When you think of Russia, images of its vast landscapes and cold climates may come to mind. However, the country is also home to a rich array of unique products that reflect its culture and heritage. Here are six essential items to consider adding to your shopping list when visiting Russia, along with some additional suggestions to enhance your experience.
St. Petersburg is renowned for its Imperial Porcelain Factory, known for producing exquisite porcelain pieces often referred to as "white gold." These items are not only functional but also serve as elegant decor for your home.
A basic teacup-and-saucer set starts around $30, while a full dinner set can cost between $900 and $1,000.
Visit the Imperial Porcelain Factory showrooms located in Moscow on Kutuzovsky Avenue and in St. Petersburg on Nevsky Avenue.
Fabergé eggs are iconic creations originally crafted for the Russian royalty by jeweller Karl Gustav Fabergé between 1885 and 1917. While the originals are priceless, replicas make for beautiful souvenirs.
Replicas can be found for approximately $100 to $200, depending on the design and detailing.
Look for these items at the Hermitage Museum, shops along Nevsky Avenue in St. Petersburg, or the Armoury Museum gift shop in Moscow.
Matryoshka dolls are colorful, handcrafted nesting dolls that are quintessentially Russian. These dolls vary in size and theme, often depicting traditional Russian attire, fairy tales, or contemporary figures.
A basic set of five dolls starts at around $15, while more elaborate sets can reach up to $200.
You can find nesting dolls at souvenir shops, local markets, and street vendors in both Moscow and St. Petersburg. Notable locations include Tsentralny Market in Sochi and Voroshilovsky Shopping Centre in Volgograd.
Amber, often referred to as "tears of the sun," is a popular material for handcrafted jewelry in Russia. Artisans create a variety of items, including rings, earrings, and necklaces.
Prices range from $10 for simple pendants to several thousand dollars for intricate necklace and earring sets.
Check out Amber Hall at Prospekt Leninsky 51 in Kaliningrad or the Amber & Art Flagship Store in St. Petersburg for a diverse selection.
Originating from the Orenburg region, these shawls are known for their delicate knitting and vibrant patterns. Named "wedding ring shawls," they can easily fit through a ring, symbolizing their fine craftsmanship.
Expect to pay between $100 and $300, depending on size and quality.
Pavlovo Posad showrooms in Moscow, located at venues such as Vegas Shopping Mall and Bolshaya Dmitrovka Street, offer a variety of options.
Russia boasts a rich tradition of chocolate-making, with numerous varieties to choose from. Popular brands include Alenka, Babaevsky, and Red October.
Prices vary by brand and shop, making it easy to find options that fit your budget.
Look for authentic Russian chocolates in local markets and luxury shops throughout the country.
In addition to the items mentioned above, consider purchasing:
Russia offers a wealth of unique shopping opportunities that reflect its rich cultural heritage. With a diverse range of products available, shoppers can find special items that serve as lasting mementos of their travels. For a seamless shopping experience, consider using HDFC Bank’s Multicurrency ForexPlus Card, which eliminates cross-currency charges and provides flexible payment options during your journey. Whether you’re immersing yourself in Russian culture or preparing for major sporting events, make the most of your shopping adventures in this fascinating country.
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