It’s a great place to visit if you love folk art in Quito.
Olga Fisch Folklore also connects traditional designs with modern styles, updating old patterns so they fit well in today’s homes without losing their meaning.
More about Olga Fisch Folklore
- Best for: collectors, fans of folk art, and anyone looking for a unique item.
- What to find: tapestries, rugs, ceramics, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind folk art pieces.
- Tip: If you can, visit the museum or exhibition area too—it helps you appreciate the history behind what you buy.
- Location: Close to important spots like Plaza Foch and Quito’s historic center.
How to Create Your Own Shopping Route with Local Flair
While you’re in Quito, you can visit these five spots at your own pace or spend a full day exploring them:
- Start at La Mariscal Artisan Market and Pimkay for a wide range of Ecuadorian crafts.
- Head to Tienda Quito and Olga Fisch Folklore.
- Finish at La Baronesa Lifestyle for modern designs.
The idea is to buy fewer things but choose quality. Pick items you’ll use, give as gifts, or display. Ask about the makers, where the materials come from, and how the craft is kept alive. That way, every time you see that poncho, bag, print, or mug, you’ll remember not just Quito but also the people and stories behind them.
