Things To Do
in Petrozavodsk
Petrozavodsk is the capital city of the Republic of Karelia in northwestern Russia. It is located on the western shore of Lake Onega, one of the largest lakes in Europe. The city is known for its cultural events, including the White Nights Festival, which celebrates the long days of summer.
Petrozavodsk is also a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
- "Privet" - Hello
- "Kak dela?" - How are you?
- "Spasibo" - Thank you
- "Pozhaluysta" - Please
- "Do svidaniya" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $0.70
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the shores of Lake Onega, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views. Visit the Kizhi Museum to explore its stunning wooden architecture.
Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Karelia cuisine. Spend your afternoon at the National Museum of the Republic of Karelia, learning about the region's history and culture.
Relax at the city's central park, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant with authentic Russian dishes.
Begin your day at the Peter the Great monument, taking in its historical significance. Follow it up with a visit to the city's vibrant arts and crafts market.
Grab lunch at a nearby eatery then head to the beautiful Kivach Nature Reserve for some hiking. Discover the stunning waterfall and diverse wildlife in the park.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café for some coffee and desserts. Enjoy people watching and soaking in the local vibe.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including Lake Onega.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other Russian cities.
- Friendly local community and hospitality.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
- Harsh winters with extreme cold temperatures.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Transportation infrastructure may be lacking in some areas.
- Language barrier for non-Russian speakers.
- Fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Petrozavodsk
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful nature and waterfalls in the Kivach Nature Reserve through various hiking trails.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride around Lake Onega, the second largest lake in Europe, and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Experience the serene beauty of Lake Onega by taking a boat trip, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Petrozavodsk with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Petrozavodsk
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and lakes.
Provides scenic views of Lake Onego and is a popular spot for photographers.
Famous for its open-air museum with picturesque wooden architecture and stunning lake views.
Food in Petrozavodsk
Petrozavodsk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Karelian dish, kalitki are savory pastries usually filled with rice, eggs, and butter. They can often be found in local bakeries and cafes such as Pelmeni, Pelmeshki.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked stew featuring a variety of local ingredients, including meat, potatoes, carrots, and onions. This dish is a hearty and satisfying choice, often found in traditional restaurants like Karelia.
These fluffy pancakes are a beloved breakfast staple in Petrozavodsk. Served with sour cream or jam, oladushki are commonly available at local cafes such as Kofeynya Mandariny.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Petrozavodsk better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Petrozavodsk, Kirov Square Market is a bustling hub of food stalls offering a wide range of local produce, street snacks, and traditional dishes like pirozhki and smoked fish.
This market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse selection of street food vendors. Visitors can savor grilled shashlik, savory pies, and freshly baked pastries while taking in the lively surroundings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Petrozavodsk, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Addressing people with their appropriate titles and using formal language is also considered respectful.
Respecting personal space is important in Petrozavodsk. It is polite to maintain a moderate distance when conversing and to avoid physical contact unless invited to do so.
When dining with locals in Petrozavodsk, it is customary to wait for the host or elder to begin eating before starting your meal. It is also respectful to try a bit of all the dishes offered and to express gratitude for the food.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Petrozavodsk with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Petrozavodsk
Ensure a smooth experience
In Petrozavodsk, tipping is not as common as in some other countries, but leaving a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants and for certain services is appreciated.
Cash is still widely used in Petrozavodsk, but credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in larger cities. It's always best to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Petrozavodsk.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Visit Petrozavodsk in spring (April to June) for mild weather, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours. The city comes to life after the winter thaw, and you can enjoy outdoor activities along with cultural events and festivals.
Summer (June to August) is ideal for visiting Petrozavodsk as the weather is generally warm, and the city’s lakes and parks are perfect for outdoor recreation. This is also the peak tourist season with various events, concerts, and the White Nights Festival in late June.
In autumn (September to November), Petrozavodsk experiences cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. This season is great for nature enthusiasts who can explore the surrounding forests and enjoy the colorful landscapes. It’s also a quieter time to visit with fewer crowds.
Winter (December to March) offers a magical experience in Petrozavodsk with snow-covered landscapes, winter sports, and the famous Kizhi Island open-air museum accessible via frozen Lake Onega. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and shorter daylight hours during this season.
Petrozavodsk at Night
Hiking in Petrozavodsk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 56 km from Petrozavodsk, Kivach Nature Reserve offers beautiful forest trails and views of the Kivach Waterfall, one of Russia's most famous waterfalls. Ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
Although primarily a ski resort, Lahta offers a variety of hiking trails in the summer months. Located approximately 40 km from Petrozavodsk, it provides stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Located about 125 km from Petrozavodsk, this national park features diverse landscapes, including lakes, forests, and hills. It offers numerous hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
Situated on Valamo Island, which is a part of the Ladoga Skerries National Park. It offers pleasant hiking paths with opportunities to explore scenic views of lakes. It's about 140 km from Petrozavodsk.
Approximately 250 km from Petrozavodsk, Ruskeala Park is popular for its picturesque marble canyons and lakes. There are several marked trails for hiking and sightseeing.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Petrozavodsk through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Petrozavodsk by plane.
Located in Saint Petersburg, approximately 400 km from Petrozavodsk, it is the main international airport serving the city and offers flights to various destinations.
Situated in Helsinki, Finland, approximately 600 km from Petrozavodsk, it is the largest airport in Finland and serves as a hub for international flights.
Located in Tallinn, Estonia, about 760 km from Petrozavodsk, this airport is the largest in Estonia offering a variety of international flights.
Situated in Oulu, Finland, roughly 800 km from Petrozavodsk, it serves as an international airport with connections to several major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Petrozavodsk, comprising a significant percentage of the city's population.
An indigenous Finno-Ugric people, Karelians contribute to the cultural diversity of Petrozavodsk.
A notable minority group in Petrozavodsk, stemming from historical migration patterns.
A smaller demographic representing Belarusian heritage within the city's population.
A minority group that adds to the ethnic mosaic of Petrozavodsk.
Includes various smaller communities, such as Armenians, Jews, and others, contributing to the multicultural environment.
The Soul of Petrozavodsk
Discover the essence of Petrozavodsk through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport in Petrozavodsk, with local teams and a strong following.
Widely played and followed in Petrozavodsk, with local clubs and youth academies.
An emerging sport in the city with various amateur leagues and school competitions.
A popular sport, especially among women, with various local tournaments.
Includes track and field events that are popular among schools and local clubs.
Favored particularly in winter months, with local enthusiasts and trails.
Enjoyed by many residents, with clubs and recreational play available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Petrozavodsk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Petrozavodsk offer a range of vegetarian options, from fresh salads and vegetable soups to hearty main courses featuring locally grown produce.
Though less widespread, vegan options are available at select eateries in Petrozavodsk, often featuring creative plant-based renditions of traditional Russian fare.
A growing number of establishments in Petrozavodsk are mindful of gluten-free requirements, offering dedicated menu items or adaptations to cater to individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Petrozavodsk with these cultural adventures.
