Rostov Oblast Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural wonders of Rostov Oblast, Russia. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of your trip, from places to visit to local foods to try.


Introduction to Rostov Oblast

Nestled in Southern Russia, Rostov Oblast boasts scenic landscapes, cultural landmarks, and delicious cuisine. The region is famous for the historic city of Rostov-on-Don, which served as a trading hub between Russia and the Caucasus. Visitors can explore the ancient Orthodox churches and cathedrals or drink in the panoramic views of the Don River. Here is a list of places to visit in Rostov Oblast.

List of Places to Visit in Rostov Oblast

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of Military Glory - Located in Rostov-on-Don, the museum showcases military artifacts and weapons from the Russian Civil War and World War II.

  • Rostov Regional Museum of Fine Arts - Displaying contemporary and classical artworks, the museum contains a rich collection of paintings by Russian and European artists.

  • Monument to the Liberators of Rostov - The memorial is dedicated to the soldiers who liberated Rostov from Nazi forces during World War II.

Natural Attractions of Rostov Oblast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Manych-Gudilo Lake - A popular destination for fishing and photography, this lake is located in the Eastern part of Rostov Oblast and covers an area of around 25,000 hectares.

  • Salt Ponds of Lake Elton - Known for their medicinal properties, the salt ponds are located near the Elton Lake. Visitors can enjoy bird watching and hiking in the nearby hills.

  • Don River Delta National Park - The park covers over 200,000 hectares and is home to over 200 bird species, including pelicans and flamingos. It also boasts scenic walking trails and boat tours.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rostov Oblast

  • Caucasus Mountain Trail - This trail zigzags along the Caucasus Mountain range, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.

  • Valuyki Thermal Spring Trail - The trail leads to a natural thermal spring, where visitors can relax in the warm waters and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Rostov Oblast: Activities and Tours

  • Cultural and Food Tour - Explore the authentic cuisine of Rostov Oblast and visit the popular landmarks and museums.

  • Don River Cruises - Enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Don River and witness the stunning sunset views.

  • Bird Watching Tour - Led by a local guide, the tour takes visitors to the Don River Delta National Park, where they can enjoy watching a variety of bird species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rostov Oblast

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Rostov-on-Don, Explore the city
Day 2 Visit Museums and Historical Places
Day 3 Hiking or biking in the Caucasus Mountains
Day 4 Wildlife tour at Don River Delta National Park
Day 5 Relaxation day at Valuyki Thermal Spring
Day 6 Cultural and Food Tour
Day 7 Boat tour on the Don River and departure

Food and Drink Scene of Rostov Oblast

Must-Try Dishes

  • Don Cossack Pie - A savory pie filled with chicken or pork, potatoes, onions, and spices. It’s a staple dish in Rostov Oblast.

  • Shashlik - A type of Russian kebab marinated in vinegar or wine and served on a skewer, this dish is a popular appetizer or main dish.

  • Bread Kvass - This fermented drink is made from bread, water, and sugar and has a slightly sour taste. It’s a refreshing beverage to have with any meal.

Local Beverages

  • Sbiten - A traditional Russian drink made from honey, water, and spices. It’s often served hot and is a great drink for cold weather.

  • Izvar - A traditional Russian drink made from dried fruits such as apples and pears, it’s a refreshing drink for hot weather.

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

  • Radisson Blu Hotel, Rostov-on-Don - A luxurious hotel located downtown, with panoramic views of the Don River and modern facilities.

  • Old Town Bed and Breakfast, Azov - A cozy bed and breakfast located in the scenic town of Azov, with comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.

  • Hostel Modul, Taganrog - A budget-friendly hostel located in the historic city of Taganrog, with clean rooms and shared spaces and a comfortable atmosphere.

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

  • Don Cossack Hat - A traditional hat worn by Don Cossacks, made from wool and adorned with an emblem of the Don Cossack Host. It’s a great souvenir for those who enjoy history and tradition.

  • Rostov-on-Don City Map - A detailed map of the city, featuring all the popular landmarks and museums. It’s a great souvenir for those who love to explore.

  • Flavored Salt - Rostov Oblast is famous for its flavored salts, like garlic, dill, and paprika. They are a great addition to any home kitchen and make for a unique and delicious souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Rostov Oblast

Rostov Oblast has a rich cultural heritage, heavily influenced by the Don Cossacks and their traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially when visiting Churches and other holy sites.

Best Time to Visit Rostov Oblast

The best time to visit Rostov Oblast is between May and September when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are popular.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rostov Oblast

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

  • Learn a few phrases in Russian to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas.

  • Take photographs of strangers without their permission.

  • Overstay your visa.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rostov Oblast

Rostov Oblast is generally safe for visitors, and most tourists do not encounter any security issues. However, it’s always important to remain cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying expensive items publicly, and keep your valuables in a secure place.

Health in Rostov Oblast

Visitors should have up-to-date vaccinations before traveling to Rostov Oblast, and travelers’ insurance is recommended. The tap water is generally safe to drink, but it’s always a good idea to drink bottled water or boil tap water before use.

Getting to Rostov Oblast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rostov Oblast

  • Platov International Airport - Located 20 miles North-East from Rostov-on-Don, it’s the main airport in Rostov Oblast.

  • Azov Airport - Located in the town of Azov, the airport serves domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Rostov Oblast

  • Rostov Central Bus Station - Located in Rostov-on-Don, it offers regular bus services to nearby cities and towns.

  • Novocherkassk Bus Station - Located in the city of Novocherkassk, it serves local and regional routes to other towns and villages.

Other Options

  • Railway - Rostov-on-Don is the central railway hub in the region, and it’s connected to other cities in Russia, including Moscow and St. Petersburg.

  • Car Rental - Visitors can rent cars at the airport and in downtown Rostov-on-Don.

How to Get Around in Rostov Oblast

Visitors can use taxis, ride-sharing services, buses, and trains to get around Rostov Oblast. Taxis are easily available in Rostov-on-Don and other major cities, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Yandex.Taxi are also widely used. Buses and trains are affordable and efficient ways to travel between cities and towns.

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

  • Krasnodar Krai - Located to the west of Rostov Oblast, Krasnodar Krai is a beautiful region with scenic landscapes and historic cities like Krasnodar and Anapa.

  • Volgograd Oblast - To the north of Rostov Oblast, Volgograd Oblast is known for its wartime history and stunning natural vistas.

  • Azov - A charming and picturesque town located on the banks of the Don River, with scenic walking trails and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

Rostov Oblast is a region ripe with plenty of cultural landmarks and outdoor adventures. From historic cities like Rostov-on-Don to scenic natural parks like Don River Delta National Park, the region has something to offer for every type of traveler. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to Rostov Oblast and enjoy everything it has to offer.



    Taganrog