Attractions
Attractions
Every large city has a set of places that make a good starting point: the historic centre, the embankment, the opera and ballet theatre, the local history museum and a contemporary art venue. Below we explain what these places are and why they are useful to a traveller, and then how to choose a venue for your evening: a philharmonic hall, a drama theatre, a club or a palace of culture. There are no opening hours or prices here: check them on official websites.
The easiest way to understand a city is through three buildings: the theatre, the museum and the railway station. The first tells you what it is proud of, the second where it came from, the third where it is heading.
How this section works: it describes types of places found in almost any large city. We don't publish specific establishments or ratings, and we suggest checking admission terms with the venues themselves.
What people usually see in large cities
Five types of places that help you understand a city over a weekend.
Historic centre
Where: Usually around the main square and along the main street
Old buildings, churches, merchants' houses and administrative buildings: this is where you can see how the city grew.
Tip: Explore it on foot on day one: it makes it easier to get your bearings and plan the rest of your outings.
Embankment
Where: The bank of the city's main river: the Kama, Iset, Miass or Ob
A place for walks, relaxing and views of the city; parks and bridges are often nearby.
Tip: The embankment is livelier in the evening and quieter during the day. In the cold season, bear in mind the wind by the water.
Opera and ballet theatre
Where: As a rule, in the city centre
The city's main music stage; even if you're not going to a performance, the building is worth seeing from outside.
Tip: The theatre publishes its own repertoire and visitor rules. Buy tickets on its website or from the seller it links to.
Local history museum
Where: Usually in the historic centre
Tells the story of the region's nature, the city's founding and its history.
Tip: Best visited on day one so you see the rest of the city with more understanding. Check opening days in advance.
Contemporary art venue
Where: Often in former industrial buildings or by the water
Exhibitions, talks, sometimes concerts: a place that shows what the city is about today.
Tip: The programme changes often: check it on the venue's official website or official channels.
Venues for concerts and shows
Four types of venue: how they differ and where to find their listings.
Philharmonic hall
Where: Usually in the centre; listings on the philharmonic's official website
Classical music, chamber and symphony concerts, sometimes folk instruments and jazz.
Tip: Good for a quiet evening. Choose your seats using the seating plan on the official website.
Drama theatre
Where: As a rule, in the centre; repertoire on the theatre's website
Productions of classic and contemporary plays; there are often daytime shows for children.
Tip: Check the show's age rating and running time: it determines how you'll get back.
Concert club
Where: In the centre or in former industrial districts; listings on the club's website
Contemporary music gigs, often with a standing floor and a late start.
Tip: Check the start time and age restrictions. Plan your late-night journey back in advance.
Palace of culture
Where: In various districts of the city; listings on the venue's website
A large hall for touring concerts, shows and holiday programmes.
Tip: Touring concerts are run by different organisers: check who the organiser is and buy tickets via the link on the venue's website.
Related sections
- Routes
Three routes: the centre on foot on day one, an evening with a concert or show, the embankment and parks.
- Local guide
City etiquette, safety and what to do if a concert is cancelled or postponed.
- Trip planning
How to plan a city weekend around a concert: step by step, with common mistakes and a checklist.
Sources
- Official websites of city transport operators and venues
- Fundamentals of the Legislation of the Russian Federation on Culture (Art. 52.1)
- Encyclopaedic sources on the cities
Information is correct as of the date of preparation. Concert and performance dates, ticket prices, transport timetables and venue rules change, so check them with the organisers and on official websites before you travel.