Cuba is much more than idyllic beaches, classic cars and Caribbean rhythms. Every corner of this country holds a piece of history, flavour and tradition that every traveller wants to take home with them. If you’re planning your trip and wondering what the most typical products of Cuba are, this is your definitive guide. We’ve selected 20 typical Cuban items that not only represent the soul of this corner of the world, but are also easy to find, inexpensive and 100% authentic.
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What are the most typical products of Cuba: 20 charming gifts or souvenirs
Choosing a good souvenir requires good taste and an eye for aesthetics. Every gift you bring back from Cuba carries with it a very important part of its identity: the music, the joy, the intense flavours and the Cuban culture that attracts tourists from all over the world. This list is designed to help you find charming souvenirs and objects steeped in history. Knowing what the most typical products of Cuba are is key to ensuring you don’t leave empty-handed.
But before embarking on a trip of this kind, you will want to know what currency is used in Cuba and how much money to take with you.
Cuban cigars (Habanos)
Cuban cigars are probably the most international souvenir from this country. Habanos are one of the typical things about Cuba that you can’t miss on your trip. Even if you’re not a smoker, a box of Cohibas or Montecristos is always something that attracts a lot of attention. But remember: they are sold in official tobacconists or specialised shops, never on the street.
Cigars also represent the elegance of Cuban culture and are a very classic gift. To be sure you’re buying the real thing, check that the cigars have the official seal.
Cuban rum (Havana Club, Santiago, Legendario, etc.)
Rum is undoubtedly one of Cuba’s most typical products. Not surprisingly, it is the soul of the island, as it is used both for toasting and cooking. The Havana Club Añejo 7 años is, for example, the most famous. However, there are also other very interesting gems such as Ron Santiago and Legendario Elixir. You can find them in supermarkets, souvenir shops and even in the airport duty free. A gift that captures the essence of Cuban culture.
Cuban coffee
Cuban coffee is an aromatic, strong drink with a lot of personality. The Cubita and Serrano brands are the best known and easiest to find. If you like a good espresso or want to relive the taste of the island at home, this is the perfect gift. Coffee is therefore one of the typical things you can’t miss out on. It is also an affordable, practical and tasty souvenir with a historical and traditional component closely linked to the roots of this country. If you are thinking about things to do in Santa Clara, you can visit the Café Museo Revolución to enjoy a good island coffee.
Cuban-style T-shirts and guayaberas
Clothing with palm trees, revolutionary phrases or the iconic image of Che are also very characteristic. Cuban T-shirts are inexpensive and full of personality. However, if you want something more elegant, a white guayabera is the national attire for a formal event.
You can find them in markets, shops in Old Havana or in shopping centres. Clothing is part of Cuban culture and is one of the typical things from Cuba that you will wear most when you return home.
Street art and Caribbean-inspired paintings
Many local artists sell small paintings depicting scenes of Havana’s streets, classic cars or tropical landscapes. Most of these works can be easily found at craft fairs, street markets or even while strolling along the Malecón in the afternoon.
One of these artistic pieces captures the intimate essence of Cuban culture. What’s more, if you buy street art, you’ll also be supporting local talent. A gift that holds the soul of the country within it.
Mini drums or maracas
Percussion instruments (maracas, claves, small wooden drums, etc.) are souvenirs that sound like Cuba. They don’t take up much space at home and are very symbolic of this country. You can find them at craft fairs and souvenir shops. They represent the rhythm of Cuban culture and are one of those typical Cuban items that children and adults alike love. We think they make a gift that is not only musical, but also a lot of fun.
Colourful Cuban rag dolls
Cuban rag dolls are handmade and have colourful outfits and turbans. They are a symbol of Afro-Caribbean folklore and can be found in popular markets and craft shops. Each one is different and has a unique touch. The dolls reflect the diversity and richness of Cuban culture and are ideal as decorations or small gifts for children. They are also very inexpensive and easy to transport when travelling.
CDs or USB sticks with Cuban music
Cuban music is world-famous. Buying CDs by Buena Vista Social Club, Compay Segundo or Los Van Van in Cuba is almost mandatory if you like son, salsa or trova. Nowadays, many artists also sell USB sticks with their entire discography at markets or music stores. We believe that this is undoubtedly one of the most original gifts from Cuba, capturing the essence and culture of the island. What’s more, if you use a solution such as eSIM to stay connected from anywhere, you can download high-quality Cuban music without relying on hotel Wi-Fi.
Magnets and key rings with typical images of Cuba
For those who like to collect small souvenirs from their travels, there is nothing more classic than a magnet or a keyring. There are ones with vintage cars, flags, maps of the island or the image of Che Guevara. What’s more, they are everywhere: airport shops, craft markets, street stalls, etc. A very inexpensive gift, practical and thoughtful. Because, even if it’s a simple souvenir, they are still some of the most typical products of Cuba, allowing you to take home something symbolic.
Santeria products (amulets, necklaces, figurines)
Santería is an essential part of Cuban culture. In some markets or esoteric shops, you can find beaded necklaces, figures of African saints and other ritual objects. It is true that many travellers buy them out of curiosity or for aesthetic reasons, but for others they are a small spiritual connection to the country. Not surprisingly, these amulets have a very strong cultural and religious significance for Cubans. Therefore, when buying these items, always do so with respect and from trusted sources.
