Things To Do
in Pestovo

Pestovo is a quaint town located in the Novgorod Oblast of Russia, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere. The town is surrounded by beautiful forests and lakes, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Pestovo has a rich cultural heritage, highlighted by its historical architecture and local traditions.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

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

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Pestovo Museum to learn about the town's history.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk around Pestovo Lake, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps have a picnic at one of the lakeside spots.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine and enjoy a quiet evening stroll along the waterfront.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

After breakfast, head to the nearby forest for a guided nature walk to explore the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the local craft market to buy handmade souvenirs and enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event at the local community center, if available, or relax at a cozy café with a book.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🏨Hotel night$30
🍞Loaf of bread$1
🥕1 kg of vegetables$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Affordable cost of living and dining
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transportation may be less frequent
  • Language barrier for non-Russian speakers
  • "Здравствуйте" - Hello
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Пожалуйста" - Please
  • "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Сколько это стоит?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Pestovo

Visit one of these nice places.

Pestovo Lake

A stunning lake surrounded by lush forests, perfect for capturing sunsets.

Historical Buildings

Photograph the charming wooden architecture that reflects the town's rich history.

Local Parks

Beautiful parks that offer scenic views and are great for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pestovo

Pestovo offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect traditional Russian cuisine, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Pestovo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Borscht

A hearty beet soup served hot, often accompanied by sour cream and bread.

Must-Try!

Pelmeni

Russian dumplings filled with meat, served with butter or in broth.

Blini

Thin pancakes that can be filled with sweet or savory fillings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pestovo Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Look for vendors selling blini and other street foods during local festivals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pestovo experiences a continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters can be long and cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are generally warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Spring and autumn are mild with moderate rainfall, making them pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is a common greeting, and it's polite to greet everyone individually.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it’s customary to wait for the host to start the meal before eating.

Gift Giving

If invited to a home, bringing a small gift such as flowers or sweets is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pestovo is generally considered safe for travelers, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep your belongings secure. Local emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's advisable to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Pestovo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of about 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for lakeside picnics, hiking, and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers colorful foliage, making it a picturesque time for walks and nature photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow, creating a magical atmosphere for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Pestovo at Night

Pestovo's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and cafes that offer a relaxed atmosphere. Most nightlife activities revolve around social gatherings, often with live music or cultural events. While there are not many clubs, the local bars provide a chance to enjoy drinks with friends or meet locals.

Hiking in Pestovo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Krasnaya Gora Trail

A scenic trail leading through dense forests and offering views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for all skill levels.

Pestovo Nature Reserve Trail

A well-marked trail in a protected area, ideal for observing wildlife and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Airports

How to reach Pestovo by plane.

Veliky Novgorod Airport

Located approximately 150 km from Pestovo, this airport offers limited flights but connects to major Russian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pestovo is a small town, which makes it highly walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to easily explore the area on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the pace of life is relaxed, making for enjoyable strolls through town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Pestovo's population consists of Russian-speaking locals, who are often warm and welcoming to visitors.

Seasonal Tourists

During summer, the town sees an influx of tourists looking for a peaceful retreat in nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in Pestovo, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played at both amateur and youth levels, with local fields hosting regular matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pestovo is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options are limited, with occasional bus services connecting to nearby towns. Most locals prefer to walk or cycle for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pestovo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as salads and vegetable soups.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes may be limited, but many restaurants can accommodate upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Pestovo are basic, with a few local clinics available for minor medical needs. For more serious health issues, residents usually travel to larger cities like Veliky Novgorod. It's advisable for visitors to carry travel insurance and have access to necessary medications, as well as keeping emergency numbers on hand.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide