What to Buy in Rio de Janeiro: Souvenirs and Cheap Products

While visiting Brazil, we are sure you want to bring home some gifts to give to your loved ones. So, what to buy in Rio de Janeiro? What should you bring family and friends as a gift?

Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. There is so much to see and do in this incredible city, but one of the best things about Rio is the incredible shopping opportunities. Whether you are looking for traditional souvenirs or high-end fashion, there is something for everyone.

What to Buy in Rio de Janeiro

Beachwear and Swimwear

Rio de Janeiro is famous for its beaches, so it is no surprise that beachwear and swimwear are some of the most popular items to buy in the city. You can find a wide range of options from street vendors selling cheap, colorful bikinis to high-end boutiques selling designer swimwear. If you are looking for something in between, try the shops along Copacabana or Ipanema neighborhoods.

Havaianas Flip-Flops

Havaianas is a Brazilian brand of flip-flops that has become a global phenomenon. They are comfortable, durable, and come in a variety of colors and designs. If you are looking for a practical and stylish souvenir from Rio, Havaianas are a great choice. You can find them in most shoe stores or official Havaianas stores around the city. If you are thinking about what to buy in Rio de Janeiro, Havaianas flip-flops are definitely the best option.

Cachaça

Cachaça is a distilled spirit made from sugarcane that is the main ingredient in Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha. It is a popular souvenir to take home from Rio, and you can find it in most liquor stores or at the street markets around the city.

For more information, watch teacher Deise’s video: All About Cachaça.

Brazilian Jewelry

Brazilian jewelry is known for its unique and colorful designs, often incorporating natural gemstones and materials. From traditional handmade pieces to contemporary designs, there is something for every taste and budget. Try the markets in the neighborhood of Santa Teresa for some of the best deals.

Brazilian Football Jersey

Football is the national sport of Brazil, and the country has produced some of the world’s best players. A Brazilian football jersey is a great gift for sports fans or anyone who wants to show off their love for Brazil. You can find them in most sports stores or at the official team stores. You can also buy a jersey from one of the four major football clubs in Rio de Janeiro: Flamengo, Vasco, Fluminense, or Botafogo.

Further reading: The 4 Major Football Teams in Rio de Janeiro.

Souvenirs

When it comes to souvenirs, Rio de Janeiro has plenty to offer. One of the most popular souvenirs is the fridge magnet, which is often sold in street markets and gift shops. You can even find those at newsstands. These magnets are usually small and depict Rio de Janeiro’s famous landmarks, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Another type of souvenir that is highly sought after by tourists is sculptures made from soapstone or wood. These sculptures come in a variety of sizes and styles. They may depict anything from animals and plants to famous Brazilian people and popular landmarks. They make for great decorative pieces and are often sold in artisan markets throughout the city and in souvenir stores.

Lastly, T-shirts are a great option when looking for what to buy in Rio de Janeiro. Many vendors sell shirts with designs and slogans related to the city and its culture. Some shirts feature popular tourist attractions, while others showcase the Brazilian flag and neighborhood names, such as the famous Copacabana.

Products to Buy in Brazil That Are Cheap

If you are wondering what to buy in Rio de Janeiro, there are other products besides traditional souvenirs. Some products are worth purchasing in Brazil because they are often cheaper than in the US or Europe.

One great option is Brazilian coffee, which is known for its unique flavor and high quality. Among the most consumed coffee brands in Brazil are Melitta, Pimpinela, Três Corações, and Pilão. They are easily found in supermarkets. But of course, you can also find better-quality coffee brands in specialized stores.

Brazil is also famous for its gems and minerals, which can be purchased for a fraction of the price compared to other countries.

Finally, if you are into cosmetics and beauty products, you might want to check out Brazilian brands, such as Natura or O Boticário, which offer high-quality products at a lower price point.

Important: Be sure to do your research and check import regulations before bringing any of these products back home.

Where to Buy Souvenirs in Rio de Janeiro

If you are looking for souvenirs to take home from Rio, there are plenty of options. Here are some of the best places to shop:

Feira Hippie de Ipanema

The Hippie Fair of Ipanema is a weekly street market that takes place every Sunday. It is a great place to find handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and other souvenirs. The market is located on Praça General Osório in Ipanema.

Saara Market

The Saara Market is a maze of streets and alleys in the city center that sells everything from clothing to electronics. It can be overwhelming, but it’s a great place to find bargains and unique souvenirs. The market is located near the Uruguaiana metro station.

Shopping Malls

For a more upscale shopping experience, check out the Shopping Malls in Rio de Janeiro, such as Rio Sul and Barra Shopping. You can buy everything from clothing to electronics and souvenirs.

Read more: 7 Tips on Shopping in Rio de Janeiro – Online and In-Store Shopping.

Caminhos Language Centre is the largest and most exciting Portuguese school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We have an excellent infrastructure, over 15 experienced Brazilian teachers, and a friendly multilingual support staff. We are the only school in Brazil able to offer Portuguese group courses throughout the year on 10 different levels. Moreover, our school also offers more than just Portuguese lessons for foreigners, we offer you the complete Rio de Janeiro experience. Every day we organize 100% free and fun activities for you to socialize and practice your Portuguese. We can also help you with a student visa for Brazil and accommodation in Rio de Janeiro. Follow us on Instagram for some Portuguese tips and news.