Things To Do
in Novovoronezh

Novovoronezh is a quiet industrial town in Voronezh Oblast, Russia, situated along the Don River and bordered by fields and forests. It is best known for the nearby Novovoronezh Nuclear Power Plant and the steady rhythm of everyday life that accompanies life in a small regional town. Visitors will find a straightforward, hospitable local scene with essential services, traditional cuisine, and easy access to nature.

The surrounding countryside provides a gentle glimpse into rural life in southwestern Russia, with rivers, lakes, and wooded paths just beyond the town limits.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Novovoronezh
morning
:

Arrive at Novovoronezh and settle into your hotel. After getting refreshed, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to kick off your trip. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful surroundings and the start of a new adventure.

afternoon
:

Explore the city by visiting the Novovoronezh Nuclear Power Plant, an important site that showcases the city's engineering marvels. Join a guided tour to learn about its history and significance in Russia's energy sector. Discover the nearby parks for a peaceful stroll amidst nature.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Russian restaurant and sample local delicacies like borscht and pelmeni. Engage with locals and soak in the warm atmosphere as you share stories over the delicious meal. End the night with a walk along the banks of the Don River, enjoying the serene view.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the local museum to get an insight into the history and culture of Novovoronezh. Engage with interactive exhibits showcasing the city’s heritage and developments. Take your time observing the exhibits and understanding the evolution of the region.

afternoon
:

Head to the Central Park for a leisurely afternoon, where you can enjoy a picnic or simply relax on a bench surrounded by greenery. Explore the park's walking trails and perhaps take part in some outdoor activities available. The park is perfect for unwinding while enjoying the beautiful autumn foliage.

evening
:

Attend a local theatre performance or concert to experience the vibrant arts scene in Novovoronezh. Immerse yourself in the performances that reflect the cultural diversity of Russia. Afterward, find a cozy café to discuss your impressions over coffee and pastries.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee$2-4
🚌Local transport (short ride)$0.50-1.50
🥗Groceries (basic staples)$3-6
🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, safe town with easy access to nature
  • Affordable costs and straightforward transport to Voronezh
  • Friendly locals and traditional Russian hospitality
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options
  • Fewer English speakers outside major hubs
  • Fewer international dining options in town
  • "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
  • "Пожалуйста" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Где ближайший рынок?" - Where is the nearest market?
  • "Сколько это стоит?" - How much is this?
  • "Можно меню, пожалуйста?" - May I have the menu, please?
  • "Говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Извините, можно счёт?" - Excuse me, the bill, please?

Places to Visit in Novovoronezh

Visit one of these nice places.

Don River Embankment at Sunrise

Quiet morning light over the Don River with silhouettes of trees and distant hills, ideal for silhouettes and soft reflections in the water.

Kirova Street Architecture

A row of modest Soviet-era buildings and storefronts that showcase local everyday life and period details.

Local Church Domes

A church with bright domes and a bell tower, especially striking during golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Novovoronezh

Novovoronezh sits in an agricultural region where hearty home cooking and simple ingredients form the backbone of local cuisine.

Novovoronezh Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Borscht with sour cream

A hearty beet soup with cabbage and potatoes, typically served with a dollop of sour cream.

Must-Try!

Pelmeni

Dumplings filled with beef or pork, usually served with butter, sour cream, or vinegar.

Pirozhki

Small baked or fried pastries filled with potato, cabbage, meat, or cheese.

Shchi

A cabbage soup often enriched with vegetables and meat stock; a comforting regional staple.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Novovoronezh Central Market

A small, bustling market offering seasonal produce, dairy, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Riverfront Street Stalls

Seasonal stalls along the riverfront selling pastries, bliny, and warm drinks in warmer months.

Climate Guide

Weather

Novovoronezh experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Spring and autumn bring moderate temperatures and changing weather; precipitation occurs year-round, with rain more common in spring and summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and dress

A handshake is common when meeting someone. Dress modestly in churches and public spaces; greet with a polite 'Zdravstvuyte' (Hello) in formal settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe, with typical precautions for any small city: stay aware of surroundings, keep valuables secure in crowded places, and use well-lit routes at night. For emergencies, dial 112; medical services are available in town and larger facilities are reachable in Voronezh.

Tipping in Novovoronezh

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In cafes and restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service is good. Rounding up the bill in cash is common in smaller eateries.

Payment Methods

Cash (RUB) is widely accepted; many places also accept cards (Visa/Mastercard) and some mobile payments. In markets, carrying small bills is handy for purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with warm, pleasant weather—great for riverfront walks, markets, and outdoor dining. Mosquitoes can be active near water, so bring repellent and light clothing.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor photography and village visits. Nights start to cool quickly.

Winter

Cold, snowy conditions with possible frost and icy roads. Indoor attractions are essential; dress warmly and check transportation schedules.

Spring

Temperature rises gradually; budding trees and fresh greens, plus occasional rain. Great for walking trails and countryside scenery.

Nightlife Guide

Novovoronezh at Night

The nightlife in Novovoronezh is modest, with a few cafes and bars that offer evenings of tea, coffee, and light snacks. Cultural events and local gatherings may occur at community centers or libraries, especially on weekends. Expect a relaxed atmosphere rather than a club scene.

Hiking in Novovoronezh

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Don River Riverside Trail

A scenic 5–7 km trail along the river with shaded sections, benches, and occasional wildlife sightings.

Vyorov Forest Loop

A gentle forested loop a short drive from town offering peaceful woods, wildflowers in season, and birdlife.

Lakeside Nature Path

Trail around nearby lakes with open water views and opportunities for short photography stops.

Airports

How to reach Novovoronezh by plane.

Voronezh International Airport (VOZ)

Main regional airport serving the Voronezh region; located about 100 km from Novovoronezh by road; offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Lipetsk Airport (LPK)

Smaller regional airport about 140–170 km from Novovoronezh; useful for domestic travel and connections via Moscow.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with a pleasant riverfront. Some outskirts and rural roads require a car or taxi; summer strolls are pleasant, winter walks can be icy.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

Predominantly ethnic Russians with a mix of working-age families and an aging population. The town centers on community, schools, and local industry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular team and amateur leagues in the region, with local matches and casual play around town.

Ice hockey

Winter sport with local clubs and informal rinks when weather permits.

Basketball

Indoor courts and community leagues are common in schools and centers.

Tennis

Public courts and clubs offer seasonal play during warmer months.

Fishing

Don River and nearby lakes provide seasonal fishing opportunities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate, with a reliable bus network and regional rail connections to Voronezh. Car travel is common for day trips to surrounding countryside; road signage is generally clear, but weather can affect driving in winter.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Novovoronezh.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options can be found in many cafés; look for soups, salads, and vegetable plates. When ordering, ask for meat-free broths and avoid stock-based dishes if needed; dairy and eggs are common ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There is a local city clinic with family doctors and basic services. For specialized care, patients usually go to Voronezh, about a short drive away, where there are hospitals and larger clinics. Emergency numbers: 112 (universal).

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide