Yekaterinburg in one day. Explore Ural
Yekaterinburg, located in the center of the Ural region, at the border between Europe and Asia, is the 4th biggest city in Russia, after Moscow, St Petersburg and Novosibirsk. Ekaterinburg has one of the most tragic history of all Russian cities, because of the shooting of the Romanov family in 1918. Also, it is the city where Boris Yeltsin (the first Russian president) started his political career, so many call it the Yeltsin city. In Yekaterinburg there are numerous museums, over 60 sculptures and monuments, 1728 sports facilities (including 16 stadiums) and 45 different academic institutions and universities. Although it is not a typical touristic destination, its historical significance and economic importance make it one of the important places to visit in Russia.
Check out our recommendations on how to spend an awesome day in Yekaterinburg the Ural city.
Church on the Blood
Start with the most remarkable landmark of the city – the Church on Blood. Tsar Nikolai II and his family got killed on this site, just before the Bolshevik revolution.
The Ipatiev House, where the entire Romanov family was killed, was demolished in 1977 under orders from the Soviet government. Some years later, approval was given to erect a church commemorating the tragic incident. The Church on Blood in Honor of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land was officially opened in 2003. The church is built in a typical Russian Orthodox style, with golden domes and walls painted in white. Inside the church, you will find lots of information and a small museum dedicated to the Romanov family. There are also Special Tsar’s Days held every year in July in Ekaterinburg. This church alone makes Ekaterinburg one of the crucial places to visit in Russia.
Weir on the Iset River
Walk down to the Iset River and continue along the embankment. Enjoy dancing fountains and go to the weir, which offers really great views of Yekaterinburg.
Sevastyanov’s House
Continue to the Sevastyanov’s House, definitely one the most beautiful buildings in the city. And when you look around, you will notice a peculiar mix of architecture styles from classicism, to constructivist to modern constructions and glassy skyscrapers.
The Iset River will take you to the main green area of Yekaterinburg, the Mayakovsky Central Park. This park is very popular among locals, especially families with kids, students and young couples. Just walk around or try one of the summer attractions, such as Ferris wheel.
QWERTY monument
Stop by the QWERTY monument, a huge keyboard made of stone. Maybe a bit cheesy but definitely unique, and also a great opportunity to learn Cyrillic alphabet in a creative way.
Vaynera Street
In the afternoon take a walk along the main pedestrian zone of Yekaterinburg, the Vaynera Street. There are many shops, cafes and restaurants, but also numerous interesting and funny sculptures worth checking out.
Square of 1905
Probably it is not the most impressive square you’ve ever seen in your life but a very typical one for the Russian cities. A huge Lenin’s statue reminds of the Soviet times. All sorts of demonstrations and city events take place here.
Vysotsky Skyscraper
In the evening, go to the Vysotsky Skyscraper. Opened in 2011, and with its 190 meters high and 54 floors is the tallest building in Russia outside of Moscow, and the northernmost skyscraper in the world. Obviously, the views from the highest floor are breathtaking! Finish your day in Yekaterinburg enjoying its beautifully illuminated panorama.
No worries, you won’t get lost!
In Yekaterinburg you won’t get lost, thanks to special lines painted on the streets, which lead you to the most important tourist attractions in the city. Follow the lines and explore this Ural city of your own. Or, if you’d like to learn more about the mysterious history of Yekaterinburg or take an off the beaten path, contact us today!
Travel the legendary Trans-Siberian and make a must-stop in Yekaterinburg, Ural city.