One cannot visit St. Petersburg without visiting Kuznechny Market. The marketplace is located between St. Vladimir Church and Fyodor Dostoevsky’s House. This market is one of the best food markets in the world. You will not leave the bazaar without sampling or buying something. It simply is not allowed.

Russian markets are a unique experience where people from all walks of life meet to sell their wares. Once you enter, you will feel like you have stepped into a theatrical performance and are watching characters play out their scenes. The aromatic scents that abound will draw you in and make you never want to leave.

Produce of every kind lines the market aisles. If your eyes do not draw you in, your nose will lead you to paradise. If you somehow remain strong, the many samples vendors place in your mouth and in your hands will weaken you. Fresh honey is moments away and will be packed while you wait. In fact, everything is fresh. The freshness of the food and the helpful staff are part of the appeal. The market is open 8 am to 10 pm Tuesday through Saturday and closed on Mondays. The shop closes at 6 pm on Sundays.

Sword and Helmet is an antique shop that sells armors, weapons, and other related objects. There is an extensive collection of swords and daggers brought here not only from all over Russia but also from the Caucasus, France and Afghanistan. The shop is open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Antique Shop is located on Nevsky Avenue in the heart of the city. It offers a great variety of antiques. You can choose from Soviet pins, dolls, samovars and other old things. Even if you are not to buy anything, it's a good place to visit just for looking. Hours: Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Belage Antiques Shop in located in the center of the city of St Petersburg in Corinthia Nevsky Palace. The shop sells old jewelry, precious stones, furniture, glass and paintings as well. The items are brought from all over Russia and western Europe. Belage is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Writers' Bookstore is a bookshop where you can find books by Russian writers, famous and little-known, as well as the works of people of letters from whole Europe. There are books of fiction, including science fiction, in Russian and English. Apart from the books of literature the bookstore offers studies, encyclopedias and other books. Hours: Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Onegin is a gift shop housed in a large building with spacious rooms, spread over two floors. It sells a great variety of Russian gifts and souvenirs for all budgets and of all sizes. It is a real heaven of interesting items that will remind you of your visit to St. Petersburg. Onegin is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.