· RU

Petrozavodsk

Petrozavodsk, Kareliya, Russia

Petrozavodsk: Where Russian History Meets Karelian Nature Nestled on the shores of Lake Onega, Petrozavodsk is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. More than just the capital of the Republic of Ka…

#Petrozavodsk#Kareliya#Russia#Northern Russia#Lakeside city

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Petrozavodsk.

Top Hotels in Petrozavodsk

Top Flights to Petrozavodsk

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Petrozavodsk.

Tours

Kizhi Island Tour

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kizhi Island with its historical wooden architecture.

Petrozavodsk City Walk

Take a guided tour through the streets of Petrozavodsk and explore its vibrant culture.

Petrozavodsk State University Botanic Garden

Visit the beautiful botanical gardens of Petrozavodsk State University.

Museum of Fine Arts

Explore the diverse collection of art spanning from local to international works.

Shopping

Konfetti Shopping Center

A modern shopping center offering a wide range of shops, cafes, and entertainment facilities.

Local Handicraft Market

Discover unique Karelian crafts and souvenirs at the local handicraft market.

Outdoor

Onega Lake Boating

Experience the natural beauty of Lake Onega by taking a boat trip.

Ruskeala Mountain Park

Adventure through the stunning marble canyons and ferrous lakes of Ruskeala Mountain Park.

Petrozavodsk City Park

Enjoy a relaxing day in the scenic city park, a perfect place for families and couples.

Karjala Park

A popular park offering various outdoor activities and recreational facilities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Petrozavodsk.

Currency

₽ | RUB | Russian Ruble

Population

278551.0

Languages

Russian, Karelian, Vepsian, Finnish

Average weather

Petrozavodsk

Jan

-7°-13°

Feb

-6°-13°

Mar

-2°-9°

Apr

5°-3°

May

13°3°

Jun

18°8°

Jul

21°12°

Aug

19°11°

Sep

13°6°

Oct

6°1°

Nov

0°-5°

Dec

-4°-11°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Petrozavodsk.

What people love

Petrozavodsk, located in the Republic of Karelia in Russia, offers several advantages for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Petrozavodsk include:

Natural Beauty: Petrozavodsk is situated on the shores of Lake Onega, one of the largest lakes in Europe. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including forests, rivers, and lakes, making it a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cultural Heritage: Petrozavodsk has a rich cultural heritage with a blend of Russian and Finnish influences. Visitors can explore historical sites, museums, art galleries, and traditional Karelian architecture, providing insights into the local culture and history.
Outdoor Activities: The region around Petrozavodsk offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowmobiling during the colder months.
Karelian Cuisine: Travelers to Petrozavodsk can sample traditional Karelian cuisine, which features dishes like kalitki (pancakes with various fillings), karelian pasties (pirogs), and fish dishes using locally caught fish from Lake Onega.
Friendliness of Locals: Visitors often praise the warm hospitality and friendliness of the local people in Petrozavodsk, making it a welcoming destination for travelers.

Overall, Petrozavodsk offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, outdoor activities, and delicious cuisine, making it a great destination for those looking to explore a lesser-known part of Russia.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Petrozavodsk, Kareliya, Russia may include:

Weather: Petrozavodsk experiences long, cold winters with temperatures dropping well below freezing. This can make sightseeing and outdoor activities uncomfortable for some travelers.
Language barrier: English is not widely spoken in Petrozavodsk, so communication may be challenging for travelers who do not speak Russian. It is advisable to learn some basic Russian phrases or carry a translation app.
Limited tourist infrastructure: While Petrozavodsk is a charming destination with natural beauty and historical sites, it may not have the same level of tourist infrastructure as more popular destinations in Russia. This could impact the availability of amenities and services for travelers.
Remote location: Petrozavodsk is located in the far northwestern part of Russia, making it a bit remote and potentially difficult to access. Traveling to and from Petrozavodsk may require multiple connections and long travel times.
Political tensions: Given the geopolitical situation in the region, travelers should stay informed about any political developments that may affect their travel plans to Petrozavodsk and exercise caution while visiting.

It is important to research and plan ahead when traveling to Petrozavodsk to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Petrozavodsk, the capital city of the Republic of Karelia in Russia, has a rich and varied history that dates back several centuries. Located on the western shore of Lake Onega, Petrozavodsk has played an important role in the region's development and history.

Early History

Founding: Petrozavodsk was founded in 1703 by Peter the Great. The city was established as a foundry settlement to produce cannons and other munitions for the Russian navy during the Great Northern War. The foundry was named Petrovsky Zavod, which means "Peter's Factory," in honor of Peter the Great.

18th and 19th Centuries

Industrial Development: The foundry's success led to the growth of the settlement around it. Petrozavodsk became an important industrial center in northwestern Russia. The city's location on Lake Onega facilitated transport and trade, contributing further to its growth.
Administrative Changes: In 1777, Petrozavodsk was granted town status by Catherine the Great. It also became the administrative center of Olonets Governorate.

20th Century

Soviet Era: During the Soviet period, Petrozavodsk underwent significant industrialization and expansion. It became a hub for timber and paper industries, which remain important to this day.
World War II: Petrozavodsk was occupied by Finnish forces from 1941 to 1944 during the Continuation War. The city was a strategic location due to its industrial capacity and its proximity to the Finnish border. After its liberation, it was rebuilt and continued to develop.
Cultural Development: Post-war, Petrozavodsk developed as a cultural center, with numerous educational and cultural institutions being established, including Petrozavodsk State University in 1940.

Modern Era

Post-Soviet Developments: After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Petrozavodsk became the capital of the newly formed Republic of Karelia within the Russian Federation. The city has since focused on developing its economy, tourism, and cultural heritage.

Significant Landmarks

Lenin Square: The central square of Petrozavodsk, featuring a statue of Lenin and surrounded by important government buildings.
Kirov Square: Another central square known for its architectural significance.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A prominent Russian Orthodox cathedral in the city.
National Museum of the Republic of Karelia: Offers insights into the region's history and culture.
The Governor’s Park: A historical park in the city center, offering a place for recreation and cultural activities.

Historical Figures

Peter the Great: The founder of Petrozavodsk, whose vision for an industrial Russia led to the city's establishment.
Catherine the Great: Granted town status to Petrozavodsk and played a role in its early administrative importance.

Petrozavodsk today is a vibrant city that balances its industrial roots with rich cultural traditions. It is an important administrative, cultural, and educational center in northwestern Russia.