Kazan is an amazing diverse city. Ancient architectural monuments and modern futuristic buildings, Christian cathedrals and Muslim mosques coexist here, there is an unusual religious building - the Temple of All Religions. The main attraction of the city is the Kazan Kremlin, which combines Russian and Tatar architectural styles. On its territory there are the Kul-Sharif Mosque, the Syuyumbike Tower, the Natural History Museum and the Hermitage-Kazan Center.
Tourists consider the Bauman pedestrian street as one of the must-see places for walking. There are many beautiful buildings on it, as well as two different and unusual monuments to the symbols of the city - the Kazan cat and the dragon Zilant. In the suburban area, it is worth visiting the island-museum Sviyazhsk and the place of amazing natural beauty - the Blue Lakes.
The most interesting and beautiful places
List, photo with names and descriptions of the most popular sights of the city.
Museum reserve "Kazan Kremlin"
A monument of history and architecture, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Kazan Kremlin includes several buildings of different cultures and purposes - the Provincial Palace, the Cannon Yard, the Annunciation Cathedral, and fortifications. According to the official version, the earliest buildings of the Kremlin were built in the 10th century. The premises house museums - the history of statehood, natural history, Islamic culture, the Hermitage-Kazan.
Kremlin embankment
It has a length of one and a half kilometers. It runs from the Kazan Kremlin to the center of Kazan. The renovated promenade, opened in 2015, is a popular walking area. There are attractions here, you can rent bicycles, and the skating rink is flooded in winter. The embankment is divided into zones - arts alley, youth alley, family alley. There are many photo zones, flower beds, interesting sculptures installed.
Mosque "Kul-Sharif"
One of the symbols of Kazan, located on the territory of the Kazan Kremlin. It is not only a religious building, but also a center of education, as well as memorials to the memory of the defenders of the city. The main mosque of the city was completed in 2005. It consists of 4 minarets, each 58 meters high. The dome diameter is 17 meters. The walls of the mosque are decorated with ornaments, and the lancet windows are decorated with stained-glass windows. The building is faced with white marble.
See also: 25 main mosques of Kazan
Bauman street
It is the oldest street in the historic center of the city. The pedestrian street, which is almost 2 km long, attracts thousands of tourists all year round. It is a beautiful place with many unusual monuments, cafes, fountains, entertainment and trade. Street artists and musicians gather here. The street runs through Tukay Square with a wonderful architectural ensemble of different styles - modern, hi-tech, empire.
Old Tatar settlement
A historical landmark, which includes dozens of buildings - mosques, merchant houses, residential buildings, shopping arcades. Unlike Bauman Street, it is calm and quiet here - you can enjoy Tatar architectural masterpieces in solitude. The most interesting buildings of the settlement are the Sennaya Mosque, the Profitable House of the merchant Appakov, the Al-Marjani Mosque, the Burnaevskaya Mosque, and the Tukay Literary Museum.
Annunciation Cathedral of the Kazan Kremlin
Monument of Russian architecture of the 16th century. This is the oldest stone building on the territory of the Kremlin. Before the reconstruction, the cathedral was reminiscent of the Assumption Cathedral in the Moscow Kremlin in its furnishings and appearance. A special place for pilgrimage is the cell of St. Guria, where the image of the Savior painted by him is preserved. Historical decoration has been recreated in the cathedral - frescoes, paintings, decorative elements. There is a museum of Orthodox art.
Recommended: 20 main temples of Kazan
Family center "Kazan"
The wedding palace is located on a round bulk peninsula near the Kazanka River. The modern building, opened in 2013, is in the shape of a cauldron for preparing a variety of dishes. Backlighting at night resembles a bright blazing bonfire. There is an observation deck on the roof, from which you can view the city from a height of 32 meters. The halls of the center are decorated with traditional Tatar patterns and ornaments.
National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan
Opened over 100 years ago - in 1895. The funds of the museum include more than 750,000 exhibits. The museum is based on the private collection of Andrey Likhachev. For children and adults, thematic tours of the museum's expositions are organized. There are city and country excursions to historical sites. The important activities of the museum are the organization of expeditions and the publication of works on numismatics, ethnography, local history.
Read about the best museums: 30 main museums of Kazan
Tower Syuyumbike
An old watch tower built in the 18th century. The exact date of the construction is still being debated among historians; its appearance is shrouded in many mystical legends. Many people call the Syuyumbike Tower the most mysterious place in the city. There is a belief about the fulfillment of 3 wishes when the forehead touches the wall of the tower. Its height is 58 meters. The tower is called "falling" because the deflection of the spire is about 2 meters.
Tatar village "Tugan Avylym"
Ethnographic Museum in the city center. This is a great opportunity for guests and residents of the city to get acquainted with rural traditions, way of life and folk crafts. It is an architectural city-museum made of logs. At the main gate there is a monument to echpochmak, a Tatar national pie in the form of a triangle. The village has craft workshops, playgrounds, cafes, and an artificial pond.
Parks and squares - places for walking
Interesting places where you can walk within the city.
Millennium Park
Locals call it Millennium Park. This is the youngest park in the city. In its center there is a large area for holding city holidays with a fountain in the form of a cauldron. The park is divided by alleys into several zones - garden of sorrow, garden of origin, oriental garden, garden of continuous flowering. National motives and figures of zilants were used in the design of the forged fence of the park. Lake Kaban is located near the park.
Victory Memorial Park
On the territory of the park with an area of about 50 hectares, there are monuments, monuments, a museum of military equipment, a lake, and green spaces. Visitors pay special attention to the exhibition of military vehicles. There is an information stand near each exhibit. A memorial has been erected in honor of the fallen soldiers, a complex "book of memory", a stele of Victory. On an artificial reservoir in the park, competitions of radio-controlled water models are often held.
Gorky Park
Occupies an area of 1 hectare in the city center. The decoration of the park is a large musical fountain in the form of a checkerboard. During the day, children are happy to play in the streams of water, and a light show begins at night. In the sports part of the park there is a football field, a sky park, and you can ride horses. The northern side of the park is more suitable for walking - small mountains, picturesque landscapes, bridges over ravines.
Lake Boar
The newly landscaped embankment of Lake Kaban is a popular walking place for guests and residents of the city. The walking area is more than 3 km long. There is an illuminated fountain on the water. For a picnic by the water in the fresh air, there is a barbecue area with gazebos and barbecues. Festivals, exhibitions and performances are often held on the embankment. There are tourist sites - the Zakabannaya Mosque, the House of Isanbayevs, the center of Suvar.
Hermitage Garden
An ancient garden near Tukay square.Until the middle of the 19th century, this area was considered "unclean" among the local residents, it was said that ghosts lived here. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Hermitage Garden was the main city park, where festivities, celebrations and concerts were held. In 2005, the garden was ennobled and landscaped. Now it is one of the favorite places for walking tourists and residents of the city.
Park named after Uritsky
One of the most well-groomed parks in the city. Its reconstruction in 2016 was carried out according to European standards. Walking alleys of the park are surrounded by a large amount of greenery, there is a cafe, Wi-Fi. For families with children there are rides, a trampoline, a swing. There is a boat rental on a small pond where ducks live. Beautiful openwork bridges are thrown across the canal. For sports guests there is a football field, stadium, jogging tracks.
Kazan Zoo Botanical Garden
Located on the shores of Lake Kaban. It was just a botanical garden until it was merged with the zoo in 1931. The botanical collection of the garden consists of more than 1000 species of plants, the zoological collection of 160 species of animals. The most extensively represented species of mammals are ungulates, marsupials, predators, primates, artiodactyls. There are birds and reptiles, including crocodiles. A corner of the petting zoo has been arranged.
Architectural landmarks
Beautiful monuments of architecture and urban planning.
Farmers' Palace
The monumental building in the classicism style is located on the Palace Square. The pretentiousness of the Baroque and Renaissance is used in the details of the design, therefore it is often compared with the masterpieces of architecture in France and Italy. The central piece in the decoration is a bronze tree, symbolizing the fertility of the lands of Tatarstan. The administrative building can only be viewed from the outside.
Alexandrovsky passage
The building is interesting for its architecture - its style is more typical for Western Europe. It is decorated with elements of the Baroque and Renaissance. An interesting detail is the sculpture of a woman with a baby. The passage was erected at the end of the 19th century and at that time it became the most expensive building in the city. The building was incredibly modern - an elevator to the fifth floor, electric lighting, glass ceilings, heating.
Bell tower of the Epiphany Cathedral
Historical building, which is one of the main attractions of the city. The bell tower has long been the tallest building in the city; it looks especially impressive against the background of the small size of the temple itself. The beauty and grandeur of the bell tower attract the attention of tourists. Currently, its premises are used for both religious and museum purposes - exhibitions and expositions are held.
Millennium bridge
It was erected in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the city, which reflects the name of the bridge. It is the highest suspension bridge in the city. Its structure consists of several pylons, some of which make up a large letter "M" 45 meters high. The bridge is 1524 meters long and 28 meters wide. The bridge is designed for pedestrian and car traffic. It looks most impressive in the dark when the bright backlight is turned on.
Complex of buildings of Kazan University
An architectural ensemble, which is a particularly valuable object of culture and history of Russia in the 19th century. The buildings are built in different styles. The main building and the adjacent buildings are in the style of Russian classicism, the chemical building is in the style of Soviet neoclassicism, the cultural and sports center and high-rise buildings are in the style of modernism. Together they make up a harmonious and vibrant city landmark.
