Things To Do
in Khabarovsk

Locally smoked salmon or keta is a must-try — often available at markets and mid-range restaurants along the embankment.

Must-Try!

Dumplings are a Russian staple; in the Far East, you may find pelmeni filled with freshwater fish or mixed meat at cafés and markets.

A clear, aromatic fish soup made with local catch, often served in traditional restaurants and izbas (country-style eateries).

Thin pancakes served with caviar, smoked fish, sour cream or jam — common at cafés and during festivals.

Best place to find fresh river fish, smoked products, pickles and local produce; small stalls sell prepared snacks, blini and grilled items.

In summer you’ll find kiosks and stalls along the embankment offering grilled fish, pastries and cold drinks — ideal for casual tasting.

Use a firm handshake and formal greetings ("Zdravstvuyte") with new acquaintances; using patronymics in formal settings is polite when appropriate.

Public behavior tends to be reserved — avoid loud displays and be mindful of elders; unsolicited smiling at strangers is less common than in some cultures.

Soviet monuments and war memorials are treated with respect — behave solemnly around commemorative sites and ceremonies.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or of military sites; photography of certain infrastructure or border areas may be restricted.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; in restaurants 5–10% is common for good service, round up taxi fares or add a small tip, and leave small change for porters and hotel staff.

Russian rubles are the currency; credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels and larger shops, but carry cash for markets, kiosks and remote areas. ATMs are common in the city; mobile payments are growing but not universal.

Warm and often pleasant (20–30°C), long daylight hours and active river life; the embankment and outdoor cafés bustle, and hiking/fishing are at their best.

Crisp air and colorful foliage make for beautiful landscapes; temperatures drop gradually and you should pack layers for cool mornings and evenings.

Long, cold and snowy with temperatures frequently below −10 to −20°C (and colder in extremes); expect icy sidewalks, short daylight and good conditions for winter sports and ice fishing.

A wet, thawing season with muddy periods and variable weather as snow melts; early spring can still be cold while late spring becomes green and pleasant.

Near-city ridges offering forested paths, viewpoints over the Amur and moderate hikes suitable for half-day trips.

Part of a larger, biodiverse mountain system with trails for multi-day trekking and wildlife spotting (plan with guides for remote routes).

More remote areas offering lake and reservoir-side walks, fishing opportunities and tranquil nature away from the city.

Easier, close-in paths inside a city park ideal for short hikes, birdwatching and family outings.

Main airport serving the city with domestic flights and some regional connections; about a 20–30 minute drive to the city center depending on traffic.

Regional airport to the north serving the Komsomolsk area; accessible by road or short connecting flights, used for regional travel.

Regional airport across the Amur Basin area, useful for access to the southern part of the region; several hours by road from Khabarovsk.

Major Far East international airport (farther away, several hours by air or a long overland trip), useful if combining travel across the Russian Far East or arriving from international routes.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with larger Russian cities — look for blini, salads, mushroom dishes and potato-based sides; communicate restrictions clearly and use the phrase "ya vegetarian" or show a note in Russian.

Vegan choices are rarer; plan ahead, frequent markets for vegetables and breads, and consider self-catering. Many cafés can adapt simple dishes if asked.

Gluten-free options are not widely labeled; talk to staff, stick to soups (check thickeners), fish and salads, and bring snacks if you have strict needs.

Dedicated halal or kosher restaurants are limited; larger supermarkets may carry some halal products, and you can find fish-based meals readily.