Suzdal is the key city of the Golden Ring, one of the most popular tourist routes in Russia. It is a wonderful city, the main peculiarity of which is an inimitable ancient Russian atmosphere. The city has preserved the inimitable atmosphere of the past. There are almost no residential developments, noisy streets and bustle typical for modern cities.
When walking in Suzdal, travelers will certainly notice that the city is literally seen through. The construction of new buildings in the territory of Suzdal is under strict control. So, you can see only lovely wooden huts and small houses in its winding streets. Suzdal will also impress those tourists who want to acquaint with the Russian culture and to devote their vacation to the typical Russian amusements.
Besides, the city has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, so your vacation will be very interesting and informative. There are modern hotels that are ready to offer their clients everything they need for interesting pastime. Shopping enthusiasts will be impressed by a huge choice of interesting gift shops and markets where they can buy real Russian souvenirs, hand-made items and the best mead and sbiten (hot Russian drink of water, honey and spices).
Many travelers prefer to visit Suzdal on the eve of big holidays, for example, on the Maslenitsa, New Year or Christmas Eve when great festivities take place in the city. The main attribute of city festivals is the folk bands’ shows. Many festive events go hand in hand with very interesting old Russian rites and traditions. Several unique holidays that are not typical for other cities are celebrated in Suzdal. It is a true Russian city. It is one of the few cities that have managed to preserve their pristine charm.
Suzdal is a real trove of historic attractions. This is not surprising that the entire territory of the city is declared an attraction of national significance. The center of the historic district is the Suzdal Kremlin that started to be built in the 10th century. Most of the fortress constructions the city guests can see today were built in the 11th-12th centuries. Most of the Kremlin buildings were destroyed in a fire at the beginning of the 18th century. Only the Bishops Chambers and several beautiful churches have survived to this day.
Suzdal is famous for its unique religious monuments, among which the Cathedral of St. Blessed Virgin is especially worth being noted. It was built in the 12th century and now is a spectacular example of Russian architecture. Over the years of its existence, the cathedral was rebuilt completely several times. Despite multiple reconstructions, the cathedral has managed to preserve its original exterior and some part of its unique interior. Now, its main values are old frescoes, some of which were created in the 13th century.
On the territory of Kremlin, there is St. Nicholas Cathedral that is one of the oldest wooden churches in Russia. The church was built in 1766. Originally, it is located in the village Glotovo. In the middle of the last century, the architectural object was “transferred” to Suzdal.
Besides multiple churches and monasteries, there are preserved trading rows in Suzdal. They were built at the beginning of the 19th century. The trade pavilion contained of a hundred merchant stalls from the beginning. At one time, merchants from the surroundings presented here their best products. Then, the stalls turned into stores. Today, you can buy here the most popular souvenirs. In the trade gallery, you even can taste products of the local production.
You can admire unique constructions of wood in the Museum of Wooden Architecture. This outdoor museum presents the spectacular collection of wooden constructions, some of which are aged over a hundred years. Here, you can see old mills, barns, different outbuildings, and even old wells.