Things To Do
in Kostroma
Kostroma is a historic city located in central Russia along the Volga River. It is known for its well-preserved architecture dating back to the 17th century, including the stunning Ipatiev Monastery and the colorful Fire Tower. Kostroma is also famous for being part of the Golden Ring of Russia, a group of ancient cities with significant cultural and historical importance.
Visitors to Kostroma can enjoy exploring its charming streets, visiting museums, and taking in the beautiful river views.
- "Privet" - Hello
- "Kak dela?" - How are you?
- "Spasibo" - Thank you
- "Pozhaluysta" - Please
- "Do svidaniya" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the Volga River promenade. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views while sipping on a cup of coffee.
Visit the Kostroma Museum of Rice to learn about the region's agriculture. Then, explore the nearby market for local crafts and delicacies.
Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine. Conclude your day by enjoying a sunset walk by the river.
Head to the Ipatiev Monastery early to appreciate its serene atmosphere. Take some time for reflection while wandering through its grounds.
After lunch, visit the Fire Tower for panoramic views of Kostroma. The climb is worth it for the stunning sights of the city.
Relax at a local café, sipping tea and chatting with residents. Consider attending an evening cultural event if available.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with many churches and wooden architecture
- Gorgeous natural surroundings, including rivers and forests
- Less crowded than major Russian cities, offering a quieter lifestyle
- Affordable cost of living in comparison to larger cities in Russia
- Traditional Russian culture and local festivals
- Limited job opportunities, especially for expatriates or specialized fields
- Harsh winters can be challenging for some residents
- Infrastructure and public services may not be as developed as in larger cities
- Limited entertainment and dining options compared to bigger urban areas
- Language barrier for non-Russian speakers may pose challenges
Best Activities in Kostroma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque streets, architectural landmarks, and the stunning Ipatiev Monastery.
Enjoy a relaxing boat tour along the Volga River, taking in scenic views of the city and its surrounding countryside.
Discover the rich history and culture of Kostroma through its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kostroma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kostroma
Visit one of these nice places.
The Ipatiev Monastery offers stunning views of the Kostroma River and its surroundings, making it a great spot for photos and sightseeing.
Susanin Square provides a picturesque panorama of the city center, with numerous historic buildings and architectural landmarks that are perfect for photography.
The Kostroma Embankment is renowned for its beautiful riverside scenery, creating an ideal setting for capturing memorable images of the city's waterfront and skyline.
Food in Kostroma
Kostroma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots, seasoned with herbs. Best sampled at Stolle Cafe or Teremok.
Must-Try!
Marinated kebabs typically made with pork or lamb, served with grilled vegetables. You can enjoy this dish at Podvorye Restaurant or on the streets during local festivals.
Savory dumplings filled with minced meat, such as beef or pork, traditionally served with smetana (sour cream). You can savor this dish at Araks Restaurant or Ugleche Pole Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kostroma better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food. Must-try street foods include Blini (Russian pancakes) served with various fillings and traditional Russian pastries like Pirozhki.
This lively square is a hub for street food vendors offering a variety of local treats such as grilled meats, smoked fish, and traditional desserts like Medovik (honey cake).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kostroma, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain strong eye contact. Addressing people with their titles and last names is also a sign of respect.
It is polite to bring a small gift when visiting someone's home in Kostroma. Flowers, chocolates, or a small souvenir from your home country are common choices.
When dining with locals, it is customary to wait for the host to propose a toast before taking the first sip of your drink. It is also respectful to try a bit of everything on your plate as a sign of appreciation for the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kostroma with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kostroma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kostroma, Russia, tipping is generally not expected in restaurants, as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, leaving a small amount of 5-10% as a gesture of appreciation for good service is becoming more common, especially in tourist areas.
Cash is still widely used for day-to-day transactions in Kostroma, but credit and debit cards are also accepted in most establishments, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and at establishments that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kostroma.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The spring months of April and May are ideal for visiting Kostroma, as the weather starts to warm up and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and budding trees. Visitors can enjoy pleasant temperatures and witness the awakening of nature.
Summer, from June to August, is a popular time to visit Kostroma. The city experiences long daylight hours and warm temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the historic sites, taking boat trips on the Volga River, and experiencing local festivals and events.
In autumn, particularly in September and October, Kostroma displays stunning fall foliage, with the leaves turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The cooler weather also makes it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The winter season, from November to March, brings a charming snowy landscape to Kostroma. Visitors can experience winter activities like ice skating, snowmobiling, and even a visit to the festive Christmas markets. The city's architectural landmarks look breathtaking against the snowy backdrop.
Kostroma at Night
Hiking in Kostroma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected natural area featuring diverse ecosystems, walking trails, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
A scenic location ideal for hiking, with trails along the lakeshore and beautiful views of the surrounding forest.
A large forest area offering several trails for hiking, with rich flora and fauna to explore.
A popular park with well-marked paths for hiking and recreational activities amid lush greenery.
A tranquil area with varied terrain for hiking, encompassing forests, rivers, and picnic spots.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kostroma through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kostroma by plane.
Located in Moscow, approximately 360 km from Kostroma, Sheremetyevo is one of the busiest airports in Russia, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Also located in Moscow, around 380 km from Kostroma, Domodedovo is another major hub for international flights and an important gateway for travelers in Russia.
Situated about 390 km from Kostroma, Vnukovo is one of the three main airports serving Moscow and offers a variety of international routes.
Located approximately 200 km from Kostroma, this airport serves Nizhny Novgorod and its surrounding areas, providing connections to several international destinations.
About 650 km from Kostroma, Kirovsk-Apatity Airport serves the Murmansk region and offers connections to various cities in Russia and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kostroma, comprising approximately 85% of the population.
A significant minority in the region, with a presence in the area, reflecting historical trade and migration patterns.
Another notable minority group, contributing to the cultural diversity of Kostroma.
A smaller demographic group, reflecting the historical connections between Russia and Belarus.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups such as Armenians, Jews, and others making up a small percentage of the population.
The Soul of Kostroma
Discover the essence of Kostroma through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is a popular winter sport in Kostroma, with local teams participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Football has a strong following in Kostroma, with many amateur and youth teams, as well as local clubs that compete regionally.
Basketball is enjoyed by many in Kostroma, with both men's and women's teams playing at various levels.
Volleyball is a widely played sport in schools and recreational leagues across Kostroma, contributing to its popularity.
Athletics, including track and field events, is a common sport in schools and local competitions in Kostroma.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kostroma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian borscht, vegetable-stuffed blini, and assorted salads, while vegan options like grilled vegetables and mushroom stroganoff can be found at various establishments.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can opt for dishes like grilled meats, fresh salads, and seafood-based meals, readily available at most restaurants and cafes in Kostroma.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kostroma with these cultural adventures.
