GUM & Moscow Shopping: Markets, Malls and Dining

The historic GUM department store facade on Red Square, Moscow

Facing Red Square across from the Kremlin wall stands GUM, one of the most beautiful shopping arcades in the world. Far more than a place to shop, this glass-roofed nineteenth-century gallery is a destination in its own right, and it anchors a wider Moscow scene of grand stores, food halls, and cafes worth exploring.

The GUM Arcade

GUM (pronounced “goom”) occupies a long, ornate building dating from the 1890s, with three parallel arcades spanned by an elegant glass-and-steel roof. Inside, fountains, bridges, and balconies create a sense of theatre, and the shops range from luxury international brands to Russian boutiques. Even non-shoppers come simply to admire the architecture, especially when it is decorated and illuminated during the festive season.

Food Halls and Cafes

GUM is also a fine place to eat. The historic Gastronom No. 1 food hall sells Russian delicacies and provisions, while the old-style Stolovaya 57 canteen serves classic Soviet-era dishes at modest prices, offering a taste of nostalgia along with the meal. The famous GUM ice cream, sold from kiosks within the arcade, is a small ritual for many visitors regardless of the weather outside.

Beyond GUM

Moscow’s shopping extends well beyond Red Square. Tverskaya Street is the city’s grand central avenue, lined with stores and restaurants, while modern malls and the trendy boutiques around the city centre cater to every taste. For something more local, the Izmailovsky Market is the place for souvenirs, handicrafts, and antiques. Together they make Moscow a surprisingly rewarding city for browsing and dining.

From its glittering glass roof to its nostalgic food halls, GUM is the elegant heart of shopping in Moscow.