Shopping in Belarus - outlets, shopping streets and boutiques

During a holiday, virtually every tourist wants to purchase gifts for friends, family or oneself. As a rule, travelers are interested in authentic and original items that would remind of the vacation. When enjoying a vacation in Belarus, guests of this country can not only see its landmarks, relax in the countryside, and rejuvenate in sanatoriums but also enjoy quality shopping of European level. Besides traditional brands, it is possible to purchase exclusive gifts, organic food and drinks, knitwear, ceramics, crystal wares, and cosmetics in Belarus. Locally produced goods are known for their high quality and affordable prices.

For many, shopping in Belarus starts in its capital, Minsk. Needless to say, the majority of large shopping centers of the country are open in its capital. Among the most famous shopping centers that are famous beyond the borders of the country, it is important to mention GUM, TSUM, Stolitsa, Na Nemige, Arena City, Zamok, Galileo, and Gallery Minsk. In these shopping centers, travelers can pay only with the national currency or credit card. It is illegal to make payments in a foreign currency in Belarus. An absence of Belarusian rubles is not a problem. Every shopping center has ATMs and an exchange office where tourists can get local currency. Shops and shopping centers usually start working at 8 am or 9 am and close at 10 pm or 11 pm. They do not close for the weekend, but some shops close earlier on Sunday. Do not bargain as all prices are fixed in local shops.

In Belarus, there is no “sale season”, but most shops offer discounts of up to 60% for New Year and Christmas. Some shops offer spontaneous discounts, promotions, and fair trades. On these days, discounts are usually no more than 20%. It is better to check websites of large shopping centers in order not to miss these promotions. Prices on foreign goods in Belarus are not much different from prices on similar items in neighbor countries, but that doesn’t apply to domestic wares. Local cosmetics, knitwear, underwear, clothing, shoes, and food are very affordable. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Figurines of European bison are popular souvenirs that travelers enjoy buying. Local craftsmen make different items with this animal that lives in Białowieża Forest, including cure small souvenirs made of straw. All kinds of statuettes, decorative panels, hats, dolls, and home décor items with European bison are traditionally very popular with tourists. Items made of birch bark and wood can also become a wonderful and memorable souvenir from a vacation in Belarus. Local crystal wares have become popular far beyond the borders of the country. Besides tableware and glasses, it is possible to buy figurines of national animals and birds, beautiful stained glass, and home décor items.

Linen items are a true pride of Belarus. Bedding, clothing, towels, tablecloths, etc. – these are amazing and memorable gifts from Belarus that are useful for any household. The country is famous for its high-quality knitwear. Milavitsa underwear is very popular in Belarus and neighboring countries. Belarusian hosiery, clothing, and shoes are no less famous and popular. All these items are available in both big shopping centers and branded shops. Naturally, it is cheaper to buy Belarusian products in their home country. Local cosmetics are another amazing gift idea. Belarusian cosmetics are inexpensive, but it is safe to use and eco-friendly.

Belarusian food is well-known far beyond the borders of the country. Many tourists enjoy buying local drink called Krambambula as a souvenir. It is very popular in the country. Krambambula contains honey and various spices. However, Belarusian dairy products remain the most popular souvenirs. These are cheese, cottage cheese, and condensed milk. Don’t forget to try Belarusian marshmallow as it is really delicious. Different sweets and pastries, such as cookies, waffles, candies, and chocolate by local companies like Krasny Pischevik, Spartak, Slodych, and Kommunarka are very popular.

In order to shop without problems in the country, tourists need to know that it is prohibited to export items of cultural value, various botanic and zoological collections, paleontological artifacts, rare species of birds and plants. Travelers need to obtain a special permit to export these items. It is also prohibited to export Gefest Belarusian refrigerators and gas stoves, seafood, and salmon roe. There is no limit in exporting money, jewelry for personal use, cheese, oil, canned food, no more than 2 packs of cigarettes, and no more than 10 liters of fuel for tourists who travel in their own car.