whatdo

Things To Do
in Novouralsk

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Novouralsk is a closed city located in Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia. It was founded in 1946 and serves as a center for nuclear industry activities, including the production of enriched uranium. The city is known for its strict access restrictions, requiring special permits for entry and prohibiting photography in many areas.

Despite its industrial focus, Novouralsk also boasts some green spaces and recreational facilities for its residents.

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Volunteer Point in Falkland Islands

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Falkland Islands Shared Tour with Penguins Sightseeing

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Private Penguin Paradise Tour: Penguins, Scenery + Stanley

  • "Privet" - Hello
  • "Kak dela?" - How are you?
  • "Spasibo" - Thank you
  • "Pozhaluysta" - Please
  • "Do svidaniya" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $50
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.5 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $20

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Novouralsk
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk in the beautiful parks of Novouralsk. Enjoy the crisp air and take in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the city. Engage with interactive exhibits for a fulfilling experience.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy local restaurant, savoring traditional Russian cuisine. Wind down with a peaceful stroll through illuminated city streets.

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Private Coastal Gems Tour: Penguins, Scenery & Stanley

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Penguins, Elephant Seals and City Attractions at Falkland Islands

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Berthas Beach and Stanley Private Tour

day 2
Nature Day
morning
:

Head out to the nearby nature reserves for a morning hike. Relish the tranquility and observe local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Have a packed lunch amidst nature, taking in the sights and sounds. Continue your exploration with guided tours of the area.

evening
:

Return to Novouralsk and relax at a local café. Share stories of your adventure with friends or fellow travelers.

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Gentoo Penguins at Berthas Beach Guided Tour from Stanley

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Walking with the Penguins in Falkland Islands at Berthas Beach

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Private Wild Shores Tour: Penguins, Elephant Seals & Stanley

Novouralsk Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich natural resources, including minerals and forests
  • Close-knit community with a small-town feel
  • Lower cost of living compared to larger cities
  • Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities
  • Harsh climate with long, cold winters
  • Fewer job opportunities and economic activity compared to major cities

Best Activities in Novouralsk

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Visiting Park Pobedy

Park Pobedy is a popular outdoor destination in Novouralsk, offering walking paths, beautiful green spaces, and recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy.

Exploring Olenyi Ruchyi Nature Park

Olenyi Ruchyi Nature Park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring pristine natural landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife observation.

Biking along the Ural Mountains

Novouralsk provides a picturesque setting for mountain biking, with trails that wind through the scenic Ural Mountains, offering both adventure and stunning views.

Tours

Uncover the best of Novouralsk with these unforgettable tours.

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Gentoo Penguins at Berthas Beach Guided Tour from Stanley

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Walking with the Penguins in Falkland Islands at Berthas Beach

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Private Wild Shores Tour: Penguins, Elephant Seals & Stanley

Novouralsk Tours

Places to Visit in Novouralsk

Visit one of these nice places.

Oblastnaya gora

Offers panoramic views of Novouralsk and the surrounding area.

Lake Shartash

Scenic lake offering opportunities for beautiful photos.

City Park

Lovely park with various spots for picturesque views and photo opportunities.

Food in Novouralsk

Novouralsk, situated in Russia, offers a diverse and delicious culinary experience influenced by traditional Russian cuisine. The city's food scene features a mix of hearty and comforting dishes, as well as unique flavors and ingredients that showcase the local culinary heritage.

Novouralsk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pelmeni

These are delectable Russian dumplings filled with minced meat, typically pork, and served with sour cream. They are a must-try and can be found at local eateries such as Pelmeni & Vareniki.

Must-Try!

Blini

Thin Russian pancakes that can be enjoyed with a variety of fillings, such as caviar, sour cream, or jam. Look for them at stalls in the city center or at traditional Russian restaurants.

Borscht

A hearty beetroot soup that is a staple of Russian cuisine, often served with a dollop of smetana (sour cream). Highly recommended at Babushka's Kitchen.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Novouralsk better with these unique experiences.

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Gypsy Cove and the main City Attractions in Falkland Islands

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Whale Point to See Penguins and Elephant Seals

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Bertha's Beach Penguin Experience

Novouralsk Tours

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Novouralsk Central Market

Visit this bustling market to sample a range of local produce, dairy products, and freshly baked bread. Don't miss the opportunity to try local street food delicacies like shashlik (skewered and grilled meat) and pirozhki (stuffed buns).

