Veliky Novgorod, Russia: A Journey to Discover the Charm of Historical Gems

Veliky Novgorod is one of the oldest cities in Russia, known as the "Birthplace of Russia" and one of the early settlements of the East Slavs. The city was not only the first capital of ancient Russia, but also witnessed the origin of the Russian state system. Veliky Novgorod is home to a wealth of historical sites, such as St. Sophia Cathedral, Novgorod Kremlin, and the Millennium of Russia Monument, making it an excellent place to explore medieval Russian culture and architecture. ——— Transportation Guide🚌 🔥Walking: The attractions in the old town are concentrated, and the Kremlin, St. Sophia Cathedral, etc. can be reached on foot. 💦Bus/Taxi: Bus No. 7 can take you to the Wooden Museum; we recommend using Yandex Go to call a taxi, and the fare in the city is about 150–200 rubles. 🔥Bus: The bus from St. Petersburg to Novgorod takes about 4 hours, and the ticket price is affordable. You can buy tickets at the station (you need to use a translation app to communicate). 💦Train: It takes about 3 hours to get to Novgorod by train from St. Petersburg. There is a McDonald's and a bus station next to the train station, which is convenient for transfer. Best Time to Visit📋 🔥The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is warm and suitable for outdoor activities. It is recommended to spend 3 to 4 days to fully appreciate the charm of Veliky Novgorod. Travel Route 💦Morning of Day 1: After arriving in Veliky Novgorod, go to the hotel to check in. After a short rest, head to the Novgorod Kremlin. Visit the walls, towers, and museums to learn about the history and military significance of the castle. 🔥Noon of Day 1: Have lunch at a restaurant near the Kremlin and try traditional Russian food, such as borscht, kebabs, black bread, etc., with a glass of vodka to experience authentic Russian flavors. 😋 💦Afternoon of Day 1: Visit St. Sophia Cathedral to admire its exquisite murals and unique architectural style, and feel the solemnity and sanctity of religion. 🔥Morning of Day 2: Head to the Novgorod State Museum of History, where you can learn about the development of the city from ancient times to modern times through a wealth of exhibits, and gain an in-depth understanding of Russian history and culture. 💦Noon of Day 2: Have lunch at a cafe near the museum and try Russian specialties such as pies, salads, and more. 🔥Afternoon of Day 2: Take a stroll along the Volkhov River and enjoy the scenery along the river. You can also choose to take a cruise to enjoy the beauty of the city from different angles. 💦Morning of Day 3: Visit Yuriev Monastery, an ancient Orthodox monastery with a unique architectural style and a collection of many precious religious artifacts. 🔥Noon of Day 3: Have lunch at a restaurant near the monastery and try local farm dishes, such as beef stew with potatoes, mushroom soup, and more. 💦Afternoon of Day 3: Stroll around the old town of Veliky Novgorod, admire the ancient buildings and streets, and feel the medieval atmosphere. You can also pick up souvenirs at local craft shops. ——— Nearby Attractions 🔥Novgorod Kremlin: Located on the banks of the Volkhov River, it is a landmark building complex in Veliky Novgorod, built in the 11th century, with ancient churches, towers, and walls. 💦St. Sophia Cathedral: One of the oldest churches in Russia, with its golden dome and thick stone walls. You can listen to the bell tower performance on Sundays (free of charge), and the murals inside are worth a quiet appreciation. 🔥Yuriev Monastery and the Museum of Wooden Architecture • Yuriev Monastery: Located on the shores of Lake Ilmen, the 900-year-old monastery is quiet and solemn, with picturesque lake views, perfect for hiking. • Museum of Wooden Architecture: Displays traditional wooden houses and churches. The ticket price is 250 rubles. It is recommended to visit the monastery together (you need to take a taxi or take bus No. 7). ——— Accommodation Recommendations🏨 💦Crowne Plaza Veliky Novgorod • The hotel is located in the city center, with a superior location, many surrounding attractions, and convenient transportation. The rooms are well-equipped and the service is attentive, providing you with a comfortable stay. 😉 • The hotel has a restaurant, gym, and sauna, so you can relax after your trip. 🔥Center Hotel Veliky Novgorod • The hotel is cost-effective, with clean and tidy rooms and a convenient location. There are many restaurants and shops around, making life convenient. • The hotel offers free breakfast and a business center to meet the needs of business and leisure travelers. ——— Other Tips💡 💦Language and Communication: English is not widely spoken, so download an offline Russian translation app (such as Google Translate) in advance, or bring small gifts such as "Chinese knots" to express your gratitude. 🔥Cash Preparation: Some attractions (such as toilets) only accept cash, so it is recommended to prepare enough rubles. 💦Dining Recommendations: Cafe at Sennaya offers traditional Russian food with a high cost performance, and Gioia Pizzeria is an Italian pizza restaurant with plenty of heating. 😃