Réunion is a French overseas region and department in the Indian Ocean, 700 km east of Madagascar and 200 km south-west of Mauritius. This volcanic island of extraordinary drama packs an active volcano, three steep-walled cirques, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain core, dense rainforest, and a warm lagoon into 2,512 km². It is simultaneously French enough to accept euros and credit cards everywhere, and exotic enough to feel like another world entirely.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Rhum arrangé (home-infused rum with tropical fruits, vanilla, or spices) — best from artisan producers; buy at Grand Marché or specialist rum shops
Bourbon vanilla (Réunion's world-famous Vanilla planifolia — plumper and more aromatic than Madagascar varieties)
Cilaos lentils and saffron — the only saffron grown on the island; buy from Cilaos village cooperative
Madras fabric (colourful checked cotton used in Creole traditional dress)
Épices créoles (Creole spice blends for cari and rougail)
Géranium essential oil — Réunion produces the world's finest rose geranium oil for perfumery
Artwork by local artists — paintings of the cirques and volcano sold at Saint-Denis galleries
Basket weaving and pandanus crafts from the east coast villages
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Grand Marché de Saint-Denis
Tropical produce, Bourbon vanilla, épices, madras fabric, rhum arrangé, flowers, street food (bouchons, samoussas)
Where: Saint-Denis city centre
Hours: Mon–Sat 05:00–13:00; Sun 05:00–12:00
Marché de Saint-Paul (Saturday Market)
One of Réunion's most authentic markets; street food, fresh produce, craftwork, and textiles alongside local social life
Where: Saint-Paul waterfront
Hours: Saturday only 06:00–13:00
Marché de Saint-Pierre
Fresh fish, southern Réunion produce, street snacks
Where: Saint-Pierre centre
Hours: Mon–Sat 06:00–12:00; market day Sat
Marché Artisanal de l'Hermitage
Creole crafts, jewellery, madras fabric, essential oils, and tourist souvenirs
Where: Saint-Gilles-les-Bains / Hermitage
Hours: Daily in high season 09:00–18:00; reduced hours May–June