Things To Do
in Rostov
Rostov-on-Don sits on the Don River in southwestern Russia, where its modern districts meet leafy neighborhoods and a bustling riverfront. It blends grand Soviet-era architecture with contemporary culture, bustling markets, and a growing arts scene. Strolling along the Don Embankment reveals skyline views, boat traffic, and sunset hues over the river.
With warm hospitality and a convenient base for exploring the Rostov Oblast region, Rostov-on-Don offers a welcoming gateway to the south.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Russian dishes such as blini and kasha. Afterward, stroll through the main square, taking in the beautiful architecture of the Rostov State Musical Theatre. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Rostov Kremlin, where you can marvel at the stunning onion domes and intricate frescoes.
For lunch, sample some local specialties at a nearby restaurant that offers traditional Don cuisine, like shashlik and borscht. Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the rich history of the city by visiting the Regional Museum of Fine Arts, where you can admire works by local artists. As you wander the museum, you'll gain a deep appreciation for Rostov's cultural heritage.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Don River, enjoying the picturesque views and the serene ambiance. For dinner, choose a riverside restaurant where you can indulge in fresh fish dishes caught from the river. After your meal, consider catching a performance at the Rostov State Musical Theatre to experience local talent and productions.
Begin your day at the Rostov Regional Museum, where you can explore exhibits showcasing the city's history, from its founding to modern times. Engage with interactive displays that provide insights into the local culture and traditions of the Don region. Take your time to absorb the fascinating stories behind the artifacts and artwork on display.
For lunch, head to a nearby café that serves authentic homemade Russian pastries and soups. Afterward, visit the Museum of the First Cavalry Army, which highlights the significant role of cavalry in the region's military history through various exhibits and artifacts. This museum provides a unique perspective on Rostov's historical importance during significant conflicts.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at a cozy eatery that features live folk music, immersing you in the local atmosphere. Savor traditional dishes while enjoying performances by local musicians, which add a lively vibe to your dining experience. After dinner, take a stroll through the city streets, admiring the illuminated buildings and vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way ticket (local transport) | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant riverfront and walkable center
- Delicious hearty cuisine and markets
- Good value for money and friendly locals
- Strong cultural scene with theaters and museums
- Hot summers can be very sunny
- Traffic can be congested in peak hours
- English not widely spoken in all venues
- Lesser-known outside tourist paths compared to Moscow or St. Petersburg
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Пожалуйста" - Please
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
- "Где туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Вы говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Rostov
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide riverside promenade with bridges, boat traffic, and sunset views over the Don.
Grand historic building with ornate facade, perfect for classic city photography.
Iconic onion domes and gold detailing provide striking religious and architectural imagery.
Historic street with colorful 19th-century façades and lively city vibe.
Green space beside the river offering park pathways, sculptures, and candid street photography.
Food in Rostov
Rostov Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beet soup served hot with sour cream, widely found in Rostov’s restaurants and markets.
Must-Try!
Dumplings filled with meat, typically enjoyed with sour cream or butter.
A refreshing summer cold soup with vegetables, kvass, and sometimes sausage or meat.
Skewered grilled meat often served with bread and fresh vegetables.
Dishes featuring local river fish like carp or bream, usually grilled or baked.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market with fresh produce, smoked fish, pickles, breads, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; address people by their surname and a polite title unless invited to use first name.
If visiting a home, remove shoes unless invited to keep them on; modest dress for religious sites.
Keep voices moderate in public, avoid loud displays of anger, and show respect at religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Rostov
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a 10-15% tip is appreciated if service is not included; rounding up is common in casual places; taxis rarely require tips but are welcome.
Cash (RUB) and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot with long days; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy riverfront events and outdoor terraces.
Mild-to-warm days with colorful foliage; many cultural events and fewer crowds.
Cold with occasional snow; indoor museums and galleries are good bets, though urban winter photography can be dramatic.
Mild temperatures with blossoming trees; great for outdoor walks and riverbank photography.
Rostov at Night
Hiking in Rostov
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails along the Don River with scenic river views and birdlife.
Coastal trails along the Sea of Azov near Taganrog, suitable for day hikes and ocean views.
Forest and park trails in the nearby town of Aksay, offering shaded routes and gentle hills.
Airports
How to reach Rostov by plane.
Rostov-on-Don's main international gateway, located about 30-40 km from the city center; connects to domestic and international destinations; accessible by taxi, bus, or rail links.
A major regional airport with international flights; serves as a convenient gateway for longer connections and European travel; about a few hours drive from Rostov.
A hub in the North Caucasus region, offering some international and many domestic flights; useful for multi-leg journeys via Moscow.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Rostov; diverse communities with long-standing local traditions.
A significant minority with active cultural presence and local businesses.
Smaller communities contributing to the city’s multicultural mix.
A large share of the population in universities and new businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local matches and a strong following across the city.
A notable presence in city arenas and school leagues; casual courts around the parks.
Kayaking and rowing are common along the river and embankment.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rostov.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian dining is easy in Rostov: look for veggie borscht, salads, vegetable dishes, and cheese dumplings; ask for meat-free preparations in stews and pilafs.