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a continental climate, which features significant temperature variations between seasons. Winters tend to be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional heavy snowfall. The summer months are relatively warm, with temperatures occasionally reaching into the upper 20s to low 30s°C (70s to 90s°F). Precipitation is distributed throughout the year, with a slight peak during the summer months due to thunderstorms. The spring and autumn seasons are generally mild but can be quite variable. Overall, the climate reflects the typical conditions found in the Urals region, including cold winters and warm summers, with notable differences in temperature and weather patterns from season to season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Observe social etiquette

In Novouralsk, it is important to greet people with a handshake, use formal titles when addressing others, and maintain good eye contact during conversations.

Respect personal space

Be mindful of personal space when interacting with locals, and avoid standing too close or engaging in physical contact unless invited.

Be familiar with Russian customs

Familiarize yourself with Russian customs, such as removing your shoes when entering someone's home, and showing respect for elderly individuals.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Novouralsk with these exclusive activities.

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Argentine Military Cemetery tour

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1982 War Memorials and Points of Interest in Falkland Islands

Novouralsk Tours

Safety

This city, located in the Sverdlovsk region, has a relatively low crime rate compared to larger urban areas in Russia. Residents often report feeling safe in their daily activities. The local government and law enforcement agencies maintain order and work to prevent crime, contributing to the general sense of security. However, like many places, there can be specific concerns related to safety, including traffic accidents and the presence of industrial facilities that may pose health and environmental risks. Being aware of local conditions and adhering to safety guidelines can enhance personal safety. Overall, while there are certain risks, many inhabitants find the environment to be secure for both living and visiting, with a community-oriented atmosphere.

Tipping in Novouralsk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Novouralsk, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, cafes, or other service establishments. However, if the service is exceptional, a small tip of 5-10% may be given as a gesture of appreciation, but it is not obligatory.

Payment

Payment in Novouralsk is primarily done in cash, although credit and debit cards are increasingly being accepted in larger establishments. It is advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in more remote areas. It's also important to note that some businesses may not accept foreign credit cards, so it's best to inquire beforehand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

The best time to visit Novouralsk is in spring, from April to June. During this time, the weather is mild, and nature begins to come alive with blooming flowers and greenery. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer, from June to August, is another great time to visit Novouralsk. The weather is warm, the days are long, and it's the perfect season for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

Autumn

In autumn, from September to November, Novouralsk is characterized by beautiful fall foliage and comfortable temperatures. It's a good time for exploring the city and nearby natural areas without the crowds of summer.

Winter

Winter, from December to February, brings cold temperatures and snow to Novouralsk. The city takes on a magical atmosphere, and it's a great time for winter sports like skiing and ice skating. However, be prepared for cold weather and shorter days.

Novouralsk at Night

Due to its status as a closed city primarily focused on sensitive industries, nightlife activities in Novouralsk are quite limited compared to larger Russian cities. Security restrictions and entry limitations for non-residents contribute to a more subdued and tightly controlled atmosphere. However, locals still find ways to socialize and enjoy their evenings within the community. Residents often gather in small neighborhood bars, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy a relaxed evening with friends and family. These venues typically offer traditional Russian cuisine and beverages, along with occasional live music or entertainment. There are also community centers and cultural venues where various events such as concerts, theatrical performances, and movie screenings are held, offering a sense of communal engagement. For those looking for more intimate social gatherings, private parties and home gatherings are common, providing a chance to bond and celebrate in a more personal setting. The focus is often on fostering close-knit relationships and enjoying a comfortable, familiar environment. Despite the controlled environment, the residents of Novouralsk find their own ways to create a lively and enjoyable nightlife, emphasizing community and connection.

Hiking in Novouralsk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kachkanar

A well-known hiking destination near Novouralsk, Mount Kachkanar offers stunning views of the surrounding Ural Mountains and diverse flora and fauna.

Kurgan Nature Reserve

Located not far from Novouralsk, this nature reserve features numerous walking trails along with opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy picturesque landscapes.

Siberian Taiga Trails

This area boasts a network of trails through dense Siberian forests, offering hikers a chance to explore the rich biodiversity of the taiga ecosystem.

Zavodoukovsk Trails

A short drive from Novouralsk, these trails provide a mix of challenging and easy hikes, perfect for all skill levels while showcasing beautiful natural scenery.

Chelyabinsk Mountains

A bit further away, this mountainous region features various hiking routes with dramatic landscapes, ideal for those looking for a more challenging adventure.

Aiports

How to reach Novouralsk by plane.

Koltsovo International Airport (SVX)

Located in Yekaterinburg, approximately 60 km from Novouralsk, it is the main airport serving the Ural region of Russia, offering flights to a variety of international destinations.

Chelyabinsk International Airport (CEK)

Situated around 180 km from Novouralsk, this airport serves the city of Chelyabinsk and provides flights to various domestic and some international destinations.

