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Best Markets in Russia | A Complete Shopping Guide

Russia has always been a shopper’s dream. From the grand halls of GUM in Moscow to the open-air stalls at Izmailovo, this country packs endless shopping surprises. The best markets in Russia offer everything from fresh produce and antiques to Soviet memorabilia and designer goods.

Some iconic spots include Izmailovo Vernissage (the largest arts and crafts market), GUM Department Store (luxury shopping on Red Square), and Kuznechny Market (the finest food market in St. Petersburg). Top shopping markets in Russia serve both locals and tourists who want unique finds at great prices.

This guide covers the most exciting traditional markets in Russia across Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, and beyond.

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17 Best Markets in Russia

1. Izmailovo Vernissage

Wooden Russian dolls in tourist shop, Moscow

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Izmailovo Vernissage stands as Russia’s largest applied arts market. This famous flea market in Russia sits inside a colorful medieval-style complex called the Izmailovo Kremlin. You can find Soviet memorabilia, matryoshka dolls, antique furniture, vintage posters, handmade crafts, and traditional Russian souvenirs.

The market comes alive during weekend markets in Russia, especially on Saturdays when vendors fill every corner. The second floor holds the finest antiques. Early birds grab the best deals, while late shoppers negotiate better prices.

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2. GUM Department Store

The GUM façade faces Red Square

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GUM is Moscow’s most famous luxury shopping spot in Russia. This stunning 19th-century building on Red Square features three glass-roofed levels packed with over 100 boutiques. The architecture alone makes it a must-see attraction.

While luxury brands like Bulgari and Louis Vuitton line the arcades, budget-friendly options exist too. Try the famous GUM ice cream from ground-floor kiosks or eat at Stolovaya No. 57, a Soviet-style cafeteria serving traditional Russian dishes.

3. Danilovsky Market

Moscow

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Danilovsky Market pioneered Moscow’s food revolution. This renovated Soviet-era farmers’ market became a trendy hub for foodies. The local food market in Russia offers fresh produce from small farmers alongside international food stalls.

You can attend lectures, film viewings, and theatre productions here. An antiques section opened recently. The mix of traditional market stalls and modern eateries creates a unique shopping experience.

4. Dorogomilovskiy Market

Plate of strawberries and cherries, Moscow

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Dorogomilovskiy Market is Moscow’s main gastronomic market. Chefs from top restaurants shop here for premium ingredients. This wholesale market in Russia attracts serious cooks and food enthusiasts looking for quality produce.

The market specializes in fresh vegetables, exotic fruits, meats, seafood, and specialty items. You won’t find many tourists here, just locals who know where to get the best ingredients.

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5. Old Arbat Street

Arbat Street in Moscow

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Old Arbat has been a major commercial area since the 19th century. This pedestrian street shopping in Russia destination stretches about one kilometer through historic Moscow. Artists, academics, and Russian nobility once lived here.

Today, souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, and street performers fill the street. Portrait artists and caricaturists work alongside street musicians. Prices run higher than in other markets due to the tourist location.

6. Riga Central Market

Flower market on Nikolskaya street near GUM in Moscow

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Riga Central Market boasts one of Moscow’s largest flower selections. Local florists buy fresh flowers here at wholesale prices. This market became one of the top seasonal markets in Russia for flowers and plants.

The market also sells vegetables, fruits, honey, and Korean salads. Vendors offer free samples, so taste before you buy.

7. Kuznechny Market

People walking on the main street of St Petersburg, Nevsky Prospekt

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Kuznechny Market holds the reputation for selling the finest meat, fruit, and vegetables in St. Petersburg. This 1920s neoclassical building supplies many top restaurants. The traditional market in Russia offers an authentic shopping experience.

Vendors from the Caucasus region run most stalls. They offer free samples of honey, Korean salads, caviar, and fresh produce. Prices run high, but quality matches the cost.

8. Sennoy Market

Neptune fountain at Sennaya Square

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Sennoy Market is one of St. Petersburg’s oldest markets. This local food market in Russia offers lower prices than Kuznechny while maintaining decent quality. Self-caterers find fresh fish, meat, vegetables, and fruits here.

The market location ties to Russian literature – Dostoevsky’s character confessed his sins here in “Crime and Punishment.” Literary fans and shoppers both appreciate this historical spot.

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9. Vasileostrovsky Market

Caviar—a delicacy that is very popular in Russian culture

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Vasileostrovsky Market underwent a complete transformation in 2019. The Soviet-era building became St. Petersburg’s most vibrant market. One part sells fresh produce while the other features international restaurants and cafes.

Crab Meet and Pio Nero represent Moscow’s restaurant brands here. This local food market in Russia follows European market trends seen in Barcelona and Berlin.

