Day Schedule

➤ Breakfast

➤ Guided tour in Kazan: the Kazan Kremlin, Kul Sharif Mosque

➤ Syumbike tower

➤ Christmas markets

➤ Chak-chak museum

➤ Old Tatar village

➤ Master-class on cooking the national Tatar dishes with degustation

Today, we have an exciting and busy day ahead, starting with a visit to one of Kazan's most iconic landmarks: the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will be guided by a professional English-speaking guide who will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of this extraordinary place.

The Kazan Kremlin is located in the heart of Kazan, on a high peninsula that juts out into the Kazanka and Volga Rivers. A fortress has stood on this strategic site for centuries, but the present structure was built after Tsar Ivan the Terrible's conquest of Kazan in 1552. To fortify the city, Ivan commissioned Pskov master architects to design the walls and 13 towers that still stand today, stretching 1,800 meters in length. The Kremlin has since become the symbol of Kazan, blending rich historical heritage with stunning architecture.

In 2000, the Kazan Kremlin was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further cementing its status as a key cultural and historical treasure. As you explore the Kremlin, you'll witness its grandeur and learn about its vital role in the history of Kazan and Russia.

Our next stop is the magnificent Kul Sharif Mosque, one of the most impressive and significant landmarks in Kazan. The Qol-Şärif Mosque (also spelled Kul-Sharif) is not only the largest mosque in Tatarstan but also one of the largest in Europe. This mosque holds deep historical and cultural significance for the region and the Muslim community. Historically, a mosque stood at this very location until it was destroyed during Russia's conquest of Kazan in 1552. There is even a theory that the design of the original mosque influenced the architecture of St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, which was built to commemorate the Russian victory over Kazan. The mosque is named after Qol-Şärif, a revered religious leader who was tragically killed while defending Kazan during the siege.

The present structure was built between 1997 and 2005 and serves as a symbol of Kazan's rich history and cultural revival. The mosque's opening in 2005 was part of the celebrations marking Kazan's millennium anniversary, making it not just a religious but also a national landmark. Its striking design, with its tall minarets and intricate domes, makes it a must-see on your visit to Kazan.

Also, we visit the renowned Chak-chak Museum, nestled within the historic Old Tatar Quarter. This cozy museum offers a homely atmosphere where you can enjoy fragrant tea from a samovar while savoring traditional Tatar desserts like chak-chak, baursak, and kak-tosh!

As part of your cultural journey, you'll also have the opportunity to visit the picturesque old Tatar villages, where you can try authentic local Tatar tea. A highlight of the day will be a hands-on cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare classic Tatar dishes at a traditional restaurant.

To complete the experience, don't forget to visit the charming Christmas markets, filled with joyful lights, intricate ice sculptures, and festive gifts. Every Russian city competes to showcase the best New Year celebrations, and Kazan certainly does not disappoint!