Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.
So you’re wondering how to get from Kazan to Bolgar? I guess you want to see the ancient Bolgar Hill Fort perched on the shores of the Volga River, south of the capital of Tatarstan, Kazan.
Dating back to the 7th century AD, and later becoming the first capital of the Golden Horde in the 13th century, Bolgar is the physical embodiment of the historical cultural exchanges and transformations within Eurasia during this time and today serves as a important reminder of the acceptance and tolerance of Islam by the Volga-Bolgars over 1,000 years ago.
Today Bolgar Russia still remains a sacred pilgrimage destination to the Tatar Muslims. Besides that, Bolgar is truly is a sight to behold and one of the best things to do from Kazan Russia. So read on to find out the best way to see the Bolgar UNESCO site on a great day trip from Kazan!
Have you booked a room in Kazan yet? The best places tend to sell out fast…. Compare great deals for hotels, hostels and B&B’s now with a best rate guarantee, so you can splash out on other things instead!
Its best visited in the summer. Long Northern Hemisphere days and sun shining with positive temperature makes for the best explore. Yes the Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex UNESCO site is something special idea!
How to Get from Kazan to Bolgar: Russia’s Golden Horde UNESCO Site!
In this case the best way to get from Kazan to Bolgar will be a boat trip on the Volga from the Kazan river port. If by some miracle you know even basic Russian you can try giving them a call about the timetable +78432330808 however honestly I recommend just to head down there the day before and buying your tickets.
Someone there spoke English when I visited but maybe ask your hotel to write on a paper what you are looking for. “Bolgar Day Tour, 1 August, 2 people” should be sufficient otherwise to get you to the Bolgar historical and archaeological complex!
Easily one of the best things to see when you travel to Kazan! A UNESCO Site in Russia not to be missed!
Trips to Bulgar run from May into August, they leave Kazan at 8 a.m. and leave Bulgar at 3.40 p.m. Its plenty of time there don’t worry! It is better buy tickets in advance because the boat is very popular.
Tickets should be 600 rubles per person so quite the deal. It is also possible to get to Bulgar by bus if needed by I really don’t recommend this for day trips.
Tourist agencies also offer excursions and day tours, but only once a week and possibly only in Russian. Volgar Tours, Advatour and Kazan Travels will be your best beat. These prices are usually set around 1600 RUB for 10 hrs day excursion!
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Don’t know where or what Kazan is? Don’t worry! You will soon…
This photo pretty much sums up why you should know Kazan – and since everything is so compact, getting around Kazan is easy!
Before you can know how to get from Kazan to Bolgar, you first need to know about Kazan. Kazan is a very beautiful town founded in 1005 at the junction of the rivers Volga and Kazanka. Ivan the Terrible conquered the town for Russians in 1552.
This is celebrated by the building of Saint Basils Cathedral in Red Square. Kazan is incredible as it has different cultures intertwined, Tartars and Russians live peacefully together. Christians and Muslims.
Where else can you get a mosque and a church built side by side. Just another reason travel to Kazan and its Russian landmarks!
Infact while Kazan in the 90’s used to be considered quite ‘dodgy’ it down is one of Russian’s most tourist-friendly towns and will be hosting games of the 2018 FIFA World Cup!
On the other hand, the medieval city of Bolgar, which existed between the 7th and 15th centuries AD is almost completely deserted now days. What was once the first capital of the Golden Horde and represents the historical cultural exchanges and transformations of Eurasia over several centuries is now basically a few buildings crumbing in the sun.
It’s a gorgeous site and a symbolic reminder of the acceptance of Islam by the Volga-Bolgars in AD 22.
While your looking at travel to Kazan – Why not look at some accomodation options in Kazan, Russia!
LUXURY – DoubleTree by Hilton Kazan City Center
The top-rated hotel in Kazan, perfect for some pampering and a stress free visit. A elegant building, trusted brand and stellar location make this a winner
A centrally located option with a trusty international chain – Ramada offers modern rooms with all the expected amenities and a daily buffet breakfast is included
A great budget option for those wanting space and to stay in a local neighbourhood. Includes air conditioned, flat-screen TV and a kitchen –> Check it out
MID-RANGE – Ramada Kazan City Centre
BUDGET – Apartment Na Serova
So now you know how to get from Kazan to Bolgar by boat! When visiting the Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex UNESCO site try pick a day with nice weather and long sunlight hours and you will love it even more!
If you have any updated information on the ferry schedule to Bolgar or other options from visiting Bolgar from Kazan please let me know in the comments below!