Tula Oblast Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, where to eat, and how to get there in Tula Oblast, Russia. Learn about local culture, customs, and safety tips before embarking on your journey.


Introduction to Tula Oblast

Tula Oblast is a region in Central Russia bordered by Moscow Oblast, Ryazan Oblast, Lipetsk Oblast, Kaluga Oblast, and Oryol Oblast. It has a population of over 1.5 million people and is known for its rich history, nature reserves, and cultural attractions. Tula, the regional capital, is famous for its arms manufacturing industry and was once a significant player in the production of weapons and ammunition in the Soviet Union. Today, it is a thriving city and a hub for the region’s transportation and economics.

List of Places to Visit in Tula Oblast

Travelers will find plenty of intriguing destinations in Tula Oblast, from historical landmarks and museums to national parks and natural wonders. Here are some of the must-visit locations in the region.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tula Kremlin: Built in the 16th century, the Tula Kremlin is an impressive fortress that has served as a fortification and cultural center for the city for centuries. Visitors can explore its ramparts, towers, and museums.
  • Tula State Museum of Weapons: This museum showcases the history of arms manufacturing in Tula, dating back to the 16th century. The exhibition features over 20 thousand unique weapons and is one of the largest collections in the world.
  • Yasnaya Polyana: The estate of famous Russian author Leo Tolstoy is located in Tula Oblast. It is now a museum, featuring the writer’s home, belongings, and memorabilia. Visitors can stroll around the beautiful grounds and learn about Tolstoy’s life and works.
  • Donskoy Monastery: Located in the city of Tula, the Donskoy Monastery is one of the oldest and most significant Orthodox monasteries in Russia. Founded in the 16th century, it features beautiful architecture and a rich history.

Natural Attractions of Tula Oblast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bogomolovskiy Forest: This dense forest is a popular destination for hiking and nature walks. It is home to a variety of wildlife and has several pristine lakes that visitors can explore.
  • Chernogolovsky Forest Reserve: This nature reserve is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity. It has several hiking trails and viewpoints overlooking the surrounding countryside.
  • Tula Samovar Museum: This unique museum is dedicated to the samovar, a traditional Russian tea kettle. Visitors can learn about the history and craftsmanship of these beautiful objects and explore the museum’s extensive collection.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tula Oblast

Tula Oblast is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking trails throughout the region. Here are some of the most popular routes for hiking and biking.

  • The Bryansk Forest Trail: This trail is ideal for hikers looking for a challenging, multi-day trek. It takes visitors through scenic forests, along rivers, and past historical landmarks, covering over 70 kilometers.
  • The Tula Lakes Trail: This trail is an excellent option for hikers interested in natural beauty. It runs through the Bogomolovskiy Forest and passes several pristine lakes, making for a scenic and refreshing hike.
  • The Yasnaya Polyana Trail: This trail takes visitors through the countryside around the Tolstoy estate, offering views of charming Russian villages, rolling hills, and fields of wildflowers.

Best Things to Do in Tula Oblast: Activities and Tours

Looking for some fun and unique activities to do in Tula Oblast? Here are some of the best options.

  • Samovar-Making Workshops: Visitors can learn the art of samovar-making from local craftsmen. The workshops offer a hands-on experience, allowing participants to create their unique samovars and take them home as souvenirs.
  • Horseback Riding in Chernogolovsky Forest Reserve: This peaceful nature reserve is an ideal spot for horseback riding. Visitors can explore the forest trails while enjoying the company of friendly horses.
  • Shashlik and Pelmeni Making Classes: Russian cuisine is known for its delicious meat and dumpling dishes. Visitors can learn how to make shashlik (grilled meat) and pelmeni (dumplings) from local cooks in Tula, gaining insight into traditional cooking techniques.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tula Oblast

Seven days give sufficient time to explore the main attractions of Tula Oblast. Here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Tula, take a walking tour around the city center, and visit the Tula Kremlin.
  • Day 2: Visit the Tula State Museum of Weapons, explore the Donskoy Monastery, and have dinner in a local restaurant.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to Yasnaya Polyana, and visit the estate and museum of Leo Tolstoy.
  • Day 4: Hike the Bryansk Forest Trail.
  • Day 5: Visit the Samovar Museum and take a samovar-making workshop.
  • Day 6: Horseback riding in Chernogolovsky Forest Reserve, followed by shashlik and pelmeni making classes.
  • Day 7: Explore the Bogomolovskiy Forest and lakes or book a guided tour of the region.

