Vyazma Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, accommodations, food, and activities in Vyazma, Russia with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your perfect trip today.


Introduction to Vyazma

Located in the heart of Russia’s Smolensk Oblast, Vyazma is a historic city with a rich cultural and natural heritage. With a population of around 50,000, Vyazma is a typical Russian provincial town that offers a unique blend of ancient history, cultural treasures, scenic beauty, and authentic local cuisine. The town offers a quiet and peaceful environment for travelers who want to discover the real Russia and its people. Whether you are interested in history, culture, outdoor activities or just relaxing in the countryside, Vyazma has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Vyazma

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Vyazma has a long and storied history, and this is reflected in the numerous museums, churches, and monuments dotted throughout the city. The following are some of the most popular cultural attractions that you should not miss:

  • Vyazma Kremlin: The well-preserved 16th-century fortress is the main attraction of the town. It includes the Cathedral of the Assumption, which has impressive frescoes painted by Russian artisans in the 16th century.

  • Vyazma Museum of Local Lore: This museum exhibits a vast collection of artifacts and relics from the city’s past, including displays of traditional Russian clothing, furniture, and household items.

  • Vyazma War Cemetery: This cemetery is a poignant reminder of the horrors of World War II. It contains the graves of thousands of soldiers who perished in the Battle of Vyazma in 1941.

  • Church of St. Nicholas: This beautiful baroque-style church is located in the historic center of the town and dates back to the 18th century.

Natural Attractions of Vyazma: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Vyazma is surrounded by pristine natural landscapes and offers countless opportunities for outdoor activities. Here are some of the most popular natural attractions:

  • Vyazma Gorge: This breathtaking natural formation is located close to the town and offers beautiful views, hiking trails, and picnic spots.

  • Sopka Karamyshevskaya: This an extinct volcano with an altitude of 289 meters, located about 13 kilometers from Vyazma. It is one of the highest points in Smolensk Oblast and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Bogomudrinsky Forest: A vast forested area surrounding Vyazma, provides excellent opportunities for hiking, camping and bird watching.

  • Selizharovskaya Gully: This limestone canyon is located in the village of Selizharovo, around 10 kilometers from Vyazma. It features scenic natural formations and is a popular spot for rock climbing and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vyazma

Vyazma is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts who crave adventure and scenic beauty. The following are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in and around the town:

  • Vyazma-Kholm Bicycle Route: This route connects Vyazma with the nearby town of Kholm and covers a distance of around 70 kilometers. It passes through scenic rural landscapes, small villages, and forests.

  • Selizharovskaya Gully Hiking Trail: This trail follows the Selizharovskaya Gully and offers stunning views of the canyon and its natural formations. The trail is about six kilometers long and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

  • Bogomudrinsky Forest Trail: This circular trail is about eight kilometers long and takes you through the heart of the Bogomudrinsky Forest. Along the way, you will encounter a wide variety of flora and fauna and several scenic viewpoints.

Best Things to Do in Vyazma: Activities and Tours

In addition to the cultural and natural attractions, Vyazma offers a range of exciting activities and tours for tourists of all ages. Some of the popular things to do in Vyazma include:

  • Russian Traditional Crafts Workshops: Vyazma is famous for its traditional arts and crafts, such as embroidery, woodcarving, and pottery. Visitors can book workshops to learn about these crafts and create their own unique souvenirs.

  • Soviet Time Tours: Explore the Soviet past of Vyazma through a guided tour of the city’s communist-era architecture, historical landmarks, and monuments.

  • Food Tasting Tours: Discover the local cuisine of Vyazma through a guided tasting tour of the town’s best restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vyazma

Here’s an example of a week-long itinerary for Vyazma.

Day 1: Arrive in Vyazma, check-in at your hotel, and explore the town’s historic center.

Day 2: Visit the Vyazma Kremlin and the Cathedral of the Assumption.

Day 3: Explore the Vyazma Museum of Local Lore and the Church of St. Nicholas.

Day 4: Take a guided Soviet Time Tour of the city and explore the communist-era landmarks and monuments.

Day 5: Go hiking in the Selizharovskaya Gully.

Day 6: Take a food tasting tour of Vyazma and sample the local cuisine.

Day 7: Go on a day trip to the nearby town of Kholm and explore the Bailovo Monastery.

Food and Drink Scene of Vyazma

Must-Try Dishes

Vyazma is known for its traditional Russian cuisine, which is hearty, filling, and delicious. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Vyazma:

  • Blini: Thin pancakes served with a variety of fillings, such as caviar, smoked salmon, and sour cream.

  • Borscht: A hearty soup made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and meat.

  • Pelmeni: Small dumplings filled with minced meat and served with sour cream or butter.

  • Shashlik: Grilled meat skewers, usually made with pork or chicken.

Local Beverages

In addition to the food, Vyazma has a rich tradition of brewing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages:

  • Medovukha: A traditional honey-based drink that is mildly alcoholic.

  • Kvass: A non-alcoholic drink made from fermented bread, water, and sugar.

  • Vodka: Russian’s famous tipple, is the staple of any celebration.

Where to Stay in Vyazma: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Vyazma offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Vyazma:

  • Hotel Kremlin: Located within the Vyazma Kremlin, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the town.

  • Hostel Vyazma: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city center, it offers shared and private rooms and free Wi-Fi.

  • Guesthouse Russian Banya: A cozy guesthouse located in the Bogomudrinsky Forest, offers modern rooms, a traditional Russian sauna, and outdoor activities.

What to Buy in Vyazma: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Vyazma is known for its traditional arts and crafts, which make for great souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Vyazma:

  • Embroidery: Traditional Russian clothing embellished with intricate embroidery.

  • Woodcarvings: Hand-carved wooden figurines, boxes, and kitchenware.

  • Pottery: Handmade pottery made with locally sourced clay.

  • Honey: Locally harvested honey and honey-based products, such as medovukha.

Local Culture and Customs of Vyazma

Vyazma has a unique and distinct culture that is deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of Russia. The locals are hospitable, friendly and are always happy to share their customs and beliefs with visitors. When visiting Vyazma, it’s essential to respect and appreciate the local customs, such as the following:

  • Dress Conservatively: In churches and other religious areas, visitors should dress conservatively by covering their heads and arms.

  • Learn a Few Russian Phrases: Knowing a few basic Russian phrases can go a long way in communicating with the locals.

Best Time to Visit Vyazma

The best time to visit Vyazma is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is pleasant, and the city is filled with festivals and cultural events. Also, winter is an excellent time to experience the magic of Russian Holidays.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vyazma

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try traditional Russian cuisine and beverages.
  • Be polite and friendly to locals.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in churches and other religious places.
  • Take pictures of military installations or personnel without permission.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vyazma

Vyazma is a relatively safe city, but like any other major metropolitan area, certain precautions should be taken to ensure your safety, such as:

  • Be mindful of your belongings when traveling.
  • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods.

Health in Vyazma

Vyazma has several hospitals and medical facilities that can handle most medical emergencies. However, it’s essential to have a valid medical insurance policy when traveling to Russia.

Getting to Vyazma: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vyazma

The nearest airport to Vyazma is the Sheremetyevo International Airport in Moscow, which is about 200 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to Vyazma.

Bus Stations Near Vyazma

Vyazma has a central bus station that connects the town with most major cities in Russia.

Other Options

Another convenient way to travel to Vyazma is by train. The town has a railway station that is well-connected to Moscow and other major Russian cities.

How to Get Around in Vyazma

Vyazma is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, it’s recommended to use taxis or public transportation, which is affordable and readily available.

Where to Go Next from Vyazma: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several places near Vyazma that are worth visiting. Here are some of the popular nearby destinations:

  • Smolensk: The historic city of Smolensk is located about 100 kilometers from Vyazma and boasts an impressive Kremlin and several museums.

  • Kholm: The small town of Kholm is located about 30 kilometers from Vyazma and is known for its quaint architecture and religious landmarks.

Conclusion

Vyazma is a unique and beautiful town that offers travelers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Russia. From the ancient forts and cathedrals to the breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in Vyazma. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your perfect trip to Vyazma and explore all the hidden gems that the town has to offer.

Hodegetria Church in the Vyazma Monastery of St. John the Baptist Hodegetria Church in the Vyazma Monastery of St. John the Baptist