You can find good buys almost anywhere in San Cristobal de las Casas. All the streets around downtown are full of shops selling all sorts of handicrafts, such as lacquered objects, carvings, embroidered garments or cloths, amber and silver jewelry, toys and more.
Wear a comfortable pair of shoes and launch into a walking tour of the city, which usually goes on for hours. Getting around the city is not that difficult with a good map, without one it could be a little confusing. Because of the wide range of stores and markets to choose from, shopping in San Cristobal is unbeatable.
Tourist Promenade
Open throughout the day until 8 p.m., the Tourist Promenade features several shops that sell handicrafts, bracelets and amber earrings, clothes, shoes, lacquered crosses, pottery, and delicate metal crosses that represent Christ's passion.
Later in the evening, after the shops have closed, it is the turn of the hippie artisans to sell their goods which they lay out on mats on the ground. You can purchase bracelets, embroidered belts, all sorts of earrings and charms, as well as small Zapatista guerrilla wooden figurines; all made by the artisans themselves.
Tepozquilas
Tepozquilas is a small but well stocked shop selling tequilas and assorted liqueurs in elegant bottles. Apple cider, sauces, fruit preserves and jams, handicrafts, candles, wind chimes, and many more souvenirs are also sold in this intriguing store. Besides finding the right souvenirs, you will also be assisted by friendly and efficient staff.
Amber Museum
The Amber Museum has a permanent exhibit of masterfully carved pieces of incredibly beautiful amber, as well as rough pieces to show people how it looks when it is first extracted. There is also a shop where you can purchase all kinds of genuine amber items, they teach you how to recognize fake imitations, and will give you a certification of authenticity with your purchase.
Handicrafts Market
Shopping at the Handicrafts Market is a colorful experience. As you walk up and down the aisles, you will see all sorts of handicrafts as well as items of clothing, shoes, typical candy, necklaces, bracelets and belts all made by the locals and artisans from the neighboring towns. You will definitely find something that will make the perfect gift or as a token of your trip to San Cristobal de las Casas.