Yaroslavl was another Golden Ring City I included to my itinerary. This city is several centuries old which made me decide to include it in my trip. It was towards winter already and I barely saw any other tourist (which was another plus for me).
If you're planning to visit this for your budget and itinerary for Yaroslavl, read on.
Guide
I went to Yaroslavl because I wanted to know more about the country's history. The city has a history of more than 1000 years. It was just around winter when I visited, it snowed a couple of times during my stay. Simply put, it was freezing and the road slippery. Yaroslavl didn't seem like a city with a lot of history, but I enjoyed my stay here. It was laid back (probably because of the incoming low season, it was late October when I visited). I ate at random places where no one bothered me, there were times when I felt like I was the only foreigner in the neighborhood (haha!).
Things to Do
Historic Center
The historic center has a handful of centuries old buildings that provide you with a glimpse of the city's history. Went inside twice since the entrance fee was cheap. It was low season and some of the spots were closed or I just wasn't interested enough to enter them. You'll find the Holy Transfiguration Monastery here.
Old Buildings and Churches
The long history of the city means that you'll see many historic buildings and churches scattered all over it. As I walked around I saw these, they're within walking distance to each other, if you plan to include them in your itinerary.
Assumption Cathedral
The cathedral you'll see now is a reconstruction of the original, but it has a history dating back to 1215. I went inside and attended a Russian Orthodox sermon. It was a unique experience for me even if I didn't understand anything. I stood most of the time since the sits were only for the elderly and disabled.
Volga Embankment
This is a nice park to walk around in and get views of the Volga. You'll also find a statue that commemorates the city's thousand years of existence.
*Part of Yaroslavl is UNESCO-listed.
Other places you might want to visit:
- Yaroslavl Art Museum
- Volkov Theatre
- Yaroslavl Architectural, Historical, and Art Museum Preserve
- Petropavlovskiy Park
- The Bear Monument
Rostov Veliky (Day Trip)
If you have more time in Yaroslavl, you can go on a day trip to Rostov Veliky. This Golden Ring City has a history that spans centuries. It has one of the most well-preserved Kremlins in the country.
Read my post: Day trip to Rostov Veliky
Where to Stay
I always stay in hostels because they are the most affordable. I spent a couple of nights in Like Hostel, I liked its location because many of the sites and bus stops are within walking distance from it.
How to Go
I took the train from Saint Petersburg to Yaroslavl, I chose the overnight one to save money on accommodation. I met a nice Russian girl who I had a long conversation with. She was from Yaroslavl originally. She also helped me get a cab after arriving.
You can book train tickets here: https://pass.rzd.ru/main-pass/public/en.
Getting Around
The city is small enough to see in a few days. I walked most of the time and took the bus a couple of times. it helps to have a translator since there are few signs in English and locals don't speak English that much either.
Where to Go Next
You can reach these places by train from Yaroslavl whether directly or transit through another city.
Moscow
The capital is easily accessible from Yaroslavl. There are regular trains plying between the two cities.
One of the most beautiful cities I've been to, Saint Petersburg is a must-visit during your trip to Russia. Palaces, museums and beautiful alleys characterize this city.
Read my post:Guide to Saint Petersburg
Vladimir
This destination has plenty of small town charm. It has beautiful white buildings and churches. I enjoyed my few days stay here, very chill atmosphere.
Kazan was a pleasant surprise for me. There's plenty to do and see because of the unique mix of Islamic and Orthodox cultures.
Read my post: Guide to Kazan
Expenses
Here is an expenses list for your budget and itinerary for Yaroslavl.
*Everything's in Russian Rubles
1590 - 3 nights in Like Hostel
357 - Transportation
1596 - Food and drinks
80 - Fees for historic center (I went in twice, the fee is only 40 Russian Rubles)
50 - Entrance for Rostov Veliky
120 - Mini bus to Rostov Veliky
100 - Bus back to Yaroslavl from Rostov Veliky
574 - Train to Moscow
4467 - Total
