Things To Do
in Borovsk

Borovsk is a charming town located in the Kaluga Oblast of Russia, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. It is situated near the banks of the Prut River, providing beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities. The town features a mix of Russian Orthodox heritage, with several significant churches and cultural landmarks.

Borovsk is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, particularly pottery and woodwork.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Borovsk
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Borovsk Kremlin, an impressive historical site with ancient walls and towers. After exploring the Kremlin, enjoy a traditional Russian breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Borovsk and learn about the town's history and cultural significance. Stroll through the local market to sample some regional delicacies and shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring local cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk along the banks of the Prut River to take in the serene atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the nearby Borovsk Nature Reserve for a morning hike, enjoying the scenic trails and diverse wildlife. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy in the great outdoors.

afternoon
:

Return to town and visit the Church of St. Nicholas, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Explore local art galleries showcasing works from regional artists.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional restaurant offering a variety of local dishes, then enjoy a cultural performance or visit a local bar for drinks and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$7
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🍺Local beer$2
🏨Hotel night stay$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Russian speakers.
  • Public transport may not be very frequent.
  • "Здравствуйте" - Hello
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Пожалуйста" - Please
  • "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Сколько это стоит?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Borovsk

Visit one of these nice places.

Borovsk Kremlin

Capture stunning views of the ancient walls and towers against the backdrop of the sky.

Church of St. Nicholas

Photograph the intricate architecture and beautiful frescoes of this historic church.

Prut River

The riverbank offers picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Borovsk

Borovsk offers a delightful culinary experience, rooted in traditional Russian flavors and local ingredients.

Borovsk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Borscht

A hearty beet soup often served with sour cream, highlighting the region's agricultural produce.

Must-Try!

Pelmeni

Russian dumplings typically filled with meat, served with butter or sour cream.

Kasha

A nutritious porridge made from buckwheat, a staple in Russian cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Borovsk Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts.

Street vendors

Look out for vendors selling traditional snacks like blinis (pancakes) and pirozhki (stuffed pastries).

Climate Guide

Weather

Borovsk experiences a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Greeting people with a smile and saying 'hello' is important; use 'Zdravstvuyte'.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.

Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversation; personal space is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Borovsk is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and secure personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached at local numbers, and understanding basic Russian can be helpful in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Borovsk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in most establishments, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures begin to rise, flowers bloom, and it’s a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists; enjoy festivals, outdoor dining, and the lush landscapes.

Autumn

Fall foliage creates a beautiful landscape, making it perfect for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow transform Borovsk into a winter wonderland, ideal for winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Borovsk at Night

Borovsk's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and cafes offering live music on weekends. Most venues close early, around midnight, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The focus is more on socializing and enjoying local drinks rather than a vibrant club scene.

Hiking in Borovsk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zarechye Trail

A scenic trail offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the Prut River.

Borovsk Nature Reserve Trails

Multiple trails suitable for varying levels of hikers, providing opportunities to see local wildlife and flora.

Airports

How to reach Borovsk by plane.

Kaluga Grabtsevo Airport

Approximately 50 km from Borovsk, this airport offers limited domestic flights and serves as the main gateway for travelers to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Borovsk is a small town with a compact layout, making it very walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a reasonable walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the town comfortably on foot. Sidewalks are generally available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of ethnic Russians, who are proud of their cultural heritage.

Tourists

Visitors range from domestic travelers to international tourists interested in exploring Russian history and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in Borovsk, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Winter Sports

During the winter, activities such as skiing and snowboarding are popular in nearby areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Borovsk is generally light, with fewer cars compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the town without the need for a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Borovsk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for meat-based broths in soups.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so inform the staff about dietary needs when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Borovsk includes several clinics and a hospital providing basic medical services. For more specialized care, residents may travel to larger cities like Kaluga. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as English-speaking medical professionals may be limited.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide