Things To Do
in Novoaleksandrovsk

Traditional Russian cabbage soup (shchi) and the hearty, slightly sour solyanka; both are common in local canteens and cafés, especially in winter. Try them at small local eateries or the market stalls for authentic flavor.

Must-Try!

Fresh baked breads and small filled pastries (pirozhki) with potatoes, cabbage, meat or sweet fillings are sold at bakeries and markets—perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.

Skewered grilled meat influenced by Caucasian cuisine, often available at street stalls or family restaurants; pair it with fresh salad and lavash-style flatbread.

Small-scale farms produce cottage cheese (tvorog), sour cream and regional cheeses; markets and roadside stands often sell fresh batches, especially in summer.

The town's main market where locals buy produce, dairy, baked goods and meats; great place to sample seasonal fruit, pirozhki, homemade preserves and to chat with vendors.

Along roads leaving town you’ll find stalls selling honey, fresh eggs, cheeses and seasonal vegetables—excellent for tasting local products and buying souvenirs to take home.

Use polite forms of address (surname + patronymic when known) in formal situations; a firm handshake and direct eye contact are common when meeting someone.

If invited to a local home, bring a small gift (flowers, sweets or a bottle of good tea/alcohol). Remove your shoes on entering unless hosts insist otherwise. When bringing flowers, give an odd number of stems—evens are for funerals.

Public displays of loudness and boisterous behavior are frowned upon in small towns; respect older residents and local customs, and avoid noisy arguments in public spaces.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially older residents and inside religious sites; some areas may be sensitive or private.

Tipping is appreciated but not always obligatory; in restaurants a tip of 5–10% is common if service is good. For taxi drivers, small rounding up is normal; for hotel porters and guides a small tip is welcomed.

Cards are widely accepted in larger shops and restaurants, but small cafes, markets and rural vendors prefer cash. ATMs are available in town, but bring sufficient rubles for rural excursions.

Spring (April–May) brings warming temperatures, flowering trees and muddy fields early in the season; good for birdwatching and markets full of fresh produce but pack a waterproof layer for rainy days.

Summers are warm to hot and generally dry—perfect for outdoor activities, photography at golden hour, and visiting nearby mineral spa towns; bring sun protection and light clothing.

Autumn (September–October) offers pleasant temperatures, harvest markets and beautiful fall colors in the foothills; nights cool quickly, so layer up for evenings.

Winters are cold with occasional snow; town life slows and heating is necessary—if traveling then, dress warmly and expect shorter daylight hours and potential icy roads.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with bigger cities; focus on soups, salads, cheese dishes, eggs, pirozhki with vegetable fillings and buckwheat or potato-based dishes. Communicate clearly (use the word 'ya vегетарианets' or 'ya ne em myaso') and be ready to ask cooks to omit meat broths. Markets and bakeries are reliable places for plant-based snacks.

Vegan choices are scarce in small-town establishments—bring snacks or shop at markets for fresh fruit, bread, pickled vegetables and sunflower-seed products. In restaurants, confirm that dishes are not prepared with butter or meat stock.

Gluten-free options are limited; potatoes, soups (confirm no wheat-thickening), grilled meats and salads are safer bets. If you have a celiac condition, plan ahead and carry essentials.

Food labeling is uncommon in markets and small eateries; learn basic allergy phrases in Russian and consider carrying an allergy card in Russian that explains your condition and required precautions.