City Markets in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg's grocery markets are a key feature of the city's history and, although they have been superseded in popularity by the ever-increasing number of large supermarket chains, are still among the best places to buy high-quality fresh produce, especially in the downtown area. Moreover, St. Petersburg's markets boast exotic atmosphere and, in some cases, beautiful architecture that make them worth visiting as much for sightseeing as for shopping.
Unsurprisingly considering the climate, grocery markets in St. Petersburg are indoor, occupying a large central hall, although some spill over into smaller outbuildings and stalls on the street. The backbone of market trading is fresh agricultural produce, meat, fish, dairy products, pickles and preserves. Most St. Petersburg markets also have stalls selling honey, dried fruit and nuts, and spices. Some also offer household goods, clothing and even pets. Many of the vendors at St. Petersburg's city markets do not display fixed prices, so market shopping requires a command of basic Russian or rare confidence in your haggling skills.
Probably St. Petersburg's best-known food market, Kuznechny is conveniently located in the city centre and is renowned for its high-quality meat, fish and farm produce, as well as for its beautiful building.
Sytny Market is located on the Petrograd side and is St. Petersburg's oldest market, dating back to 1710. Sytny offers fresh produce, fish, meat, sundries and more.
Located on UIitsa Nekrasova in the historic centre, this Soviet-era market sells the standard range of market produce, and lacks the charm of other historic St. Petersburg markets.
St. Petersburg's "Hay Market" has a rich history and continues to be popular with locals looking for fresh meat and groceries.
Also known as the "bird market", this modernized market hall on the Vyborg Side sells pets and plants as well as the standard range of market produce.
Although a little way from the centre, Torzhkovsky Market is the largest in the city and one of the best places in St. Petersburg to buy meat, fruit and vegetables from local farms.
Of most interest for its attractive 18th century building, this large market sells a standard range of groceries, as well as clothing and shoes.
