Things To Do
in Serov

Meat dumplings originating from Siberian and Ural traditions—served boiled with butter, sour cream or vinegar; available at cafeterias and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

Traditional Russian soups—shchi (cabbage soup) and solyanka (tangy meat/sausage soup) are common warming options in local eateries.

Wild mushrooms and berries are foraged locally and appear in salads, pancakes, pies and preserves—especially late summer and autumn.

Locally smoked river fish and fish preserves sold at markets and small shops—great as a snack or zakuska (appetizer) with drinks.

Typical regional market offering fresh produce, mushrooms, fish, smoked meats, preserves and baked goods—ideal place to sample local flavors and buy picnic supplies.

Scattered near transport hubs and parks; expect quick snacks like pirozhki (filled buns), blini (pancakes) and pastries.

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard for first meetings; use formal address (surname + patronymic) in polite or official contexts if you know it.

Remove shoes when entering someone’s home if asked—hosts often provide slippers; bringing a small gift (flowers, sweets) is customary when visiting.

People may seem reserved at first but become warm in conversation; speaking a few Russian phrases is appreciated and opens doors.

Ask permission before photographing individuals, and avoid photographing restricted industrial or military sites.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; in restaurants 5–10% is common for good service, rounding up in cafes and taxis is normal, and small tips for hotel staff are welcomed.

Cash (Russian rubles) is widely used for small purchases; cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at larger businesses and ATMs are available in town. The domestic Mir card is also used; contactless payments are increasingly common.

Short, pleasant summers with mild to warm days—ideal for hiking, fishing and foraging. Mosquitoes and midges can be active in forests and near water, so bring repellent.

Crisp air, vivid fall colors and abundant mushroom/berry season; temperatures drop quickly in late autumn and rain is possible—pack layers and waterproofs.

Long, cold winters with snow and ice; temperatures often fall well below freezing—dress in insulated layers, sturdy boots and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.

Variable weather with thawing, muddy periods and sudden temperature swings; good for early birdwatching and seeing the first greens but bring waterproof footwear.

The majority of the town’s population; Russian language and Orthodox cultural traditions predominate.

Smaller communities with distinct cultural and culinary contributions present in the area.

A significant portion of the local population is associated with metallurgy, forestry and related industries, shaping the town’s identity.

People from surrounding villages and countryside who come into town for markets and services; they maintain traditional foraging and rural practices.

Ice hockey is popular across the Urals; local youth and amateur teams are common and skating rinks are used in winter.

Community and school-level football is widely played in summer months on local pitches.

A traditional winter pastime supported by forest tracks and open areas around town.

Recreational fishing and regulated hunting are common in the region’s lakes and forests.

Vegetarian options are available but limited; order salads, vegetable soups, potato dishes, pancakes with berry or cheese fillings and mushroom preparations—learn the Russian words for 'without meat' (bez myasa) to avoid confusion.

Vegan choices are more restricted—starch-based dishes, salads and pickled vegetables are usually safe; bringing staples or checking ingredients at markets helps.

Many traditional dishes include wheat (bread, dumplings, pancakes); gluten-free options are uncommon—carry snacks or communicate dietary needs in Russian to restaurants.

Food labeling in small eateries can be minimal—learn key phrases for allergies and carry necessary medication; pharmacies in town can help source basics.