Nizhny Novgorod, Russia 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Overview

Morning

  • Arrive in Nizhny Novgorod and check-in at Hotel Azimut or similar
  • Visit the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin, a historic fortress that offers stunning views of the Volga River

Afternoon

  • Walk along the Pochainskaya Street, a pedestrian zone with beautiful architecture, shops, and cafes
  • Stop by the Chkalov Staircase, a historic staircase with 560 steps that connects the upper and lower parts of the city

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Russian cuisine at Restaurant Gostiny Dvor
  • Take a stroll along the Volga River Embankment, which offers beautiful views of the city and the river

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Visit the Nizhny Novgorod State Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of Russian art
  • Explore the Rukavishnikov Estate, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture that now hosts various cultural events and exhibitions

Afternoon

  • Attend a performance at the Nizhny Novgorod Opera and Ballet Theatre, one of the oldest and most respected theaters in Russia
  • Visit the Museum of the History of Nizhny Novgorod, which showcases the city’s rich history and cultural heritage

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Slavyansky Kvartal, which serves traditional Russian cuisine with a modern twist
  • Take a walk in the Alexander Nevsky Park, a beautiful green space with fountains, monuments, and walking paths

Day 3: Day Trip to Makaryev

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Makaryev (approximately 1.5 hours by car), a historic town known for its stunning monastery and picturesque countryside
  • Visit the Makaryev Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Russia

Afternoon

  • Explore the Museum of Wooden Architecture, which showcases traditional Russian wooden buildings and craftsmanship
  • Enjoy lunch at a local café or restaurant, trying some traditional Russian dishes such as blini or pelmeni

Evening

  • Return to Nizhny Novgorod and enjoy dinner at Restaurant Korabl, which serves seafood and steak dishes
  • Take a stroll along the Volga River Embankment, enjoying the city lights and river views

Day 4: Nature and Adventure

Morning

  • Visit the Nizhny Novgorod Zoo, one of the oldest and largest zoos in Russia, home to over 300 species of animals
  • Take a walk in the Schelkovsky Forest, a beautiful green space with walking paths, lakes, and picnic areas

Afternoon

  • Go on a River Cruise along the Volga River, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside
  • Visit the Nizhny Novgorod Water Sports Center, which offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water activities

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Pivnoy Klub, which serves traditional Russian beer and cuisine
  • Take a walk in the Upper Volga Embankment, enjoying the city lights and river views

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Check-out of the hotel and depart from Nizhny Novgorod

Things to Know

  • Nizhny Novgorod has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Pack accordingly.
  • Russian is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially among the younger population.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in major restaurants and shops, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash (rubles) on hand.

Transportation

  • Nizhny Novgorod has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trolleybuses. You can purchase tickets at kiosks or online.
  • Taxis are also widely available, but it’s recommended to use official taxi services such as Gett or Yandex Taxi.

Tips

  • Be prepared for variable weather and dress accordingly.
  • Try to learn some basic Russian phrases, such as “Здравствуйте” (hello) and “Спасибо” (thank you).
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting monasteries or attending cultural events.

Other Things of Interest

  • The Nizhny Novgorod Fair, a historic trade fair that takes place in the summer months
  • The Roshchinsky Monastery, a beautiful monastery located just outside the city center
  • The Museum of the History of Russian Aviation, which showcases the history of Russian aviation and space exploration