Kazan, Russia-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historic Kazan

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to Kazansky Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest kremlins in Russia. Explore the historic walls, towers, and churches.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the Annunciation Cathedral, a beautiful 16th-century church that’s part of the Kazan Kremlin complex.

Lunch

  • 12:00 PM: Head to Tatarskaya Ploshchad (Tatar Square) for lunch at Kazan Restaurant, which serves traditional Tatar cuisine. Try their specialty dish, Plov (pilaf).

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Qolşärif Mosque, a stunning mosque built in 2015 with a unique blend of modern and traditional architecture.
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the Sobornaya Square, a historic square surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Kazan Cathedral.

Dinner

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Elki restaurant, which serves Russian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Try their borscht and beef stroganoff.

Accommodation

  • Stay at Hotel Ibis Kazan, a comfortable and modern hotel located in the city center.

Transportation

  • Take the metro (line 1) to get around the city.
  • Use taxi services like Yandex Taxi or Uber.

Tips and Things to Know

  • Learn some basic Russian phrases, such as “hello” (zdravstvuyte), “thank you” (spasibo), and “excuse me” (izvinite).
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August) if possible.

Day 2: Modern Kazan

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan, which showcases the history, art, and culture of the region.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Kazan State University, one of Russia’s oldest universities.

Lunch

  • 12:30 PM: Head to Faktoria food court for lunch. Try their burgers or salads.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Museum of History and Culture of Kazan, which features exhibits on the city’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage.
  • 4:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Kazanka River embankment for beautiful views of the city.

Dinner

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Boulevard restaurant, which serves modern Russian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Try their foie gras and steak tartare.

Accommodation

  • Stay at Hotel Kazan, a comfortable hotel located in the city center.

Transportation

  • Use public transportation or walk/bike around the city.
  • Take a taxi to get to attractions that are far from the city center.

Tips and Things to Know

  • Try to visit local markets, such as the Kazan Market, for unique souvenirs and experiences.
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially during the spring and autumn seasons.

Day 3: Day Trip to Sviyazhsk

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Take a day trip to Sviyazhsk, a historic town located about an hour’s drive from Kazan. Visit the Sviyazhsk Monastery, which features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants in Sviyazhsk.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Explore the town of Sviyazhsk and its historic buildings.
  • 4:00 PM: Return to Kazan and enjoy some free time to explore the city or do some shopping.

Dinner

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Moloko restaurant, which serves modern Russian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Try their burgers and salads.

Accommodation

  • Stay at Hotel Ibis Kazan, a comfortable hotel located in the city center.

Transportation

  • Use public transportation or take a taxi to get around the city.
  • Take a day trip bus to Sviyazhsk, which is available from Kazan’s main bus station.