Experience Kazan

The heart of Russia’s Tatarstan Republic awaits

Kazan: Russia’s melting pot of culture

Step into the heart of Tatarstan, a city where history and striking architecture collide. In Kazan, Tatar and Russian heritage is visible on every corner, from UNESCO-listed landmarks to historic streets. The city pulses with energy and is rich in traditions and local experiences, making it one of Russia's most captivating tourist destinations. With over a thousand years of history, a thriving cultural scene, and plenty to see and do, Kazan offers an unforgettable mix of past and present, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

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Highlights of Kazan

Located in Western Russia, on the banks of the Volga River, Kazan is a city where centuries of history meet a vibrant local culture. Let us guide you through its celebrated landmarks, UNESCO-listed sites, and day trips beyond the city. Discover the best things to do in in Kazan, as well as the city’s top attractions that bring its Tatar and Russian heritage to life.

Architecture & Culture
Must-try food & staples
Outdoor experiences

Kazan offers some of the best spots for architecture and cultural tourism. The city has a rich local life and is brimming with iconic landmarks that create unforgettable experiences for every guest.

Iconic landmarks

Kazan showcases its rich history through its landmarks and stunning architecture. Some of the historical places in Kazan include the Kazan Kremlin, Kul Sharif Mosque, Annunciation Cathedral, and the National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan.

Colorful old tatar house in Kazan, Russia

Local life

Immerse yourself in Kazan’s vibrant local traditions with lively theatre, stunning ballet, and cultural events. See the city’s rich culture through its performing arts.

Bauman Street & Old Tatar Settlement

Take in Kazan’s daily atmosphere and wander its cultural neighbourhoods. Explore Bauman Street’s shops and cafés, or visit the Old Tatar Settlement, where 17th- and 18th-century timbered houses showcase Tatar heritage.

Savour the best local food in Kazan. From hearty Echpochmak to classic Beshbarmak, the traditional Tatar and Russian flavours come alive in every bite.

Echpochmak

Savour this classic Tatar and Bashkir triangular pastry filled with tender meat, onions, and potatoes. This food is often paired with bouillon or tea.

Traditional Tatar candy chak-chak made of dough and honey with cup of coffee on a black concrete background and linen textile

Beshbarmak

Delight in this classic Central Asian food featuring soft noodles and tender meat, served with a savoury onion broth. It's traditionally eaten with your hands.

Food photography of traditional tatar cuisine triangle echpochmak side view.

Chak-Chak

A popular sweet in the region, this golden, crunchy Tatar dessert is made of tiny fried dough pieces drenched in warm honey. It’s usually topped with nuts or dried fruits.

Explore the best outdoor experiences in Kazan and beyond. Cruise along its rivers, stroll through parks and gardens, or take a short trip to nearby attractions, where nature, adventure, and scenic views come together for unforgettable moments.

Volga River

One of Kazan’s famous tourist attractions, Volga River offers breathtaking views of the city. You can go on a cruise and glide past historic dock sites, 19th-century water structures, and the lush riverbanks that showcase the natural beauty of Tatarstan.

Building of the agriculture ministry in Kazan. Russia

Blue Lakes

A stunning attraction only 30 minutes away from Kazan, Blue Lakes is a nature reserve of forest and marshland with three crystal-clear lakes fed by underground springs. Swim through the lake’s vibrant blue waters, explore the underwater karst formations, and soak up the beauty of this outdoor escape.

Churches and shoreline seen from river cruise ship Excellence Katharina of Reisebüro Mittelthurgau (formerly MS General Lavrinenkov), Volga river, Russia

Kazan parks and gardens

Stroll through Kazan’s outdoor spaces that offer a refreshing escape from the city. Visit Gorkiy Central Park or Hermitage Garden to bike, or simply relax. Around the stunning Agricultural Palace, admire the lush greenery that surrounds it.

Stunning view of famous blue lake with sunrise and orange sky under dense clouds. Kazan, Russia. Ducks are swimming in the morning

Plan your trip to Kazan

Start planning your trip to Kazan with a sample itinerary that helps you map out each day with ease. Use it to organise your time, explore the city’s standout sights, and make the most of your experience from the moment you arrive.

Day 1

Fly with us to Kazan and arrive around midday. After checking into your hotel, stroll along Bauman Street to get a feel for the city’s atmosphere. In the evening, relax and prepare for tomorrow’s activities.

Couple Walk Near Epiphany Cathedral of Kazan, Russia

Day 2

Start your day at the Kazan Kremlin, including Kul Sharif Mosque and the Annunciation Cathedral. Visit the National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan to dive into the city’s history. In the afternoon, wander through the Old Tatar Settlement, and wrap up the day by enjoying a theatre performance or ballet show.

