Things To Do
in Soltsy
Soltsy is a small town in Novgorod Oblast, situated along the Msta River and bordered by lush northern forests. It offers a peaceful base for exploring northwest Russia, with easy access to Veliky Novgorod and nearby lakes. The town blends traditional wooden architecture with riverside scenery, especially picturesque at dawn and dusk.
Visitors can experience a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and affordable prices outside the peak tourist season.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at the Soltsy town center, where you will visit the local museum to learn about the rich history of the area. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the traditional Russian architecture and charming wooden houses. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of the morning light on the nearby riverbank.
After lunch, head to the local market to sample some homemade goods and chat with the friendly vendors. Explore the nearby parks and enjoy the natural beauty, perhaps even finding a quiet spot for a picnic. As the sun begins to dip, visit the iconic landmark of St. Nicholas Church, where you can appreciate its stunning frescoes.
As night falls, treat yourself to dinner at a cozy local restaurant offering traditional Russian cuisine. Engage in some evening entertainment; perhaps a local folklore performance or a relaxing walk by the river to take in the serene atmosphere. End your day with a nightcap, watching the stars emerge in the clear Soltsy sky.
Set out early for a day trip to the nearby Lake Ilmen, known for its breathtaking landscapes and serene waters. Enjoy a calming morning by the lake, engaging in birdwatching or perhaps fishing. The peaceful ambiance and beautiful surroundings are perfect for meditation or simply unwinding with a good book.
Spend your afternoon hiking along the scenic trails that surround the lake, where you can discover local flora and fauna. Stop for a packed lunch by the water, enjoying the sounds of nature and the refreshing breeze. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak to explore the lake from a different perspective.
Return to Soltsy and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local eatery. Take part in the evening activities, which may include a community gathering or a local trivia night. Wind down your day by enjoying a quiet moment, reflecting on the beauty you experienced in nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way local transport | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $5-10 |
| 🛏️Hostel or budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful small-town atmosphere
- Rich river scenery and history
- Affordable prices and straightforward travel logistics
- Limited nightlife and dining variety
- Fewer international flight connections
- Language barrier for non-Russian speakers
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Пожалуйста" - Please / You're welcome
- "Говорите ли вы по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
- "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Сколько это стоит?" - How much is this?
- "Карта или наличные?" - Card or cash?
- "Мне, пожалуйста" - I would like
Places to Visit in Soltsy
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the Msta River with bridges and fishing boats, especially atmospheric at sunrise or sunset.
19th-century wooden houses and a small historical church provide charming subject matter for street photography.
Golden-hour light over the station area creates strong silhouettes and lines for composition.
Food in Soltsy
Soltsy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional meat-filled dumplings served boiled or fried, commonly accompanied by sour cream or butter.
Must-Try!
Beet soup enriched with cabbage, potatoes, and a dollop of sour cream; best enjoyed with dark rye bread.
Layered salad with salted herring, beets, potatoes, and mayonnaise; a staple at family meals and local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh fish, dairy, rye bread, picks, and seasonal produce; ideal for tasting everyday Russian fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting; address older people using formal rules, and a polite exchange of small talk is typical. Remove shoes when entering someone’s home in many households.
Safety
Tipping in Soltsy
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip around 10% is customary if service is not included; rounding up at cafes is common. Cash tips are appreciated, but cards are widely accepted where available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and wet with thawing landscapes; puddles and mud can appear, so dress accordingly and expect rapidly changing conditions.
Long daylight hours, comfortable temperatures, and lively market activity; good for walking tours and river photography.
Colorful foliage and harvest atmosphere; cooler days with occasional rain; ideal for landscape photography and strolls.
Cold with snow and icy surfaces; shorter days but tranquil scenery and festive local ambiance in some cafes.
Soltsy at Night
Hiking in Soltsy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic, relatively easy hikes with river views and opportunities for photography.
Quiet woodlands suitable for day hikes, birdwatching, and nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Soltsy by plane.
Main international gateway for the region. Approximately 180–200 km by road with rail connections available.
Smaller regional airport with limited service; typically accessed by road from Soltsy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group; Russian language and cultural practices are common.
Small communities from other parts of Russia; multilingualism is limited outside major towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular during winter with local clubs and indoor rinks.
Local teams participate in regional leagues; shows community engagement and gentle athletic culture.
Strong regional tradition on the Msta River and nearby lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soltsy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature dairy, grains, and vegetables. Look for salads, mushroom dishes, veggie porridges, and potato-based plates. In some places, meat broths may be used in stock, so ask for vegetarian options or a meat-free version.