10. Udelnaya Flea Market

Udelnaya subway station

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Udelnaya delivers the ultimate Soviet shopping experience. This famous flea market in Russia specializes in vintage items, Soviet memorabilia, and antiques. Hidden at the back of fur coats and tracksuit stalls sits an open-air treasure trove.

You can find vinyl records, Lenin busts, Soviet money, rare books, World War II uniforms, and countless oddities. Serious collectors arrive early on weekends.

  • Highlights: Soviet memorabilia, vintage items, rare books, military uniforms
  • Timings: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Wednesday)
  • Address: Fermskoye Shosse, St Petersburg, Russia, 197341

11. Apraksin Dvor

The main frontage of Apraksin Dvor on Sadovaya Street

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Apraksin Dvor is a massive indoor shopping complex near Sennoy Market. This expansive clothing market in Russia offers various goods at competitive prices. The maze-like layout houses hundreds of small shops.

You can find electronics, clothing, accessories, household items, and more. Budget shoppers love this place for its variety and negotiable prices.

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12. Eliseevsky Food Store

Vatrushka

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Eliseevsky opened in 1901 on Tverskaya Street. This grand food store features luxurious interiors rarely seen in grocery stores. Russian nobility shopped here for imported wines and gourmet food before the Revolution.

Today, it sells Russian delicacies like vodka, caviar, chocolates, and specialty foods. The ornate Art Nouveau interior makes shopping here feel special.

13. TSUM Department Store

TsUM

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TSUM ranks as Moscow’s most luxurious shopping destination. This pre-revolutionary luxury shopping spot in Russia houses haute couture boutiques and high-end brands. The famous paper bags have become status symbols.

The rooftop restaurant Buro attracts Russian celebrities. TSUM caters to shoppers with deep pockets looking for premium fashion and accessories.

14. Depo Food Mall

Belorussky Railway Station

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Depo Food Mall transformed an old tram depot near Belorussky Station. This massive space houses over 200 stalls, shops, and restaurants serving food from around the world. The local food market in Russia offers an incredible variety.

Vietnamese, Italian, Chinese, and Mexican are just some cuisines available. Each aisle presents new smells and bright signs promoting different foods.

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15. Tishinka Flea Market

Romanovo, Lipetsk Oblast

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Tishinka Flea Market operates at Tishinka Trade and Exhibition Complex. This market in Russia specializes in vintage items, collectibles, and unique finds. Sellers bring interesting pieces from their personal collections. The market attracts collectors hunting for specific items.

16. Gorbushkin Mall

Gorbushka

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Gorbushkin Mall is one of Russia’s largest electronics and media device shopping venues. This top shopping market in Russia for tech enthusiasts offers computers, smartphones, cameras, gaming consoles, and accessories.

The mall became famous during the 1990s for selling CDs and electronics. Today it remains a go-to spot for technology products.

17. Central Children’s Store

Central Children’s Store

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Central Children’s Store occupies seven floors dedicated to children of all ages. This shopping and entertainment center features luxury boutiques, toy stores, and play areas. The rooftop viewing platform offers excellent views of central Moscow for just 50 rubles.

Families love this spot for gifts and entertainment. The selection covers everything from infant clothes to teenage fashion.

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FAQs

What are the best things to buy from markets in Russia?

The best markets in Russia sell matryoshka dolls, amber jewelry, Soviet memorabilia, lacquered boxes, fur hats, Russian tea sets, vodka, caviar, and traditional crafts. Antique markets in Russia offer vintage posters and collectibles.

What is the best time to shop in Russia?

Weekend markets in Russia operate best on Saturdays when most vendors set up stalls. Seasonal markets in Russia appear during holidays. Winter sales happen in January, while summer sales run throughout June.

Is it worth shopping in Russia?

Yes! Top shopping markets in Russia offer unique souvenirs at reasonable prices. You can find everything from luxury goods at luxury shopping spots in Russia to affordable handicrafts at traditional markets in Russia.

Are Russian markets safe?

Russian markets are generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas. Bargain politely at famous flea markets in Russia. Visit multiple stalls before buying. Street shopping in Russia requires normal caution.

What stores are cheaper in Russia?

Wholesale markets in Russia offer the lowest prices. Izmailovo Vernissage, Danilovsky Market, and Udelnaya Flea Market provide affordable options. Clothing markets in Russia, like Apraksin Dvor, sell budget-friendly fashion. Local food markets in Russia beat supermarket prices.

Is shopping in Russia expensive?

Shopping costs vary widely. Luxury shopping spots in Russia, like GUM and TSUM, carry high-end prices. However, the best bargains in Russian markets appear at flea markets and local bazaars. Handicraft markets in Russia offer fair prices for handmade goods. Night markets in Russia (limited) sometimes feature special deals. The best markets in Russia suit every budget.