**Yaroslavl-Kostroma-Ivanovo-Suzdal-Vladimir-Rostov-Uglich-Rybinsk-Yaroslavl** A fascinating journey along the historical circular route. The ancient town of Kostroma with its carved houses and ancient monuments of wooden architecture awaits you. The city of Levitan and its picturesque landscapes. The cozy and quiet streets of the small town of Plyos. City of Ivanovo with its unusual architecture of different centuries. Old Vladimir. Gavrilov Posad, the city of horse breeding traditions. The pearl of the Golden Ring - Rostov Veliky, where the film "Ivan Vasilievich changes his profession" was shot. The cozy city on the Volga - Uglich, and the city of Rybinsk, which stands on the largest man-made sea. **Route features:** - Picturesque routes for walks and photo sessions; - For lovers of history, architecture and wooden architecture. **Recommendations:** - Wear comfortable clothing, as there will be days of hiking on the route. - Don't forget to take repellents and sunscreen for outdoor walks.
Kostroma is a charming quiet town on the Volga, the birthplace of Ivan Susanin, the cradle of the Romanov House, the place where the fairytale Snegurochka lives.
Depart no later than 9 a.m. to have time to enjoy the ancient city of Kostroma as much as possible.
At the entrance to Kostroma, on the bank of the Volga River, surrounded by ancient linden trees, there is a prominent monument of the 17th century Russian artistic culture - the Church of the Resurrection on the Debra River. Words "on Debra" in the name of the church point out that a dense forest grew here in ancient times. It has preserved the ancient murals of the XVII century, the facade is decorated with stucco and other decorative elements, which adds to the splendor and harmony.
In Kostroma, on a high bank stands the fairy tenement house of Snegurochka. It was on Kostroma land that playwright Aleksandr Nikolayevich Ostrovsky conceived of writing a spring fairy tale, on the basis of which the film "Snegurochka" was filmed. The legend of Kostroma and Kupala is considered the basis of fairy tales about the Snow Maiden, and therefore we can say that Kostroma is the Snow Maiden. This fabulous place is worth visiting. It will be interesting both for adults and children. Working hours: every day from 10:00 to 18:00. All necessary information can be found on the website of the museum. Website: [https://teremsnegurochki.ru/](https://teremsnegurochki.ru/)
It's time to drop in for lunch at a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city. Original interior, beautiful serving of dishes, exquisite menu of Russian modern cuisine. The recipes for many dishes were collected during trips to remote villages of the Kostroma region. Many people recommend to try Goose of Kologriva.
Just imagine, this tower was built especially for the museum back in 1913, to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Romanov dynasty. Emperor Nicholas II himself attended its opening with members of the imperial family. Opening hours: from 11:00 to 19:00, ticket office till 18:30. All necessary information can be found on the museum website. Website: [http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/](http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/)
For lovers of "living history". You can fully immerse yourself in the past here. The owners seem to have gone out for a moment and will be back soon. Mode of operation: from 11:00 to 19:00, the ticket office until 18:30. See the museum website for all the information you need. Website: [http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/](http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/)
Architectural monument situated in the main square of Kostroma. During the XIX - beginning of the XX century the building was used for its direct purpose: as a residence of the arrested soldiers. In the first years of the Soviet power the building housed a museum, later a library and a civil registry office. At present, the Military Historical Department of the Kostroma Museum-Reserve is situated. Working hours: from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., the cash desk works till 6:30 p.m. Website: [http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/](http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/)
An invariable symbol of the town - the Fire Colony. During the whole time of its existence it has been used for its direct purpose, and only in 2010 it was handed over to the Kostroma Museum-Reserve. Be sure to visit the exhibition. You can learn a lot of interesting things there: Is it true that the fire brigade kept a goat and why? Why in the olden days Easter eggs were thrown into the fire? Why did firefighters wear mustaches? Why a bucket in the form of a cone? And many more interesting things! Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Website: [http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/](http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/)
Open-air museum "Kostroma Sloboda". Wooden buildings of the Kostroma Region are collected here. The walls are warmed by the Russian soul, and the air smells of motley grass. Working schedule: - in summer time (from 01 May to 30 September) from 10:00 to 19:00, the ticket office until 18:30. - In winter (from October 1 to April 30) from 9:00 to 17:00, till 16:30. All necessary information on the museum website [http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/](http://kosmuseum.ru/tickets/romanovskiy-muzey/)
After a busy day, stop by the Staraya Pristan restaurant. This is where the famous film "Cruel Romance" was filmed. There is a beautiful view of the Volga River from the deck. The original interior allows you to plunge into the atmosphere of the film. There are also halls: wardroom, merchant's, classic, white (main). Be sure to try Pavlov's dessert.
