Polish Baltic amber is probably among the most precious and beautiful gift options to take home after a visit to this country. These stones, displayed in various sizes, shapes, and shades are available in ancient Celtic designs as well as in various Art Nouveau or contemporary forms. Here you can find silver- and goldsmiths working inside their shops, crafting rough pieces into exquisite rings, pendants, cufflinks and tie-pins. Prices are much more reasonable than you would expect considering the beauty and quality of these items. Baltic amber, known for its healing properties, is subject of many myths and local tales, throughout the Baltic Coast.

Yet another Polish favourite are  finely made woodcarvings and figurines that are on display  at many local fairs and in gift shop windows. Depictions vary from floral patterns, birds and animals to Jewish musicians, a particularly popular motif. Religious wooden sculptures, such as typical Polish depictions of Christ, also draw  tourists' attention. The local tradition of carving, dating back at least 100 years, is best represented at fairs where individual artists display their unique pieces. Most  sculptures are cheap; however some prominent sculptors may sometimes demand  very high prices for their artwork.

Still no matter if you're interested in international brands or local produce, Polish shopping is at its best in Warsaw. World-renowned retail chains are to be found in Sródmiescie (City Centre), with Jerozolimskie and Marszalkowska being the best options. In the vicinity of  Plac Trzech Krzyzy you'll find the most exclusive boutiques in the country, featuring Escada and Hugo Boss. Warsaw’s ritziest shopping street, Mokotowska, is lined with a vast array of boutiques, furniture design stores, as well as a selection of top-end cafes. Of the Polish designer shops, worth mentioning are Odziezowe Pole and Finezja Studio. The Arkadia mall, a far more pocket-friendly option, is often dubbed 'one of the largest indoor shopping centres in central Europe.' Here you will find yourself amongst a flock of shops selling every possible item, from bargain clothing to upscale fashion, consumer electronics, food and gifts. This large-scale shopping behemoth also houses  a 15-cinema multiplex. Another similarly modern complex, opened in February 2007, is Zlote Tarasy (Golden Terraces) right next to the Central Railway Station. If looking  for traditional Polish crafts, they can be found at the Cepelia shops, part of a nationwide chain selling folk art, fabrics, ceramics, and wood art.