Novgorod Oblast Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat, stay, and shop in Novgorod Oblast, Russia with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod Oblast, located in Northwestern Russia, is a fascinating destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for an authentic Russian experience. Home to some of Russia’s oldest and most significant cultural landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites, Novgorod Oblast offers visitors a glimpse of the country’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural scenery, and vibrant local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod Oblast boasts a plethora of attractions, ranging from museums and historical sites to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. Here is a list of some of the top places to visit in Novgorod Oblast:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Novgorod Kremlin - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fortress was built in the 11th century and served as the center of Novgorod’s political power for centuries. A must-visit for history buffs.

  • St. Sophia Cathedral - Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent cathedral was built in the 11th century and is one of the oldest and most significant Russian Orthodox cathedrals.

  • Vitoslavlitsy Museum of Folk Wooden Architecture - A fascinating open-air museum that showcases traditional Russian architecture and lifestyle from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

  • Yuryev Monastery - Founded in the 12th century, this monastery has a rich history and is home to many important relics and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Novgorod Oblast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Valday National Park - A vast natural park with stunning lakes, forests, and wildlife that provide a paradise for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.

  • Ilmen Nature Reserve - A protected nature reserve that boasts a unique ecosystem with numerous rare and endangered species of animals and plants.

  • Lake Ilmen - One of the largest lakes in Europe, Lake Ilmen offers visitors a serene setting for fishing, canoeing, and other water activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod Oblast is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with its rugged terrain and unspoiled nature. Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Novgorod Oblast:

  • Valday Eco-Trail - A 12 km trail that takes hikers through the pristine forests and hills of Valday National Park.

  • Ilmen Nature Reserve Trail - An 11 km trail that offers hikers a glimpse of the unique flora and fauna of the reserve.

  • Lake Ilmen Bike Trail - A 67 km bike trail that takes cyclists around the scenic Lake Ilmen and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Novgorod Oblast: Activities and Tours

Novgorod Oblast offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours, from cultural expeditions to outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Novgorod Oblast:

  • City Walking Tour - Take a guided tour of Novgorod’s historic city center and learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

  • Boat Tour of Lake Ilmen - Take a scenic boat tour of Lake Ilmen and admire the stunning natural scenery.

  • Horseback Riding - Explore the rugged terrain of Novgorod Oblast on horseback and experience the region’s unique natural beauty from a different perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Novgorod Oblast

Here’s a sample itinerary for a weeklong trip to Novgorod Oblast:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival at Novgorod and check-in to hotel. Walking tour of the city center.
Day 2 Visit St. Sophia Cathedral and Novgorod Kremlin.
Day 3 Visit Yuryev Monastery and Vitoslavlitsy Museum of Folk Wooden Architecture.
Day 4 Hiking or biking in Valday National Park.
Day 5 Boat tour of Lake Ilmen.
Day 6 Horseback riding in Ilmen Nature Reserve.
Day 7 Departure from Novgorod Oblast.

Food and Drink Scene of Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod Oblast has a rich and diverse food and drink scene that reflects its cultural heritage and natural bounty.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Zakuska - A traditional Russian appetizer that consists of a selection of small dishes, such as pickled vegetables, smoked fish, caviar, and cold meats.

  • Kulebyaka - A savory pie filled with meat, fish, or vegetables that is a staple in Russian cuisine.

  • Nalivaika - A traditional berry liqueur made from wild berries that grow in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Kvas - A non-alcoholic drink made from fermented rye bread that is a popular thirst quencher in Russia.

  • Vodka - Russia’s most famous export, vodka is made from grains or potatoes and is an essential part of the country’s cultural and social fabric.

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

Novgorod Oblast offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Novgorod Oblast include:

  • Volkhov Hotel - A luxurious hotel that offers modern amenities and a central location in Novgorod.

  • Hostel Varvar - A budget-friendly hostel that offers clean and comfortable accommodations.

  • Guest House Tochka Kipeniye - A charming guesthouse that offers traditional Russian hospitality and cozy rooms.

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

Novgorod Oblast offers a variety of unique souvenirs and local products that make for great gifts or mementos of your trip to Russia. Here are some of the best things to buy in Novgorod Oblast:

  • Matryoshka Dolls - The quintessential Russian souvenir, Matryoshka dolls are wooden dolls that stack inside one another.

  • Baltic Amber Jewelry - Novgorod Oblast is located near the Baltic Sea, and the region is known for its high-quality amber jewelry.

  • Russian Samovars - A traditional Russian tea kettle that makes for an impressive and practical souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod Oblast has a unique cultural heritage that is reflected in its traditional festivals, customs, and traditions. Some of the most important local customs include:

  • Maslenitsa - A weeklong festival that takes place in late February or early March and marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The festival is known for its traditional pancakes and festivities.

  • Ivan Kupala - A midsummer festival that celebrates the sun and water, with traditional rituals and performances.

Best Time to Visit Novgorod Oblast

The best time to visit Novgorod Oblast depends on your preferences and travel plans. Summer months (June-August) are the most popular due to mild weather conditions and long daylight hours. However, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Novgorod Oblast

Do:

  • Do try traditional Russian cuisine.
  • Do learn some basic Russian phrases.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photos or videos of people without their consent.
  • Don’t wear shoes inside homes or houses of worship.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod Oblast is a generally safe and secure destination for visitors. However, as with all travel, it’s important to exercise caution and common sense. Here are some tips for staying safe in Novgorod Oblast:

  • Do not leave your valuables unattended.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Avoid demonstrations or protests.

Health in Novgorod Oblast

Travelers to Novgorod Oblast should ensure that they are up to date on routine vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and flu vaccine. It is also recommended to have hepatitis A and B vaccines.

Getting to Novgorod Oblast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Novgorod Oblast is easily accessible by various means of transportation, such as air, bus, and train.

Airports Near Novgorod Oblast

The nearest major airport to Novgorod Oblast is Pulkovo Airport (LED), located in St. Petersburg. From there, visitors can take a bus or train to Novgorod.

Bus Stations Near Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod is well-connected by bus to other major cities in Western Russia. The main bus station is located in Novgorod city center, with regular services to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other cities.

Other Options

Train is another popular option for travel to Novgorod Oblast, with daily services to Moscow and St. Petersburg. There are also car rental options available for those who prefer to drive.

How to Get Around in Novgorod Oblast

Novgorod Oblast is a relatively small region, and it is easy to get around by car, bus, or taxi. Novgorod city center is compact and can easily be explored on foot or by bike.

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

Novgorod Oblast is well-connected to other major destinations in Russia, making it a great starting point for further exploration. Here are some of the top destinations to visit near Novgorod Oblast:

  • St. Petersburg - A beautiful city that boasts stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage, located 2 hours by train from Novgorod.

  • Moscow - The capital of Russia, known for its impressive Red Square, the Kremlin, and St. Basil’s Cathedral, located 5 hours by train from Novgorod.

Conclusion

Novgorod Oblast is an enchanting travel destination that offers visitors a glimpse of Russia’s rich cultural heritage and unspoiled natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in history and culture or outdoor adventure and scenic views, Novgorod Oblast has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the magic of this unique region in Russia.

The Novgorod Kremlin The Novgorod Kremlin


    Valday