Petersburgskaya street
It has a length of 1800 meters, of which 500 meters are pedestrian only. It is located in the historical center of the city and is a complex landmark of the city. The pedestrian part of the street was reconstructed for the anniversary of the millennium of Kazan and is a "corner of St. Petersburg". There are rotundas, stylish bridges, graceful fences, sculptures, trade and administrative buildings.
Places of worship - mosques, temples and monasteries
The most famous and beautiful complexes of buildings for religious purposes.
Peter and Paul Cathedral
An iconic monument of culture and architecture of the 18th century for the city. It was built in the Baroque style as an ordinary parish church, but its magnificent and beautiful appearance was also appreciated by representatives of art and culture - Pushkin, Chaliapin, Dumas, and even Russian emperors. It is noteworthy that the architect of the cathedral's project is still unknown. The two-tiered cathedral is 52 meters high, the domed vault is 32 meters high.
Temple of all religions
An unusual creation of architecture is located in the village of Old Arakchino near Kazan. The creators call it the center of spiritual unity, the purpose of which is to unite all religions under one roof. There are no religious services in the premises of the temple, they are used as a museum and an architectural symbol of monotheism. The complex includes the main religions - Catholicism and Orthodoxy, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and many others.
Al-Marjani Mosque
Located in the Staro-Tatar settlement. Built by the personal permission of Empress Catherine II at the end of the 18th century. Has a three-tiered minaret. The design combines the styles of national Tatar motives and the decor of the "Petersburg Baroque". The prayer rooms on the second floor are decorated with stucco moldings of different colors and gilded floral ornaments. The building is beautifully illuminated at night.
Holy Dormition Zilantov Monastery
The shrine, located on Mount Zilantova, was founded by Tsar Ivan the Terrible in 1552. During the 17th-18th centuries, the monastery ensemble was formed - the Assumption Church, the Church of the Savior Not Made by Hands, the Church of Metropolitan Alexei. Of all the old buildings, only the Assumption Cathedral or the Cathedral of All Saints has survived to this day. The rest of the modern buildings were erected at the turn of the XX-XXI centuries.
Kazan Mother of God Monastery
The monastery, built in the center of Kazan, is honored by both residents of the city and its guests. This is an incredibly beautiful architectural complex covering several hectares. The monastery includes chapels, churches, cathedrals, a bell tower. The oldest surviving structure of the monastery is the St. Sophia Church. In 2004-2005, the main temple of the monastery was restored - the Exaltation of the Cross. Thousands of pilgrims come here every year.
Temple-monument to the soldiers who fell during the capture of Kazan in 1552
The monument to Russian soldiers is located on a small island on the Kazanka River. Its unofficial name is popular among local residents - the Temple of Ilya Muromets. Interesting appearance, location, legends and secrets that shrouded the history of the construction of the temple make it one of the most unusual monuments in Kazan. The temple is made in the form of a pyramid; a spiral passage leads to the underground of the temple, within the walls of which there are tombs.
Cultural attractions - museums and theaters
The most popular and interesting cultural activities.
Museum of Natural History of Tatarstan
It is part of the museum complex of the Kazan Kremlin. Its expositions tell about the geology of the planet Earth from the moment of its creation to the moment the first man appeared on it. The museum's permanent exhibitions occupy 12 rooms on the second floor. There are collections of minerals, meteorites, the first living organisms, dinosaur skeletons. To facilitate the perception of information, play exhibits have been installed, there is interactive entertainment.
Center "Hermitage-Kazan"
It is located in the Khazine museum complex in the building of the former cadet school on the territory of the Kazan Kremlin. The area of the exhibition halls is about 1000 m². There are also lecture and information rooms. The museum halls offer for inspection old exhibits, graphics, paintings, objects made of precious metals, ancient weapons of the 13th-13th centuries, modern art objects. Interactive historical events are held.
Slava Zaitsev Art Gallery
Exhibition art space of the Kazan artist. The permanent exhibition is based on a collection of works by the author. Zaitsev's paintings are unique in that they are created without paints. Glossy magazine painting is used, as well as materials such as nails, earth, money, thread, colored tape, badges and more. An unconventional approach to art allowed the Zaitsev Gallery to become one of the city's landmarks.
Museum "City Panorama"
The museum presents vivid multimedia exhibits that tell about the modernity and history of Kazan. They were created by scientists and artists using modern digital technologies. The expositions consist of unique layouts, interactive stands. Guests virtually become participants in events from different periods of history. By controlling the city panorama from a bird's eye view with a joystick, guests can visit any place.
Puppet theater "Ekiyat"
Founded in 1934. All these years the theater has been continuously developing, and now it is one of the most significant puppet theaters in the country. The theater building looks like a toy palace with turrets. Inside there is a park with fountains and small children's pools. The interior is also interesting. The columns are made in the form of chess pieces, the chairs are in the form of thrones. The performances are designed for different age groups, there are performances for adults.
