Uglich Travel Guide (Yaroslavl Oblast/Central Russia/Russia/Eastern Europe/Europe)

Introduction to Uglich

Located in the heart of Russia, Uglich is a charming city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. The city is situated in the Yaroslavl Oblast of Central Russia, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Uglich is famous for its breathtaking views of the Volga River, which runs through the city and provides a stunning backdrop for many of the city’s cultural attractions. Visitors can explore a range of museums, historical sites, and natural wonders, making Uglich a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Russia.

List of Places to Visit in Uglich

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kremlin of Uglich: Explore the stunning architecture of the Uglich Kremlin, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Built in the 16th century, the kremlin houses a range of museums, including the Museum of Russian Vodka and the Museum of Russian Life.
Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood: Learn about Uglich’s tragic history at the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, which was built on the site where Dmitry, the son of Ivan the Terrible, was murdered in the 16th century. The church is known for its stunning frescoes and ornate decor.
Museum of Hydropower and Electric Power: Discover the history of hydroelectric power in Russia at the Museum of Hydropower and Electric Power. The museum features a range of exhibits and interactive displays, making it perfect for families and history enthusiasts.
Aleksandrovskaya Sloboda: Visit the Aleksandrovskaya Sloboda, a popular open-air museum that showcases traditional Russian architecture and culture. Visitors can explore a range of historical buildings, including churches, homes, and workshops.

Natural Attractions of Uglich: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Uglich Reservoir: Take a boat tour of the Uglich Reservoir, a stunning body of water that stretches for miles through the Russian countryside. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and spot a range of local wildlife.
Spaso-Preobrazhenskiy Cathedral: Hike to the top of the Spaso-Preobrazhenskiy Cathedral, one of Uglich’s most famous landmarks. The cathedral is situated on a hill overlooking the city, providing visitors with stunning panoramic views of Uglich and the surrounding area.
Golden Ring Nature Park: Explore the beauty of the Golden Ring Nature Park, a protected area that encompasses some of Russia’s most beautiful natural landscapes. The park is home to a range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and lynx, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Uglich

Uglich is home to a range of hiking and biking trails, perfect for those looking to explore the city’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular trails include the Volga River trail, which follows the river through the heart of Uglich, and the Golden Ring trail, which provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Uglich: Activities and Tours

Vodka Tasting Tour: Take a tour of the Museum of Russian Vodka and sample some of Russia’s finest vodkas. Learn about the history of vodka in Russia and discover the secrets behind its production.
River Cruise Tour: Take a cruise down the Volga River and enjoy breathtaking views of Uglich and the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including fishing, hiking, and swimming.
Traditional Russian Cooking Class: Learn how to cook traditional Russian dishes at a local cooking class. Visitors can learn about the history of Russian cuisine and sample a range of local delicacies.

Week-Long Itinerary for Uglich

Day	Activity
Day 1	Explore the Uglich Kremlin and Museum of Russian Vodka
Day 2	Visit the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood and the Museum of Hydropower and Electric Power
Day 3	Take a boat tour of the Uglich Reservoir
Day 4	Hike to the top of the Spaso-Preobrazhenskiy Cathedral
Day 5	Visit the Aleksandrovskaya Sloboda and Golden Ring Nature Park
Day 6	Attend a traditional Russian cooking class
Day 7	Take a river cruise down the Volga River

Food and Drink Scene of Uglich

Must-Try Dishes

Borsch: A traditional Russian soup made with beets, cabbage, and potatoes.
Pelmeni: Siberian-style dumplings filled with meat or mushrooms, served with sour cream.
Blintzes: Thin, crepe-like pancakes filled with sweet cheese or fruit.

Local Beverages

Vodka: Russia’s most famous beverage, vodka is made from fermented grains or potatoes and typically served chilled in small glasses.
Kvass: A fermented drink made from bread, malt, and sugar. Kvass has a sour, slightly sweet taste and is often enjoyed as a refreshing summer beverage.

