Havana - Shopping

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Havana

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Caribbean Cuba Havana Shopping

Overview

Shopping The guide was updated: 2024-09-16

As strict government control over economic activity eases, the Cuban capital sees a timid rise of private businesses producing and selling their own goods. Although such outlets are still few and far between (and many prefer to stay hidden, only made known by word of mouth), there are several reliable locations across Havana stocking high-quality, locally made souvenirs. The main Cuban exports are cigars and rum, both available in unlimited supply, which still isn't the case for daily use items foreign visitors are often accustomed to. Remember to pack all your essentials and bring them along from home, leaving only souvenir shopping to be done here, in Havana.

Almacenes San Jose Handicraft Market

Almacenes San Jose Handicraft Market

This huge indoor market is the number one shopping stop for visiting pleasure cruisers, and an instant favorite for anyone looking for the largest possible selection of Cuban souvenirs, all under one roof. The market was temporarily closed following a fire, but is re-opened as of mid-2018, with only a section remaining closed for business.

Antique Book Market

Antique Book Market

It's worth stopping by Plaza de Armas on your tour of Habana Vieja regardless, but literary enthusiasts are in for an added bonus of being able to shop around at the capital's well-established antique book market if they come any day between 9am and 6pm. There are some print souvenirs to be had as well.

Clandestina

Clandestina

The pioneer of independent Cuban design labels, Clandestina specializes in up- and recycled clothing bearing memorable slogans of the owning designer's creation. They also ship worldwide, a service to-date unmatched by local competitors.

Piscolabis

Piscolabis

This artisan bazaar stocks a wide variety of decor items, jewelry, clothing and Cuban souvenirs produced and designed by local creators (many of the pieces are up-cycled). There is an on-site cafe that's essentially one with the store, so feel free to browse with a drink in hand.

Alma

Alma

Alma stocks one of Havana's finest selections of Cuban souvenirs, from traditional straw hats with a bit of a twist to clothing, ceramics, jewelry, artwork, and many other unique, hand-made items procured locally. Feel free to get inspired by their Instagram.

La Casa del Habano

La Casa del Habano

There are multiple cigar stores across Havana, its most reputable one, La Casa del Habano, also boasting several locations throughout the city. Most locations have an on-site lounge where cigars can be sampled, sometimes accompanied by Cuba's fabled spirit – rum. "Habanos" are Cuba's official brand, operating several other varieties under different names. To ensure you're getting the finest quality, shop at authorized locations only.

Habana 1791

Habana 1791

The artisan perfumery sources its own raw materials and produces perfumes on-site, making the atmosphere reminiscent more of an old-time chemist's shop rather than a perfume boutique, which adds all the more charm.

Memorias Librería

Memorias Librería

This one is for those of us who enjoy a deep dive into books and all manner of related paraphernalia and antiques, not limited to books only. Many of the items on sale date back decades, and are one-of-a-kind.

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