One of the most intriguing cities in Russia, Kazan is a modern melting pot of Eastern and European cultures. With a rich Tatar history and architectural influences from around the world, Kazan is one of the best places to explore during your vacation in Russia.
With a number of attractions and monuments, you can easily spend days exploring this UNESCO-listed citadel. The Kremlin is one of the most popular attractions in Kazan.
The Kremlin
The Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kazan, is one of Russia's most iconic architectural complexes. It encompasses palaces, churches, and mosques.
A renowned monument, the Kremlin is an important place of pilgrimage to Orthodox Christians. The complex also contains two major centres of worship: the Qol Sharif Mosque and Annunciation Cathedral.
The Kremlin is a must-see on any Kazan itinerary. You can explore it by foot or on a guided tour.
The Kul Sharif Mosque
One of the most beautiful buildings in Kazan is the Kul Sharif Mosque. This mystical mosque is an architectural masterpiece that will take your breath away.
It was destroyed by Ivan the Terrible in 1552 but now it has been rebuilt. It is also a museum and you can see a lot of interesting things there.
The UNESCO-listed Kazan Kremlin is home to the Kul Sharif Mosque, Cathedral of Annunciation and Soyembika Tower. Other religious landmarks in the city include the Naryshkin Baroque-style Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral and pristine Raifa Monastery.
The National Library of Tatarstan
Kazan, located along the Volga River in Eastern Russia, is a modern day melting pot of Russian and Tatar cultures. From azure-topped mosques to baroque cathedrals, this city boasts a one-of-a-kind history and stunning architecture.
The National Library of Tatarstan houses a large collection of books, including rare and valuable ones. It also offers various programs for the public.
The Museum of Soviet Life
The quirky collection of communist kitsch at the Museum of Soviet Life gives visitors a unique perspective on everyday life in Russia under Communism. The exhibits are fun to touch, try on and photograph, with the best souvenirs being a rack of authentic Soviet-era clothes and hats.
The Palace of Farmers, a regal building that looks like something out of a fairytale, is also worth a visit. Its carved bronze tree sculpture is an enchanting backdrop for photos.
The Natural History Museum
Kazan is the capital of Russia’s Tatarstan Republic and is a cultural melting pot with an incredible mixture of Russian and Tatar culture. One of the best things to see in Kazan is the Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects the city’s ethnic mix and includes two of its most striking centres of worship - the Kul Sharif Mosque and Annunciation Cathedral.
The Kul Sharif Mosque is the largest mosque in Russia and is famous for its stunning blue dome. It also contains a museum dedicated to Islam.
Kremlyovskaya Street
The lively capital of Tatarstan, Kazan is home to a unique mix of cultures that makes it a must-see for all travelers. Situated on the Volga River, it’s one of Russia’s oldest cities and full of historic buildings and a distinct culture that you won’t find anywhere else in the country.
There are so many things to do in Kazan that it’s hard to know where to start. This list of 10 must-see sights will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral
If you’re in the mood for a spiritual visit, Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral is a must-see. This baroque church was built in 1726 in honor of two important events: the emperor Peter I’s arrival in Kazan on his way to the Caspian Sea at the start of the Russo-Persian War, and a local merchant who commissioned him to build a new cathedral for his 50th birthday celebration.
A place where azure topped mosques are juxtaposed with baroque cathedrals, Kazan is an eclectic melting pot of cultures and religions. Luckily, we’ve got some small-group adventures here that’ll take you to the heart of this rich city.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a modern structure with multiple entertainment zones. This complex includes a cinema, a game zone and cafes.
The park also houses a McDonald's bike station, which is a great place to go for an afternoon ride. It also offers a snack bar, bike repairs and maintenance.
On Youth Day, President Rustam Minnikhanov and Mayor Ilsur Metshin inspected the park, which consists of eight extreme sport zones including a skatepark, pump tracks for advanced athletes, workout sites and a streetball court. It is the largest extreme park in Russia.
