Things To Do
in Murmansk
Murmansk is a port city located in northwest Russia, above the Arctic Circle. It is known for being one of the largest cities in the world situated in this far northern region. The city experiences long winter nights and short summer days due to its extreme northerly location.
Murmansk is an important cultural and economic center, with a strong emphasis on fishing and maritime industries.
- "Privet" - Hello
- "Kak dela?" - How are you?
- "Spasibo" - Thank you
- "Pozhaluysta" - Please
- "Do svidaniya" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Alyosha Monument for stunning views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café.
Explore the Museum of the Northern Fleet to learn about Russia's naval history. Afterward, take a stroll through the city's vibrant streets.
Dine at a local restaurant and try some traditional Russian dishes. End your day with a scenic walk by the waterfront.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Murmansk Oceanarium to see unique marine life. Enjoy coffee overlooking the beautiful harbor.
Spend the afternoon visiting the local Sami Museum to learn about indigenous culture. Participate in hands-on exhibits and enjoy a guided tour.
Treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant featuring Arctic cuisine. After dinner, consider a local bar for a taste of Murmansk nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location as a major port city in the Arctic, offering year-round ice-free access.
- Rich in natural resources, including minerals and fisheries, contributing to the local economy.
- Unique cultural heritage and history, with a blend of Russian and indigenous influences.
- Opportunities for tourism, especially related to Arctic exploration and marine activities.
- Vibrant local community with various festivals and events celebrating local culture.
- Harsh Arctic climate with long, cold winters and limited daylight, which can affect lifestyle and mood.
- Limited economic diversification, with heavy reliance on a few key industries.
- Geopolitical tensions in the region can affect safety and international relations.
- Infrastructure challenges, particularly concerning transportation and public services during extreme weather.
- Higher costs of living compared to other Russian cities due to its remote location.
Best Activities in Murmansk
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Murmansk is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Consider taking a guided tour to increase your chances of witnessing this breathtaking natural phenomenon.
Explore the beautiful Khibiny Mountains through various hiking trails that offer stunning scenery and opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.
Teriberka is a picturesque village located on the coast of the Barents Sea, offering a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Russian Arctic.
Tours
Uncover the best of Murmansk with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Murmansk
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and the Kola Bay
Provides stunning views of the Arctic landscape and the Barents Sea
Beautiful botanical garden with picturesque spots for photography
Food in Murmansk
Murmansk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rybnik is a traditional Russian fish pie, made with flaky dough and filled with a variety of fish, such as salmon, trout, or haddock. It's a must-try dish that showcases the region's abundant seafood.
Must-Try!
This hearty soup is a specialty of the region, featuring a rich broth filled with a variety of fresh seafood, potatoes, and root vegetables. It's often seasoned with dill and is a delicious representation of Murmansk's seafood-focused cuisine.
Reindeer meat is a local delicacy, and one popular way it's enjoyed is in the form of smoked reindeer sausage. The smoky, gamey flavor makes it a unique and flavorful dish to try in Murmansk.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Murmansk better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Tsentralnyy Rynok is the central market in Murmansk, offering a wide array of fresh produce, local fish, meats, and an assortment of Russian street food. Visitors can sample traditional Russian snacks and street food items here, such as pirozhki (filled buns) and shashlik (skewered and grilled meat).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Murmansk, it is important to respect people's personal space and not stand too close to others, especially when speaking or queuing in public places.
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home in Murmansk as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the household.
When participating in social drinking, it is polite to wait for a toast before taking a sip and to reciprocate by offering a toast as well.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Murmansk with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Murmansk
Ensure a smooth experience
In Murmansk, Russia, tipping is generally not expected, but it is appreciated for exceptional service in restaurants, bars, and taxis. A typical tip would be around 10% of the total bill.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Murmansk, but credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and establishments that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Murmansk.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Murmansk is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, you can expect mild temperatures, long daylight hours, and the opportunity to witness the stunning phenomenon of the midnight sun.
Winter in Murmansk, from December to February, offers a unique experience with its polar nights, when the sun does not rise above the horizon. Visitors can also enjoy winter activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, and witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Spring and fall seasons in Murmansk can be unpredictable, with varying weather conditions. However, these transitional seasons offer opportunities for experiencing the local culture and traditions, as well as the chance to witness the beautiful autumn colors or the arrival of migratory birds in spring.
Murmansk at Night
Hiking in Murmansk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near the border with Finland, Salla offers a variety of marked hiking trails in a beautiful natural setting. The trails range in difficulty and provide stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
The Kola Peninsula is home to numerous hiking spots with breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, forests, and stunning coastlines. Popular areas include the Ural Mountains and the northern fjords.
The Murmansk Fjord area features several trails that provide scenic views of the water and coastline. This area is accessible and offers both short and long hiking routes.
Located southeast of Murmansk, the Khibiny Mountains offer challenging hiking trails with elevated terrain, rocky landscapes, and the possibility of seeing local wildlife.
This picturesque village offers trails that lead to both coastal and inland scenic vistas. The area is also known for its unique geological features and cultural landmarks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Murmansk through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Murmansk by plane.
The primary airport serving the city of Murmansk, located approximately 24 km from the city center.
An airport located in Lappeenranta, Finland, about 170 km from Murmansk, offering international flights.
Located in Kemi, Finland, approximately 220 km from Murmansk, serving both domestic and international flights.
The main airport in Rovaniemi, Finland, located around 250 km from Murmansk, known for international connections.
An airport located in Petrozavodsk, Russia, which is about 500 km from Murmansk, providing limited international services.
The main international airport in Finland, located in Vantaa, about 1,200 km from Murmansk, serving many international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Murmansk, making up a significant majority of the population.
A Finnish ethnic group that has a historical presence in the area, often associated with the local culture.
Indigenous people traditionally residing in the region, known for their reindeer herding and unique cultural practices.
A notable ethnic minority in Murmansk, part of the larger Ukrainian diaspora in Russia.
Another minority group present in the city, reflecting historical ties between Belarus and Russia.
The Soul of Murmansk
Discover the essence of Murmansk through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Murmansk, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Football is widely played and followed in Murmansk, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Due to the region's long winters and snowy landscapes, cross-country skiing is a favored sport among locals.
Biathlon, a combination of skiing and shooting, enjoys popularity in Murmansk, with several events and competitions hosted in the area.
Snowboarding is a popular winter activity, with several slopes available for enthusiasts near Murmansk.
Given Murmansk's cold climate, ice fishing is a traditional pastime for many residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Murmansk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Murmansk's traditional cuisine is heavy on meats and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in the city offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as hearty vegetable stews, soups, as well as salads featuring local produce.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options in Murmansk, especially at seafood-focused restaurants where they can enjoy fresh fish and seafood dishes prepared without gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Murmansk with these cultural adventures.
