Things To Do
in Samara

Freshwater fish soups and grilled or fried Volga fish (pike, bream, perch) are local highlights—look for river-fish dishes at market stalls and traditional restaurants near the embankment.

Must-Try!

Dumplings often served with sour cream or butter—available everywhere, from market counters to family eateries.

Skewered grilled meat with a smoky flavor—common in casual restaurants and street vendors.

Baked or fried stuffed buns and thin pancakes with sweet or savory fillings; perfect for a quick snack from kiosks or bakeries.

Busy market with fresh produce, fish from the Volga, cured meats and inexpensive hot stalls. Great for sampling regional products and affordable lunches.

Seasonal stalls and kiosks along the Volga embankment offering shashlik, fried fish and cold drinks—ideal after a riverside walk.

Use 'Здравствуйте' (formally) when meeting older people or in shops; handshake is common for introductions. Using surnames and patronymics is polite in formal situations.

Remove shoes when entering someone’s home; bringing a small gift (flowers, sweets) is customary.

Dress modestly in Orthodox churches; women may be expected to cover hair with a scarf in some places and everyone should be respectful and quiet.

Avoid sensitive political topics with strangers; discussing local culture, food and sports (football) is usually safe and appreciated.

Restaurants: 5–10% is appreciated but not always mandatory; many places accept rounding up. Taxis: round up the fare or add a small tip; hotel porters and guides expect modest tips for good service.

Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in the city center; domestic Mir cards are common. Cash (Russian rubles) remains useful for markets, small vendors and remote areas—ATMs and currency exchange offices are available. Mobile payment apps and QR payments are increasingly supported.

Warm to hot (often 25–35°C) with long daylight, beach activities on the Volga, outdoor cafes and festivals—pack light clothes, sun protection and swimwear.

Crisp, cool weather with colorful foliage and fewer crowds; temperatures drop through September–November—bring layers and a waterproof jacket for rain.

Cold and snowy (often below 0°C, can fall below −15°C) with short daylight—dress in warm layers, insulated boots and a good coat; many outdoor activities move indoors.

Variable weather with thawing and muddy conditions; by late spring temperatures moderate—bring waterproof footwear and layers for fluctuating temperatures.

Vegetarian options are increasingly common in cafés and bistros—ask for salads, potato dishes, blini with fillings and cheese dishes. Market stalls sell vegetables and breads, but classic Russian cuisine often centers around meat and fish.

Vegan choices are more limited but available in newer cafés; specify 'я веган' (ya vegan) and ask about butter/eggs in dishes. Bring snacks if you are concerned about options outside central restaurants.

Gluten-free diets require vigilance—bread and wheat-based dishes are common. Look for potato- and rice-based meals and communicate restrictions clearly ('без глютена').

Halal and kosher options are not widespread; Tatar cafés may offer halal-style dishes. For strict requirements, seek specialty suppliers or prepare in advance.