Things To Do
in Chita
Chita sits on the Shilka River in eastern Siberia, serving as a gateway to the taiga and the frontier of Russia's Far East. The city blends Soviet-era architecture with markets, cafes, and a growing arts scene that reflects its rugged, frontier heritage. Winters are long and cold, while summers are brief but active along the riverfront and in the historic center.
Visitors can explore a compact historic core, sample hearty Siberian cuisine, and use Chita as a base for nearby taiga hikes and cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Cathedral of the Holy Transfiguration, where the golden domes shimmer under the morning sun. Stroll through the historic streets, taking in the impressive architecture that reflects Chita's rich history. Stop by a local café for a traditional Russian breakfast, savoring dishes like syrniki and kasha.
In the afternoon, visit the Chita Regional Museum to learn more about the area's culture and heritage through fascinating exhibits. Take a leisurely walk in the nearby Amur Park, where you can relax by the river and enjoy the natural beauty. As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot to grab lunch at a local bistro, trying out Siberian pelmeni.
As dusk falls, immerse yourself in the local nightlife by visiting a bar or cultural venue hosting live music. Alternatively, enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the Chita River, admiring the city lights reflecting on the water. End your day with a hearty dinner at a restaurant specializing in regional cuisine, enjoying dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore the natural beauty surrounding Chita. A short drive will take you to the picturesque hills where you can hike along well-marked trails, breathing in the fresh Siberian air. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by stunning views of the landscape, with the sounds of nature as your backdrop. Continue your adventure by visiting local lakes, where you can partake in fishing or simply relax by the water. As the afternoon sun climbs higher, explore hidden trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints.
As the day winds down, return to Chita and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a restaurant that offers a blend of traditional Siberian and modern cuisine, enjoying a delightful meal. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the city center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps stopping for a dessert at a local café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1.5-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $40-70 |
| 🧺Grocery basics (milk, bread) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with a strong sense of local culture
- Affordability and hearty Siberian cuisine
- Gateway to taiga nature and regional heritage
- Good base for river excursions and photography
- Harsh winters and limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Fewer English-speaking services in smaller venues
- Limited international flight options from Chita
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
- "Без мяса, пожалуйста" - Vegetarian option, please
Places to Visit in Chita
Visit one of these nice places.
A focal point with Soviet-era architecture, statues, and frequent events—great for daytime and blue hour photography.
Scenic riverside walkway offering reflections, bridges, and sunset shots over the water.
Old wooden façades and narrow lanes provide charming, textured perspectives of traditional Siberian architecture.
Elevated viewpoints offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding taiga.
Food in Chita
Chita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dumplings filled with meat, served with sour cream or butter; widely available in markets and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Thinly shaved frozen meat (or fish) served with onions and spices; a traditional cold dish popular in winter.
Beet soup enriched with vegetables and meat or mushroom broth, usually served hot with sour cream.
Rustic cabbage soup, a comforting staple in Siberian homes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, fish, dairy, and regional snacks; try smoked fish, pies, pickles, and fresh bread.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple “Zdravstvuyte” (hello) and address people politely; use first name and patronymic when appropriate.
Queue politely, avoid loud behavior in public spaces, and dress modestly in religious or traditional sites.
If invited to a home, bring a small gift; remove shoes if asked; tea and conversation are common social rituals.
Safety
Tipping in Chita
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is satisfactory; rounding up is common in casual places.
Cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and major shops; cash (rubles) remains useful in markets and smaller venues; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days and long twilights; mosquitoes can be active; good for river walks, markets, and lakeside picnics.
Severe cold and snow; dress in layers, protect extremities, and take care on icy sidewalks; excellent for snow sports and winter photography.
Meltwater and mud; still cool but greenery begins to emerge; ideal for city strolls and markets.
Cooling temperatures and colorful foliage; great for city tours and photography.
Chita at Night
Hiking in Chita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A forested trail along the Shilka River with chances to spot wildlife and enjoy river views.
A short hike offering elevated perspectives of the surrounding taiga and city.
Airports
How to reach Chita by plane.
Serves domestic and some international routes; access to the city is via taxi or bus; check flight options in advance.
Smaller regional airport offering limited flights to nearby cities; useful for regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic group making up the majority of residents.
Indigenous and minority communities with distinct cultural influences.
Diverse travelers and workers from nearby regions and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular winter sport with local leagues and fans.
Active in local clubs and youth leagues.
Common winter activity across suburbs and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many soups, breads, dumplings with cheese or mushrooms, salads, and vegetable plates are available; ask for no meat or broth labeled bez myasa.