There is some good news for shopaholics as Ukraine, thanks to its 48 million consumer market, has some great shopping centres that are bound to leave you speechless.With endless stores of designer clothes and handmade arts and crafts, woodwork and paintings, you can be sure to find what you are looking for and much more while shopping in Ukraine.
For a memorable Ukraine shopping experience make sure you wear your most comfortable shoes so as not to miss out on any shops or bargains!
Find some unique souvenirs whilst shopping in the Ukraine. Read our Ukraine Shopping Guide below to learn how to get the best deals and find the best places to shop in the Ukraine. There are also a number of great Ukraine restaurants which are ideally placed for taking a break whilst shopping. Click on one of our destinations below to see what the local shopping scene is like:
- Crimea
- Odessa
Ukraine Shopping Guide
Souvenirs or local handicrafts
Ukraine artwork is considered the best buy for the visitors looking for a souvenir. In fact, you could buy great quality ceramics, paintings, and jewellery quite cheap at the infinite art galleries or directly from the artists on the streets. Just be sure you will be able to get past Customs when taking the artwork to your home country.
Markets
While out shopping you will come across some very unique and interesting markets in Ukraine. The lively farmers' market sells fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, cheese and meat, along with the most beautiful flowers.
Shopping centres
Do visit a few of the Ukraine shopping centres while out looking for a souvenir to take home. The Alta Centre, which was the first ever mall in the Ukrainian capital, sells clothes, sports wear, perfumes, footwear, cosmetics, and souvenirs. It also has a supermarket, two department stores, and several restaurants that serve a variety of delectable cuisines. But the real attraction at this mall is the Gallery of Ukrainian Fashion Designers. It is here that all the fashion events in Ukraine are held.
If you want to visit the large state or department stores, they are open Mondays to Fridays from 08:00 to 19:00. The smaller boutique stores are usually open 09:00 - 18:00. But you will find that shops in tourist areas stay open as late as 20:00. Only smaller shops close for an hour during lunch, usually between 13:00 and 14:00 or 14:00 and15:00.
One thing to remember: carry sufficient cash, as most stores will not accept credit cards. Only a few posh Ukraine restaurants and hotels accept them.