4-Day Local's Guide to Kazan: Outdoor Activities & Shopping Delights
Kazan, Russia
4 days
About Kazan, Russia
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Kazan, Russia, a captivating fusion of Eastern and Western traditions. As the capital of Tatarstan, Kazan boasts an impressive array of architectural wonders, including the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kazan Kremlin. Explore the city's vibrant history at the National Museum of Tatarstan and enjoy the stunning views of the Volga River. Savor the unique Tatar cuisine, a delightful blend of Turkish and Russian flavors. Visit the Temple of All Religions, a symbol of the city's religious tolerance. With its bustling nightlife, thriving arts scene, and numerous festivals, Kazan offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Discover the charm of Kazan, a city where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Fun at the Water Park and Cultural Evening
Morning
Visit the Riviera Aquapark for some fun water activities. It's one of the largest indoor water parks in Russia.
Lunch
Have lunch in a cozy cafe near the water park.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Tatarstan Museum of Natural History. Learn about the region's flora, fauna, and geology.
Dinner
Enjoy a hearty dinner in a restaurant serving Russian cuisine.
Evening
Watch a performance at the Tatar State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre.
Day 3
Peaceful Retreat and Zoo Visit
Morning
Visit the Raifa Monastery, a peaceful retreat located in a beautiful forest.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the monastery.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Kazan Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Russia.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant offering a variety of international cuisines.
Evening
Take a boat tour on the Kazanka River and enjoy the beautiful night views of Kazan.
Day 4
Botanic Garden Visit and Shopping Spree
Morning
Visit the Kazan Federal University Botanic Garden. Enjoy the beautiful plants and the peaceful atmosphere.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the university.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon shopping at the Koltso shopping center, one of the largest shopping centers in Kazan.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Kazan in a restaurant offering traditional Tatar cuisine.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Kazan Planetarium. Watch a fascinating show about the universe.
Attractions in Itinerary (11)
1Millennium Park
A beautiful park located in the heart of the city, offering a peaceful environment for relaxation and leisure activities.
2Kazan Kremlin
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kazan Kremlin is a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city, museums, and the stunning Kul Sharif Mosque.
3Kul Sharif Mosque
One of the largest mosques in Russia, located within the Kazan Kremlin. It's a symbol of Tatar culture and religion.
4Bauman Street
This pedestrian street is the heart of Kazan, filled with shops, cafes, street performers, and historic buildings.
5Riviera Aquapark
One of the largest indoor water parks in Russia, offering a variety of water rides, a wave pool, and a wellness center.
6Tatarstan Museum of Natural History
A museum dedicated to the natural history of Tatarstan, featuring exhibits on geology, paleontology, and biodiversity.
7Tatar State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre
One of the oldest theatres in Russia, offering a rich program of opera and ballet performances.
8Raifa Monastery
A Russian Orthodox monastery located within a nature reserve, Raifa Monastery is known for its serene setting and beautiful architecture.
9Kazan Zoo
One of the oldest zoos in Russia, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world.
10Kazan Federal University Botanic Garden
One of the oldest botanical gardens in Russia, it is a part of Kazan Federal University. It features a variety of plant species, both local and exotic, and is a popular spot for relaxation and education.
11Kazan Planetarium
A modern planetarium offering educational shows about the universe and astronomy, suitable for all ages.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Echpochmak
A traditional Tatar pastry, often baked with a filling of minced meat, onions, and potatoes. It's a must-try in Kazan, being a staple in Tatar cuisine.
Chak-chak
A popular Tatar dessert made from deep-fried dough drenched in honey syrup. It's a sweet treat that is commonly served at celebrations and is a signature dish of Kazan.
Gubadia
A ceremonial Tatar pie that is traditionally baked for weddings and other festive events. It's filled with rice, quark, eggs, and dried fruits, reflecting the rich culinary culture of Kazan.
Kystybyi
A traditional Tatar flatbread filled with mashed potatoes and onions. It's a simple yet delicious dish that is commonly enjoyed in Kazan.
Smetana
A type of sour cream that is widely used in Russian and Tatar cooking. It's often served with soups, salads, and desserts in Kazan.
Tubetey
A Tatar dessert made from honey, flour, and butter. It's a sweet and rich treat that is often enjoyed during festive occasions in Kazan.
Kazylyk
A traditional Tatar sausage made from horse meat. It's a unique and flavorful dish that showcases the culinary traditions of Kazan.
Kvass
A traditional Russian fermented beverage made from rye bread. It's a refreshing and slightly sour drink that is commonly enjoyed in Kazan during the summer months.
Manti
A type of dumpling that is popular in Tatar cuisine. It's typically filled with minced meat and served with sour cream, offering a taste of Kazan's rich culinary heritage.
Medovukha
A traditional Russian alcoholic beverage made from honey. It's a sweet and warming drink that is often enjoyed in Kazan during the colder months.
