The 3 Hidden Gems of Russia

While names like Moscow and Saint Petersburg might sound very familiar to most travelers, you might have missed out on three very pretty places in Russia, which may … not be so widely known. Destinations that are almost fairy-like with beautiful architecture and fabulous places to see. These 3 hidden gems of Russia are the perfect places to stop for fabulous photos and it is a wonderful treasure of interest to many architects.

If you’re planning a trip to any of these destinations, we have all the necessary links to plan the perfect trip – all on one page.

1. Kolomna (Колóмна)

This beautiful ancient city of Moscow Oblast, Russia is situated at the confluence of the Moskva and Oka Rivers. It is the perfect stop for fabulous photo opportunities. There are loads of museums and one of the must-see places is the Kolomenskoye open-air museum. This UNESCO World Heritage Site once served as a summer residence for the Grand Dukes of Moscow and Russian Tsars. (photos below)

While visiting do make time to stop for fabulous photo opportunities at sunset.

Where to stay in Kolomna

2. Kazan (Каза́н)

Kazan is situated on the banks of the Volga and Kazanka rivers. Although it is known for the Kazan Kremlin, a fortified citadel containing museums and sacred sites, there is much more to see. Here you’ll find scenes straight from a fairytale with the very impressive Tower of Soyembika, the blue-and-gold domed Annunciation Cathedral, and the colorful Kul Sharif Mosque, to name a few.

Things to do in Kazan

Where to stay in Kazan

3. Suzdal (Суздаль)

This town situated in the northeast of Moscow in Russia forms part of the Golden Ring cluster of ancient towns.

It is the main historic town of Central Russia and one of the most popular tourist destinations. With the Suzdal Kremlin, the Cathedral of the Nativity with its gold-starred domes, and the Archbishop’s Chambers and Monastery of St. Euthymius, it is easy to see why.

There are no trains to Suzdal so to reach this 1 of the 3 hidden gems of Russia, you are best to hire a car or book a ready-made tour.

Things to do in Suzdal

More Tours and Activities

"The Suzdal Kremlin was founded in the 11th century and today includes the Nativity of the Virgin Cathedral, a 13th-century cathedral notable for its blue and gold domes. Not far from the Kremlin is the Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life, an interesting stop to get a feel for traditional Russian culture and the life of Russian peasants. Walking around Suzdal, you will see no shortage of churches, with many dating back centuries, including the Cathedral of Intercession, built in 1518, and the St John the Baptist Church, built in 1720. Climb the tower of the Resurrection Church near Torgovaya Ploshchad for panoramic views of the entire area." - Viator

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