Things To Do
in Surgut

Surgut is a city located in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug of Russia, renowned for its role as a major center for the oil industry. It features a blend of modern urban life and rich Siberian culture, making it a unique destination for travelers. The city is situated along the banks of the Ob River, offering picturesque views and a variety of outdoor activities.

With a population of over 300,000, Surgut is one of the largest cities in the region, boasting diverse amenities and a vibrant community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Surgut Historical and Art Museum, where you can explore the local history and art.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, take a stroll along the Ob River embankment, enjoying the beautiful views and the fresh air.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a traditional Russian restaurant, trying local cuisine, followed by a visit to the local theater for a cultural performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby nature reserve, enjoying the serene landscapes and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to shop for handcrafted souvenirs and try some street food for lunch.

evening
:

Explore the vibrant nightlife at a local bar or club, enjoying live music and socializing with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$5
🍽️Mid-range Restaurant Meal$15
Coffee$2
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Access to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger Russian cities.
  • Harsh winter conditions may deter some travelers.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may pose communication challenges.
  • Fewer international amenities and services compared to larger cities.
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Сколько это стоит?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Помогите!" - Help!
  • "Я не понимаю" - I don’t understand

Places to Visit in Surgut

Visit one of these nice places.

Ob River Embankment

Offers stunning views of the river, especially at sunset, making it a perfect spot for scenic photography.

Surgut Cathedral

An architectural marvel that stands out against the skyline, providing a cultural backdrop for photos.

City Park

A lush green space in the heart of the city, ideal for capturing moments of daily life and nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Surgut

Surgut's culinary scene is diverse, offering a mix of traditional Russian dishes and modern gastronomy.

Surgut Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pelmeni

Traditional Russian dumplings filled with meat, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Borscht

A hearty beet soup that is rich in flavor and typically served with a dollop of sour cream.

Shchi

A classic Russian cabbage soup, which may include various meats and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Surgut Central Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Street Vendors

Scattered throughout the city, offering quick bites like blinis (Russian pancakes) and kebabs.

Climate Guide

Weather

Surgut experiences a subarctic climate, characterized by long, harsh winters and short, mild summers. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -30°C (-22°F), while summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, with a significant amount of snowfall in winter. The best time to visit for pleasant weather is during late spring to early autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake is common when greeting someone, and maintaining eye contact is important.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and avoid discussing sensitive topics at the table.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or formal gatherings, as it is a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Surgut is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit streets at night. It's also advisable to be cautious when interacting with strangers and to familiarize yourself with emergency numbers and local services.

Tipping in Surgut

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the bill, though it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Expect extremely cold temperatures, with heavy snowfall. Dress warmly and be prepared for winter sports.

Spring

Temperatures begin to rise, and the landscape starts to bloom, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather with long daylight hours, perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty surrounding Surgut.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; a great season for photography and enjoying the outdoors.

Nightlife Guide

Surgut at Night

Surgut's nightlife is vibrant, offering a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular spots include trendy nightclubs that feature local DJs and dance music, as well as more laid-back bars where you can enjoy drinks and socialize. Many establishments stay open late, and the atmosphere is generally lively, attracting a mix of locals and visitors. Be prepared for a unique experience that showcases the local culture and community.

Hiking in Surgut

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Konda River Trail

A scenic hiking trail along the Konda River, offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Ural Mountains Trails

A short drive from Surgut, these trails provide more challenging hikes with rewarding vistas and natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Surgut by plane.

Surgut International Airport (SGC)

Located approximately 10 km from the city center, Surgut International Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections, making it the primary gateway for air travel to and from Surgut.

Getting Around

Walkability

Surgut is moderately walkable, particularly in the city center where most amenities and attractions are located. Sidewalks are generally available, and pedestrian crossings are marked, making it easier to navigate on foot. However, outside the central area, public transportation or taxis may be necessary to reach more distant locations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Peoples

The Khanty and Mansi peoples are indigenous to the region, contributing to the local culture and traditions.

Russian Settlers

A significant portion of the population consists of ethnic Russians who have settled in the area, bringing their customs and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A major sport in Surgut, with local teams competing in regional leagues and a passionate fanbase.

Football (Soccer)

Another popular sport, with local clubs and community matches drawing significant local interest.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Surgut is generally manageable, with peak hours seeing increased congestion, particularly near commercial areas. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, providing convenient options for getting around the city. It's advisable to plan for extra travel time during rush hours and to be aware of local driving customs if renting a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Surgut.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but options may be limited. Communicating your needs in advance is recommended.

Gluten-Free

Finding gluten-free options can be challenging; consider checking with the restaurant beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Surgut includes several hospitals and clinics that cater to both locals and visitors. Emergency services are available, and it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical care. Some facilities may have English-speaking staff, but it's best to be prepared with basic medical information in Russian.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide