Things To Do
in Tula
Tula is a historic city located in western Russia, known for its well-preserved architectural landmarks. The city is famous for its production of high-quality samovars, traditional Russian tea-making devices. Tula is home to the impressive Kremlin, a fortress dating back to the 16th century that offers panoramic views of the city.
The city has a rich cultural heritage with museums, theaters, and art galleries showcasing its history and traditions.
- "Privet" - Hello
- "Kak dela?" - How are you?
- "Spasibo" - Thank you
- "Pozhaluysta" - Please
- "Do svidaniya" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tula Kremlin, a stunning fortress with rich history. Don't miss the Cathedral of the Assumption located within its walls.
Enjoy lunch at a local café offering traditional Tula cuisine. Afterward, explore the delightful parks surrounding the Kremlin.
Wind down your day by strolling through the city center. Check out local shops and have dinner at one of Tula’s cozy restaurants.
Visit the Tula State Museum of Weapons to learn about the city's famous weapon-making history. Discover the various exhibits showcasing arms and armor.
Head to the Yasnaya Polyana, the estate of the famous writer Leo Tolstoy. Enjoy a guided tour of the house followed by a peaceful walk in its gardens.
Dine in a restaurant featuring Tolstoy's favorite dishes. Reflect on your day’s discoveries and enjoy the ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including historical sites and museums.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and rivers.
- Vibrant local food scene, particularly known for gingerbread and meat dishes.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Russian cities.
- Less crowded and more peaceful environment, which can be appealing for families and retirees.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized sectors.
- Harsh winters, which can be a challenge for some residents.
- Public transportation options may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Less access to modern amenities and entertainment compared to metropolitan areas.
- Potential language barrier for non-Russian speakers, as English may not be widely spoken.
Best Activities in Tula
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the history of weapons and military equipment at this renowned museum.
Discover the historic fortress and architectural complex that offers a glimpse into Tula's past.
Visit this unique museum to learn about the traditional Russian gingerbread known as 'pryaniki'.
Experience the culture and craftsmanship of traditional Russian tea culture through the collection of samovars.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and picnicking in this popular park in Tula.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tula with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tula
Visit one of these nice places.
This location offers stunning views of the Upa River and the historical architecture of Tula.
The Tula Kremlin provides picturesque views of the city and features historical monuments and beautiful scenery.
With its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere, Belousov Park offers great photo opportunities and beautiful natural landscapes.
Food in Tula
Tula Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Russian gingerbread cookie, often filled with sweet jam or condensed milk. Best enjoyed at the Yasnaya Polyana Museum or the Tula Gingerbread Museum.
Must-Try!
A savory pie filled with various fillings such as meat, cabbage, or fish. You can find authentic Tulsky Pirog at Babushkin Sad or Tula's farmers' markets.
A hearty meat stew made with pork, beef, or game meats, seasoned with local herbs and spices. Widely available in local eateries and taverns across Tula.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tula better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, pickles, and street food such as grilled shashlik (skewered meat) and traditional pirozhki (stuffed buns). Located in the city center, near the Tula Kremlin.
A popular street food cart known for serving up Tula's traditional meat-filled pastries and hearty soups. Look for Varvara near the Tula State Museum of Weapons.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tula, Russia, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, particularly when engaging in conversations.
Politeness is highly regarded in Tula, and it is customary to greet people with a formal and respectful tone, using titles and last names, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
When in Tula, it is advisable to familiarize oneself with local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes when entering someone's home and participating in local rituals and celebrations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tula with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tula
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a widespread practice in Tula, Russia. It is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants, cafes, or bars. However, if the service is exceptional, leaving a small tip (around 5-10%) may be appreciated, but it is not expected.
In Tula, Russia, cash is still widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted in larger stores, restaurants, and hotels. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case some establishments do not accept card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tula.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Tula, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and lively outdoor events.
Summer is a popular time to visit Tula, with long sunny days, festivals, and bustling outdoor markets.
Autumn brings beautiful fall foliage and the harvest season, making it a picturesque time to explore Tula.
Winter in Tula is cold and snowy, but the city's festive atmosphere, ice skating rinks, and winter sports activities make it a unique and enchanting time to visit.
Tula at Night
Hiking in Tula
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful estate located near Tula, known for its picturesque landscapes and hiking trails. It was the home of the famous Russian author Leo Tolstoy.
A protected area featuring diverse flora and fauna, offering various hiking paths through forests and wetlands.
A historical site with open fields and paths ideal for hiking, located near the Don River. It is significant for its history and picturesque nature.
A scenic area with rolling hills and wooded trails, perfect for both casual and seasoned hikers who enjoy nature.
Located near the confluence of Oka and Don rivers, offering unique ecosystems and trails for hiking enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tula through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tula by plane.
Located approximately 170 km northeast of Tula, Domodedovo is one of the largest and busiest airports in Russia, serving as a hub for numerous international and domestic flights.
Situated around 200 km to the northeast of Tula, Sheremetyevo is a major international airport in Moscow, offering a wide range of international flights and connections.
Located about 180 km northeast of Tula, Vnukovo serves both domestic and international flights and is one of the three major airports in Moscow.
Approximately 120 km to the northwest of Tula, Kaluga Airport offers limited domestic flights and serves as a regional hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Tula, making up the majority of the population.
A significant minority, historically present in the region.
A notable ethnic group with historical roots in Tula.
A smaller community, often involved in trade and business.
A minor demographic group contributing to the diversity of the area.
Includes various smaller communities, such as Jews, Azerbaijanis, and others.
The Soul of Tula
Discover the essence of Tula through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is a highly popular sport in Tula, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Football is widely played and followed in Tula, with many local clubs and youth programs.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Tula, with local competitions and a vibrant community.
Athletics events, including running and field sports, are popular among the youth in Tula.
Futsal, a variant of football played on a smaller scale, is widely embraced in Tula.
Wrestling has a strong tradition in Tula, with various clubs and training facilities available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tula.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Russian cuisine leans heavily on meat, many modern cafes and restaurants in Tula offer plant-based dishes, including hearty vegetable soups, salads, and meat alternatives like seitan or tofu.
Some restaurants and cafes in Tula cater to gluten-free diets, offering dishes made with buckwheat, rice, and corn flour. It's advisable to communicate your dietary requirements clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tula with these cultural adventures.