What to see in Vologda
While everyone is going to Moscow or St. Petersburg, we suggest escaping from noisy megacities to Vologda. Firstly, the city was founded at the same time as the well-known capital. And secondly, there are a lot of cool locations here that are not yet on your friends' social networks. In short, it's a top place to surprise everyone and spice up dull weekdays with something new and colorful.
How to get to Vologda
There are many options, and it's up to you to choose the most comfortable one.
By plane
As usual, the fastest option is to fly. Secretly, tickets to Vologdacan often be found at pleasant prices. For example, a flight for 10 000 rubles to the destination is an exception rather than a rule. And 6 000 rubles (on lucky days even 4 000!) is a normal price for such a trip. In short, grab them before they're gone, because cheap tickets don't stay on the website for long.
By train
Are you ready to travel nine hours by train to save 3 000 rubles? Then this option is for you. Vologda's attractionscan wait, but trains 's Belorussky and Yaroslavsky stations cannot. So, check tickets in advance to avoid any unforeseen circumstances.
By the way, you can also go on that longed-for vacation for new opportunities . Trains depart from Ladozhsky railway station, though it takes much longer than .
By bus
There are two options here: either you spend the whole day in an uncomfortable position, or you try not to fall asleep on your neighbor's shoulder at night. In any case, you can get there. Buses depart from the station on Obvodny Canal, and — directly from the airport.
Our advice: grab a book, download a movie, or prepare a travel music playlist. After all, there will be no entertainment during the entire trip.
When is the best time to go
A vacation is pleasant at any time of the year, be it summer or winter. Moreover, there are plenty of places to visit in Vologda. They are beautiful in both warm and cold weather. So, plan your trip when your soul craves new adventures.
Winter holidays in Russia can be very diverse. And if you want to stroll through Christmas markets, go ice skating, or try hot coffee, then Vologda in winter is your option. In summer, you can swim and enjoy positive temperatures. The weather here is pleasant.
What to see in Vologda
In fact, all the important places in Vologda can be explored without guides or maps in a single day off. Everything is close by, so you definitely won't get bored.
Vologda Kremlin
Probably the most famous attraction of Vologda and its region is the Kremlin. Or what's left of it after a severe spring flood back in 1670... In any case, you'll recognize the stone fence immediately, and you'll even see the tall tower from afar. Moreover, you can take a leisurely stroll in the square and see the St. Sophia and Resurrection Cathedrals. To put it another way, to gaze upon something great.
Monument to the letter 'O'
Imagine this: you're exploring interesting places in the city, wondering where to go next, and then you stumble upon a monument. And at first glance, it's not even clear what meaning is embedded in it or what the author wanted to convey.
So, we answer all your questions and dispel your doubts. This is a monument to the letter 'O', and it's probably the strangest attraction from those you can see in Vologda. Its purpose is to capture a peculiarity of the local dialect: 'okanye' (pronouncing unstressed 'o' as 'o'). In short, what can I say? Well, o-o-o…
Prechistenskaya Embankment
An incredibly beautiful place, especially in summer. Prechistenskaya Embankment has a large number of restaurants and cafes, and boats and scooters often sail along the Vologda River (yes, that's its name). In general, for a romantic end to the day, this is definitely the place to be.
Tree of Hospitality
At first glance, it's just a tree. But if you get closer, you can see many birdhouses. They are painted in all the colors of the rainbow and securely attached to the strongest branches. Birds appear there regularly, they are fed, and people simply enjoy their presence.
Local authorities initiated this idea. They wanted Vologda to be remembered by tourists as a warm and hospitable place. So, they embarked on this venture on one of the busy streets, not far from the railway station. By the way, students from the nearest school helped assemble and hang the birdhouses.
If there were a competition for the cutest attraction, this one would surely take first place.
Architectural and Ethnographic Museum 'Semyonkovo'
An excellent option for spending a weekend with a child. The Architectural and Ethnographic Museum 'Semyonkovo' collects everything that reflects peasant life of the 19th–20th centuries — from painted houses to master classes in various crafts (for example, flax processing or oil making).
Festivals, historical reenactments, and holidays are often held here. And for all interested, there are excursions through which you can learn a little about the history of Vologda and its inhabitants.
Museum 'World of Forgotten Things'
'World of Forgotten Things' is a kind of portal to the past. The organizers carefully recreated the entire atmosphere and daily life of the 19th and 20th centuries. In the three-story house, you can see antique furniture (down to clocks and gramophones), as well as thematic exhibitions. Items from visitors' personal archives are found here: old photographs, family heirlooms, and archival documents.
