Things To Do
in Yessentuki

Skewered and grilled marinated meat (pork, lamb or beef); widely available at casual restaurants and outdoor cafés — order with fresh lavash and salads.

Must-Try!

Hearty beet soup (borscht) and fish soup (ukha) are common home-style options in local cafés and sanatorium dining rooms.

Fresh regional cheeses and cooling ayran (yogurt drink) are often served in local eateries and markets, reflecting Caucasian dairy traditions.

Thin pancakes (blini) with savory or sweet fillings and small stuffed buns (pirozhki) are common street and café snacks.

A traditional market selling fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy, local honey and preserves; great for sampling seasonal produce and buying bottled Essentuki mineral water.

Small vendors offering quick snacks like pirozhki, kebabs/shashlik and tea — ideal for grabbing a casual bite between spa visits.

Use a formal greeting (Здравствуйте) with strangers and older people; a firm handshake and direct eye contact are common for introductions.

Dress modestly at spa facilities and follow health-center rules — many places require appropriate swimwear, slippers or a robe for treatments and have gender-separated areas.

Hosts may offer toasts; wait for the host to start and accept small portions. Using both hands to offer or receive small gifts is appreciated.

Avoid heated political debate with strangers and be respectful discussing history or regional issues; local people value courtesy and calm conversation.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory — 5–10% in restaurants is common if service is good; rounding up taxi fares and leaving small change for porters or hotel staff is normal.

Cash in Russian rubles remains common at markets and small vendors; debit and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants and shops. ATMs are available in town; use reputable machines and carry some cash for small purchases.

Late spring brings blooming parks and milder temperatures — it’s a pleasant time for walks, photography and early-season spa treatments; occasional rain is possible.

Summers are warm to hot and dry on the plains, making outdoor sightseeing comfortable in the mornings and evenings; day trips into nearby mountains provide cooler escapes. Expect more domestic tourists at sanatoria and slightly busier services.

Autumn offers crisp air, colorful foliage in the parks and comfortable temperatures for hiking in the foothills; it’s a quieter shoulder season good for spa stays.

Winters can be cold with occasional snow; town life slows and many spa treatments continue year-round. Nearby mountain resorts may have snow-based activities, but check local transport reliability in colder months.

Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in major cities — order soups, vegetable salads, blini with fillings, cheeses and egg dishes; communicate 'ya vегетарианets' or point to ingredients.

Vegan choices are more challenging; rely on salads, boiled or grilled vegetables, bread and fruit from markets. Pack staples if you have strict needs and use phrases to explain dietary restrictions.

Gluten-free options are not widely labeled. Avoid bread-based dishes and ask staff about ingredients; bring specialty items if sensitivity is severe.

Language can be a barrier—prepare a short note in Russian that lists allergens to show at restaurants and consider bringing medication for reactions.