Cartago Shopping and Districts

(Cartago, Costa Rica)

The shopping in Cartago is fairly interesting, since the city has a decent selection of malls and shopping centres, along with markets where local crafts can be sought. Since the city centre is fairly compact, it means that all of the best shops, restaurants and touristy attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Prices for items in Cartago are, on the whole, cheaper than in San Jose, although you will need your wits about you when shopping for crafts and jewellery in the markets. Hand-crafted wooden souvenirs at the Central Market (Mercado Central), or near the Basilica of our Lady of the Angels, are always good buys.

When to Shop and Where

For Costa Rican and local Cartago-specific crafts shopping, the Central Market is your best bet. Although a daily event, it is best enjoyed on a Thursday or Saturday, while bargains can be obtained at other times. Hand-crafted leather and wood items are good souvenirs from here and are reasonably priced.

The Central Market is situated just to the north of downtown Cartago, above Highway 10, and this is one of the first places that you should visit to gain a feeling for general pricing. Due south of here are the city's main shopping centres, including Ekono, while off to the east and along the Avenida 2 (near the Basilica) are some rather cool shops and vendors.

One must-buy souvenir in Cartago is a model of an ox cart, the national symbol. These are usually crafted from wood and come in a range of styles and sizes, and are available in markets and shopping centres. Ceramics and jewellery are other very good buys, but it does pay to know your market.

At the market, always look to get 50 percent off the asking price. Items are marked up for tourists and although an item may appear cheap, and invariably is, there is no joy being overcharged, even if you are moneyed.

Shopping hours in Cartago follow the country norm, that is, just beyond office hours of Monday to Saturday - 09:00 to around 18:00 or 19:00.