Kazan - Discovering Russia

Travelling to Kazan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kazan, a pretty good destination in Russia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kazan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kazan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Russia, here's everything to know about Kazan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kazan

Kazan is the capital city of the Republic of Tatarstan in Russia. It is located about 800km east of Moscow and has a population of over 1.2 million people, making it the eighth most populous city in Russia. Kazan is known for its rich history and culture, with a unique blend of Tatar and Russian influences. It is home to many museums, theaters, and historical sites, including the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also a popular sports destination, having hosted events such as the 2013 Summer Universiade and 2018 FIFA World Cup.

What to visit in Kazan

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Kazan along with a brief explanation of what you can expect at each site: 1. Kazan Kremlin - This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kazan. The Kremlin is a fortress-like complex of buildings that dates back to the 16th century. The structures include the Annunciation Cathedral, the Governor's Palace, and the leaning Suyumbike Tower. Kazan Kremlin is a must-visit spot for a person interested in historical and architectural heritage.
2. Qolşärif Mosque - Situated within the Kazan Kremlin, the Qolşärif Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Russia and is Kazan's most notable landmark. Built in the 16th century, the mosque was destroyed during the siege of Kazan in 1552 and later reconstructed in the 21st century.
3. Bauman Street - Kazan's lively pedestrian street filled with cafes, restaurants, shops, and outdoor entertainment. There is plenty of entertainment and cultural activities to enjoy, especially during the summer months. It's a great spot for people-watching, shopping, and grabbing a bite to eat.
4. National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan - This museum showcases the region's art, archaeology, history, and culture. It's a great place to learn more about the Tatar history, traditions, and modern life. A visit here is essential for culture enthusiasts.
5. Victory Park - Victory Park was created in honor of the Second World War victory. The park offers plenty of recreational activities such as sports grounds, a lake with boat and bike rentals, and picnic spots. It's a great place to relax and take in some fresh air after a long day of sightseeing.
6. Soyembika Tower - Standing tall at 58 meters, the leaning Soyembika tower is located within the Kazan Kremlin. It’s a great spot to visit to learn about local legends and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city. 7. Kazan Family Center - Located on the bank of the Kazanka River in the northeastern part of the city, Kazan Family Center is known for its innovative architecture, which resembles a massive white wave. It is a great destination for design enthusiasts, it includes an exhibition center with a photo gallery, event spaces, a restaurant, and interactive exhibits.
These are some of the top attractions in Kazan, and each offers breathtaking views and a lot of insight into Tatar culture and heritage.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Russia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kazan.

When to go on holiday to Kazan

The best time to visit Kazan is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm, and there are plenty of outdoor events and festivals to enjoy. The average temperature during this time is around 20-25°C (68-77°F). However, if you prefer a cooler season, the months of May and September may be more suitable, with temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F), and fewer crowds. Winter months (December, January, February) can be extremely cold with temperatures dropping below -20°C (-4°F), but it can be an excellent time for winter sports enthusiasts. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences and travel plans.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kazan

There are a few ways to get to Kazan, Russia depending on your starting location. By plane: Kazan International Airport (KZN) is the main airport in Kazan and has several domestic and international flights. You can look for flights with airlines such as Aeroflot, S7 Airlines, Turkish Airlines, among others.
By train: You can also take a train to Kazan from various cities in Russia, such as Moscow or Saint Petersburg. The journey takes around 12 hours from Moscow and around 19 hours from Saint Petersburg.
By bus: There are also long-distance buses that operate from various cities in Russia to Kazan. You can find bus routes and schedules on websites such as Avtovokzaly.ru.
By car: You can also rent a car or hire a private car service to drive to Kazan. The distance from Moscow to Kazan is around 800 km, and the journey takes around 12 hours, depending on the traffic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kazan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kazan

Sure, here are some typical Kazan foods and their descriptions: 1. Chak-chak: A traditional Tatar dessert made from deep-fried dough shaped into small pieces, syrup, honey, and often topped with nuts.
2. Echpochmak: A pastry filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef), onions, and potatoes, often served as a main course.
3. Qistibi: A Tatar flatbread made from a mixture of flour, water, and salt. It is often stuffed with minced meat, cheese, or potatoes.
4. Uroch: A Tatar dish made with boiled meat (usually beef or lamb), potatoes, onions, and carrots. It is often served as a warm soup.
5. Baursak: A Kazakh and Tatar fried dough snack made from flour, eggs, and sour cream.
6. Tatarstan salad: A simple salad made from diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and roasted peppers, dressed with oil and vinegar.
7. Pelmeni: A savory dumpling consisting of a filling of minced meat (usually pork or beef) and onions wrapped in thin dough.
8. Samsa: A baked or fried pastry filled with minced meat, vegetables, or cheese.
9. Shulpa: A Tatar soup made from lamb or beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots, spices, and herbs.
10. Plov: A Tatar and Uzbek rice pilaf made with meat (usually lamb), carrots, onions, garlic, and spices.
You can find general info about typical foods in Russia here.

