Tula Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, outdoor activities, hiking/biking routes, food & drink scene, local culture & customs, and safety tips in Tula with our comprehensive guide.


Tula, located in central Russia, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its arsenal museum and samovar production, Tula offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and delicious food. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, and insider tips for your trip to Tula.

Introduction to Tula

Tula is a historic city located on the banks of the Upa River, in the Tula Oblast region of Russia. Founded in the 14th century, Tula is famous for being a major producer of samovars, weapons, and other metal goods. It is also home to several museums, parks, and natural wonders that make it a popular tourist destination.

List of Places to Visit in Tula

When it comes to Tula, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. From historical museums to scenic parks, here are some of the must-visit places in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tula Kremlin: a fortified complex of buildings that date back to the 16th century, including the Ivanovo Tower and the Cathedral of St. Nicholas.
  • Tula State Museum of Weapons: one of the largest arms museums in Russia, showcasing a wide range of weapons from ancient times to the present day.
  • Tula Museum of Samovars: dedicated to the history and production of the traditional Russian tea-making device.
  • Museum of Local Lore: an impressive collection of artifacts & exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Tula and its people.

Natural Attractions of Tula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Yasnaya Polyana: a country estate of Leo Tolstoy, a famous Russian writer and philosopher. It features a museum, a park, and beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Tula State Nature Reserve: a protected area of over 15,000 hectares of pristine forests, diverse flora and fauna, and majestic landscapes.
  • Sokolniki Park: a popular recreational area close to the city center, offering walking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tula

The Tula region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or just enjoying nature, there are many routes to explore. Some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area include:

  • Yasnaya Polyana Park: a 7km trail through lush forests, fields, and hills, providing stunning views of the countryside.
  • Tula State Reserve: a 10 km trek through pristine nature, with various terrain types and beautiful landscapes.
  • Russkiy Les Park: a 15 km paved bike path amidst beautiful gardens, lakes, and forests, with plenty of rest areas to enjoy.

Best Things to Do in Tula: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting the museums and exploring the outdoors, there are plenty of other things to do in Tula. Here are some of the best activities and tours to add to your itinerary:

  • Samovar-Making Workshop: learn how to make your own samovar at a traditional workshop, and take home a unique souvenir.
  • Kremlin Night Tour: experience the beauty of the Tula Kremlin at night, with a guided tour featuring light shows and historical reenactments.
  • Horseback Riding Tour: explore the countryside on horseback, with various tours available for all skill levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tula

If you want to make the most of your trip to Tula, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Tula Kremlin and Cathedral of St. Nicholas
Day 2 Explore the Tula State Museum of Weapons and Museum of Samovars
Day 3 Take a hiking or biking tour in Tula State Reserve
Day 4 Visit Yasnaya Polyana, the ancestral estate of Leo Tolstoy
Day 5 Take a horseback riding tour or explore Sokolniki Park
Day 6 Enjoy a samovar-making workshop or take a guided tour of the city
Day 7 Relax and unwind at a local spa or wellness center

Food and Drink Scene of Tula

Tula has a rich food and drink culture, with a variety of local dishes and beverages to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks in Tula:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pryanik: a traditional Russian gingerbread made with black pepper and honey.
  • Tula Medovukha: a sweet, spiced honey beverage that can be served hot or cold.
  • Tula Gingerbread: a large, flat, and hard gingerbread that is popular throughout Russia.

Local Beverages

  • Tula Samovar Tea: a strong, black tea that is often served with honey or jam.
  • Tula Beer: a variety of locally brewed beer, including light, dark, and wheat beer.

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

Tula has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget hostel, there are plenty of options available. Here are some of the top-rated places to stay in Tula:

  • Hotel Helix: a modern, 4-star hotel with spacious rooms, excellent amenities, and a central location.
  • Tula Hotel: a cozy, affordable hotel with clean rooms and friendly staff, located near the Tula Kremlin.
  • Hostel Rus-Tula: a budget-friendly hostel with a relaxed atmosphere, comfortable beds, and a shared kitchen.

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

When it comes to souvenirs and local products, Tula has plenty to choose from. Here are some of the best items to bring home:

  • Samovar: a unique and useful souvenir that serves as a reminder of your trip to Tula.
  • Gingerbread: a delicious snack and perfect gift for family and friends.
  • Metal Crafts: Tula is known for its excellent metalwork, and you can find a wide range of handmade crafts at local markets and stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Tula

Tula has a rich and distinct culture, with many customs and traditions that reflect its history and location. Some of the most important cultural aspects of Tula include:

  • Samovar Tradition: the art of samovar-making is deeply ingrained in Tula’s culture, and many families have heirloom samovars that have been passed down for generations.
  • Folk Crafts: Tula is known for its metal crafts, including weapons, samovars, and traditional household items.
  • Music and Dance: local festivals and events often feature traditional Russian music and dance performances.

Best Time to Visit Tula

The best time to visit Tula is from May to September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. This is also when many outdoor activities and festivals take place. However, if you’re interested in winter sports such as skiing and ice skating, the winter months of December to February are also a great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tula

When visiting Tula, it’s important to respect local customs and follow etiquette. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Learn a few Russian phrases and try to communicate with locals in their language.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering a home.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink alcohol in public places or near historic monuments.
  • Don’t litter or damage natural landmarks or historical sites.
  • Don’t take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

While Tula is generally a safe city, it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Tula

  • Avoid wandering alone at night in isolated areas.
  • Keep your valuables locked in a safe place.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Tula

  • Drink bottled water instead of tap water.
  • Wear protective clothing and use insect repellent when outdoors.
  • Get travel health insurance before your trip.

Getting to Tula: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tula is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Tula

  • Moscow Domodedovo Airport: 200 km from Tula
  • Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport: 194 km from Tula

Bus Stations Near Tula

  • Tula Bus Station: serves various destinations within the city and surrounding region.
  • Moscow Bus Station: offers bus services to Tula and other locations in Russia.

Other Options

  • Train: Tula has a well-developed railway network, with regular services to Moscow and other cities.
  • Car: you can rent a car or hire a private driver to reach Tula from Moscow or other locations.

How to Get Around in Tula

Tula has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trolleybuses, and trams, that connect various parts of the city. Taxis and car rentals are also available. However, if you prefer to explore the city on foot or bike, many attractions are within walking or cycling distance from each other.

Where to Go Next from Tula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tula makes a great base for exploring other nearby locations and attractions. Here are some destinations to consider:

  • Moscow: the capital city of Russia, home to iconic landmarks such as the Kremlin, Red Square, and St. Basil’s Cathedral.
  • Kaluga: a historic city with numerous museums, parks, and natural attractions, including the famous Konstantin Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics.
  • Ryazan: a cultural and historical center with a rich architectural heritage, including the Assumption Cathedral and the Old Town.

Conclusion

Tula is a city that will delight any traveler looking for a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its impressive museums, beautiful parks, delicious food, and unique traditions, Tula is a destination that you won’t forget soon. We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to plan your trip to Tula and explore all that this charming city has to offer.

Historic samovar from Tula Historic samovar from Tula