Nestled on the western shores of Lake Onega, Petrozavodsk is a gateway to Kizhi Island. Stroll around the tranquil lakefront promenade, admire historic neoclassical facades or browse a history museum with medieval icons.

Things to do

Walk around the lakeside promenade, where you can stop in one of the quaint outdoor cafes for succulent “shashlyk” meat kebabs. Wander around Ploshchad Lenina, the city’s main square, and marvel at a statue of Lenin and neoclassical facades dating back to 1784.

Browse the medieval icons, folk art and Russian paintings at the Fine Arts Museum. See beautiful displays of embroidery, weaving and birch-bark creations and 18th-century Russian Masters, including “Christ in Gethsemane” by Ilya Repin.

Are you fascinated with the history of Russia? Visit the Museum of Regional Studies, which showcases exhibits on trade between Russia’s north and the Byzantine world. Learn more about the city’s history, including the fascinating tales behind ancient stone labyrinths.

Take a scenic boat trip to Kizhi Island, known as Russia’s most mesmerizing open-air museum. Explore this UNESCO-listed island to see its famous wooden architecture that dates back to the 14th century. Walk past the picturesque 22-dome Transfiguration Church, built without the use of nails.

Getting around

Petrozavodsk is 12 kilometers from Petrozavodsk Airport, while Murmansk Railway offers train connection to nearby cities. In Petrozavodsk, the best way to get around is by foot, while taxis, trains and buses are also available.