Best things to do in Suzdal

Located in the heartlands of medieval Muscovy, Suzdal is the diamond of Russia’s famous Golden Ring of iconic ancient towns. Rising from the steppe landscape, the golden onion domes of Suzdal’s numerous Orthodox monasteries make for a beguiling sight while in the walled town itself little has changed since the 18^th century. Modernity bypassed sleepy Suzdal and today rolling green fields intersperse ornately decorated wooden houses, cows and chickens roam the cobbled streets and church bells provide a magical soundtrack. The town’s most iconic attractions are undoubtedly the 14^th century frescoes Monastery of St. Euthymius and the whitewashed walls of the 12^th century Kremlin. While most tours of Russia focus on the country’s tumultuous modern history, Suzdal is a hidden gem where pre-revolutionary life comes to life.

• Suzdal Kremlin

  Although little known outside Russia, the whitewashed Suzdal Kremlin is arguably the birthplace of the Russian nation. Founded in the 10^th century, the fortress was the power base of Prince Dolgoruky, who eventually founded a small fur-trapping outpost that developed into Moscow. The Kremlin’s highlight is undoubtedly the turquoise domed 13^th century Nativity of the Virgin Cathedral, which was listed by UNESCO World Heritage in 1992.

  Suzdal & Vladimir Golden Ring Tour

• Monastery of Saint Euthymius

  Bedecked in remarkable frescoes and capped with gleaming gold onion domes, the Monastery of Saint Euthymius is one of Russia’s holiest locations. With links to Ivan the Terrible, Grand Prince Vasily III and the noble Pozharsky family, the monastery also has a historical pedigree to match its ecclesiastical might and architectural beauty.

  Private Tour in Suzdal and Kideksha

• Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life

  For those looking for an insight into life in pre-revolutionary Russia look no further than Suzdal’s Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life. Besides fairytale-esque 18^th century wooden churches and peasant cottages, the museum also houses a traditional craft market and organizes guided tours.

Best places to stay in Suzdal

Russia tours featuring Suzdal