Cuban handmade perfumes
The Habana 1791 perfumery, located in Old Havana, is a must-see. Here, they create handmade fragrances with essences of jasmine, sandalwood, tobacco and coconut. They are sold in blown glass bottles as delicate and elegant gifts. A souvenir that really catches the eye and stands out for its originality, reflecting the most refined side of Cuban culture. So, if you’re looking for something different from the usual, don’t forget to visit this place in the capital of Cuba.
Vintage-style retro posters
If you like retro style, you’ll see that Cuba is full of revolutionary propaganda posters, old rum brands and classic car advertisements. Many local artists reproduce these images on metal, wood or canvas for decoration. These posters are ideal for lovers of design or nostalgic style. You can easily find and buy them at art fairs or in any tourist shop in Havana.
Cuban brand soaps and creams
Cuban cosmetics are a very practical option and also something different as a gift. One of the best-known brands in the country is Suchel, which offers soaps, moisturising creams and colognes with tropical scents. Most are very affordable, smell great and reflect the essence of the island. In fact, they are typical Cuban products that not everyone the world knows about, but they are part of the daily routine of its inhabitants and Cuban culture.
Yarey hats
The yarey hat is a symbol of the Cuban peasant. This cool, light and sun-resistant garment is hand-woven from dried palm leaves. The hat is very typical of the interior of the island, although it is easy to find in any shop in the more touristy cities. It is a gift that shows a little bit of rural Cuba, perhaps less frequented by tourists, and which undoubtedly represents the deepest and most humble roots of Cuban culture.
Bags and wallets made from natural fibres or handmade leather
Handmade bags, backpacks and wallets made from jute, cane or leather are attractive items that you can find in markets such as San José (Havana) or Trinidad. They are durable, very original and stylish. Most of them feature details such as the Cuban flag or typical phrases. A Cuban souvenir that you are sure to get plenty of use out of when you get home.
Hand-decorated or hand-painted rum bottles
A very original idea is to buy empty rum bottles decorated with paint, string or Santeria figures. These recycled bottles become a real work of art. You can find them in many souvenir shops or craft fairs as decorative and very creative items. A gift that is a great combination of tradition and art.
Typical Cuban sweets (coquitos, guava, wafers)
Cubans love sweets. Coquitos in syrup, guava bars and coconut wafers are a real treat for locals and tourists alike. They can be found at street stalls and sweet shops and have a simple but authentic flavour. These sweets are perfect for after lunch with a coffee, one of the typical things about Cuba that evoke a huge sense of nostalgia for the country. What’s more, they take up very little space in your suitcase.
Carved wooden boxes or chests
Chests, ashtrays or small carved wooden boxes are very characteristic of craft fairs and souvenir shops. They usually feature designs of the map of Cuba, Afro-Caribbean figures, details of Che Guevara, etc. These pieces are very beautiful and perfect for storing jewellery or small souvenirs. A box carved by local artisans is an excellent choice if you are wondering what the most typical products of Cuba are.
Cuban recipe books or local cookbooks
If you like Cuban cuisine, you can find out about the 10 typical dishes of Cuba or visit a bookshop or tourist shop to buy a cookbook featuring typical local dishes: ropa vieja, congrí, tostones, etc. There are also books that explain the island’s culinary history. It really is a very special gift for those who want to delve a little deeper into Cuban culture through food. One of the typical things about Cuba that combines tradition, flavour and experience.
Short works by Cuban authors
Book lovers can purchase a book by Cuban author such as Leonardo Padura or José Martí. Many of them are available in very affordable editions, ideal for tourists. Reading local writers is an excellent way to learn about Cuban culture beyond the clichés we all know. Books are not usually the first thing that comes to mind when talking about typical Cuban items, but they are a treasure of the island that is well worth discovering.
Now you know what the most typical products of Cuba are to take home a little piece of the island. We wanted them to be not only practical or beautiful objects, but also to represent the soul of a country full of flavour, music, history and passion. Typical Cuban items are much more than souvenirs; they are a living reminder of an unforgettable experience.
If, in addition to Cuba, you are exploring other destinations on the continent, you may also be interested in discovering the typical things from Nicaragua, another country full of culture, flavour and unique traditions that is well worth discovering.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
Frequently asked questions about typical things in Cuba
What typical Cuban items can I bring in my luggage without any problems?
You can bring rum, coffee, handicrafts, traditional clothing and books without any problems. In all cases, avoid buying illegal products (cigars without an official seal). Typical Cuban items that are accessible and ideal as gifts do not usually cause problems at international customs.
Where is the best place to buy souvenirs in Cuba?
We always recommend craft fairs, popular markets (the one in San José in Havana is the most interesting) or shops in the most touristy neighbourhoods and areas. There you will find the most typical products of Cuba, made by local artisans and at fairer prices than in airports or hotels.
What gifts best reflect Cuban culture?
Rum, Havana cigars, guayabera shirts, musical instruments and street art are all very representative of Cuban culture. Each one reflects its music, history, cuisine and way of life. They are unique gifts that connect with the island’s identity.
What are the most typical Cuban gifts for children?
Rag dolls, maracas, traditional sweets and colourful T-shirts are perfect for children. These typical Cuban items are very inexpensive and represent the local culture.
Can you find Cuban souvenirs outside of Havana?
Yes, in cities such as Trinidad, Viñales, Santiago de Cuba and Varadero, there is also a wide variety of gifts. However, Havana always tends to offer more varied options.
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