Is Kazan an expensive destination for tourists?

Kazan is generally considered to be a moderately priced destination for tourists, especially when compared to other major Russian cities such as Moscow or St. Petersburg. However, the overall cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as your travel dates, accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities you choose to do.
Generally, you can expect to pay moderate prices for food and drinks in Kazan, especially if you stick to local eateries. Accommodation prices in Kazan can also vary depending on your accommodation preferences and where you stay in the city. If you're looking to save on accommodation costs, you may want to consider staying in hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels.
Overall, while Kazan may not be the cheapest destination to visit in Russia, it can still be an affordable and enjoyable place to explore.

Where to find accomodation in Kazan

For visitors to Kazan, the best areas for finding accommodation are: 1. Kazan Kremlin and city center: This area is home to many of the city's top attractions, including the Kazan Kremlin, Kul Sharif Mosque, and Bauman Pedestrian Street.
2. Kazan Arena: Located on the outskirts of the city, this area is a great choice if you're planning on attending a football game or concert at the Kazan Arena.
3. Vakhitovsky District: This district is known for its beautiful parks, tranquil residential streets, and good transport links to the city center.
4. Sovetsky District: This district is located in the northern part of the city and is known for its unique Soviet-era architecture and bustling marketplaces.
Keep in mind that the best area for you to stay in will depend on your budget, travel preferences, and the activities you plan on doing while in Kazan.
You can check hotel prices at Kazan here:
Booking.com

Is Kazan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kazan is generally a safe place for tourists. It is a popular destination for tourists and the city has made efforts to improve safety and security for visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. It is also recommended to keep your valuables secured and be cautious of pickpocketing. Overall, as long as you take appropriate safety measures, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kazan.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Russia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kazan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kazan the most?

Kazan, Russia offers a variety of experiences for different types of travelers. Here are some recommendations: - Couples: Kazan is a romantic destination with its lively city atmosphere and beautiful historical sites. Couples can enjoy a romantic evening stroll in the city's picturesque Old Town, admire the stunning Kul Sharif Mosque, or indulge in a spa treatment at one of the city's luxury hotels.
- Young people looking for fun: Kazan is a vibrant city with a lively nightlife scene. Young travelers can enjoy the city's many bars and clubs, attend a concert or festival, or explore the city's street art scene.
- Families: Kazan has a range of family-friendly activities to enjoy such as visiting the Kazan Zoo, exploring the city's many parks and green spaces, and taking a trip to the nearby Volga River. Families can also visit the Kazan Family Center, an interactive museum that offers fun and educational activities for kids.
Overall, Kazan is a wonderful destination for couples, young people seeking fun, and families. No matter what type of traveler you are, you're sure to fall in love with this charming city!

How to get around Kazan

In Kazan, you can move around using buses, trams, trolleybuses, metro, and taxis. The city also has a bike-sharing system and riverboat routes that provide transportation options.

What to see around Kazan

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Kazan, Russia: 1. Raifa Monastery: It is a beautiful Orthodox monastery located on the banks of a lake, about 30 km from Kazan.
2. Sviyazhsk Island: It is an island town located about 40 km from Kazan, which was used as a fortress during Russia's wars against the Kazan Khanate. It has now been turned into an open-air museum.
3. Bolgar: It is an ancient city that was founded in the 7th century and served as the capital of the Volga Bulgaria. Bolgar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located about 180 km from Kazan.
4. Kazan Kremlin: It is a historic citadel located in the heart of Kazan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Elabuga: It is a beautiful town located about 210 km from Kazan. It is famous for its picturesque streets, old houses, and museums.
6. Tetyushi: It is a small town located about 130 km from Kazan, which is famous for its old buildings and churches.
7. Chistopol: It is a historic town located about 120 km from Kazan, which is famous for its museums, parks, and monuments.
8. Bulgarsky Sviyazhsk National Park: It is a scenic national park located about 80 km from Kazan, which is home to rare plant and animal species.
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