Sometimes musical evenings, holidays, and other interesting events are organized here.
Lace Museum
This unique museum is located directly opposite Vologda's main attraction — the Kremlin. Therefore, if you find yourself nearby, visiting it would be a good decision.
Today, you can see the works of the best local craftswomen for 200 rubles. There are several halls in the building where polite staff will show (and even tell) interesting facts about various exhibits.
Well, if you're very inspired by the lace theme, head to the first floor for souvenirs. There's also a cafeteria where you can relax.
Art object 'World Towers'
It turns out that Vologda also has an Eiffel Tower and Burj Khalifa… This very new art object is located near highway A-119, next to the village of Nefedovo. Its essence is to showcase all the highest points in the world, but in miniature. Thus, you can see the famous Big Ben, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and — unexpectedly — Mount Ararat.
Currently, the project is building a hotel and, concurrently, a cafe. Noah's Ark is taken as the basis, its dimensions are not inferior to other exhibits of the exhibition.
Where to eat
«Vo vse chashkie» (Into all cups). A cozy coffee shop with responsive staff and a wide selection of drinks. You can enjoy the interior and order something warm and comforting, or you can go explore the city with a snack in hand. Both options are great, especially at a pleasant price.
«Kukhnya» (Kitchen). The restaurant's highlight is that you can watch your dish being prepared without leaving your seat. Russian cuisine predominates here.
DOME1791. Firstly, the restaurant is located right in the center of Vologda. Secondly, it serves a variety of French, Italian, and Greek cuisines. And as a bonus, a luxurious interior that is perfect for cool photos.
«Gorodskoye Kafe na Glinkakh» (City Cafe on Glinki). For sweets, definitely come here! In addition to cakes with completely different fillings, the cafe also serves European cuisine. They are very hearty and delicious. Top spot for a quick bite before heading out.
«Parovozov» (Locomotive). You've probably seen footage from Japan where dishes arrive at your table on a special moving track. Well, this restaurant has combined the best service: an idea, a cool interior, and unusual dishes. Voila — and drinks arrive to you on a small train.
In short, an excellent option for those who don't know what to see in Vologda with children. Rest assured, they will ask you to come back again. And you'll hardly object.
«Krylya» (Wings). A grill bar for all lovers of fried and meaty dishes. Portions are large, and the atmosphere resembles St. Petersburg: you can watch matches (be it football or boxing) on a large screen.
La Rosa Rossa. Where else can you try a whole crab if not here? Luxurious interior and dishes for every taste.
Coffee Cake. Here you'll find everything you need for happiness: lunches, desserts, and delicious coffee. If you dreamed of something cozy with reasonable prices — this is definitely the place for you.
Where to stay
The best place to stay can always be found on Ostrovok.ru. And if you're one of those who look for everything at the last minute, here's our list of places where you can relax after a busy day.
«Aura». A hotel with a modern interior not far from the city center. All the main places Vologda is famous for are within easy reach from here. So, if you want to use taxis minimally, stay here.
Boutique Hotel «Sakvoyazh» (Travel Bag). It is often called «intelligent.» All thanks to the interior and the polite staff. If you dream of relaxing in a secluded place — we recommend it, it's very quiet here.
«Istoriya» (History). A hotel with its own courtyard where you can meet the sunrise (or, conversely, the sunset). In general, very romantic.
What to bring from Vologda
We saved the most interesting for last. Mini-gifts and souvenirs are always pleasant. Whether it's a fridge magnet or another trinket, you still want to buy something. We understand your desire and share some nice little things that will be a great reminder of your vacation:
- wood and birch bark products. They are very popular in Vologda, so you can buy them in many souvenir shops. There are many variations of products — from small storage baskets to toys that children will definitely love;
- Vologda enamel (finift). So you don't get scared, let's explain right away: finift is an ancient technique of painting on white enamel. It looks very beautiful and is often found on caskets or jewelry (such as earrings);
- black sturgeon caviar. It's a sin to visit Vologda and not grab a jar of caviar. The city and its region rank first in the production of this delicacy; there's even its own caviar factory here. In short, it will be delicious. Especially before the New Year;
- lingonberry jam. Another treat for your table, this time a sweet one. Imagine this: you, tea, and bread with lingonberry jam. What do you think?
- silver products. Vologda offers high-quality products that will make either an excellent gift or an adornment for a party with friends.
Well, we've told you about all the interesting places in Vologda. If you want something more, we recommend checking out what to visit in Kostroma. After that, you will completely fall in love with Russian charm. Happy travels!