Peremyach
A traditional Tatar pastry that is filled with minced meat and onions. It's a savory and satisfying dish that is commonly enjoyed in Kazan.
Ukha
A traditional Russian fish soup that is often enjoyed in Kazan. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the region's love for fresh, local ingredients.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kazan, Russia is during the summer months, from June to August. During this period, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history and culture. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C. This is also the time when the city hosts several festivals and events, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. However, if you enjoy winter sports, you might consider visiting from December to February, when the city is covered in snow.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 2 | Tue | New Year Holiday |
January 3 | Wed | New Year Holiday |
January 4 | Thu | New Year Holiday |
January 5 | Fri | New Year Holiday |
January 6 | Sat | New Year Holiday |
January 7 | Sun | Orthodox Christmas Day |
January 8 | Mon | New Year Holiday |
February 23 | Fri | Defender of the Fatherland Day |
March 8 | Fri | International Women's Day |
April 28 | Sun | Spring and Labor Day Holiday |
April 29 | Mon | Spring and Labor Day Holiday |
April 30 | Tue | Spring and Labor Day Holiday |
May 1 | Wed | Spring and Labor Day |
May 9 | Thu | Victory Day |
May 10 | Fri | Victory Day Holiday |
June 12 | Wed | Russia Day |
November 3 | Sun | Unity Day Holiday |
November 4 | Mon | Unity Day |
December 30 | Mon | New Year Holiday |
December 31 | Tue | New Year Holiday |
How to get around
Public Bus
Public buses are a common way to get around in Kazan. They cover most areas of the city and are quite reliable. They usually operate from early morning until late evening.
Tram
Trams in Kazan are a historic and scenic way to travel. They cover several routes around the city, including popular tourist destinations.
Metro
Kazan's metro system is efficient and covers major parts of the city. It is a quick way to travel across the city, avoiding traffic.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kazan. You can hail a taxi on the street or book one through a local taxi service. Always ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Yandex.Taxi, are available in Kazan. They can be booked via their respective apps and offer a convenient way to get around the city.
Car Rental
Renting a car is an option if you prefer to drive yourself. There are several car rental agencies in Kazan. Remember that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, and parking can be challenging in the city center.
Bicycle
Kazan is a bike-friendly city with several dedicated bike lanes. You can rent a bicycle for a day or for your entire stay. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace.
Foot
Many of Kazan's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking is a great way to explore and experience the city.
River Boat
Kazan is located along the Volga River, and river boat tours are a popular way to see the city. These tours offer unique views of Kazan's skyline and landmarks.
Important information
Currency₽ RUB
Time zoneUTC+3
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage220 V
Things to know about Kazan, Russia as a first time visitor
1
Kazan is the capital city of the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia, and one of Russia's largest cities.
2
The official languages are Russian and Tatar, but English is not widely spoken. It would be beneficial to learn a few basic phrases in Russian.
3
The local currency is the Russian Ruble (RUB). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.
4
Kazan has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature in winter can drop to -13°F (-25°C) and in summer it can rise to 77°F (25°C).
5
Public transportation in Kazan includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro system. Taxis are also widely available.
6
Kazan is considered one of the safest cities in Russia, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
7
Tipping is customary in Kazan. It's common to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants.
8
Kazan is known for its unique blend of Russian and Tatar cultures. Be sure to try local Tatar cuisine, such as chak-chak and echpochmak.
9
The city is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 3 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+3).
10
Kazan has a rich history and is known as the 'Third Capital of Russia'. It's a great place to learn about Russian and Tatar history and culture.
11
The city is very walkable, especially the downtown area. It's a good idea to pack comfortable shoes.
12
It's customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home in Kazan.
13
Smoking is banned in public places in Kazan, including restaurants, bars, and parks.
14
The drinking age in Kazan, like the rest of Russia, is 18.
15
Kazan is a city of sport. It hosted the 2013 Summer Universiade, 2015 World Aquatics Championships, and matches of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
16
The city has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and restaurants.
17
Kazan is a religiously diverse city with a large number of mosques and Orthodox churches.
18
The city is home to the Kazan Federal University, one of the oldest universities in Russia.
19
Kazan is a great place for shopping, with a range of options from traditional markets to modern shopping malls.
20
The city has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels.
