Imperial’s Porcelain Factory china
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Price range: from 1,500 rubles
This is a timeless gift that will be in use daily (or, in some households, will be carefully put on a stand until the important guests arrive). The factory has been producing hand-painted ceramics since the 18th century. In their stores, you'll find tea sets, plates, and figurines in various styles. Pay special attention to the Cobalt Net – white china adorned with crossing blue stripes, which is one of their trademark designs.
Drip bag coffee
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Price range: 350-450 rubles (for a box of six)
Coffee culture is thriving in St. Petersburg, and with it come innovative methods in brewing, such as drip bags. This convenient solution is a sachet of pre-portioned ground coffee that you simply place atop your mug and pour hot water over. This ingenious method makes it a fantastic present for frequent travelers, campers, or lazy bones who prefer not to fuss with washing pots. Buy them from local producers such as Sibaristika, Verle, or Bolshe Coffee. You can opt for a box of 6 bags from different countries or a specific one; decaf choices are also available.
Credit: Kris Chua (@krischua) via Unsplash
Biscuits and chocolates
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Price range: 200-1,500 rubles
The challenging weather in St. Petersburg drives local connoisseurs to seek joy in good sweets, and sweetmakers – to rise to the occasion. The timeless classics include chocolates and candies from the Krupskaya Factory, which feature iconic St. Petersburg imagery on their packaging. Don’t miss the Sever-Metropol pastry shops, renowned for their signature cookies. There are also modern confectionery shops like Cultura and Schastye, offering chocolates that are true works of art, both in packaging design and flavor.
Tote bags
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Price range: 600-1,500 rubles
Tote bags have become a true fashion statement among young people in St. Petersburg. Their diverse designs often reflect the owner's passions or promote important causes. Some designs have already become iconic with locals and tourists alike, like the J’adore St. Petersburg bags by the Podpisnie Izdaniya bookshop. Don’t overlook Doris Local, Friend Function, and Anton Tut Ryadom – read more about them in our article on this topic – and choose a bag that will carry your memories!
City dioramas
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Price range: 850-2,000 rubles
Artist Natalia Nanieva creates exquisite souvenir dioramas that capture the essence of the city with all its charming imperfections. You can choose a piece of the city to take with you, whether it’s a theater, an embankment, or even a gloomy courtyard. Each diorama is composed of several detailed elements crafted from cardboard, making them easy to transport and assemble.
Credit: ITMO News
ITMO merch
- Price range: 100-4,300 rubles
This one will not only be about the city, but also your university. Firstly, it looks cool, and secondly, it’s a way to proudly state that you’re a part of ITMO Family. If you need something small, you can pick from stationery, pins, socks, or a mug. Among the various clothing options, you'll find trendy T-shirts and hoodies in pastel colors that that will make an ideal additional to a capsule wardrobe.