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

Uglich offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the most popular options include:

Duklyan Hotel: Situated in the city center, this 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms and a range of amenities, including a fitness center, sauna, and restaurant.
Guest House Reka Vremeni: This charming guesthouse is located on the banks of the Volga River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the guesthouse features a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

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

Matryoshka Dolls: Traditional Russian dolls that feature a range of designs and themes.
Birch Bark Boxes: Handcrafted wooden boxes made from birch bark, often decorated with intricate designs.
Russian Shawls: Colorful, patterned shawls made from wool or silk, often featuring traditional Russian designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Uglich

Uglich is steeped in Russian culture and history, and visitors should take the time to learn about local customs and traditions. Some things to keep in mind include:

Orthodox Christianity: Uglich is home to a number of Orthodox Christian churches and visitors should be respectful when visiting these sites.
Greetings: It’s customary to greet people with a handshake and a smile. Visitors should also greet older people first as a sign of respect.
Meals: In Russia, it’s common to share a meal with others and to enjoy multiple courses. Visitors should be prepared to try a range of dishes and may be offered seconds or even thirds.

Best Time to Visit Uglich

The best time to visit Uglich is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and the days are long. However, visitors can also enjoy Uglich’s natural beauty during the winter months, when the city is covered in a blanket of snow and the Christmas markets are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Uglich

Do:

Dress Appropriately: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove hats and sunglasses.
Learn Some Russian: Knowing a few basic Russian phrases can help visitors communicate with locals and make their trip more enjoyable.
Explore the Outdoors: Uglich is home to a range of natural wonders, including the Golden Ring Nature Park and the Uglich Reservoir.

Don’t:

Be Disrespectful: Visitors should be respectful of Uglich’s history and culture and avoid making offensive or insensitive comments.
Drink in Public: It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places in Russia.

Safety and Health

Safety in Uglich

Uglich is generally safe for visitors, but visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling to a foreign city. This includes being aware of their surroundings, avoiding flashing expensive items like jewelry, and being careful when crossing busy streets.

Health in Uglich

Visitors should ensure that their vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Uglich. Visitors should also take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as mosquitoes can carry diseases like malaria and the Zika virus. It’s also important to avoid drinking tap water, and stick to bottled water instead.

Getting to Uglich: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Uglich

The nearest major international airport to Uglich is Sheremetyevo International Airport, located in Moscow. From there, visitors can take a train or bus to Uglich.

Bus Stations Near Uglich

Uglich has a range of local and regional bus stations, making it easy to connect to other areas of Russia. Some of the most popular bus stations include the Uglich Bus Station and Yaroslavl Bus Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to Uglich, with services running from Moscow and other nearby cities. It’s also possible to drive to Uglich, with ample parking available throughout the city.

How to Get Around in Uglich

Walking and biking are popular ways to get around Uglich, with many of the city’s cultural attractions located within a short distance of each other. Visitors can also use local taxis or public transportation to get around, with buses and minibuses running throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Uglich: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Uglich is located in the heart of Russia, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the country’s many other attractions. Some nearby destinations include:

Moscow: Visit Russia’s capital city and explore famous attractions like Red Square, the Kremlin, and St. Basil’s Cathedral.
St. Petersburg: Explore the cultural capital of Russia, known for its stunning architecture, museums, and art galleries.
Golden Ring of Russia: Discover the ancient cities and towns that make up the Golden Ring of Russia, a collection of historic sites located just a short distance from Uglich.

Conclusion

Uglich is a hidden gem of Central Russia, offering a range of cultural attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in learning about Russian history, sampling local cuisine, or exploring the great outdoors, Uglich has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide in hand, visitors can plan the perfect trip to Uglich and make the most of everything this charming city has to offer.

Uglich Image Gallery

Uglich kremlin view from the Volga river

Prince Dmitry's palace in Uglich

Uglich pier with the Volga view

Uglich Dam and hydro plant