The best fashion and gift stores - Uruguay in 2024

Practical information : Treat yourself (& others) Uruguay

Timetable

The stores operate according to fairly precise hours: from 9am to 7pm on weekdays, and until 2pm on weekends, with sometimes a lunch break between 1pm and 2pm. Shopping centers are open every day from 10am to 10pm. Sunday is generally considered a day of rest for most retailers.

Budget & Tips

Taxes applied to products in Uruguay are 22%, which can add an additional cost to purchases made in the country. However, for foreign tourists, it is possible to reclaim the value added tax (VAT) on purchases made in certain stores. To do so, you must present your passport and proof of purchase at the time of purchase, and then reclaim the VAT at the airport before leaving the country. As for payment methods, stores in Uruguay generally accept international credit and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express. It is also possible to pay in cash in most stores, although this may be limited depending on the amount of the transaction. Checks are generally not accepted in stores, as they are considered less secure than other forms of payment.

Sales

Official sales periods are regulated by the government and take place twice a year: in summer (usually January and February) and in winter (usually July and August). In addition, local and seasonal products are often cheaper and of better quality than imported ones.

What's very local

As you wander around, you will find a multitude of local products that celebrate Uruguayan culture and craftsmanship. Don't miss the leather goods, renowned for their quality and durability. Semi-precious stone jewelry and the art of ceramics are also a testament to local know-how. Finally, let yourself be seduced by the soft and warm merino wool, a true gift of nature. As for haggling, even if this practice is not as common as elsewhere, it is still possible, especially in the markets and bazaars. To succeed in your negotiation, arm yourself with patience and smiles, and do not hesitate to show respect and politeness. The sellers, touched by your interest and attitude, might give you a discount, turning each purchase into a real human encounter. Finally, most supermarkets, pharmacies and stores offer home delivery services, making your shopping and your daily life easier.

Tourist traps

In this country where smiles are sincere and hands are extended, tourist traps are rare, as if erased by a benevolent breeze. Forbidden goods and counterfeits are almost non-existent here, leaving room for an offer of authentic products that respect local traditions. You will be able to stroll around serenely, without fearing the traps set by malicious sellers.

The best fashion and gift stores Uruguay

MERCADO DE LOS ARTESANOS

DON BAEZ

LA CASA GALERIA

ART PRESTIGE

JAIME ODEN

ROVELLI

IBANA

PUNTA SHOPPING CENTER

MANOS DEL URUGUAY

MAGMA

CASA PUERTA

PATIO DE LOS ARTESANOS

SANTOLINA

EVAN PULL

COLONIA SHOPPING

MUTATE

SANTERÍA PAMPEANA

MANOS MÍAS

BLACK GALLERY

ALMACEN LA CARLOTA

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