Many people do not know what Russia’s Golden Ring actually is, but if you are already in the process of planning a visit, then you will at least know that the Golden Ring is a region that lies Northeast of Moscow. This region is steeped in history, and it is host to many spectacular churches and cathedrals from the time when the Orthodox Church was crucial to the survival of pre-communist Russia.
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Take a Step Back in Time
When you visit Russia’s Golden Ring, you are taking a step back 3 or 400 years, as the quaint towns set in the pristine countryside haven’t changed much since the Middle Ages, and with that in mind, here are some of the best places to visit in this amazing part of old-world Russia.
Suzdal
This is probably the most popular town in the Golden Ring, with rolling green meadows, with the iconic, all-white Suzdal Kremlin Citadel a must-see. The town is literally crammed with old churches and cathedrals, so if you love old architecture, you will certainly love Suzdal.
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Vladimir
This is culturally the center of the Golden Ring, and simply must be on your list of places to visit. Assumption Cathedral is the finest building you are ever likely to see, and if you book one of the luxury Golden Eagle trains tours from an established Trans-Siberian Railway operator, they can make sure you spend some time in Vladimir.
Kostroma
The city of Kostroma sits on the convergence of the Volga and the Kostroma Rivers, and is certainly worth a visit, as this is the place where Russian royalty stayed in uncertain times. The Trinity Cathedral is a stunning example of 16th-century Russian architecture, and something you won’t want to miss.
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Yaroslavl
This is the oldest city on the Volga River, dating as far back as the 11th century, Yaroslavl was made into a UNESCO World Heritage Centre in 2005, and houses some of the best examples of rich merchant houses in the country. If you book your berth on the Trans-Siberian Railway, the tour operator would have all the details of the very best places that are to be found in the Golden Ring.
Best Time To Visit
The best time of the year to visit Russia’s Golden Ring would be in the summer, when the flowers are in full bloom, although every season has its own unique attraction, with the spring seeing the fields in full blossom, while autumn is a time when reds and browns are everywhere. If you don’t like the cold weather, towards the end of summer in August or September would be ideal, or in March or April, prior to the arrival of summer.
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The best way to book your holiday in Russia’s Golden Ring it to get in touch with an established Trans-Siberian travel operator, as they would be able to help you create the perfect schedule, plus they can help with visas.
