What to see in Samara

Volga vacation as a new hobby — try it once and you won't stop. When you come to the Volga coast, you can try your hand at different roles — fishing, yachting, river cruises, and even windsurfing.

But not by water alone — every city in the Volga region has something to offer culturally, gastronomically, and architecturally. Today we're figuring out, how to get to Samara, where to go in this city and where to have a delicious lunch.

How to get to Samara

There are many ways to get to Samara — you can go by bus or by car. The fastest option is to take plane tickets to Samara and fly in about an hour. You can also get there by train. The price of train tickets to Samara depends on the travel time. The fastest journey will take from 13 hours.

When to go to Samara and what the weather is like

The hottest month in Samara is July, when the thermometer averages +26 degrees Celsius, but during this month and August, it can even rise to +40 degrees. So if you're not a fan of heat, it's better to choose autumn for your trip.

The most pleasant weather begins in September: averaging around +14 degrees Celsius. At this time, long walks are easy, the sun is not so “poisonous”, and sometimes it might even rain. By November, the temperature drops to -4 degrees Celsius.

In winter, the average temperature is around -9 degrees Celsius, so it's quite comfortable to skate and walk along the embankment here — thanks to the river, the air feels warmer.

Spring will be cool at first, with an average temperature of -1 degree Celsius, but by May, the air warms up to +22 degrees Celsius.

What sights to visit in Samara in one day

Of course, there are quite a few great places in Samara. However, upon arrival, you should pay attention to the main attractions:

• Volga Embankment in Samara. This embankment is considered the longest in Russia. Its length is more than four kilometers. In summer, its lower “tier” sees a special influx of locals sunbathing on the golden sand. On the upper tier, tourists stroll leisurely, and rollerbladers and cyclists ride on designated paths;
• Kuybyshev Square, considered the largest in Europe, is named after Valerian Kuybyshev, who did much for the city's economy. In the center of the square is the building of the Samara Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, built in the Soviet Empire style. It's best to come here during events, for example, by May 9th, to appreciate the scale and size;
• Samara Space Museum. The Vostok rocket, on which the first human space flight was made, was assembled in Samara. It was here that aerospace production was concentrated, thanks to which the country gained such authority in this industry. Therefore, in 2007, a museum dedicated to the history of rocket engineering was opened here. Tickets can be purchased here;
• Zhigulevsky Brewery. This is definitely worth a visit if you are over 18! The beer production plant began operating in 1881 thanks to the Austrian Alfred von Vacano, a major investor. By the way, the building at the checkpoint has been preserved since then and is considered an architectural monument of the 19th century. Coming here, you can count on a tour and even a small tasting. However, even if they don't treat you here, the brewery's products are widely available in any Russian supermarket, so this brewery is always closer to you than it seems;
• Strukovsky Garden. A location for those who want to relax a bit in the shade. Strukovsky Garden is considered the oldest park in the city — it was laid out in 1849 by State Councilor Strukov, who loved to host guests at his estate. Now it is a rather cozy and modern park where you can ride a bicycle or skateboard and quietly sit on a bench with coffee;
• Cathedral of Sophia the Wisdom of God. Even if you don't consider yourself involved in religious life, you're unlikely to miss the incredibly beautiful temple with majestic architecture in pastel colors on the Volga slope. We recommend exploring it not only from the outside but also from the inside — the modern interior looks quite impressive!

What to see near Samara

If you are mobile enough and want to see something in the surrounding area, be sure to visit these attractions:

• AVTOVAZ Museum in Tolyatti. Some believe that the museum will be primarily interesting to men, but the local excursions impress women too. And, of course, children will love it here. The museum houses all models of VAZ cars from the late 60s to the present day and modern versions, including racing car developments;
• Garibaldi Castle. To avoid traveling far from Tolyatti, since you've come to see the “Niva” and “Lada”, take a look at one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, built in... the early 21st century. It is built in Gothic style, adorned with tall towers and gargoyle statues, and even artificially “aged” by architects. It's a pretty cool location, we believe that in rainy weather, Garibaldi Castle will look even more atmospheric;
• Museum of Actual Realism. If you decide to stay in Tolyatti longer, visit the museum of contemporary art, which appeared here in 2011. It features a permanent exhibition of works by natives of the Samara and Saratov provinces, as well as temporary exhibitions on various exciting topics;
• Zolotoy Bor (Golden Forest). A good place for those who don't want to travel far from Samara. About an hour by electric train, and you'll find yourself in a pine forest. Locals say that in autumn, it's best to come here with a basket to gather seasonal mushrooms. All in all, just a cool spot for a quiet picnic.

Transport in Samara

The most interesting transport in Samara is river transport, which allows you to easily get from one bank to another or even sail to the region by boat. In addition, Samara has a metro system, consisting of one line with ten stations. The metro operates from 5:00 to 23:00 Moscow time (or from 6:00 to 0:00 local time).

Gastronomic Guide to Samara

• NEBO. A restaurant with panoramic views of the Volga, serving Pan-Asian cuisine and seafood. The cuisine here is signature, unusual, but the familiar “Philadelphia” sushi is also served;
• Olli. An excellent restaurant serving European, Russian, and Caucasian cuisines. The average bill is about 1,500 rubles
• Osteria Lora. An excellent Italian restaurant serving pizza, pasta, ravioli, and desserts. The average bill is about 2,500 rubles;

Bar Clusters

• Kukhmisterskaya "1903" — the gastropub serves over 210 types of beer and cider and signature dishes. The interior of the establishment is a separate pleasure;

• Kuybyshev — a bar with incredibly delicious snacks and cocktails in the city center. On weekend evenings, you can even dance here;
• Posolstvo (Embassy). The establishment majestically calls itself a “bar mansion”. Each room here reflects a separate gastronomic culture. For example, in the “Hall” they serve Mediterranean drinks, and in the “Pantry” — traditional Asian ones.

Where to stay

• Old City Hotel Samara — a three-star hotel a 10-minute walk from the Volga embankment. A good option for a budget trip;
• Mechta (Dream). A hotel with fully equipped furnished rooms with thematic interiors. A cool idea to save money and live in comfort;
• Lotte. Hooray, five stars! Beautiful views, delicious food, sauna, comfortable rooms, and a luxurious view of the Volga. However, prices start from 25,000 rubles per night.

What to bring from Samara

No trip is complete without souvenirs. We get space-themed magnets for friends, candies from the “Samarsky Konditer” factory, plates with a goat, the city's symbol, and, of course, Zhigulevskoye beer. Yes, you can buy the latter yourself, but admit it, it's more pleasant to receive such a “souvenir” produced directly from the factory?

We wish you calm waters on the Volga and delicious dried fish!