Beautiful view of Kazan city, Tatarstan, Russia

Day 3

Head to Gorkiy Central Park, Agricultural Palace, or Hermitage Garden to relax, bike, or stroll through green spaces. Then take a scenic cruise along the Volga River to admire the city from a new perspective.

Day 4

Escape the city for a short trip to the Blue Lakes nature reserve. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and explore underwater karst formations.

Ducks swim on a blue lake on a sunny day.Lake with a greenish tint of water

Day 5

Take a morning stroll to soak in the city one last time and prepare for your flight in the afternoon.

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5

Important travel information

If you are flying to Kazan, make sure to get your trip off to a smooth start. From travel tips and visa guidance to the best time to visit, knowing the basics makes planning and travelling easier.

Kazan’s weather brings cold winters from November to March, with steady snowfall and grey skies. Snow sometimes arrives in October or stays until April. Summer, from June to September, feels warm, with the occasional thunderstorm. The driest months run from February to May. The best time to visit Kazan is in late spring and summer, as these seasons offer the best weather for exploring outdoors.

Ğabdulla Tuqay Kazan International Airport (KZN) is located southeast of the city and serves as the main arrival point for anyone flying into Tatarstan’s capital. It offers a clean, modern setting with cafés, shops, and duty-free options that make travelling easy and comfortable. Three terminals, a round-the-clock runway, and plenty of check-in counters keep the experience smooth from the moment you arrive. Etihad flies to Kazan three times a week, making it easier to reach the heart of Tatarstan and explore its cultural attractions.

Before booking your flight to Russia, check the entry rules for your passport, as you may need a visa for tourism depending on your nationality. If a visa applies to you, start the process early so you can travel without delays or complications.

Single-entry tourist visa validity: A single-entry tourist visa for Russia is valid for up to 30 days.
General visa requirements: Among the general requirements for a Russian visa include, but are not limited to, appointment confirmation, signed visa application form, valid passport, residence visa (if any), biometric photo, medical insurance, and flight tickets.

Currency: Russia uses the Russian Ruble (RUB). If you need to access local currency, you’ll find plenty of exchange points throughout the city. ATMs are also available, though most only accept local cards.
Language: Russian and Tatar are the main languages spoken in Kazan, and you’ll hear them almost everywhere in the city. English is sometimes spoken in some tourist areas, especially among the young, but learning a few simple phrases in the local languages makes getting around much easier.

It's easy to get around Kazan, with transport options available throughout the city. Taxis, trains, and buses run to major landmarks and popular spots, making it easy to travel between historic areas, markets, and neighbourhoods without any difficulty.

Metro and trams: You can ride the metro and trams to get around central Kazan with ease, paying by cash or card for a smooth, quick ride to the city’s top attractions.
Buses: Travel across Kazan on its wide network of buses and trolleybuses, an easy and affordable way to get around some of the places to visit in the city.
Taxis: Hop into a taxi to get around the city quickly. Hail or book one through the app for a fast and convenient route to Kazan's best places to visit.
Car rental: Drive through Kazan easily by renting a car. You can take advantage of ample parking and flexible routes to get around and explore the city’s must-see sights.
Biking: Cycle through Kazan using bike rentals to discover the city’s top attractions, as well as scenic parks and riverfronts.

Fly to Kazan with Etihad

Book flights to Kazan with Etihad, the UAE’s national airline, and begin your journey in comfort and style. With three flights a week, we make it simple to reach Kazan and explore the best places to visit in Russia’s vibrant Tatarstan capital. Experience award-winning hospitality that sets the standard in the sky. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or with family, your flight with us is smooth, relaxing, and effortless.

When you fly with us to Kazan, you’ll experience convenience at every point of your journey. Our cabins provide ergonomic seats in Economy and thoughtfully prepared meals in Business. Stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi, or explore E-BOX, featuring over 1,000 hours of movies, TV shows, music, and games. With us, every part of your trip is smooth and effortless, giving you time to relax and get ready for your adventure in Kazan.

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Ministry of Agriculture and Food (Palace of Farmers) in Kazan

Frequently asked questions

We fly to Kazan three times a week, usually with departures in the morning.

Visit Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kul Sharif Mosque, the Annunciation Cathedral, and the National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan to experience the city’s history, architecture, and local charm.

Explore the Old Tatar Settlement to see historic streets and homes, watch theatre and ballet performances, and savour traditional Tatar dishes like Echpochmak, Chak-chak, and Beshbarmak.