Moscow Shopping

There's no reason to deny it. No trip - anywhere - is complete without at least a few hours spent browsing the shops and stalls run by local merchants. You worked hard for your money and we know you'd prefer to spend it on quality merchandise instead of on stuff made in foreign countries and sold in your Moscow hotel gift shop. Be sure to check out a few of these shops on your next Moscow shopping trip.

The GUM

The GUM can be found right outside The Kremlin and is one of the largest shopping malls in Russia, let alone Moscow. The department store has been in operation for over 100 years and became even more popular after the wars. Some of the stores on the first floor will remind you of Soviet Russia, but the contrast can be felt throughout the rest of the mall, where you'll find elegant architecture and the incredible Bosco restaurant and terrace.

Atrium

The Atrium is a huge shopping mall found directly in front of the Kursk Metro Station. This mall is more than just a group of simple stores. In this building you'll find clothing, groceries, a movie theatre, and even a casino! When you're tired of shopping, simply visit the coffee shop or sushi bar for a bite to eat.

Art Boutiques of the Varvarka Ulitsa Churches

If you're looking for a great place to purchase hand made pieces of Russian art, look no further than the Church of St. Maxim the blessed or the Church of St. George on Pskov Hill. Both are open daily and feature an incredible variety of art, jewelry, and crafts.

Dorogomilovsky Rynok

The Dorogomilovsky is an incredible outdoor shopping district resembling something that combines a flea market with a produce market and more. Most of the merchants who set up within the covered hall are selling food products, including fresh dairy and vegetables. Dozens of vendors sell pickled goods for local residents to store for the winter months - and a few sell whole pigs and other meat products as well.

Valentin Yudashkin Trading House

Perhaps you're a dedicated fashionista, always up on the latest trends within the industry. Valentin Yudashkin is known for being the only designer from Russia who is well known in other parts of the world. His clothing is coveted by Russian celebrities, often more than that of any other designer. Sadly, this stop may be better for those without a set budget.

Russian Museum World

The gift shop within the Russian Museum is perhaps one of the best places to pick up souvenirs for the friends and family who weren't able to make the trip with you. You'll find t-shirts, crafts, small pieces of artwork, and more. Situated right inside the Red Square, you'll be close to your Moscow apartment when it's time to carry all of those goodies back to your room.

Krasny Oktyabr Chocolate Factory

What trip is complete without at least one trip to a famous candy store? The chocolate delicacies created at Krasny Oktyabr are a welcome diversion for anyone with a sweet tooth. Never fear, Krasny Oktyabr has stores throughout the entire city, so you can still indulge even if your tour doesn't take you past the factory store.

Shopping is an integral part of the economy in any country, whether there are tourist attractions nearby or not. Local Moscow shopping merchants will surely appreciate your efforts to buy locally made products. Have fun exploring!