Are you visiting Cuba as a tourist and want to bring back unforgettable memories for your family and friends? Don’t waste time! Every tour around the island is an opportunity to discover unique and authentic products that reflect Cuba’s cultural richness.
From handmade crafts to emblematic products such as tobacco and rum, these are among the most common souvenirs for visitors to the country. But what to buy, where and in what currency to pay. This post will help you answer these questions and give you recommendations to make your experience a success.
What to buy in Cuba as a tourist?
In general, tourists can find a wide variety of products that may interest them in Cuba, from typical items to basic necessities.
Some of the island’s most popular products are: cigars (one of the country’s most emblematic and identifying products), Cuban rum (a typical beverage), handicrafts, musical instruments and coffee.
Handicrafts and souvenirs typical of Cuba
With a distinctive touch that sets it apart from anywhere else in the world, Cuban handicrafts are born from the most common materials (seeds, shells, wood, clay, glass, etc.). The creativity and skill of our artisans turn these materials into truly amazing works of art.
The options can be very diverse, so we suggest you to think of an authentic and original product that reflects the culture and history of the country. To help you choose, here are some suggestions of typical Cuban handicrafts:
- Clay pottery: Clay pottery is one of Cuba’s most emblematic handicrafts. Our first settlers already used this material to make different objects. It can be found in many different colors, sizes and designs. For example, you can find masks, plates, vases, rattles, tiny classic carts, etc.
- Straw hats: Straw hats are an integral part of Cuban culture, and are used both on the beach and in the city. They are light, durable and available in a wide variety of sizes and styles. It is also a symbol of the Cuban countryside.
- Leather goods: In Cuba, you will find many leather products, including handbags, wallets, backpacks and belts. These products are handmade and are an excellent choice for those looking for a practical and durable gift.
- Musical instruments: Music is a fundamental part of Cuban culture, and musical instruments are an ideal souvenir for those passionate about music. You can buy drums, the Cuban tres, claves, maracas, guitars, etc.
- Folk art objects: From paintings that reflect the daily life in Cuba to sculptures that exalt the beauty of Cuban women, folk art objects are a sample of the country’s cultural richness. These objects are handmade and are a unique and unforgettable gift for those looking for something special.
- Jewelry: Handmade jewelry made from natural materials such as seeds, shells and wood is very popular in Cuba, and is also a very beautiful detail if you want to wear something distinctive on your visit to the beaches.
Where to buy souvenirs in Cuba?
There are several places where you can buy handicrafts and souvenirs; for example, local stores (popularly known as “ferias de artesanías” or “mercado de artesanías” by Cubans), souvenir shops in hotels and airports, or any of the stores belonging to the chain of stores ARTEX .
It is impossible to mention every place, because there are so many, but here is a list of some of the most popular places in Havana, the capital of the country, where you will surely be able to acquire some memorable souvenir that will make you remember your trip:
- Obispo Street Obispo Street: This pedestrian street is one of the most popular places to buy handicrafts and souvenirs in Havana. It is located in the center, very close to the Capitolio and the Central Park. Throughout its width you can find different stores and local stalls offering all kinds of handmade products.
- Crafts Market “San José” : This market is very popular in Havana and widely known for its immense variety of handicrafts. : This market is very popular in Havana and widely known for its immense variety of handicrafts, including souvenirs, jewelry, ceramics, shoes, bags, paintings, sculptures, textiles and more. It is located right on Avenida del Puerto, very close to the National Archive of Cuba. Here you can not only find the perfect gift, but also enjoy a unique view of Havana Bay.
- Universal Art Gallery This gallery is located on San Rafael Street and is an excellent option to buy high quality handicrafts and souvenirs, such as furniture and musical instruments. They also sell posters, postcards and details that will remind you of your visit.
- Partagás Tobacco Factories The Partagás Tobacco Factory is a perfect place to buy souvenirs related to Cuban tobacco, such as cigars, humidors and other accessories. It is located behind the Havana Capitol.
- Rum Museum In this emblematic site you can enjoy a trip to Cuba’s roots and explore the rum-making process. In its specialized store you can purchase the full range of the renowned Cuban rum brand Havana Club.
What budget do you need for your shopping in Cuba?
As in almost any part of the world, the cost of these types of products tends to be somewhat high, especially if you can tell that you are a tourist. Although, often, the prices of handicrafts and souvenirs in Cuba are more affordable than in other tourist countries, which means you could get more for your money.
Now, it is very difficult to comment on the exact prices, since it will obviously depend a lot on the type of merchandise you choose: for example, paintings, decorative objects or a musical instrument will surely be much more expensive than a piece of jewelry or a magnet for your refrigerator. But it is important to remember that, being handmade products, prices are likely to vary a lot and it will always be possible to negotiate with the sellers.
Important! The cost of handicrafts and souvenirs in hotels and airports is much higher than if you buy this type of product in local markets. In addition, these establishments will only allow you to buy them by credit card, while the local ones will accept cash payments in local currency (CUP) as well as in dollars or euros.
In general, costs may vary as follows:
- Small souvenirs: From 1 to 10 USD.
- Elaborated handicrafts: Between 15 and 50 USD.
- Cigars and rum: From 10 to more than 100 USD, depending on the brand and presentation.
Shopping in Cuba as a tourist is an experience that goes beyond consumption: it is a way to connect with the culture, support local artisans and take a piece of the island with you.
