Made in Estonia

How to spot locally made souvenirs in Tallinn.

Like in any popular tourist destination, there are an overwhelming number of tourist shops in Tallinn’s Old Town. Some offer beautiful, Estonian-made souvenirs, and others offer, politely put, cheap crap for some exorbitant sum. This is no reason to steer clear of souvenir shops altogether, in fact we are suggesting quite the opposite. Estonians are known for their textiles, jewellery, handicrafts, art, and design. They are not known for amber or matryoshka dolls, so please, visit Latvia or Lithuania for the amber pendants, and Russia for the dolls.

Shopping tips

Estonia is a Eurozone country. Currency exchanges can be found at the air- port, port, and various locations (including hotels) around the city centre. Virtually every shop, café, or bar accepts credit cards.

Bargaining – Tallinn has come a long way in 20 years. If you try suggesting a lower price in the shops, you will most likely get a strange look. Markets however, are a different story. You might just get a few Euros off the price if you’re good at bargaining.

Hours – Most shops are open seven days a week, but will often close earlier on the weekends.

Tax Free – Look for the Tax Free shopping sticker on shop windows, keep your receipt and if you are eligible, you can get some money back at the airport.

TEXT KRISTINA LUPP, PHOTOS ANDREI CHERTKOV 

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