Cheap Flights To Rostov

One of the oldest towns in the country and forming part of the collection of the Golden Ring, a number of ancient towns hailed for their preservation of significant historical and cultural Russian events, Rostov is home to more than 35,000 inhabitants. The first official records of the city date back to 862 and it is noted that the region was already considered to be a significant settlement and by the 13th century, the city had developed into the most prominent Russian polity. By 1474, the region was incorporated into the Grand Duchy of Moscow.

Today, this vibrant metropolis is scattered with historical sites and architecture. The city's central square, for example, contains the Assumption Cathedral, believed to have been built circa the 16th century. Historians believe that the bell tower was constructed approximately a century later and contains the oldest, largest and heaviest bells in the country, with the largest of the bells weighing no less than 71,000 lbs. Visit during the month of September, when the city hosts the Rostov International Jazz Festival. The event spans two days and features acclaimed jazz artists from around the country.

Things To Do

This ancient city attracts history and culture lovers and the region's diverse nightlife entertains both young and old, with its cornucopia of bars, concerts and nightclubs.

• Blend architecture and history

Visit the Assumption Cathedral. Although historians are unsure when the building was erected, it is widely believed that it was built in the latter half of the 16th Century. The cathedral is famed for its enormous bells, the heaviest in the country and each bell has its own unique acoustics.

• For the clubbers

Head to Heaven Mixology Bar. This trendy nightclub is frequented by locals and visitors to the city alike. The club is rumoured to serve the best cocktails in the area and resident DJs, in addition to guest DJs, entertain the crowds until the small hours.

• Go wild at the zoo

Visit Rostov Zoo. This is the largest zoo in the country and is home to a myriad of exotic wildlife. Admire the rhinos, chimpanzees and guinea fowls before being entertained by the emus.

Calendar Of Events

This historic region hosts a variety of different events and festivals throughout the year. The music festivals are frequented by visitors from the four corners of the globe.

• Maslenitsa Festival: Hosted in February, the Maslenitsa Festival is a pagan tradition of marking the end of winter. The celebration spans seven days and features song, dance, pancake making, fist fighting and sledging. On the final day Maslenitsa dolls, effigies made of straw and paper, are burnt on a giant bonfire.

• Rostov International Jazz Festival: As the name suggests, the International Jazz Festival features a myriad of performers from around the country. The event spans two days and is hosted in September. Although a jazz festival, artists from other musical genres are also invited to perform for festival-goers.

• TangoRioFestival: With a distinctly Latin vibe, the TangoRioFestival is hosted in September and spans three days. The event features performances by the some of the most famous tango dancers in the world. The festival also features a series of workshops, classes and competitions.