Before going to the hotel, be sure to admire the beautiful views from the observation deck of the Kostroma Kremlin.
Walking along the embankment, you will see the famous "Moscow Gate" and the monument "Ladia". And gorgeous sunsets will add to your photo content!
A romantic place on the high bank of the Volga River, where the motorboats arrive. In 1956, the pavilion was built on the site of a former rampart, which was left from the ancient Kremlin. And it got its name after the famous playwright Alexander Ostrovsky, who admired the city around this place during his stay in Kostroma. Amazing views of the Volga opens from here. It is an excellent place for photographing.
In Ples, you will taste all the local delicacies, collect your personal collection of window platbands, looking at the town houses on a walk. In Ivanovo you'll stroll along the most beautiful street and see the most interesting sights.
The beautiful and majestic Russian church is located near the market square. We suggest you start your acquaintance with Ples from there. From the observation deck of the church there is a magnificent view of the Volga River.
Take a boat ride, from the water the Plyos opens up in a different way, fresh air, gorgeous nature. From here you'll get very picturesque shots. Departure time: from 10:00 to 18:00 every hour. You can also book a boat trip by phone: 8-910-995-32-08.
Go to a grocery store, get some fish soup or soup in a coffee cup. Where else can you get something like that? Be sure to try the fish corner - an open pie with smoked bream. Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday - weekends. Wednesday, Thursday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Friday, Saturday from 10:00 to 19:00. Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00.
Your way to Mount Levitan lies along the Volga embankment, built up with merchant mansions. On the embankment you can take a picture sitting on a bench with a sculpture of a countrywoman. And Ples is the real city of cats. Catch your luck "by the tail", fluffy run absolutely everywhere.
The place where Isaac Levitan drew inspiration. Nearby is a church, but not the same one that attracted the artist's attention back in 1888. Because it burned down in 1903. Now on the mountain rises the Church of the Resurrection of 1699 year construction, which in 1982 was moved from the village Bilyukovo of Ivanovo region. They were looking for a church that resembled the one represented by Levitan in his paintings, in order to restore the original appearance of the magnificent open-air museum.
After a busy walk it's time to drop in for lunch at a cozy restaurant on the seafront. Author's, Russian and European cuisine, large choice of fish and meat dishes, snacks, soups, desserts, as well as a good collection of homemade morsels and other drinks. Delicious dishes from river fish, meat and poultry, as well as local products. Mode of operation: Monday-Sunday from 8:30 to 23:00. You can reserve a table in advance by tel. +7 (996) 517 06 08.
In the XII-XVII centuries there was a defensive fortress on a high hill. Nowadays, there is a rampart enclosing it from the ground side. On all other sides the steep slopes of the hill served as a reliable defence. Locals call this place the heart of the city. Here stands the Assumption Cathedral, a monument to Vasily I, church gates, the building of offices. It is a pleasure to walk here, you can enjoy the views of the Volga, houses and the Levitan mountain.
Start your acquaintance with the city of Ivanovo from Lenin Square. From here towards Pushkin Square, there is a route along which houses of different eras are located. There are complexes of factories and pre-revolutionary streets, but most of all Constructivism and early Stalinist Empire.
