Things To Do
in Arkhangelsk

Arkhangelsk, located in northwestern Russia, is a vibrant city known for its significant historical and cultural heritage. Situated at the mouth of the Northern Dvina River, it has been a crucial port city since the 16th century, connecting Russia to the West. The city combines traditional Russian architecture with modern urban development, offering a unique blend of old and new.

Arkhangelsk is also recognized for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the White Sea and nearby forests.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Arkhangelsk Regional Museum of Local Lore, where you can learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll along the embankment of the Northern Dvina River and visit the famous wooden architecture of the Malye Karely Museum.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then take a leisurely walk through the city center to experience its vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the Pinezhsky National Park for a morning hike and enjoy the stunning views of the natural landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sevmorzavod Museum, which highlights the maritime history of Arkhangelsk, followed by a coffee break in a local café.

evening
:

End your day with a boat tour on the Northern Dvina River, enjoying the sunset and fresh air.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Cappuccino$3
🚕Taxi fare (5 km)$5
🏨Hotel (per night)$50
🍎Grocery (1 kg of apples)$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to other Russian cities.
  • Harsh winter climate may deter some visitors.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Fewer tourist facilities compared to larger cities.
  • "Здравствуйте" - Hello
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Пожалуйста" - Please
  • "Где находится ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Сколько это стоит?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Arkhangelsk

Visit one of these nice places.

Arkhangelsk Embankment

A picturesque waterfront area perfect for capturing sunset views and the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Malye Karely Museum

An open-air museum showcasing traditional wooden architecture, ideal for unique architectural photography.

Transfiguration Cathedral

This stunning cathedral features beautiful frescoes and a unique architectural style, making it a must-see for photographers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Arkhangelsk

Arkhangelsk offers a rich culinary experience that showcases the flavors of the Russian North, with an emphasis on seafood and traditional dishes.

Arkhangelsk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pelmeni

Traditional Russian dumplings filled with meat, usually served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Sevruga Caviar

A luxurious delicacy from the Caspian Sea, often enjoyed on blinis or toast.

Kholodets

A jellied meat dish that is served cold, often made from beef or pork.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Arkhangelsk Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local fish, and handmade goods.

Street Vendors

Explore various street vendors offering quick bites like pirozhki (stuffed buns) and shashlik (grilled meat skewers).

Climate Guide

Weather

Arkhangelsk experiences a subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Winter temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F), while summer highs can reach around 20°C (68°F). Rain is common in summer, while winters are characterized by snowfall. The transitional seasons of spring and autumn are brief but can be beautiful with blooming flowers and colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time; maintain eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start; it's polite to finish everything on your plate.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, where conservative attire is expected.

Safety Guide

Safety

Arkhangelsk is generally a safe city for tourists; however, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services can be reached by calling 112, and it's helpful to have a local SIM card for communication.

Tipping in Arkhangelsk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping around 10% in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory; it's best to round up the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand can be useful for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Expect cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming nature make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather with long days, perfect for enjoying river activities and local festivals.

Autumn

Cooler weather and beautiful fall foliage, ideal for hiking and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Arkhangelsk at Night

Arkhangelsk has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and cultural events. Popular spots include local pubs offering live music and dance clubs that cater to a younger crowd. The city also hosts occasional festivals and cultural performances that add to its nightlife charm.

Hiking in Arkhangelsk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zarechye Hiking Trail

A scenic trail that offers moderate difficulty and showcases the natural beauty of the region, including forests and rivers.

Sukhona River Trail

This trail follows the picturesque Sukhona River and is ideal for both hiking and biking, with stunning views along the way.

Airports

How to reach Arkhangelsk by plane.

Talagi Airport (ARJ)

Located approximately 12 km from the city center, Talagi Airport offers domestic flights and limited international services, making it the primary gateway for travelers to Arkhangelsk.

Getting Around

Walkability

Arkhangelsk is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly areas encourage leisurely exploration. Biking is also an option, with several paths available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Russian Ethnic Group

The majority ethnic group in Arkhangelsk, contributing to the city's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Indigenous Peoples

Including groups such as the Komi and Nenets, who have unique cultural practices and histories linked to the northern territories.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A popular sport in Arkhangelsk, with local teams competing at various levels, attracting passionate fans.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed in Arkhangelsk, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Arkhangelsk is generally manageable, with peak hours typically occurring during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation is available via buses and vans, which are affordable and cover most parts of the city. However, walking is often the best way to experience the city, especially in the central areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Arkhangelsk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Russian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes upon request.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are limited, but it is advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Arkhangelsk is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Some facilities may have limited English-speaking staff, so it's wise to have a translation app handy.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide