This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Kazan.
Kazan is one of the fastest-developing cities in Russia and maybe even in Europe. It is one of the cities that has been benefiting most from the return of capitalism in Russia. There is a vast choice of Kazan hostels in practically every part of the city -- they are not expensive and most of them are quite spacious. As Kazan is the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, it is the major center of Tatar culture and there are many Tatars living in the city. There are nationalistic groups, but they are not aggressive (still, you should refrain from making Tatar jokes).
Kazan has turned into a sport center, as well; if you like sports, Kazan has much to offer. There are strong basketball and water polo teams -- Zenit Kazan has been a two-time European Volleyball Champion in the last five years, the Bars Kazan has established itself as one of the strongest hockey teams in Europe, and Rubin Kazan has been a two-time Russian football champion and has scored memorable victories against teams like FC Barcelona and FC Liverpool. Some Kazan hostels are not far from the main sport facilities. There are also many universities and there are great clubs and pubs.
Kazan is not only one of the cleanest large Russian cities but has many interesting sights, such as the Kazan Kremlin, the Annunciation Cathedral (built in the sixteenth century), the Soyembika Tower, the Marcani Mosque, and the Kazan Town Hall. There are also many picturesque views from both banks of the Kazanka River.
Kazan has many things to offer and is definitely a city on the rise. Traveling by train can take some time, but there are regular flights from Moscow and Saint Petersburg. It is definitely a multicultural city that must be visited for longer than a day or two. The winters are always very cold, so be prepared!
Written by local enthusiast for Kazan hostels
George Traveller
