Things To Do
in Valday
Valday is a quiet historic town in Novgorod Oblast set among lakes and forested hills. It serves as a gateway to the Valday National Park and the scenic Valday Hills, offering outdoor adventures and tranquil landscapes. Visitors appreciate wooden architecture, riverside promenades, and a relaxed pace that invites exploration.
The town is also a starting point for excursions to nearby lakes, monasteries, and traditional rural life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Valday Iversky Monastery, where you can witness the serene beauty of this historic site. Stroll along the picturesque paths lined with charming wooden houses, greeting locals as you enjoy the fresh morning air. Don’t forget to capture the stunning views of Lake Valday as you make your way to the center.
After lunch at a local café, immerse yourself in the rich history of the area by visiting the Valday Museum of Local Lore. Here, you can learn about the region’s cultural heritage, featuring exhibits on traditional crafts and folklore. Spend some time at the nearby park, soaking in the natural beauty and perhaps enjoying a picnic by the lake.
As the sun begins to set, head to one of the lakeside restaurants for a delightful dinner featuring local fish dishes. Relax on the terrace, enjoying the tranquil sounds of the lake as the sky transforms with vibrant colors. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk along the water’s edge, taking in the peaceful ambiance.
Start your day with a guided nature walk in the Valday National Park, where you can discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The crisp morning air will invigorate you as you traverse scenic trails, with knowledgeable guides pointing out unique bird species and plants. Keep your camera ready for those beautiful moments as you spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
After an exciting morning, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, soaking in the stunning views of the lush landscapes. Spend the afternoon exploring additional trails or participating in birdwatching sessions, where you may see rare species like the Black-throated Diver. Engage with fellow nature enthusiasts and share your experiences while enjoying the serene environment.
Return to town for a cozy dinner at a quaint restaurant, where you can savor local dishes made from fresh ingredients. As the evening progresses, consider visiting a local café for some traditional Russian tea and pastries. Reflect on your day amidst the warm atmosphere, perhaps sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel or hostel per night | $25-50 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread or bakery items | $2-3 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket (one ride) | $1-2 |
| 🎁Souvenir item | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, scenic nature and lakes
- Compact town with easy day trips from the region
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Seasonal variations can affect crowd sizes and services
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does this cost?
- "Можно меню на английском?" - Could you provide an English menu?
Places to Visit in Valday
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, reflective water with silhouettes of trees and gentle hills; ideal for golden-hour shots.
High overlook with panoramic views of the surrounding forests, lakes, and distant villages.
Mellow water reflections, wooden bridges, and morning mists for atmospheric photos.
Food in Valday
Valday Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A light, comforting soup made with freshwater fish from local lakes, accented with dill and potatoes.
Must-Try!
A staple hearty dish found in many northern homes, often served with fried mushrooms and onions.
Dense, dark rye bread served with local creamy butter or cheese as a staple snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh lake fish, berries, honey, rye bread, dairy, and seasonal produce.
Seasonal grilled fish sandwiches and warm blini with jam or honey sold near the town center during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake and respectful address. In religious or traditional settings, dress modestly and remove hats indoors.
Please ask for permission when photographing people or private property; be mindful of local customs in rural villages.
Safety
Tipping in Valday
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips of 10-15% in cafes and restaurants are appreciated, rounding up the bill is common in smaller eateries.
Cash in rubles is widely accepted; cards and contactless payments are increasingly common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, vibrant greenery, and pleasant temperatures. Expect crowds around peak weekends and seasonal markets; mosquitoes can be present near water.
Cold, snowy landscapes with quiet streets and opportunities for scenic snowy photography. Be prepared for icy paths and limited daylight hours.
Autumn sees colorful foliage and cooler temps; pleasant for hiking but earlier sunsets.
Valday at Night
Hiking in Valday
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive marked trails through forests, lakes, and rolling hills.
Relaxed lakeside walking with opportunities to observe birds and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Valday by plane.
The closest major airport; about 2.5-3 hours by car. Offers international and domestic flights.
Regional option about 2 –3 hours by road; serves limited flights and connections to Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Longer reach; typically accessed via rail or highway from the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Russians living in the town and surrounding rural areas.
Increased presence during tourist seasons and holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport with local clubs and community rinks.
Extensive forested trails around Valday are ideal for winter sport.
Freshwater fishing in lakes and rivers around Valday.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valday.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on vegetable soups, mushroom dishes, dairy, and bread; ask for egg or dairy-free options and confirm ingredients like stock or meat-based broths.