Old Russian city with astonishing orthodox churches and lots of cultural draws, Smolensk is one of the hidden jewels of Western Russia. The city contains a historic fortress and famous museums such as the one dedicated to the Russia national drink, Vodka. More than that, Smolensk offers you art galleries to be explored and lively nightlife to be attended. The region is good also for fishing and countryside tours.
Smolensk, the Russian meeting place of national heritage and modern culture
Smolensk is one of the oldest cities in Russia, sure, but somehow it still manages to surprise with all the national heritage included in the packet. Add shopping facilities and beautiful natural surroundings, and the mix is ready.
Cultural attractions. Smolensk has art galleries with masterpieces from artists like Aivazovsky, and the famous Olympic and Vodka museums of the city are unique places even in worldwide measure. The whole thing is made even better by all the architectural treasures found in the city. Local people in Smolensk are proud of their 17th century fortress wall with 17 towers, and the many orthodox churches of the city are just as astonishing as in other Russian cities of this age. The most famous of the churches is the majestic Cathedral of Assumption, built in 1676.
Shopping and entertainment. In addition to being a city of strong cultural heritage, Smolensk has also modern face. Much of it has been rebuilt after damages caused in the wars faced by the city. The city center is quite modern and has excellent facilities available for shopping in Smolensk as well as modern bars and nightclubs for entering the lively nightlife in Smolensk.
Nature. Smolensk is attractive also by its natural surroundings dominated by the Dnepr River. The city area has several green parks for walking and fishing in Smolensk, and should you want to make longer excursions, the forests of the region are waiting!
Practical information for your trip to Smolensk
Smolensk is located in the western part of Russia, some 360 km southwest of Moscow. For flights and travelling to Smolensk, connections are best available from the two Russian metropolises, Moscow and St. Petersburg.
These two cities are easily reachable from Smolensk also by train. Buses and taxis are good for getting around in the city, but for travelling across Smolensk you can use also railway lines. Car rental in Smolensk is good for touring in the surrounding region.
Climate. Smolensk has a continental climate with big seasonal changes in weather. During the summer average monthly high temperatures in the region climb to 20°C or above, with the warmest time of the year faced between June and August. Winters of Smolensk are cold and snowy and the mercury commonly drops to below zero degrees between November and March. The best time for travelling to Smolensk is between May and September.
Beloved by Russians, Smolensk has started to draw an increasing number of international visitors as well. There are modern hotels in Smolensk city center and sport complexes and tourist centers outside the city are good for outdoor sports and games. Restaurants in Smolensk are quite international, which goes also for the many nightclubs of the city. Smolensk is a quite safe travel destination, provided you follow common sense and keep an eye on your belongings. Some knowledge of Russian language is needed for independent touring.
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