Shopping in Kyiv: A Comprehensive Guide

Kyiv is a city full of talented designers, bustling markets, excellent food, and rising fashion stars. Moreover, it has emerged as an exciting, alternative travel destination in recent years. Consequently, the city now offers an eclectic shopping experience for visitors eager to escape the all-too-familiar international brands. For urban cool with a Slavic twist, here’s your shopping guide to the Ukrainian capital.

City Markets

The biggest and most renowned of the city’s markets is Bessarabsky Rynok. Set in a striking art-nouveau building which dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, it’s the go-to place for grocery shopping in central Kyiv. Under its impressive vaulted roof, you’ll find a vast range of fruits, vegetables, meat, and fish. Although it may be a little bit overpriced and somewhat inelegant in appearance, this market hall is one of the few remaining strongholds of old Kyiv. Additionally, Bessarabsky Rynok (or simply Bessarabka, as the locals call it) is home to the trendiest street-food spots in the city, including Green 13, Vyetnamskiy Privet, and Prosciutteria Wine and Deli.

For a much more local and unfiltered experience, head to the Volodymyrsky Market situated outside the city centre near Palats Ukraina metro station. There’s absolutely no chance you’ll find anyone who speaks English, but the prices here are moderate, and it’s the Kyiv market at its truest – without the makeup or the hassle.

Food and Drink

Kyiv is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. For starters, there’s a network of confectionery brand Roshen (owned by the Ukrainian president) spread throughout the city. To try the alluring range of sugary treats, visit the Khreschatyk branch. Following along the chocolate trail, make sure you buy some sweets at Lviv Handmade Chocolate. Every local claims that this famous Lviv confectionery chain produces the best hot chocolate in the world, so give it a try too. Another great place to shop for tasty souvenirs, especially with kids in tow, is Caramel Manufactory, which produces homemade caramel.

While vodka (called horilka in Ukrainian) may be the stereotypical drink associated with Kyiv, it’s actually easy to find a wide variety of locally produced alcoholic beverages. Kanapa restaurant, located on historic Andriyivsky Uzviz street, has an impressive collection of Ukrainian wines as well as homemade ratafias and balms. Another drinking hotspot is the Kyiv branch of Lviv’s famous watering hole Pyana Vyshnia, where the traditional cherry liqueur is poured and sold as a souvenir.

Ukrainian Fashion

Admittedly, Ukrainian fashion hasn’t yet conquered the world, but it has all the right elements to do so sooner or later. The hottest place for Ukrainian-designed clothes is the centrally located Vsi. Svoi megastore. It’s the largest retail outlet in the country that sells only Ukrainian brands. Therefore, if you want to get introduced to the world of local fashion, buy a pretty summer dress, or just shop for an original T-shirt, this is the place to start.

Ukraine is famous for its beautiful embroidered shirts, called vyshyvankas. More recently, the traditional motifs featured on these shirts have been incorporated into the modern Ukrainian fashion movement. The best stores to find these lovely items are the central Ruta for high-end fashion and Etnodim for more affordable options.

Souvenirs and Crafts

Following the example of international retail giants, Vsi. Svoi has recently unveiled a new space called Vsi. Svoi Home & Decor, which has an impressive assortment of homewares made in Ukraine. It’s the perfect place to find original and contemporary Ukrainian souvenirs, choosing from more than 150 different brands. For more traditional items to take home from Kyiv, head to the cheerful Mriyi Mariyi store set around the corner from Andriyivsky Uzviz. This charming shop has plenty of authentic options to pick from, including embroidery, toys, ceramics, and handmade jewellery. Opt for buying your Kyiv souvenirs here instead of overpaying for the low-quality touristy merchandise sold along Andriyivsky Uzviz.

If you’d like to combine shopping with a good cause, Laska is a worthwhile option. Following the Western charity-shop model, items for sale at this store are donated, and the income goes towards supporting various social initiatives. Consequently, come here for clothes, handmade items, and accessories.

Urban Fairs

The latest Kyiv shopping trend is monthly fairs devoted to various themes. The star of this movement is Kurazh Bazar, an outstanding weekend flea market that takes place every month and draws hundreds of visitors. Each event feels like a mini-festival with street food, live music, thought-provoking lectures, and fashion shows. Apart from being one of the coolest Kyiv events, Kurazh Bazar also donates its income to charity.

Another active organizer of urban fairs is Vsi. Svoi. Their monthly shopping events vary from book fairs and themed fashion markets to ceramics and alcohol sales. Therefore, keep an eye on the store’s Facebook page to ensure you don’t miss out on the latest happenings while you’re in the Ukrainian capital.