My stay in Petersburg is approaching its end. And, as everyone knows, there are two categories of people on Earth. Those who bring back home a souvenir to each loved person, and the smart ones. Unfortunately, I belong to the first group. I would therefore like to share the perfect places in which you can find souvenirs in St. Petersburg!
1. Food
When we talk about food – vodka and caviar being the two Russians most-known – one place rules them all: the Елисеевский магазин. The Eliseyev Emporium, on Nevsky Prospekt, has everything related to food, a vast assortment of treats from which you can choose. It also has some importation products hardly found anywhere else in the city, but that’s not what we are here for, so stick to the plan!
2. Matryoshka dolls
Perhaps Russia’s best known souvenir, the Matryoshka doll, can be found everywhere. I would like to recommend you a few places, however. Algamma is a master class where they teach you produce your own doll, which you can then obviously take home with you. If you settle for a premade doll, Matreshka Tanushka has plenty, certified Russian ones, each one with its creator name specified.
3. Sports’ Equipment
If you’re a soccer fan, Zenit St. Petersburg has shops around the city, you can even find one on Nevsky (of course), as here you can find Bosco Sport, official sponsor of the Sochi Olympic Games. As, in fact, you can also find Hockey Club, in case you are that Russian already.
4. Soviet Memorabilia
Soviet Memorabilia (and much more) can be found at the Udelnaja Flea Market, which is also a Russian experience, in case you’ve missed it. The originality of many things can’t be guaranteed (especially in you stop in the first part of the market), but you should find something interesting all the same.
5. Miscellaneous
For porcelain souvenirs, what best choice than one of the oldest Russian porcelain places? Founded by the founder of Russian porcelain, the Lomonosov Porcelain Factory is what suits you. If you are looking for more artsy (and expensive) things, la Petite Opera Gallery has some real gems (I personally fell in love with the chess board, but it’s a bit out of my range… In case you especially appreciate my article, you know how you can thank me!) For cosmetics, visit either Natura Siberica or Planeta Organica (one next to the other, guess where?), which all offer organic, internationally appreciated products, which make good souvenirs, either for yourselves or for loved ones. For handmade articles of various genre, from dolls to wallets, visit Milo. I really don’t think I need to specify where you can find this other shop now, do I?
What would you bring as a souvenir from St. Petersburg? Let us know in the comments section below!