Basic Russian to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Привет | Privet | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | До свидания | Do svidaniya | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Пожалуйста | Pozhaluysta | Making a request |
Thank you | Спасибо | Spasibo | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Да | Da | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Нет | Net | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Извините | Izvinite | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Я не понимаю | Ya ne ponimayu | When you don't understand something |
Do you speak English? | Вы говорите по-английски? | Vy govorite po-angliyski? | To ask if someone speaks English |
I'm lost | Я потерялся | Ya poteryalsya | When you are lost |
Where is the bathroom? | Где туалет? | Gde tualet? | When you need to find a restroom |
Help | Помощь | Pomoshch' | When you need assistance |
Call the police | Вызовите полицию | Vyzovite politsiyu | In case of an emergency |
I need a doctor | Мне нужен врач | Mne nuzhen vrach | When you need medical assistance |
Can I use your phone? | Могу я воспользоваться вашим телефоном? | Mogu ya vospol'zovat'sya vashim telefonom? | When you need to make a phone call |
Water | Вода | Voda | When you are thirsty |
Food | Еда | Yeda | When you are hungry |
Check, please | Счет, пожалуйста | Schet, pozhaluysta | When you want to pay at a restaurant |
How much does it cost? | Сколько это стоит? | Skol'ko eto stoit? | When you want to know the price of something |
Where is...? | Где...? | Gde...? | When you are looking for a specific place |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Lightweight jacket
Raincoat or umbrella
Swimwear (if planning to visit a spa or pool)
Gloves, hat, and scarf (if traveling in winter)
Thermal underwear (if traveling in winter)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Hairbrush or comb
Makeup and makeup remover (if applicable)
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Travel-sized first aid kit
Prescription medications (if applicable)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Visa (if required)
Driver's license (if planning to rent a car)
Health insurance card
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Russian phrasebook or dictionary
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Headphones
Camera (if not using phone camera)
Charger for camera
Universal travel adapter
Laptop or tablet (if needed)
Charger for laptop or tablet
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Travel guide for Kazan
Map of Kazan
Notepad and pen
Sunglasses
Binoculars (if planning to sightsee)
Backpack or daypack for daily excursions
Weather Conditions
When planning a trip to Kazan, Russia, it's essential to consider the city's weather conditions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Kazan experiences a humid continental climate with significant seasonal variations. During the winter months, from December to February, Kazan can be quite cold with temperatures often dropping to -4°F (-20°C) or lower. Snow is common during this period, so pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a heavy coat, gloves, scarves, and hats. Snow boots are also recommended as the streets can become slippery. Despite the cold, winter can be a beautiful time to visit Kazan, especially if you enjoy winter sports or the serene beauty of a snow-covered landscape. Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual increase in temperature, with highs reaching up to 68°F (20°C) by the end of the season. It's a good idea to pack a mix of light and warm clothing, as temperatures can still drop during the night. Summers, from June to August, are generally warm and humid with temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 86°F (30°C). Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential during this period. However, don't forget to pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Autumn, from September to November, is characterized by a decrease in temperature and increased rainfall. The temperatures can vary from 50°F (10°C) to 32°F (0°C). Therefore, it's advisable to pack warm clothing and waterproofs. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to make any necessary adjustments to your packing list. Remember, the weather can change quickly, so it's best to be prepared for all conditions. Enjoy your trip to Kazan!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | -5° / -15° | January is the coldest month in Kazan, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Dress warmly and be prepared for snow. |
February | -4° / -14° | February is still very cold in Kazan, with frequent snowfall. It's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts. |
March | 3° / -7° | March sees the beginning of spring with temperatures slowly rising, but still chilly. Snow may still be present. |
April | 11° / 1° | April is a transitional month in Kazan, with temperatures rising and the snow melting. It's a good time to visit if you prefer milder weather. |
May | 17° / 7° | May brings warmer temperatures and the full bloom of spring. It's a beautiful time to visit Kazan's parks and gardens. |
June | 22° / 12° | June is the start of summer in Kazan. The weather is warm, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
July | 24° / 14° | July is the warmest month in Kazan. It's a perfect time to explore the city's historical sites and enjoy outdoor events. |
August | 23° / 13° | August is still warm in Kazan, but with fewer tourists. It's a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience. |
September | 18° / 8° | September marks the start of autumn in Kazan. The city is beautiful with fall colors, and the weather is still quite mild. |
October | 12° / 2° | October sees cooler temperatures and the leaves changing colors. It's a good time to visit for those who enjoy autumn scenery. |
November | 7° / -3° | November is a transition into winter with temperatures dropping. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes. |
December | 0° / -10° | December is a festive time in Kazan with Christmas celebrations. It's cold and snowy, so pack accordingly. |
Did you know?
Places near by Kazan, Russia
Yoshkar-Ola
The capital city of the Republic of Mari El, known for its unique architecture and beautiful landscapes.
Cheboksary
The capital city of the Chuvash Republic, famous for its Volga River embankment and Mother Patroness monument.
Ulyanovsk
The birthplace of Vladimir Lenin, featuring museums and monuments dedicated to his life and work.
Nizhny Novgorod
One of the largest cities in Russia, offering a mix of historic sites and modern attractions.
Samara
A major city on the Volga River, known for its beautiful embankment, Stalin's Bunker, and Space Museum.
Perm
A city on the banks of the Kama River, famous for its Opera and Ballet Theatre and modern art galleries.
