I wonder if it is easier to buy Russian type souvenirs using Euros without having to get Rubles for the St. Petersburg tours where shopping will be more restrictive. Are the Matryoshki (nesting dolls) available in Tallinn or Helsinki? If so how do the prices and availability compare with the prices available from a cruise ship tours of St. Petersburg?
Posted by
SzSzKSz - DelMarVa
462 posts
Not sure I fully understand the reasoning behind it - in what way would shopping be more restrictive in SPb?
Personally, I do not remember seeing matryoshki in either Talinn or Helsinki, but... Chi cerca, trova...
Posted by
alameda, ca, usa
2688 posts
I was in Tallinn a couple of years ago, and yes, there are matryoshka in many shops, though they are not an Estonian craft, and I don't recall prices. Estonia is known for their beautifully intricate knitting, if you want a true souvenir look for scarves and mittens in the small shops.