Arkhangelsk Oblast Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Arkhangelsk Oblast with our detailed travel guide. Learn about top attractions, local culture, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Arkhangelsk Oblast

Welcome to Arkhangelsk Oblast, a stunning region located in Northwestern Russia. This area is rich in natural beauty and is known for its cultural and historical significance. It is the perfect destination for travelers who are looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.

List of Places to Visit in Arkhangelsk Oblast

Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, hiking through scenic landscapes, or simply relaxing in a picturesque town, Arkhangelsk Oblast has something to offer everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Arkhangelsk Oblast is rich in history and culture, with several important landmarks and museums that you won’t want to miss.

  1. Solovetsky Monastery - This historic monastery is located on an archipelago in the White Sea, and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded in the 15th century and played an important role in the history of the Russian Orthodox Church.

  2. Malye Karely Wooden Architecture Museum - This open-air museum is home to a collection of wooden buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore the traditional architecture and see how people lived in the region many years ago.

  3. Arkhangelsk Museum of Fine Arts - This art museum has an excellent collection of Russian paintings, sculptures, and decorative art. The building itself is also worth seeing, as it is an example of classic Soviet architecture.

Natural Attractions of Arkhangelsk Oblast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Arkhangelsk Oblast is also known for its stunning natural beauty. Its forests, mountains, and lakes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic views.

  1. Kenozersky National Park - This park is home to some of the most pristine natural landscapes in Russia. Visitors can hike through forests, see waterfalls and rock formations, and spot wildlife like bears and moose.

  2. Dvina Bay - This picturesque bay is located in the city of Arkhangelsk and is a popular spot for boating and fishing. Visitors can also take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy views of the water and ships passing by.

  3. Northern Dvina River - This river is the lifeblood of the region, and visitors can take boat tours to explore its winding channels and see the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arkhangelsk Oblast

For outdoor enthusiasts, Arkhangelsk Oblast has plenty of hiking and biking routes to explore.

  1. Pinezhsky Nature Reserve - This nature reserve has several hiking trails that take visitors through pristine wilderness areas. Visitors can see a variety of unique flora and fauna, including rare Siberian tigers.

  2. Malye Karely Bike Trail - This 10-km bike trail takes visitors through scenic forests and past traditional wooden houses. It is a fun and easy way to see the region’s natural beauty up close.

Best Things to Do in Arkhangelsk Oblast: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Arkhangelsk Oblast offers plenty of other activities and tours for visitors to enjoy.

  1. Russian Banya Experience - A traditional Russian banya is a must-try experience when visiting Arkhangelsk Oblast. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing steam bath, followed by a cold plunge in a nearby lake.

  2. Northern Lights Tour - In the winter months, visitors can take a tour to see the stunning Northern Lights. The clear night skies in Arkhangelsk Oblast make it an ideal place to witness this natural phenomenon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arkhangelsk Oblast

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Arkhangelsk Oblast:

Day 1: Visit the Solovetsky Monastery.

Day 2: Explore the Malye Karely Wooden Architecture Museum and take a bike ride along the Malye Karely Bike Trail.

Day 3: Visit the Arkhangelsk Museum of Fine Arts and take a stroll along the Northern Dvina River waterfront.

Day 4: Hike through the Pinezhsky Nature Reserve.

Day 5: Take a boat tour along the Northern Dvina River and visit the city of Severodvinsk.

Day 6: Relax in a traditional Russian banya.

Day 7: Take a tour to see the Northern Lights.

Food and Drink Scene of Arkhangelsk Oblast

The food and drink scene in Arkhangelsk Oblast is rich in traditional Russian flavors and ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Shangi - These traditional dumplings are filled with potatoes and cooked in a savory broth.

  2. Kulebyaka - This savory pastry is filled with salmon, rice, and mushrooms.

  3. Kvass - This non-alcoholic beverage is made with fermented bread and has a refreshing, slightly sour taste.

Local Beverages

  1. Vodka - Russia is famous for its vodka, and Arkhangelsk Oblast is no exception. Visitors can try local varieties and learn about the history and traditions of vodka production.

  2. White Sea Fishermen’s Beer - This beer is brewed using traditional methods and ingredients, and has a crisp, refreshing taste.

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

Arkhangelsk Oblast has several accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.