Monuments and sculptures of Kazan
The most famous monuments in the city.
Monument to Musa Jalil
The monument to the patriotic poet is a key figure in the memorial complex. The height of the monument is 8 meters. The sculptor is Tsigal, the architect is Golubovsky. The monument was opened in 1966. It is installed opposite the Kazan Kremlin. The poet is depicted in a fit of rage trying to free himself from the barbed wire. Jalil's poems are carved on the wall of stone blocks, and a bas-relief with the hero's companions is installed next to it.
Monument to the Cat Kazansky
It is considered one of the symbols of the city. It is located on one of the main streets - Bauman. There are many legends and tales about this character from the folklore of the 16th century. The monument was erected in 2009 by the project of the sculptor Igor Bashmakov. It is made of aged silver aluminum and is 3 meters high and 2.8 meters wide. It is the figure of a cat lying on a couch in a gazebo.
Interesting monuments of the city: 35 most famous monuments of Kazan
Monument to the dragon Zilant
The monument in the form of a mythical winged dragon-serpent was erected in 2009 for the 1000th anniversary of Kazan. In 2011, the monument was made more graceful, the crown and snake scales were decorated with gilding. Zilant is a hero of folk epics, a symbol of the city. It is believed that he lives in the Boar Lake and guards the treasures. His image was on the seal of the Kazan Khan, and then on the coat of arms of the Kazan province. The sculpture is located on the pedestrian street Bauman.
Active rest and shows
Places where you can go to have an interesting time.
Waterpark Riviera"
One of the largest water parks in the world. There are about 50 water attractions and attractions, a wave pool, a zone with Turkish and Finnish saunas, a jacuzzi, a bar and a solarium. For fans of extreme sports there are water slides - Niagara 211 meters long, Anaconda - suitable for those who like rapids and rapid descent, Tornado with a huge funnel. The most fearless guests are offered to conquer the Loop Slide.
Stadium "Ak Bars Arena"
A sports complex built specifically for the 2018 FIFA World Cup matches. The stadium area is 28 hectares. The project was developed by leading architects, authors of world-famous sports facilities. Currently, the stadium hosts both sports events and cultural, entertainment, city holidays. In winter, a skating rink operates on the stadium.
International equestrian sports complex "Kazan"
One of the largest hippodromes not only in Russia, but also in Europe. Its area is 9.11 hectares, the capacity is 6,000 spectators. Opened in 2005 on the territory of the former airport. Currently, it is a large entertainment center, where guests can join the equestrian business, become a spectator of horse races, ride a horse under the guidance of experienced instructors. There are organized excursions around the complex.
Ice Sports Palace "Tatneft Arena"
Sports and concert complex, one of the largest in Russia. It is the home arena for the hockey club AK Bars. The total capacity of the hall is almost 11,000 people. The stands are specially designed so that the entire arena can be clearly seen from any place. Special ergonomic chairs are installed for visitors. From the panoramic windows of the LDS there is a good view of the city, the Kazanka River and the Kazan Kremlin. There is a buffet and a restaurant.
Entertainment center "FUN24"
Large indoor entertainment center. There are about 30 attractions, a 5D cinema, a bowling alley, billiards, a rollerdrome, a laser tag, slot machines, a shooting range, and air hockey on the large play area. The guests of the center pay only for the entrance and enjoy all the entertainments without limit. The center hosts entertainment activities for children and adults. There is a cafe, a bar. There is a restaurant on the top floor with panoramic windows.
Amusement park "Kyrlay"
It is located in the center of the city by the Kazanka River opposite the Kazan Kremlin. The park was founded in 2004. It has about 30 attractions, cultural and entertainment venues. Catering establishments offer children's and adult menus; throughout the park there are points of sale for ice cream, lemonade, and cotton candy. On the stage of the park, city events are held, including with the participation of famous pop artists.
Attractions in the vicinity of Kazan
Top places where you can go near Kazan for one day.
Museum-reserve "Island-city of Sviyazhsk"
Located 60 km from Kazan on an island between the Volga and Sekerka rivers. It is famous for a large number of religious historical and architectural monuments - 37 of them are cultural heritage sites. On the territory of the museum-reserve, excursion programs are held, including visits to the expositions of the history museum, a sightseeing tour of the city, participation in an interactive program with archery amusements.
Blue Lakes
A complex of three unusual lakes, located 20 km from the city. The lakes are located on the territory of the sanctuary of the same name. The reservoirs of karst origin were formed about 200 years ago. The water in them is blue and crystal clear. The visibility in the water reaches 40 meters. The bottom of the lakes is covered with curative salt mud. For those wishing to improve their health, the Kukushka sanatorium was built next to the lakes.
