Journey to Russia: Kazan - The 8th Largest City

As the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, Kazan is a true tourist destination 🏛️, with pleasant weather and a clean, tidy urban environment 🌤️. 🚆 Transportation: Just a 1-hour flight from Moscow (feels like no time difference! ⏳). You can also take the train—scenic views along the way, though the schedule might be confusing 😅. Russian trains run fast but stop for looong periods (some stations up to 1 hour!). Ticket checks are done onboard, reminiscent of 90s China 🚂. 🎡 Attractions: Kazan has two main urban highlights: 1️⃣ Kazan Kremlin: An Islamic-style fortress with stunning cathedrals 🕌⛪. Connected to the riverfront—perfect for a leisurely stroll 🚶‍♀️. 2️⃣ Ferris Wheel: Ride at night for romantic city views! 🎡🌃 Romantic cabins or standard options available (~80 RUB for 2 rounds per person—affordable!). 🏞️ Day Trips: Plenty of options to explore churches outside the city ⛪⛪⛪. Choose between 6-hour or 8-hour tours. Guides are dedicated (though if you don’t speak Russian, it might be in one ear and out the other 😅). 🏨 Accommodation: Stayed at Korston Hotel, 3 km from the Kremlin. Kazan hotels are pricey with average service 🏢. But the nearby park offers easy access to the riverfront. The rooftop restaurant is budget-friendly with serene sunset views 🌇. 💭 Overall Impression: Kazan is best explored slowly 🚶‍♂️. While it lacks famous landmarks, its rich cultural atmosphere makes it worth visiting! ❤️ #Travel #Kazan #ExploreRussia #RussiaDiaries #CulturalGetaway 🗺️✨