Before you go further exploring the city, stop by the restaurant located right between Pushkin Square and Lenin Square. Here you will find a varied menu, original dishes, specialties from the chef. Here you can enjoy not only burgers, but also excellent steaks and delicious Italian pasta.
The main square of the city, an unchanging meeting place for all citizens. As it is located in the heart of the city, on the bank of the Uvod river. It is also home to the Palace of Arts, the architectural dominant feature of the square, the Puppet Theatre, the Drama Theatre and the Trinity Church. This is where all the large-scale events are held.
Moving along the central promenade, you'll see the Ferris wheel, the Ivanovo circus, the shopping centre "Silver City" (built on the place of the factory, the building is very interesting). Going down a bit closer to the water, you get to the green square, where you'll see the monument to Frunze.
And here is Ivanov's oldest building, built in the 17th century. It is also called the heart of the city. The path leading to the tent passes through the famous Ivanovo Art Square. Local artists and craftsmen gather here all year round, exhibiting their works.
Next, check out the cozy rooftop restaurant with a gorgeous view of the city. Great food, always fresh flowers on the tables, a viewing platform for selfies will make your stay pleasant at the end of the day. Taste the delicious wine and meat. Cafe is open in summer time. Mode of operation: Thursday-Sunday from 12:00 to 00:00.
Get ready, today a walking route around the city of Suzdal awaits you, you will visit the most beautiful viewpoints and historical sites of the city, you will enjoy the many carved platbands.
Dive into the life of Ancient Russia and learn all about the culture and traditions of our ancestors. The basis for the construction of this complex was the setting for the film "Tsar" by Pavel Lungin. It is the perfect place for a family outing or a photo shoot. Here you can try on medieval armour, hold a sword, shoot an arrow and ride a horse. See the museum's website for all the information you need. Website: [https://goryachiekluchi.ru/services/muzej-shchurovo-gorodishche](https://goryachiekluchi.ru/services/muzej-shchurovo-gorodishche)
Get in touch with history, admire masterpieces of Russian architecture and craftsmanship. There is a family necropolis of Princes Pozharsky, Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral, Nikolskaya Hospital Church, Monastery bell tower, Annunciation Gate Church, Dormition Refectory Church, Bratskaya Koleynaya building.
These views take your breath away! If you want cool photos, this is the place for you.
It's time for lunch, we suggest visiting the café right next to the observation deck. There is a beautiful view from the veranda of the cafe. Be sure to try the mead, it is excellent here. Opening hours are Monday-Sunday from 10:00 to 23:00.
From here the best view opens on the right-bank part of Suzdal and the river Kamenka. The Pokrovsky monastery can be seen as on a palm, and nearby stretch the majestic walls of the Spaso-Evfimiev monastery with towers.
The road to the monastery leads very picturesque, there are a lot of flowers on the territory, it's so bright and cozy. There are nice wooden houses. Here you can buy some of the monastery's pastries. The refectory is open daily, except Mondays from 11:00 to 16:30.
The complex includes Peter and Paul Church, built in 1694 in the baroque style, and the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, built a century and a half later.
An open-air museum complex. It presents unique religious and residential constructions of the XVIII-XIX centuries, brought from different parts of the Vladimir region. Look into the peasants' huts, there are unique household items that have long since gone out of use. There are 15 architectural monuments presented in the form of huts, mills, barns and other constructions of that time. Working hours: From 9:00 to 17:00, on Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00. Once a month on Wednesday is a sanitary day. Dates of the sanitation days can be found at [http://vladmuseum.ru](http://vladmuseum.ru).
The marina offers a beautiful view of the Church of Elijah the Prophet and the flooded meadows. Sunsets in this place look especially beautiful, reflected in the water surface of the river Kamenka. If you want to take a boat ride, it departs every hour from 12:00 to 19:00.
