There's no lack of souvenir stands, T-shirt outlets, and overpriced hotel gift shops here, but good shopping options are limited. For clothes, shoes, beach accessories and toiletries head to the Centro Comercial Hicacos (Parque del 8000 Taquillas) at Av. 1 between Calles 44 and 46. There are several outdoor arts and crafts markets around Varadero; the best, Artesanía, is at Avenida 1 and Calle 12. The Plaza de los Artesanos at Avenida 1 between Calles 46 and 47 is also good. ARTex has stores at each of these sites, as well as at Avenida 1 and Calle 35. At each, you will find a broad (and standard) collection of trinkets, T-shirts, musical instruments, posters, and CDs.
Taller de Cerámica Artística, Avenida 1 between Calles 59 and 60 (tel. 45/66-7829), is a working pottery studio and factory with a broad selection of finished goods for sale. Some are quite good and quite expensive. The work ranges from abstract and artistic to purely functional. You can usually watch a potter at work while shopping.
For a dense collection and variety of shops, Plaza las Américas, Autopista Sur Km 11 (tel. 45/66-8181) has a modern mini-mall and convention center with clothing boutiques and T-shirt shops, along with an art gallery and a music shop thrown in. There's even a small supermarket here, and several restaurants.
If you want cigars, the best-stocked shop in Varadero is Casa de los Tabacos, Avenida 1 and Calle 38 (tel. 45/61-4719). They usually have one or two rollers making fresh stogies here, and there's a comfortable bar for enjoying their wares, while sipping a glass of rum or a strong espresso.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
