5 Best Shopping in Sochi, Russia

Sochi has a large artist community and numerous art shops, such as this one, where you can purchase moderately priced original paintings on canvas by local artists, along with local handicrafts like painted dolls. And, if you are feeling inspired by the beautiful scenery, art supplies here are much cheaper than in the U.S.

Local produce, honey, meat, cheese, and other delicacies are sold here. Be sure to try the churchkhela, a sweet, southern Russian snack made of walnut halves on a string covered by flour-thickened grape juice, which is sun-dried. When bargaining for goods, be sure to head to the inner rows to get a better price. The market is connected to the Alexandria Mall, where you can shop for international brands such as Levi's and Guess. Much like everything else in the city, the market (which has been around since the 1930s) is undergoing renovations before the Olympics. Once the construction is finished, Central Market will be housed in a modern five-story building.

You can buy everything you need at this large Western-style chain supermarket, including fruit, vegetables, and other staples; local specialties such as baked goods and honey; and essentials such as toiletries. The supermarket is centrally located and conveniently open 24 hours a day.

This centrally located maze of stores has everything you might need on the shopping front, from high-end designer suits to Chinese-made patent-leather stilletos. In the market for diamonds and gold? Souvenirs and toys? Local booze or camera batteries? Find whatever you need here.

Stroll this tree-lined street filled with posh boutiques, hair salons, and restaurants for a taste of upper-crust Sochi. This is the spot to find high-end designer clothes, wine for your hotel room, souvenir books and trinkets, and tea and coffee for an afternoon break.