Kazan is the centre of Tartar country, a place where the European and Asian cultural influences of Russia converge. The locals’ fierce pride in their heritage can be seen in the bilingual Russian-Tartar street signs, well-preserved monuments and the variety of traditional food, drink and entertainment.

Things to do

Visit the Kremlin, a historical citadel and the only surviving Tartar fortress in Russia. It contains the colourful Kul Sharif Mosque and the Annunciation Cathedral, where you can see centuries-old artefacts donated by local princes. Climb Söyembikä Tower, said to have been built by Ivan the Terrible for his future bride, and view the exhibits of Tartar history and military artefacts at the Kremlin Museum.

More history is on display at the Soviet Lifestyle Museum. Check out their collection of propaganda books and period outfits, then go to the Chak-Chak Museum down the street to learn how to make traditional Tartar food and drink. Both traditional and modern cuisine is available in the cafes and bars along Bauman Street and there are shops selling souvenirs and trinkets.

Want to get out of the city? River cruises operate in the warmer months and will take you on a sightseeing tour of the Volga and Kazanka rivers. Take a dip in the bright-blue pools at the Blue Lakes, which locals swear has healing powers, thanks to hydrogen sulphide in the water.

Getting around

Fly into Kazan International Airport, a 25-minute drive from the city or 30 minutes on the Aeroexpress train. The Kremlin is pedestrian-only, while the rest of Kazan is serviced by a metro line and a network of buses and trolleybuses.