The oldest structure in the city. According to archaeologists, the Kremlin was built in the 10th century and has been perfectly preserved to this day, except for the protective walls and towers. It is surrounded by an earth rampart about 1.5 km long. On the territory there are Nativity Cathedral, Nikolskaya Church, Episcopal chambers, where many centuries ago important solemn receptions took place. Working mode: Kremlin territory: from 9:00 to 20:00. Expositions: from 10:00 till 19:00. Sanitary day - the last Tuesday of the month from 14:00. Entrance to the MK "Kremlin" stops 1 hour before closing.
The grandiose structures of antiquity have survived to our time in perfect condition. They are made of clay and have a wooden structure inside - "gorodnya" filled with crushed stone, thanks to which their shape and relief have been preserved. The ramparts were covered with wooden paling made of sharpened logs, into which wooden watchtowers were built. Nowadays one can see the gaps between the ramparts. These are the places where the towers of the Kremlin once stood.
Not far from the market square there is Pyatnitskaya church. Originally the church was wooden, but in 1772 it was replaced with the present one. This church in Suzdal is an example of a "warm church".
The centre of city celebrations and festivities. It celebrates Shrovetide, City Day and the Axe Festival. A hundred years ago, the Market Square was called Bread Square and was 4 times larger than it is now. Nowadays there is a tradition of holding Efrosinevskiye fairs in Suzdal. You can also buy souvenirs here.
Dine in a cozy place in the heart of Suzdal. The interior of the past centuries adds to the entourage. Classic Russian cuisine with a varied menu. There is an in-house pastry shop, be sure to bring your own desserts. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10:00-22:00; Fri-Sat 10:00-23:00; Sun 10:00-22:00.
The fourth day of the trip will be devoted to the oldest and most important city of Russia - Vladimir. Many centuries ago Vladimir was the center of political power and religion. Get to know the significant cathedrals and architectural monuments of the times of prosperity of this city.
Start your morning with a cup of coffee in the heart of Vladimir. There's a wide selection of drinks served in beautiful handmade cups (these cups are available at the coffee shop). And the cafe also has a lovely terrace with a good view over the city. Opening hours are from 10:00 to 19:00, with Mondays off.
A Catholic church, the only one of its kind in the region. Founded in 1891, it was built with funds from Polish-Lithuanian troops exiled to Vladimir by the tsarist government. The view from the observation deck is magnificent.
The construction is unique, because of the Golden Gate, which existed in Jerusalem, Constantinople and Kiev in the Middle Ages, only the Vladimirskiy gate has survived to our day. It was the main, the most elegant and solemn gate of the capital of Northeastern Russia.
There is an observation deck at the top of the tower, which offers an excellent view of the city. In the building itself there is a museum with an exhibition "Old Vladimir". Opening hours: from 10:00 to 18:00, on Saturdays from 10:00 to 19:00. Sanitary days: 1.06, 22.06, 20.07, 24.08, 21.09.
Located on a high southern slope in the center of ancient Vladimir, near the Kozlov rampart, the garden is an ornament of the city. In the relief hollow, which the garden occupies, the height differences reach up to 33 meters. The garden has an area of nearly 4 hectares. Thanks to the unique landscape and microclimate, it has managed to create a rich collection of plants. Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
If you want a little bit of Ireland in the heart of Vladimir, this is the place for you. This place belongs to Irish chef Paul Carroll (he works in the open kitchen himself). Excellent cuisine, delicious and nourishing! Mode of operation: Sunday-Thursday from 12:00pm to 10:00pm. Friday-Saturday 12:00 to 00:00.
One of the most beautiful temples in the city, founded in 1760 on the site of a monastery. Its decoration is more reminiscent of a palace than a church. The stairs leading to the top of the bell tower are made of cast iron, and the church itself is small but cozy inside. And from the bell tower you have an amazing view of the city.
