April 12 is a very significant date – 60 years ago Gagarin first flew into space to explore the vastness of the Universe! Since he was closely connected with Saratov, this article will also tell about the city. Come and get acquainted, if you haven't yet, and we will tell you what to see at the airport and in the city itself. 

Airport 

Saratov's new airport was named "Gagarin" for a reason, as so much is connected with this city for the Soviet pioneer! Here he studied, first took to the sky as a cadet of the Saratov Aero Club, and it was in the Saratov region that his descent module landed. His memory is literally in every district of this city, and the grilles he cast near the drama theater still stand in place. 

The space theme greets us already at the airport. It is stylized after the first space flight, and there is also a multimedia exhibition throughout the airport! 

1st Floor

In the baggage claim area, there is a wall exhibition telling us about the development of the space industry, there is even a space suit and a centrifuge model. Also, in the check-in area, huge screens tell and show about the connection between humans and space. 

2nd Floor

In the domestic departures area, as you walk through the jet bridge to board, you will hear the original recording of Gagarin's and Korolev's negotiations. All this is done so that you too can feel a little bit like astronauts.

In the same hall, there is an interactive photo zone where you can arrange a virtual space flight for yourself. 

In the general departure area, there is also an interactive table – an exhibition dedicated to the history of the relationship between science, philosophy, and art regarding the idea of human detachment from Earth. There you will also find the Foton – the spacecraft on which Gagarin landed in the Saratov region, as well as many other exhibits. 

Even in the forecourt there is something to see: an aerodynamic stele and Gagarin's capsule. In short, it turned out not to be an airport, but a real space center – keep your eyes peeled! 

Saratov and Surroundings

Saratov itself, along with St. Petersburg and Moscow, can be a great place for a vacation. And we're talking about walks not only around the city, but also the region. 

While you're in the city, visit Victory Park and look at the city from Sokolova Mountain, stroll along Cosmonauts Embankment, and check out the cafes on Kirov Avenue – it's like Arbat or Nevsky, but in Saratov. Don't overlook the church "Quench My Sorrows" – its bright domes and gingerbread coloring beckon you to come closer. And the city also has a Lemonarium and a city beach! 

If you want to be closer to nature, head to Kumsnaya Polyana Park on the outskirts of the city. Since it's more of a forest park, you can encounter foxes, hares, and even moose on its territory. 

Even better, if you take a car and drive to Stepan Razin's Cliff. The white cliffs against the blue Volga look magical! If you wish to improve your health, head to Khvalynsk Thermal Springs – it's a resort with mineral springs. There you will also find an interesting local history museum and a village of artisans. 

Welcome to Saratov, if you crave adventure and want to learn more about space and Gagarin!