Things To Do
in Novouzensk

Meat-filled dumplings often served with butter, sour cream or vinegar; a staple comfort food you can find in cafés and home kitchens.

Must-Try!

Grilled skewered meat, commonly pork or lamb, marinated and cooked over coals — commonly available at local eateries and weekend markets.

Borscht (beet soup) and ukha (clear fish soup) are common seasonal soups; try ukha where the Uzen river fish is on offer at local restaurants.

Baked pies with savory or sweet fillings and small tvorog (cheese) pastries — found in bakeries and market stalls.

The main indoor/outdoor market where farmers sell vegetables, dairy, local sausages, baked goods and seasonal produce; ideal for tasting fresh regional products.

Occasional stalls near transport hubs and the river selling pastries, tea, grilled snacks and seasonal fruit — great for quick bites and people-watching.

Use formal greetings like 'Здравствуйте' (Zdravstvuyte) when meeting people; handshake is common between men, and close acquaintances may kiss on the cheek.

If you are invited into a home bring a small gift (flowers, sweets) and remove your shoes at the entrance if hosts offer slippers.

Politeness and respect for older people is expected; avoid heated political topics unless you know people well. Asking about family and local life is a friendly way to connect.

Keep voices at a moderate level, be considerate on public transport, and avoid littering — communities value clean shared spaces.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; in restaurants leaving 5–10% is common if service is good. Small tips to taxi drivers, hotel porters and guides are customary but modest — rounding up the fare is normal.

Cash (Russian rubles) remains widely used, especially in markets and small cafes. Debit and credit cards are accepted in larger shops and restaurants; ATMs are available in town but carry some cash for small vendors and remoter services.

Hot and often dry; daytime temperatures can be warm to hot, making early mornings and evenings the best times for outdoor activities. Bring sun protection, water and lightweight clothing; the steppe is beautiful but exposed.

Mild days and cooler nights with colorful grasses and harvest activity; pleasant for walks and photography, but expect some rainy days later in the season.

Cold, snowy and windy with temperatures often below freezing; dress in warm layers, good boots and a windproof coat. Sidewalks and roads can be icy — allow extra travel time.

Thawing snow creates muddy conditions and budding vegetation; spring can be unpredictable but is good for birdwatching and seeing agricultural activity resume.