Things To Do
in Seltso

Seltso is a charming small town located in the western part of Russia. Known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, Seltso offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Russian life. The town is surrounded by lush forests and picturesque rivers, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

With a friendly local community and a slower pace of life, Seltso provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Seltso
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Head to the Seltso Museum to learn about the town's history and culture, followed by a leisurely walk along the riverbank.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Russian restaurant, followed by a night stroll to appreciate the quiet charm of Seltso.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a guided nature walk in the nearby forest, enjoying the diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a local artisan workshop to see traditional crafts being made and maybe buy a souvenir.

evening
:

Relax at a café with a view of the sunset, enjoying local pastries and a warm drink.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Local bus fare$1
🏨Hotel per night$30
🥖Bread loaf$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Russian speakers.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent.
  • "Здравствуйте" - Hello
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Пожалуйста" - Please
  • "Где находится ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Seltso

Visit one of these nice places.

Seltso Riverbank

A picturesque spot along the river where you can capture stunning sunset views and reflections.

Local Church

The historic church in the center of town offers beautiful architecture and an opportunity for capturing local life.

Forest Trails

The surrounding forests provide a serene backdrop for nature photography, especially in spring and autumn.

Culinary Guide

Food in Seltso

Seltso offers a delightful array of traditional Russian cuisine that reflects the region's agricultural heritage and local flavors.

Seltso Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Borscht

A hearty beet soup often served with sour cream, borscht is a staple in Russian cuisine.

Must-Try!

Pelmeni

These dumplings filled with meat are a popular comfort food, often served with butter or vinegar.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Seltso Central Market

This bustling market is the best place to experience local produce, homemade goods, and street food delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Seltso experiences a continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F), while winter temperatures often drop below -10°C (14°F). Rainfall is moderate, with the wettest months occurring in late spring and summer. Visitors should prepare for significant temperature variations between seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, along with a smile.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or formal gatherings.

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local traditions and customs, especially during holidays and celebrations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Seltso is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, travelers should exercise normal precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secured. It's also advisable to be aware of local wildlife when hiking, including avoiding encounters with bears in certain areas.

Tipping in Seltso

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in Seltso; around 10% of the bill is customary in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is commonly used, but many places also accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry some rubles.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, with plenty of festivals and outdoor markets, ideal for exploring the town.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, making it a great time for hiking and nature walks.

Winter

Winter can be harsh with snow; however, it offers a magical atmosphere and opportunities for winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Seltso at Night

Seltso's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities, with a few local bars and cafés offering live music on weekends. Most nightlife activities revolve around socializing in small groups, often in homes or community centers. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it an ideal place for intimate gatherings rather than late-night parties.

Hiking in Seltso

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Forest Trail to Lake Seltso

A scenic 5 km hike leading to a tranquil lake surrounded by lush forests, ideal for picnicking and wildlife spotting.

Seltso Nature Reserve Trail

This 10 km trail through the nature reserve offers visitors a chance to experience diverse ecosystems and stunning views of the landscape.

Airports

How to reach Seltso by plane.

Smolensk Airport (LNX)

Located approximately 150 km from Seltso, Smolensk Airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Seltso is a small town, making it very walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short walking distance of each other. The town's layout is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and pathways that facilitate easy navigation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Russians

The majority of Seltso's population is ethnic Russians, contributing to the town's cultural identity.

Local Farmers

A significant number of residents are involved in agriculture, reflecting the town's rural roots and connection to the land.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular among the locals, with many community teams and matches held throughout the year.

Ice Hockey

During winter, ice hockey becomes a favorite sport, with young players often participating in local leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Seltso is minimal due to its small size. The main roads are well-maintained, and public transportation options include buses that connect to surrounding towns. However, during peak hours, minor congestion can occur near the market area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Seltso.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Russian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially during the summer months.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Seltso are basic but adequate for minor ailments. There is a local clinic for routine medical needs, but for more serious conditions, residents typically travel to larger cities for specialized care. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international travel.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide