10 Things To Do In Yaroslavl, Russia

1. The Transfiguration Monastery

The Transfiguration Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that you won’t want to miss. The oldest part of the building dates back to the 16th-century. Stop by to see the stunning architecture and frescos. This is definitely a worthwhile spot for history buffs and art lovers. Climb to the tops of the cathedral’s bell tower for an incredible view of Yaroslavl.

The Transfiguration Monastery

Address: Bogoyavleniya Sq., 25/2, Yaroslavl 150000, Russia

2. Museum "Music and Time"

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If you love music be sure to check out the Museum “Music and Time” filled with antique instruments and gramophones. In the same museum complex you’ll find a museum dedicated to porcelain and another to samovars, so this is really a good choice for an antique lover. The museum also offers a beautiful concert chamber and boutique hotel.

Museum "Music and Time"

Address: Volzhskaya nab., 33А, Yaroslavl, 150000, Russia

3. The Residence of Her Majesty the Queen of Maslenitsa

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The Residence of Her Majesty the Queen of Maslenitsa is a wooden recreation of the town of Yaroslavl in the year 1913. The Residence is dedicated to a celebration of traditional Russian culture, so this is a great place to stop by for Russian cuisine. This is also a good option for families if you can catch one of their folk performances or plays. If you love fashion, check out some of the most glamorous looks of the time at The Residence of Her Majesty the Queen of Maslenitsa.

The Residence of Her Majesty the Queen of Maslenitsa

Address: Revolyutsionnyy St., 14A, Yaroslavl 150000, Russia

Website: The Residence of Her Majesty the Queen of Shrovetide

4. The Cathedral of the Assumption

For those who love architecture, it would be a crime to miss the Cathedral of the Assumption. The stark white cathedral, topped with golden domes cuts an iconic image. While the original cathedral was built in 1215, it was destroyed multiple times, most recently by the Soviets. The building that stands today was built in 2005. The cathedral is located in a park with sculptures and monuments, so be sure to spend some time exploring the park in the warmer months.

The Cathedral of the Assumption

Address: Kotoroslnaya emb., 2/1, Yaroslavl 150000, Russia

Website: The Cathedral of the Assumption

5. Yaroslavl Art Museum

Located in the early 19th-century Governor’s Mansion, the Yaroslavl Art Museum is a great place to learn about Russian art from the 18th through the 20th-century. Stop by to appreciate their gorgeous portraits and furniture. If you’re a sucker for reenactments be sure to check out their events.

Yaroslavl Art Museum

Address: Volzhskaya Emb., 23, Yaroslavl 150000, Russia

Website: Yaroslavl Art Museum

6. Volga Promenade

For the nature lover, make some time for the Volga Promenade and riverside park. If you’re planning on adding the Volga Promenade to a day of sightseeing, keep in mind that the Promenade is just a few minute’s walk away from the Cathedral of the Assumption and St. Elijah Church. Enjoy an afternoon walk or a shaded jog.

Volga Promenade

Address: Volzhskaya Naberezhnaya, Yaroslavl, Russia

7. Volkov Theatre (The Russian State Academic Drama Theatre)

Yaroslavl’s main claim to fame is as the birthplace of the first national professional theatre company in Russia. Although the building that stands today was built in 1911, the theatre company itself was formed in 1750. Today the theatre hosts a youth festival and international festival as well as hosting regular productions of Russian and international classics. For a taste of some of Russia’s finest theatre, be sure to catch a performance while you’re in town.

Volkov Theatre

Address: Volkova Sq., 1, Yaroslavl 150000, Russia

Website: Volkov Theatre

8. Yaroslavl Zoo

The zoo is a great idea if you’re traveling with a family. This zoo offers a lot of hands on areas where kids can feed the animals and play with smaller ones like rabbits. See zebras, feed goats, and learn about Russian wildlife at the Yaroslavl Zoo.

Yaroslavl Zoo

Address: Shevelyuha St., 137, Yaroslavl 150007, Russia

Website: Yaroslavl Zoo

9. Yaroslavl Architectural, Historical, and Art Museum Preserve

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

hLocated in the same compound as the Transfiguration Monastery and the Spassky Monastery, the Architectural, Historical, and Art Museum Preserve can be a convenient addition to your itinerary. The preserve consists of a collection of bell towers, monasteries, and churches. Climb to the top of one of the bell towers for beautiful views of Yaroslavl and the surrounding nature, or if you love art check out their collection of 15th and 16th-century icons.

Yaroslavl Architectural, Historical, and Art Museum Preserve

Address: Bogojavlenskaja pl. 25, Yaroslavl 150000, Russia

Website: Yaroslavl Architectural, Historical, and Art Museum Preserve

10. The Bear Monument

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The Bear Monument was erected in 2009 to celebrate the 1000th birthday of the town of Yaroslavl. Legend holds that Yaroslavl was founded in 1010 after Yaroslav the Wise killed a bear in the town’s current location. A fun surprise if you’re traveling with kids, every hour the bear roars.

The Bear Monument

Address: Corner With Nakhimsona St. ul. Pervomayskaya 55, Yaroslavl 150000, Russia

A great place for families

With the museums, outdoor activities, and the zoo in Yaroslavl, this can be a great place to stop with your family, while solo travelers can spend their days in museums.