The women's monastery in the heart of Vladimir. Even in ancient times it was a very famous and richest monastery. Its interior decoration is striking in its beauty and picturesqueness of frescos.
It was here, in the open space, that the most important issues of public life were decided, fairs were held, and the military were held.
A beautiful museum building, a mini-copy of the Moscow Historical Museum. Its exterior decoration, which was decorated with Gorokhovets tiles, attracts the eye very much. According to the architect's plan, it should resemble a huge casket with jewels, which represent the mysteries of history. Now there is an exhibition which will introduce you to the history of the Vladimir region. Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00. Wednesday is a day off. 13.06 (Sunday) from 10:00 to 18:00. All necessary information, as well as sanitary days, can be found on the museum website [https://vladmuseum.ru/ru/geografiya-muzeya/vladimir/istoricheskiy-muzey/](https://vladmuseum.ru/ru/geografiya-muzeya/vladimir/istoricheskiy-muzey/)
Visit the real shrine of the Russian Orthodox Church. The majestic building holds many historical events. Here you will see unique ancient paintings by Andrei Rublev.
Near the Dmitrievsky Cathedral, enjoy a panoramic view of the Klyazma River, fields, railroad going beyond the horizon. On the sides you can see the domes of the churches. Here you will feel the special atmosphere. The place is perfect for a photo session.
A beautiful panorama of the city opens up from the observation deck in the centre of the city. Thanks to its elevated location, there is also a grand view of the Klyazma River and the fields and hills far beyond the horizon.
It's time for dinner. Stop by the stunning cafe, it's got a cosy atmosphere and a bright interior. The place is worth ordering amazing grilled cheese, borscht and salads. Opening hours: from 8:30 to 20:00.
There is an atmosphere of peace of mind and grace. The majestic walls of the monastery are permeated with the smell of fresh unleavened bread, which is prepared according to a unique ancient recipe, as well as delicious Lenten pastries.
Visit a cozy provincial town, you will surely enjoy the excursions in the local museums. Here you will taste a unique drink made of honey. You will see one of the oldest cities in the country, the cradle of original Russian architecture, the Orthodox capital and the pearl of the Golden Ring of Russia.
Try the staleny honey - a unique drink made according to the ancient Russian recipe in the Museum of Russian national drinks. There is no such museum anywhere in the world. Traditional recipes: from broth and sbiten to liqueurs, tinctures and bread wine. Book a tour in advance through the website [https://gavrilovposad.com/](https://gavrilovposad.com/) or by phone: +7 904 657 57 37. Hours of operation: Wednesday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Here you will find fascinating stories of Gavrilov-Posad local historians, stories about the merchants Sinebryukhovs, ancient documents, items of peasant and merchant life. All this will allow you to go back in time and see what life was like in Gavrilov Posad in different centuries. Sign up in advance for a tour through the website [http://www.gposadmuseum.ru](http://www.gposadmuseum.ru) or by phone: +7 493 552 18 45, +7 493 552 12 50. Opening hours: Monday is a day off. Tuesday-Sunday: 10:00-17:00.
Take a picture by the soaring fountain on the central square. It's also where all the city's main attractions are concentrated: the fire station and the 19th century shopping malls, the Church of the Archangel Michael and the local history museum.
Stop by a local cafe for lunch. A cozy, beautiful café with a rich menu designed by professional chefs. The dishes are sure to please gourmet guests. Opening hours: from 11:00 to 00:00.
Touch the walls of the oldest monastery not only in Yaroslavl diocese, but in general in Russia. Its foundation coincides with the founding of the ancient monasteries of Kiev and Great Novgorod, and refers to the era of the spread of Christian faith and piety in Russia.
Rostov Kremlin is one of the most interesting and beautiful in Russia. The most beautiful examples of authentic Russian architecture are preserved here, and one can feel the former greatness of the Russian spirit. The Kremlin is also famous for being the place where the film "Ivan Vasilievich changes his profession" was filmed.
