Ulyanovsk (Russian: Улья́новск ool-YAHN-uhfsk) is the capital and principal city of Ulyanovsk Oblast. Originally known as Simbirsk (Симби́рск), in 1924 the city was renamed after Vladimir Lenin (born Ulyanov), who was born here.
Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors.
Ulyanovsk has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, trolleys, and trams. It is very affordable, but congested and may be quite confusing. You won't find any route maps or schedules, neither at bus stops nor in buses. Fee collectors usually don't speak English. Express buses and semi-private van routes are more comfortable and more expensive. Taxis are not expensive, and that's your best bet if you want to get somewhere (relatively) quickly, in (relative) comfort (almost all cars are old Russian ladas or over 10 year old non-Russian cars), and without much hassle.
As the home town of Lenin, it's worth visiting the Lenin Memorial Centre and Gardens and museums based in his former houses. There is also a museum dedicated to the poet 'Goncharov' and the war memorial at the end of the main street 'Ulitsa Goncharova' offers breathtaking views over the Volga.
In winter, try cross-country skiing along the Sviaga river, in summer take a boat ride over the reservoir.
Shpinat, Ulitsa Kirova, 79 (in Rakurs Hotel), ☏ +7 842 258-53-41. An upscale restaurant with small portions but big on presentation if that appeals to you. (updated Feb 2021) Gonzo, Ulitsa Goncharova, 48+7 842 244-44-22 (across from Hilton Garden Inn), ☏ +7 842 244-44-22. Lots of tasty Russian dishes, particularly heavy on meat. (updated Feb 2021) Veprevo Koleno, Ulitsa Federatsii, 11, ☏ +7 951 094-51-15. featuring Czech food and beer. (updated Feb 2021) Gallery Restaurant, Ulitsa Goncharova, 25 (inside Radisson Hotel), ☏ +7 8422 41-74-71. 09:30-02:00. Buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring Russian and international items. Lobby Bar, ul.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
In Aug, Ulyanovsk typically sees ~24°C daytime highs and 14 rainy days.
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