Kazan, Russia 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Kazan, Russia

Day 1: Arrival & City Center Exploration

Places to Go

  • Kazan Kremlin: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kazan Kremlin is a must-visit. Inside you’ll find historical and architectural marvels like the Annunciation Cathedral, Spasskaya Tower, and the Qol-Şärif Mosque.

Where to Eat

  • Chak-chak (Чак-чак): Try this traditional Tatar dish made from honey and poppy seeds. You can find it in many cafes around Kazan.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Cortez or Hotel Kazan are centrally located, offering comfortable accommodations.

Things to Know

  • Kazan is the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan and is known for its unique Tatar culture.
  • Russian Ruble (RUB) is the official currency.
  • Kazan’s time zone is Moscow Standard Time (MSK, UTC+3).

Day 2: Tatar Culture & Bauman Street

Places to Go

  • Tatarstan Republic State Hermitage Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Tatarstan.
  • Bauman Street (Бауманская улица): A vibrant pedestrian street filled with cafes, shops, and street performers.

Where to Eat

  • Kamal or KuKuNyş: These restaurants offer authentic Tatar cuisine in a traditional setting.

Day 3: Outdoor Activities & Lakes

Places to Go

  • Kaban Lake: Enjoy a boat tour, picnic, or simply admire the beautiful scenery.
  • Tugan Avaly (Embankment of the Tatarstan Republic): A park area offering great views of Kazanka River and the city.

Where to Eat

  • Boris & Inna Cafe or Morskaya Zvezda: Both are nearby and offer a variety of dishes.

Day 4: Day Trip to Sviyazhsk

Places to Go

  • Sviyazhsk Island: A historic town with fortifications from the 16th century.

Where to Eat

  • Local cafes and restaurants on Sviyazhsk Island offer traditional Russian dishes.

Day 5: Relax & Shopping

Places to Go

  • Central Market of Kazan (Центральный рынок Казани): A lively market offering fresh produce, souvenirs, and more.
  • Kazanka River Embankment: Stroll along the river, enjoy street food, or rent a bike for a leisurely ride.

Where to Eat & Shop

  • Central Market of Kazan is also a great place to buy souvenirs like Matryoshka dolls, felt crafts, and leather goods.

Transportation

  • Bus: The city has an extensive bus network. You can use the Kazan Bus mobile app for route information and schedules.
  • Tram & Trolleybus: These are also common forms of transportation in Kazan.
  • Marshrutka: These minivans serve as a budget-friendly alternative to taxis.

Tips

  • Learn a few phrases in Russian to make your interactions with locals easier.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially during tourist season.
  • Try local dishes like pilaf (plov), echpochmak, and sbyatkas.
  • Respect the local culture and traditions, particularly during religious holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Kurban Bayram.