  1. Marriott Hotel Arkhangelsk - This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.

  2. Hostel Friends - This budget-friendly hostel is located in the city center and is a popular choice for backpackers and solo travelers.

  3. Dyadya Vanya Guesthouse - This guesthouse is located in the countryside and offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, as well as traditional Russian hospitality.

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

When visiting Arkhangelsk Oblast, visitors can bring home unique and authentic souvenirs and local products.

  1. Wooden Crafts - The region is known for its traditional wooden crafts, such as matryoshka dolls, nesting boxes, and spoons.

  2. Northern Fish - Visitors can purchase smoked or fresh fish from the White Sea, such as salmon, trout, and herring.

Local Culture and Customs of Arkhangelsk Oblast

Arkhangelsk Oblast has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn about local customs and traditions.

  1. Russian Orthodox Church - The region has several historic churches and monasteries, and visitors can learn about the role of religion in the lives of local people.

  2. Folk Music and Dancing - Visitors can attend traditional Russian folk music and dance performances and see how music and dance are an important part of the culture.

Best Time to Visit Arkhangelsk Oblast

The best time to visit Arkhangelsk Oblast depends on the activities and experiences you’re looking for.

  1. Summer (June to August) - This is the best time for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. The weather is warm and sunny, and the daylight hours are long.

  2. Winter (December to February) - This is the best time to see the Northern Lights and experience traditional Russian winter activities, such as ice fishing and sledding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arkhangelsk Oblast

When visiting Arkhangelsk Oblast, it’s important to be aware of local customs and etiquette.

Do:

  1. Dress appropriately when visiting churches and monasteries.

  2. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

  3. Try traditional Russian foods and drinks.

Don’t:

  1. Touch or remove anything from museums or historical sites.

  2. Be loud or disrespectful in public places.

  3. Drink alcohol in public places.

Safety and Health

While Arkhangelsk Oblast is a generally safe place to visit, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Safety in Arkhangelsk Oblast

  1. Be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

  2. Keep your belongings close to you and do not leave them unattended.

  3. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places.

Health in Arkhangelsk Oblast

  1. Be cautious when consuming food and water in unfamiliar places.

  2. Bring necessary medications and seek medical attention if necessary.

  3. Wear appropriate clothing and use sunscreen to protect from sunburn.

Getting to Arkhangelsk Oblast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Arkhangelsk Oblast is easily accessible by several means of transportation.

Airports Near Arkhangelsk Oblast

  1. Talagi Airport - This airport is located just outside of the city of Arkhangelsk and is a hub for several major Russian airlines.

Bus Stations Near Arkhangelsk Oblast

  1. Arkhangelsk Bus Station - This bus station is located in the city center and offers convenient connections to nearby destinations.

Other Options

  1. Train - Visitors can take a train to Arkhangelsk from Moscow or St. Petersburg, with connections available to other destinations.

  2. Car - Visitors can rent a car in Moscow or St. Petersburg and drive to Arkhangelsk Oblast.

How to Get Around in Arkhangelsk Oblast

Getting around Arkhangelsk Oblast is relatively easy, with several options available.

  1. Bus - Local buses are available in most cities and towns.

  2. Taxi - Taxis are available in most cities and towns, and are a convenient way to get around.

  3. Car Rental - Visitors can rent a car at several locations in Arkhangelsk Oblast.

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

If you’re looking to explore more of Russia, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider.

  1. Kizhi Island - This island is located in Lake Onega and is home to a collection of historic wooden churches and houses.

  2. Petrozavodsk - This city is located on the shores of Lake Onega and is a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking and boating.

Conclusion

Arkhangelsk Oblast is a truly unique and beautiful destination that offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing in a picturesque town, Arkhangelsk Oblast has something to offer everyone. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip and explore all that this amazing region has to offer.

Map of Arkhangelsk Oblast Map of Arkhangelsk Oblast Solovetsky Monastery on the White Sea Solovetsky Monastery on the White Sea Wooden bird of happiness in Pomorye Wooden bird of happiness in Pomorye The M8 road from Moscow to Arkhangelsk The M8 road from Moscow to Arkhangelsk


    Arkhangelsk
    Kargopol
    Novaya Zemlya
    Solovetsky Islands