An essential attribute for all European capitals, whatever the size, is a quality shopping district -streets full of stores with attractive window displays and even more gorgeous treats inside. Kiev is well-endowed when it comes to shopping.
Shopping in Kiev is a rewarding cross-cultural experience, adding a lovely dimension to your vacation. There is a smart underground shopping mall and more traditional markets that are available for visitors who enjoy bargaining.
Flea markets are all around the city, with gems waiting to be discovered. They are extremely entertaining and have good value. The black market in Kiev is an exceptional bazaar with a network of small alleys. They offer anything from Rye bread to chocolates to vodkas.
The Metrograd Shopping Complex stretches from Khreshatyk to Lva Tolstoho square with many corridors and turns. You can buy shoes, clothes, toiletries, furniture, souvenirs, and books. There are wrapping services, pharmacies, sun beds, and so much more. Experiencing the flea markets is a pleasant escape from tourist traps and is a nice way to mingle with the locals.
Khreschatyk is Kiev’s Oxford Street. Anything is offered here from cheap clothes to mobile to expensive watches and fine porcelain. You will be drawn towards the Globus’ striking glass atrium behind the Maidan Nezalezhnosti. The high-end Mandarin-Plaza is a great all-rounder with several excellent restaurants amid chic boutiques to satisfy hungry shoppers.
If you want to experience more traditional Ukrainian shopping, go to the Bessarabsky Rynok located at the corner of Prospect Shevchenka and Kreschatyk. You can find an informal collection of souvenir stall holders on the Maidan Nezalezhnosti Square. Souvenir vendors line Andrivsky Uziz but tourists will also find here authentic arts and crafts and very nice art galleries.
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