Food and Drink Scene of Tula Oblast

Tula Oblast has a rich culinary tradition, with hearty meat dishes, traditional soups, and baked goods. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in the region.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tula Gingerbread: These sweet and spicy cookies are a Tula specialty, with a history dating back to the 17th century. Visitors can learn about the baking process and sample different flavors at the Tula Gingerbread Museum.
  • Vareniki: These dumplings are a popular Russian dish and can be filled with potatoes, meat, or cheese. They are usually served with sour cream and butter.
  • Shashlik: Similar to kebabs, shashlik is a grilled meat dish that originated in the Caucasus region. Tula’s famous shashlik is made with marinated pork, served hot and ready to eat.

Local Beverages

  • Kvass: This traditional Russian fermented drink is made from bread, sugar, and yeast. It has a sweet and slightly acidic flavor and is a refreshing drink in the summer.
  • Tula Tea: This tea is a blend of black tea, herbs, and spices, and is often served with jam and honey. It is a warming beverage, perfect for chilly days.

Where to Stay in Tula Oblast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tula Oblast has a variety of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in the region.

  • Hilton Garden Inn Tula: This modern hotel is located in the heart of Tula, offering easy access to the city’s main attractions. It has comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and fitness facilities.
  • Tula-Grad Hotel: This charming hotel is housed in a historic building, surrounded by beautiful gardens. It has cozy rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Hostel Rus-Tula: This budget-friendly hostel is ideal for backpackers and solo travelers, with dormitory-style accommodation and a communal kitchen.

What to Buy in Tula Oblast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tula Oblast has a rich handicraft tradition, with local artisans producing handmade items such as ceramics, jewelry, and textiles. Here are some of the best things to buy in the region.

  • Samovars: Samovars are a classic Russian souvenir, and Tula is known for producing some of the best in the country. Visitors can purchase an authentic samovar at one of the local shops or markets.
  • Tula Gingerbread: These sweet and spicy cookies make for a tasty and affordable souvenir. Visitors can buy them at the Tula Gingerbread Museum or from street vendors in the city center.
  • Shawls and Scarves: Tula is famous for its colorful and patterned shawls and scarves, made from wool and other natural fibers. They are cozy and stylish and make for a great gift or personal accessory.

Local Culture and Customs of Tula Oblast

Tula Oblast has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and crafts. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as taking off shoes when entering someone’s home. Tula residents are proud of their history and heritage, and engaging with locals is an excellent way to learn about their way of life.

Best Time to Visit Tula Oblast

The best time to visit Tula Oblast is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the region is beautiful during all seasons, with spring flowers, fall foliage, and winter snow adding to its charm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tula Oblast

Do:

  • Learn some basic Russian phrases before your trip.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety precautions when visiting natural attractions.
  • Engage in any political discussions or debates.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tula Oblast

Tula Oblast is a relatively safe region, with a low crime rate. Visitors should be cautious when traveling alone at night and keep an eye on their belongings in crowded areas. When hiking or exploring natural areas, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines, such as staying on marked trails.

Health in Tula Oblast

Tula Oblast has modern medical facilities, but travelers should still take necessary precautions, such as drinking bottled water and being up to date on routine vaccinations.

Getting to Tula Oblast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tula Oblast is accessible by plane, train, and bus. Here are some of the main transportation options for getting to Tula.

Airports Near Tula Oblast

  • Moscow Domodedovo Airport: This is the closest international airport to Tula Oblast and is located approximately 150 kilometers from Tula.
  • Zhukovsky International Airport: This airport is located about 100 kilometers from Tula and offers a more limited selection of flights.

Bus Stations Near Tula Oblast

  • Tula Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Tula, servicing both local and regional routes.
  • Moscow Central Bus Terminal: This bus terminal offers routes to Tula and other cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Train: Tula has a well-connected train station, with several daily trains departing from Moscow and other major cities in the region.

How to Get Around in Tula Oblast

The best way to get around Tula Oblast is by car, either renting one or hiring a taxi. Public transportation options, such as buses and trams, are available in urban areas, but they can be crowded and infrequent.

Where to Go Next from Tula Oblast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tula Oblast is a great starting point for exploring other cities and regions in central Russia. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions worth considering.

  • Moscow: Russia’s capital is just a few hours away by train or car, offering an endless array of cultural and historical attractions.
  • Ryazan Oblast: This neighboring region is known for its beautiful countryside, historic towns, and religious landmarks.
  • Lipetsk Oblast: This region is famous for its outdoor recreation options, including cycling, hiking, and skiing.

Conclusion

Tula Oblast is a beautiful and culturally rich region in central Russia. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or traditional crafts, you’ll find plenty of fascinating attractions and activities to explore. With this guide, you’ll be ready to plan an unforgettable trip to Tula Oblast, complete with local experiences, delicious food, and comfortable accommodations.

A tower at the Tula kremlin A tower at the Tula kremlin Venyov Train Station Venyov Train Station


    Kulikovo Field
    Tula