Climb up to the observation deck of the Kremlin, such views take your breath away. *"Here is the Russian spirit, here smells Russia... "*
It is a very unusual church, its interior and exterior decoration is so captivating that visitors want to see every corner and capture absolutely everything on the photo.
Climb up to the bell tower, from here you have a wonderful view of the Kremlin and the old city from above. Climbing up the ancient narrow staircase will also be a special pleasure.
A wonderful place on the shore of Lake Nero. From here you can enjoy magnificent views of the water surface and the Kremlin. Walking along the embankment, you breathe in the fresh lake air and listen to the murmur of the waves.
It's time for some refreshment. For this purpose a cozy cafe in the city centre is perfect, it has its own photo zone where you can try on the armour. An excellent choice of Russian cuisine, author's dishes. Excellent pastries and desserts. Working mode: Mon-Fri from 09:00 to 19:00. Saturday-Saturday from 09:00 to 20:00.
Before heading off to rest, we suggest visiting another vantage point by the walls of the majestic monastery. Here the sunset impregnates the walls of the monastery with some incredible light.
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of ancient Uglich by visiting the most popular historical sights. Visit the largest man-made sea and recharge with the energy of the local places. Take a walk through the historical centre of Rybinsk, taking lots of memorable pictures.
Start your acquaintance with the city from the Uglich Kremlin. It is the main attraction of the city. There are several cultural attractions concentrated on the territory of the Kremlin, an excellent viewing platform on the Volga, the Uglich Hydroelectric Power Station.
The pearl of Uglich, the largest, most beautiful and majestic cathedral. It has become a dominant feature over the whole town and occupies half a block.
On the picturesque steep bank of the Volga, at the place where Tsarevich Dmitry was killed, a beautiful temple was built. Now there is a historical museum here. Opening hours: Saturday-Thursday: departments of the museum are open to the public from 09:00 to 18:00, the cash desk is open until 17:30. Friday: The museum is open from 09:00 to 17:00, the box office is open until 16:30. All necessary information can be found on the museum's website [https://uglmus.ru/about/expositions/Tserkov_tsarevich...](https://uglmus.ru/about/expositions/Tserkov_tsarevich...)
The majestic monastery is the brightest representative of the classic Rostov architecture of the XVIII century. It is very cozy here, a wonderful place for soothing the soul!
It's time to relax, stop by for lunch. Right in the centre of the city, cosy atmosphere. The menu features Russian and European cuisine. Try pikeperch, lamb dishes or quail.
The amazing temple complex is striking in its beauty and grandeur. The cathedral bell tower, which is older than the main building, is stunningly dynamic and decorative. You can climb it for a sightseeing tour. Call ahead to get to the bell tower: 8 (485) 529-54-34.
The fire tower in Rybinsk is unique whichever way you look at it. It is one of the first buildings made of reinforced concrete in Russia, the highest fire tower in the country, besides, it is certainly the most original in its architecture.
Rybinsk museum-reserve is one of the oldest and largest museums of the Upper Volga region. Here you will see a lot of interesting exhibits related to the history of the region. The museum also keeps works of fine and applied art of Russia and foreign countries. The museum works every day from 9:00 to 20:00. There are breaks for ventilation and disinfection of the premises from 12:00 to 12:15, from 14:00 to 14:15, from 16:00 to 16:15. All information can be found on the museum website [https://www.rybmuseum.ru/ru/](https://www.rybmuseum.ru/ru/)
The Rybinskoye reservoir is the largest man-made lake in Europe. It is popularly called the Rybinsk Sea because of its size. A wonderful place to meet sunrises and sunsets. Take a walk in a picturesque place, take a couple of photos for Instagram.
Before going home, drop in for dinner at a cozy cafe in the heart of Rybinsk. A pleasant atmosphere with an interesting design, an extensive menu of European cuisine. Be sure to try the eclairs, they just melt in your mouth. Working hours: daily from 8:30 till 23:00.