Red Square is not only a cultural and historical hub but also a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs that capture the essence of Moscow and Russia. Whether you’re looking for traditional Russian handicrafts, local delicacies, or modern Moscow-themed items, there are plenty of options near Red Square. Here’s a guide to the best places to find souvenirs near this iconic location.
1. GUM Department Store
GUM (State Department Store) is a must-visit when shopping for souvenirs in Moscow, located directly on the north side of Red Square. Known for its luxury shopping and historic architecture, GUM also offers a variety of traditional Russian souvenirs in its charming retail spaces.
What to Expect:
- Russian Nesting Dolls (Matryoshka): You can find beautiful hand-painted matryoshka dolls, ranging from classic sets to more modern designs.
- Russian Fabrics: Traditional Russian scarves, shawls, and linen products are available, many with intricate floral patterns and bold colors.
- Sweets and Treats: GUM also has a selection of Russian chocolates, candies, and tea sets that make for perfect edible souvenirs.
- Russian Vodka: The vodka section in GUM offers some of the best Russian vodkas as gifts, including premium and limited-edition bottles.
Why Visit:
- GUM combines the luxury of high-end brands with a selection of authentic Russian goods, making it a great place to buy both traditional and upscale souvenirs.
2. Red Square Souvenir Stalls
Throughout Red Square, you’ll find small souvenir stalls offering a wide range of Russian-themed items. These kiosks are perfect for picking up something quick and affordable while you’re sightseeing.
What to Expect:
- Miniature Red Square Models: Many of the stalls sell miniature replicas of Red Square, the Kremlin, and St. Basil’s Cathedral.
- Russian Icons and Religious Items: You can find small wooden religious icons, crosses, and prayer beads that are important parts of Russian culture.
- Cold Weather Gear: Traditional Russian fur hats (ushankas), mittens, and scarves are popular souvenir items, especially in the colder months.
- Souvenir Magnets: If you’re looking for a simple yet memorable memento, you’ll find plenty of magnets featuring famous Moscow landmarks.
Why Visit:
- The stalls are perfect for tourists who want to quickly grab a souvenir without having to venture far from Red Square. They offer affordable options and a good variety of Russian-inspired gifts.
3. Okhotny Ryad Shopping Mall
Located just a short walk from Red Square, Okhotny Ryad is a shopping mall where you can find a range of affordable souvenirs along with fashion, electronics, and more.
What to Expect:
- Russian Folk Crafts: The mall features shops with handcrafted goods, such as wooden toys, ceramics, and lacework.
- Russian Tea: Various shops in Okhotny Ryad offer premium Russian tea brands and beautiful teapots and tea sets.
- Cultural Souvenirs: There are plenty of stores selling Russian dolls, art prints, and other cultural mementos.
Why Visit:
- Okhotny Ryad provides a modern shopping experience while still offering an impressive selection of traditional Russian items. It’s also great for picking up more practical souvenirs, such as clothing and electronics.
4. Kitai-Gorod District
The Kitai-Gorod district, which is a short distance from Red Square, is home to some of the best artisanal shops and local galleries. Here you’ll find unique and high-quality souvenirs that are not sold in typical touristy areas.
What to Expect:
- Russian Art: Small galleries and shops in Kitai-Gorod offer local art, such as paintings, photographs, and handcrafted jewelry.
- Antiques: Kitai-Gorod is known for its antique shops where you can find unique historical Russian artifacts and vintage collectibles.
- Russian Books: Many bookstores in the district offer Russian literature, from classical novels to modern works by contemporary authors.
Why Visit:
- If you’re looking for unique and high-quality Russian souvenirs, Kitai-Gorod is a great place to explore. You’ll find one-of-a-kind items that represent the local artistic culture.
5. Gorky Central Park Market
Gorky Park, located not far from Red Square, is not only a lovely place to relax and enjoy nature but also home to a year-round market that offers great souvenirs and local products.
What to Expect:
- Handcrafted Jewelry: Many local artisans sell unique handmade jewelry, often incorporating traditional Russian designs.
- Eco-Friendly Goods: The market is known for offering eco-friendly souvenirs, such as handcrafted wooden goods, organic cosmetics, and natural skincare products.
- Local Food and Snacks: You can also find Russian snacks, such as dried fruits, nuts, and local pickled vegetables, perfect for bringing a taste of Russia home.
Why Visit:
- Gorky Park Market is a more relaxed shopping experience with a focus on handmade and eco-friendly products. It’s ideal if you’re looking for sustainable souvenirs or local delicacies.
6. Zaryadye Park and Souvenir Stalls
Zaryadye Park, located just south of Red Square, is a modern, eco-friendly park with a range of souvenir stalls selling unique Russian items.
What to Expect:
- Local Handicrafts: Look for handwoven scarves, Russian nesting dolls, and painted wooden products at the souvenir stalls.
- Modern Russian Art: Some shops in and around the park offer art prints and photographs that reflect Moscow’s modern art scene.
- Cultural Souvenirs: You’ll also find traditional Russian music instruments, such as balalaikas, and folk music CDs.
Why Visit:
- Zaryadye Park offers a unique mix of modern and traditional Russian souvenirs, making it an excellent stop for those looking for something a little different than the typical tourist fare.
7. Vernisazh Flea Market
Located near the Izmailovo Kremlin, the Vernisazh Flea Market is a short metro ride from Red Square and is known for its wide selection of Russian handicrafts and vintage items.
What to Expect:
- Russian Souvenirs: You can find a variety of traditional Russian goods, including matryoshka dolls, hand-painted porcelain, and folk art.
- Vintage Items: The flea market is also a great place to find vintage Soviet-era items, such as military memorabilia, old postcards, and vintage toys.
- Jewelry and Antiques: Many stalls sell antique jewelry, handmade silver, and Russian coins.
Why Visit:
- The Vernisazh Flea Market is perfect for those looking for authentic, artisanal, and vintage Russian souvenirs. It’s also a great way to explore a more local market scene away from the main tourist spots.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for traditional Russian crafts, luxury items, or eco-friendly souvenirs, the areas surrounding Red Square offer plenty of opportunities to pick up something special. From the high-end shopping experience at GUM to the more unique, artisanal offerings in Kitai-Gorod and Vernisazh Flea Market, you’ll find souvenirs that capture the essence of Russia’s rich culture and history.