Tyumen Roshchino International Airport (TJM)

Located about 300 km from Novouralsk, Roshchino Airport serves Tyumen and the surrounding region, with both domestic and international flights.

Kurgan Airport (KRN)

Approximately 290 km from Novouralsk, this airport mainly offers domestic flights but may have occasional international services.

Walkability

Located in the Sverdlovsk Oblast, the city is characterized by a mix of urban planning and natural surroundings that influence its walkability. The presence of residential areas, commercial establishments, and green spaces provides potential for pedestrian mobility. Walkability is typically affected by factors such as street design, sidewalk availability, and the density of amenities. In many areas, sidewalks may be present; however, their maintenance and width can vary, impacting the ease of walking. Public transportation options can also play a role, offering alternatives for those who prefer not to walk long distances. Green spaces and parks are available, providing pleasant environments for walking and recreation. The city’s layout may encourage exploration on foot, but the overall experience can depend on individual neighborhoods. Safety and traffic conditions also significantly influence walkability, as well as public attitudes towards walking as a mode of transport. Overall, while there are elements contributing to a walkable environment, challenges may exist that affect how easily residents and visitors can navigate the city on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Russians

The largest ethnic group in Novouralsk, constituting the majority of the city's population.

Tatars

One of the significant minority groups, with a rich cultural heritage and history in the region.

Belarusians

A smaller minority group that shares cultural and historical ties with the Russian population.

Ukrainians

An ethnic group present in Novouralsk, contributing to the city's diverse cultural landscape.

Others

Includes various other ethnic groups such as Armenians, Jews, and others, who contribute to the multicultural environment of Novouralsk.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Hockey is one of the most popular sports in Novouralsk, with a strong local team and active participation among the youth.

Football

Football enjoys widespread popularity in Novouralsk, with many local teams and community events promoting the sport.

Basketball

Basketball is also popular, with local schools and clubs providing opportunities for both recreational and competitive play.

Volleyball

Volleyball is played in various settings, including schools and recreational leagues, making it a favored sport in the community.

Athletics

Athletics, including track and field events, has a growing following, particularly among the youth in local schools.

Traffic

In this small city, traffic is characterized by a mix of personal vehicles, public transport, and occasional heavy vehicles related to its industrial surroundings. The street layout is relatively straightforward, with a grid pattern that makes navigation simpler for drivers and pedestrians alike. Due to its size, traffic congestion is generally minimal compared to larger urban areas, although peak hours, particularly in the morning and evening, can see an increase in commuter traffic. Public transport options include buses that connect different parts of the city, providing a reliable means for residents to travel. Many locals prefer to use their cars for convenience, leading to a steady flow of vehicles on the roads. The presence of pedestrians and cyclists is also notable, especially in residential zones, where people often utilize sidewalks and crosswalks. Overall, while traffic exists, the scale is manageable, and road safety measures are in place to facilitate the movement of both vehicles and pedestrians. Overall, it maintains a relatively calm atmosphere, reflecting the city's small-town character.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Novouralsk.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Russian cuisine leans heavily on meat and dairy, many restaurants and cafes in Novouralsk offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as hearty vegetable borscht, vareniki filled with potatoes, and a variety of salads and vegetable dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly when dining out; however, some places may offer gluten-free variations of traditional dishes or gluten-free bread options upon request. It's always best to inquire and confirm with the staff.

Healthcare

Situated in the Sverdlovsk Oblast of the Ural Mountains region, the healthcare system there is reflective of broader trends seen in many Russian cities. It is characterized by a mix of state-funded services and private healthcare options. The primary provider of healthcare is the state, which offers a range of services through clinics and hospitals. The local government oversees these institutions, ensuring that basic medical care is accessible to the residents. Generally, citizens have access to general practitioners, specialized care, and emergency services. Despite the availability of these services, challenges exist, including issues with funding, infrastructure, and healthcare quality. Hospitals and clinics may experience shortages of medical supplies and staff, and overall patient satisfaction can vary. Preventive care and wellness initiatives are often under-emphasized, leading to a focus on treating conditions rather than proactive health management. In addition to state services, private healthcare options are emerging, providing quicker access to certain medical procedures and consultations. These facilities tend to offer higher standards of service and comfort but can be costly. The presence of private options is gradually growing, appealing to those who can afford to pay out-of-pocket for enhanced services. Dental care, prenatal care, and specialist services are also available, with varying levels of accessibility and quality. Efforts are being made to modernize and improve healthcare facilities, reflecting a national trend toward enhancing the healthcare infrastructure across Russia. Overall, the healthcare system in this region is evolving, with ongoing efforts to balance state and private care to meet the needs of the population amidst existing challenges.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2024 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide