An Exotic And Historic Getaway: 10 Things To Do In Vladimir, Russia

1. Golden Gate Military Monument

At one point, Vladimir was a walled city, and these walls served as part of the city’s defenses against foreign invaders. The arched Golden Gate Military Monument is one of the most prominent attractions in Vladimir and is there to remind locals and foreigners of the Mongolian invasion that took place here. There are plenty of historic artifacts of this invasion inside the monument’s museum for visitors to peruse.

Golden Gate Military Monument

Address: Moskovskaya Bolshaya ul., d. 43, Vladimir 600000, Russia

2. Pushkin Park

Pushkin Park is a beautiful and relaxing natural space that also features an observation deck to view Vladimir from a great vantage point. First-time visitors will want to spend around an hour or two to view the lovely green trees, especially when they’re visiting during the warmer months. It’s also a good romantic excursion for couples, where they can enjoy each other’s company with few distractions while watching those awesome sunsets.

Pushkin Park

Address: Bolshaya Moskovskaya St., 56, Vladimir 600000, Russia

3. Monument to Prince Vladimir and Saint Fedor

One of the most important landmarks in this historic city is the Monument to Prince Vladimir and Saint Fedor. The statue is there to commemorate Prince Vladimir, and it’s certainly impressive. However, visitors will not only admire the statue but also the magnificent views of the city, river, and valley from this point. The city center, nearby park, and two cathedrals are easily accessible from the monument, so it’s a good place to begin exploring Vladimir.

Monument to Prince Vladimir And Saint Fedor

Address: Bolshaya Moskovskaya St., 43, Vladimir 600000, Russia

4. Vodonapornaya Bashnya Museum

This unique-looking cylindrical museum resembles a small tower, which houses a variety of artifacts related to the local glass industry. Apart from these artifacts, there are also important historic documents and advertisements on display, but they’re written in the Russian language. Near the top of the tower is an observation deck that visitors can access free of charge. The Golden Gate Military Monument and other important landmarks are visible from here.

Vodonapornaya Bashnya Museum

Address: Kozlov Val St., 14, Vladimir 600000, Russia

Website: Vodonapornaya Bashnya Museum

5. Cathedral of Saint Demetrius

The Cathedral of Saint Demetrius is an Orthodox Cathedral that’s modestly sized but is surprisingly tall, giving the building a rather unique appearance. This white limestone cathedral is a good example of Russian architecture dating back to the 12th century. And while this building is rather modest and minimalist, there are also some interesting stone carvings that depict scenes from the Bible.

Cathedral of Saint Demetrius

Address: Bolshaya Moskovskaya st., 58, Vladimir 600000, Russia

Website: Cathedral of Saint Demetrius (in Russian)

6. Crystal Lacquer Miniatures and Embroidery Exhibition

Since Vladimir has such a rich heritage in glassware and crystals, then it only makes sense to visit an exhibition that features these beautiful items. The Crystal Lacquer Miniatures and Embroidery Exhibition is hosted inside a museum located near the city center, and the entire exhibition takes up three floors and also includes a gift shop on the lower level. Visitors can spend many hours viewing all the amazing Russian lacquer boxes, crystals, embroidery, and other collectibles on display.

Crystal Lacquer Miniatures and Embroidery Exhibition

Address: ul. Dvorjanskaja, 2, Vladimir 600001, Russia

7. Bolshaya Moskovskaya Street

Similarly to other cities around the world, Vladimir has its own historic street that attracts shoppers, locals, and foreign tourists. The Bolshaya Moskovskaya Street is vibrant and conveniently located near the train station, so most visitors should find themselves in close proximity to this street. And on New Year’s, a marketplace is hosted that features a wide variety of stalls selling many local delicacies and souvenirs. But even if you’re not planning on purchasing anything, it’s worth the trip just to check out the beautiful decorations and experience the cool vibe.

Bolshaya Moskovskaya Street

Address: Bolshaya Moskovskaya St., Vladimir, Russia

8. Chamber Official Place

The Chamber Official Place is a regal-looking building that houses many important historic items, which are unique to Vladimir. Visitors have an opportunity to view fascinating art, photography, archaeological exhibits, and war history artifacts. This specialty museum is ideally suited for history buffs and anyone that simply wants to gain greater insight into Vladimir’s rich and long history.

Chamber Official Place

Address: Bolshaya Moskovskaya st., 58, Vladimir 600000, Russia

Website: Chamber Official Place (in Russian)

9. Borodins' Blacksmith Shop

It’s uncommon to come across a traditional blacksmith, but Vladimir has a shop that’s operated by an experienced blacksmith. Moreover, this particular blacksmith teaches both local and foreign visitors the secrets of his trade, which should fascinate anyone that enjoys working with metal or with their hands. The master courses at Borodin’s Blacksmith Shop are fun, and new students will make some cool souvenirs to take home with them.

Borodins' Blacksmith Shop

Address: Georgiyevskaya, 3G, Vladimir 600000, Russia

10. Sobornaya Square

Sobornaya Square attracts folks from around Russia and other countries. And there’s many reasons for this, as this magnificent square is peaceful during the winter months, and incredibly vibrant during summer months. The square has undergone many changes over different eras; at one point, there was a monument dedicated to Stalin, but these days it commemorates Prince Vladimir instead. It’s also a great spot to admire the fountain, trees, and the nearby Saint Sophia Cathedral.

Sobornaya Square

Address: Sobornaya Square, Vladimir, Russia

Keeping busy in Vladimir

Vladimir truly encapsulates the best of Russia’s older towns, while having many fun things to do that will appeal to modern travelers. Exploring cool exhibitions, taking blacksmith master classes, and venturing though a popular shopping street will make that trip to Vladimir very memorable.