4-Day Kazan Food, Wine & Outdoor Adventure with Friends

Kazan, Russia

4 days

Cathedral Kazan Icon, Irkutsk
Panoramic of the city
Beautiful houses
The ministry of agriculture in winter time
All Religions Temple

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 1

Exploring the Kazan Kremlin and Bauman Street

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient walls, towers, and cathedrals while learning about the rich history of the region.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Tatar lunch. Try dishes like Chak-Chak, Echpochmak, and Kystybyi. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine.

Afternoon

Take a leisurely stroll along Bauman Street, Kazan's main pedestrian thoroughfare. Explore the local shops, cafes, and street performers.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant serving Russian cuisine. Try dishes like Borsch, Pelmeni, and Beef Stroganoff.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Kazan Opera and Ballet Theatre. Enjoy a world-class performance in this historic venue.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Soviet Life. Explore the exhibits showcasing life in the Soviet Union.

Lunch

Enjoy a lunch of local Russian cuisine. Try dishes like Shchi, Pirozhki, and Solyanka.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Kul Sharif Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Russia. Admire the stunning architecture and learn about the Islamic culture of the region.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like Golubtsy, Okroshka, and Medovik.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Kazan Circus. Enjoy a thrilling performance in this iconic venue.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Hermitage Kazan Center. Explore the exhibits showcasing Russian and international art.

Lunch

Enjoy a lunch of traditional Tatar cuisine. Try dishes like Manti, Tatar Plov, and Gubadia.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Millennium Park of Kazan. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like Ukha, Kasha, and Blini.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Kazan State Philharmonic. Enjoy a classical music concert in this historic venue.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Kazan Zoo. Explore the wide variety of animals and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.

Lunch

Enjoy a lunch of local Russian cuisine. Try dishes like Olivier Salad, Draniki, and Syrniki.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Temple of All Religions. Admire the unique architecture and learn about the various religions represented.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like Shashlik, Plov, and Vareniki.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Kazan State Circus. Enjoy a thrilling performance in this iconic venue.

Attractions in Itinerary (11)

Kazan Kremlin

1
Kazan 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.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Bauman Street

2
Bauman Street

This pedestrian street is the heart of Kazan, filled with shops, cafes, street performers, and historic buildings.

Attractions
Shopping
Food and Drink
Entertainment
Kazan Opera and Ballet Theatre

3
Kazan Opera and Ballet Theatre

One of the most famous theaters in Russia, offering a variety of performances from opera to ballet.

Attractions
Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Museum of Soviet Life

4
Museum of Soviet Life

A unique museum offering a glimpse into everyday life during the Soviet era, with a collection of artifacts, photographs, and personal stories.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Kul Sharif Mosque

5
Kul Sharif Mosque

One of the largest mosques in Russia, located within the Kazan Kremlin. It's a symbol of Tatar culture and religion.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Kazan Circus

6
Kazan Circus

A popular entertainment venue featuring a variety of circus acts, from acrobats and clowns to trained animals.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Hermitage Kazan Center

7
Hermitage Kazan Center

A branch of the world-famous Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, featuring a variety of art and historical exhibits.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Millennium Park of Kazan

8
Millennium Park of Kazan

A large park featuring a variety of recreational activities, including walking paths, playgrounds, and a beach on the banks of the Kazanka River.

Parks
Attractions
Kazan State Philharmonic

9
Kazan State Philharmonic

A historic venue hosting a variety of musical performances, from classical concerts to modern music shows.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Kazan Zoo

10
Kazan Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in Russia, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world.

Attractions
Parks
Temple of All Religions

11
Temple of All Religions

A unique architectural complex that combines elements of different religions, symbolizing peace and unity.

Religious Sites
Cultural Experiences
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Echpochmak

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

Trams in Kazan are a historic and scenic way to travel. They cover several routes around the city, including popular tourist destinations.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₽ RUB

Time zoneUTC+3

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

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!

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Kazan is over 1,000 years old, making it one of the oldest cities in Russia?

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