Urals Travel Guide
Plan your next adventure to Urals with this comprehensive travel guide, including a list of top attractions, hiking and biking routes, recommended food and drink, accommodations, local customs, and more.
- Introduction to Urals
- List of Places to Visit in Urals
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Urals
- Best Things to Do in Urals: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Urals
- Food and Drink Scene of Urals
- Where to Stay in Urals: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Urals: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Urals
- Best Time to Visit Urals
- Do’s and Don’ts of Urals
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Urals: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Urals
- Where to Go Next from Urals: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Urals
Nestled in the heart of Russia, Urals is a region that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The region spans over 2,500 kilometers and covers several federal subjects, including Sverdlovsk Oblast, Chelyabinsk Oblast, and Perm Krai.
Urals has a lot to offer, and it’s become a popular destination for travelers looking to experience something unique. With mountains, lakes, rivers, and forests, Urals attracts adventurers, hikers, and nature lovers from around the world.
In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, natural wonders, local customs, accommodations, and much more. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a family adventure, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Urals.
List of Places to Visit in Urals
Urals has no shortage of attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-visit places:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Museum of Fine Arts in Ekaterinburg features exhibits highlighting Russian art from the 18th century to the present day.
- The Vysotsky Viewing Platform in Ekaterinburg offers panoramic views of the city from a height of 220 meters. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the city skyline.
- The Ganina Yama Monastery is a religious complex located on the outskirts of Ekaterinburg. It’s a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Natural Attractions of Urals: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- The Taganay National Park is a popular destination for hiking and camping. The park covers over 50,000 hectares of land and boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- The Ilmen Mountains are a range of mountains that run through several regions in Urals. These mountains offer great hiking trails, including the famous Ilmensky Trail.
- The Ural Mountains is the natural border between Europe and Asia, and the highest peak is Mount Narodnaya, which stands at over 1,890 meters.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Urals
Urals has plenty of hiking and biking routes to explore. Here are some of the most popular options:
- The Ilmensky Trail is a 58-kilometer hiking trail that takes you through the beautiful Ilmen Mountains.
- The Great Baikal Trail is a 900-kilometer trail that passes through the Ural Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.
- The Chusovaya River Trail is a popular destination for kayaking and river rafting. The trail starts at the Ural Mountains and ends at the Volga River, covering a distance of 547 kilometers.
Best Things to Do in Urals: Activities and Tours
In addition to hiking and biking, Urals has plenty of other activities to offer. Here are some of the best:
- The Bazhov Festival is an annual event that celebrates the life and work of Pavel Bazhov, a famous Russian fairy tale writer.
- The Pervouralsk Museum of Local Lore is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Urals.
- The Museum of Ural gems in Ekaterinburg showcases the region’s precious stones, including emeralds, alexandrites, and topazes.
Week-Long Itinerary for Urals
If you’re planning to spend a week in Urals, here’s a sample itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Ekaterinburg |
| 2 | Hike the Ilmensky Trail |
| 3 | Visit the Ganina Yama Monastery |
| 4 | Explore the Pervouralsk Museum of Local Lore |
| 5 | Kayak the Chusovaya River Trail |
| 6 | Take a tour of the Museum of Ural gems in Ekaterinburg |
| 7 | Relax at the Vysotsky Viewing Platform and enjoy the sunset |
Food and Drink Scene of Urals
Urals has a rich culinary heritage, with a variety of local dishes and beverages to try.
Must-Try Dishes
- Pelmeni - a type of Russian dumpling that is filled with meat or vegetables.
- Blini - thin pancakes that are often served with sour cream and caviar.
- Solyanka - a sour soup that is made with meat, vegetables, and pickles.
Local Beverages
- Medovukha - a traditional Russian alcoholic beverage made with honey and herbs.
- Kvass - a fermented beverage made with bread, water, and sugar.
- Sbiten - a spiced honey-based drink that is often served warm.
Where to Stay in Urals: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Urals has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the top choices:
- Hyatt Regency Ekaterinburg - a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city, with stunning views of the city skyline.
- Ural Hotel - a budget-friendly option that offers comfortable rooms and great amenities at an affordable price.
- Tourist Hotel - a mid-range hotel that is centrally located and offers easy access to the city’s top attractions.
What to Buy in Urals: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Urals is known for its traditional crafts and local products. Here are some of the top items to bring home:
- Gzhel ceramics - traditional Russian ceramics that are famous for their blue and white colors.
- Ural malachite - a precious stone that is mined in Urals and used to create jewelry and décor.
- Khokhloma wooden utensils - traditional painted wooden utensils that make great souvenirs.
Local Culture and Customs of Urals
Urals has a unique cultural heritage, with influences from both European and Asian traditions. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind:
- Russians value punctuality, so make sure to arrive on time for any appointments or meetings.
- It’s customary to bring a small gift when visiting someone’s home in Russia.
- Russians tend to be reserved in public, so it’s best to avoid loud or aggressive behavior.
Best Time to Visit Urals
The best time to visit Urals is from May to September when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are at their best. However, if you’re looking to experience Urals’ winter wonderland, December to February is the best time to go.
Do’s and Don’ts of Urals
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Urals:
Do:
- Learn a few basic phrases in Russian to help you communicate with locals.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.
- Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Don’t:
- Do not discuss politics or religion unless you know the person well.
- Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
- Don’t disregard local customs or traditions.
Safety and Health
Urals is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always important to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Safety in Urals
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
- Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Always carry identification and emergency contact information with you.
Health in Urals
- It’s important to keep up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Urals.
- Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
- Pack any necessary prescription medications with you.
Getting to Urals: Transportation Options and Logistics
Urals is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. Here are some of the best transportation options:
Airports Near Urals
- Koltsovo International Airport in Ekaterinburg is the main airport in Urals, serving both domestic and international flights.
- Magnitogorsk International Airport is another option for travelers visiting the southern part of Urals.
Bus Stations Near Urals
- Ekaterinburg Central Bus Station offers regular bus services to other cities in Russia.
- Chelyabinsk Bus Station is the main bus station in Chelyabinsk Oblast.
Other Options
- The Trans-Siberian Railway is a popular way to travel to Urals, with several stops in the region.
- Driving your own vehicle or renting a car is also an option for those who want to explore the region at their own pace.
How to Get Around in Urals
Public transportation in Urals is an excellent way to get around, with options including buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Taxis are also available and can be requested via mobile apps such as Yandex Taxi and Uber. For those who want to explore the region on their own, renting a car is also an option.
Where to Go Next from Urals: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Urals is surrounded by many other beautiful destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top choices:
- Kazan - the capital city of Tatarstan, located just over 500 kilometers from Urals.
- Lake Baikal - the deepest lake in the world, located over 4,000 kilometers east of Urals.
- Novosibirsk - the largest city in Siberia, located approximately 1600 kilometers east of Urals.
Conclusion
Urals is a hidden gem that has something to offer for every traveler. From the stunning natural landscapes to the rich cultural heritage, Urals is a destination that shouldn’t be missed. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful region.
