Top Rated Shopping in Havana

Located a short drive away from central Havana, Estudio Taller Santacana is a lovely gallery featuring the works of local artist Beatriz Sala Santacana. The place has a charming interior that's filled with unique pieces created with a deeper thought process. Ceramics are Beatriz's forte, and the gallery displays a number of sculptures for you to choose from. The place's layout lets patrons browse the collection peacefully, and the artist herself is available on site to entertain your queries, on most occasions. In addition to art, at Estudio Taller Santacana there are smaller articles like jewelry pieces, etc. that make great souvenirs.

Set in the heart of Havana's historic center, Memorias does complete justice to its name. This quaint bookstore is well stocked with a number of archaic articles that make perfect gifts and souvenirs. Through ceramic wares, antique collectibles, monochromatic photographs, old literature in the form of magazines and books, vintage posters, baseball cards, coins and much more, this store gives you a peek into the Cuban history and culture. If you know someone who is an aficionado of the old-world charm then this is the place to find just the right memorabilia for them.

Piscolabis is probably the name that pops into your head if you think vintage Cuban artifacts and sculpted works. Located on the bustling San Ignacio street, the shop functions as an antique store, as well as offering a quaint coffee shop. If you happen to be in Old Havana, stop by Piscolabis to shop for some old-school yet exquisite home decor items, quirky accessories, apparel, and other knick knacks. The outlet is wonderfully done up with bright lights and large displays, making it easy for you to browse through its extensive selection. Most of the merchandise on display is the work of Havana's skilled artisans and craftsmen. The on-site cafe serves delicious Cuban lattes, brewed with various traditional ingredients. Munch on some peppery snacks or gulp down lush fruit smoothies as you shop for wacky wall decor pieces and ceramic items at this one-of-a-kind shop.

Located in the historic district of Havana, Clandestina has on offer aesthetic, imaginative creations by young Cuban designers. You can shop for shirts, fine hats, posters, souvenirs and even toys made from recycled material. You also have the option to get your own clothes redesigned. With the refreshing, artistic quality of the products, you are sure to like the designers goodies sold at Clandestina.

In a beautiful colonial park in the heart of Old Havana, tucked between the Palacio del Segundo Cabo and Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, you'll find this exquisite gathering of secondhand booksellers. All sorts of publications can be found at this alfresco shopping destination, ranging from antique books to tourist guides to history texts pertaining to the Cuban revolution. You may stumble upon books now out of print or rare first editions, making the Mercado de Libros de la Plaza de Armas a valuable attraction for avid readers. Popular among both tourists and locals, the charming market offers works mainly in English in Spanish. It's set up every morning, so you have plenty of time to check it out on your tour of Havana.

This music shop belongs to the chain Artex, and is right in the center of the historical area of the city, in the Boulevard de Obispo. Not only does it sell Cuban and a selection of international music, but it also offers a specialized information service. CDs, cassettes, videos, CD-Rom, musical instruments and accessories and Hi-Fi's are on sale here, payable in US dollars.