Moscow seems to have everything, yet one phenomenon was notably and inexplicably missing here. There were no good flea markets in Moscow, save for a few pathetic efforts.

Thankfully, now we have Svalka, and it’s the closest that Moscow has gotten to a normal flea market, considering the prices and the offering. There are lots of used books, clothes (including Soviet military uniforms), household appliances, turntables, toys, souvenirs and other paraphernalia. If you are looking for a souvenir from the Soviet era and don’t care for the mint condition, this might be your place to go.  

But Svalka is more than just a second-hand shop: they also help people declutter and raise money for the good cause. This is how Svalka works: you let them know that you have lots of things you don’t need; they take those away, sort them, brush up and sell them. Most of the profit go to charity. Win-win.

They have recently relocated to an admittedly more remote but more spacious place, and are now hosting lots of events, from garage sales to dinners to public talks. Be warned though: the English version of their website still lists the old address.