saga cruises single cabins

Saga Cruises

Spirit of adventure, cabin guide for spirit of adventure.

The Spirit of Adventure represents a modern and luxurious approach to cruising, with its array of cabin and suite options designed to cater to a variety of preferences and needs. Each stateroom on this vessel promises spaciousness, comfort, and style, coupled with a private balcony that ensures guests can enjoy the majestic views of the ocean in solitude. What sets the Spirit of Adventure apart in its class is not only the generous size of its accommodations but also the thoughtful amenities and services provided to enhance the onboard experience. From the solo traveler to couples seeking a romantic getaway, the range of cabin types meets the unique requirements of every guest, making it a standout choice among its peers.

Forward Balcony Suite

Embark on a journey of unparalleled luxury with the Forward Balcony Suite. Boasting an expansive 855 square feet of elegantly designed space, these suites offer guests a sublime retreat with breathtaking forward-facing ocean views. From the grandeur of a private balcony to the indulgence of a whirlpool bathtub, every detail caters to your comfort and relaxation. Exclusive amenities, including full butler service and 24-hour room service, ensure every need is seamlessly met. Perfect for discerning guests seeking an extraordinary cruising experience.

• 24-hour room service
• complimentary Wi-Fi
• coffee/tea-making facilities
• full butler service
• en-suite bathroom with whirlpool bathtub

Aft Balcony Suite

The Aft Balcony Suite, spanning 540 square feet, is a sanctuary of comfort and elegance. Offering captivating views from the aft of the ship, guests can unwind in a space that blends luxury with intimacy. The suite's lavish amenities, including a step-out balcony and whirlpool bathtub, create a haven of relaxation. With full butler service and a range of exclusive perks, this suite promises a cruising experience that is both tranquil and memorable.

Mid Ship Suite with Balcony

Nestled at the ship's heart, the Mid Ship Suite with Balcony is a testament to luxury cruising. Covering 462 square feet, these suites offer a double balcony for unparalleled views and a spacious living area for supreme comfort. The suite's plush amenities include a luxurious bathroom with a bathtub and separate rainforest shower, complemented by a full butler service to attend to your every whim. Ideal for those who seek the ultimate in luxury and convenience.

• double balcony
• en-suite WC with bathtub and separate rainforest shower
• Luxury fresh fruit basket
• Full butler service

Midship Balcony Suite

Experience sophistication and serenity in the Midship Balcony Suite. These 460 square feet suites, located at the heart of the ship, offer stability and splendid views. Guests will enjoy a spacious seating area, exclusive suite perks, and the convenience of being centrally located. The en-suite bathroom with separate shower and bathtub adds an element of luxury, making this suite an ideal choice for travelers seeking comfort and elegance on their cruising adventure.

• en-suite bathroom with separate shower and bathtub

Adapted Junior Suite with Balcony

The Adapted Junior Suite with Balcony, spanning 301 square feet, redefines accessibility in luxury cruising. With dual balconies offering expansive views and interiors designed for ease of mobility, it assures a comfortable and delightful stay. Guests will enjoy the benefit of a full butler service, enhancing the suite's appeal. Thoughtful amenities, including a wet room-style en-suite, underscore a commitment to accessibility without sacrificing elegance or comfort.

• wheelchair accessible cabin entrance, bathroom, and balcony doors
• Double balcony
• Private Bathroom with roll-in showers

Single Suite

Designed with the solo traveler in mind, the Single Suite is a haven of luxury and comfort. It features a selection of amenities tailored for personal convenience, including an en-suite bathroom with a bathtub for blissful relaxation. The suite boasts a full butler service to cater to your every need, alongside a private balcony for tranquil moments of ocean contemplation. An embodiment of sophistication and personal space, it's perfect for guests desiring solitude amidst luxury.

• en-suite bathroom with bathtub
• turndown service
• luxury fresh fruit basket

Twin Deluxe Balcony Cabin

The Twin Deluxe Balcony Cabin offers a harmonious blend of style and functionality across its generous 350 square feet. Guests are greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere and a private balcony where serene sea views await. The cabin features a comfortable seating area for relaxation, complemented by a walk-in closet for convenience. With an array of thoughtful amenities and elegant touches, these cabins ensure a delightful stay for those who appreciate comfort and a hint of luxury on the seas.

• seating area
• walk-in closet
• en-suite bathroom

Twin Standard Balcony Cabin

The Twin Standard Balcony Cabin, encompassing 215 square feet, provides an intimate and cozy retreat for guests. Featuring a private balcony, it's the perfect spot to catch the sunrise or unwind with a glass of wine under the stars. The cabin offers a thoughtfully designed seating area, creating a comfortable nook for relaxation. Ideal for guests seeking a blend of comfort, thoughtful amenities, and stunning views without the need for added extravagance.

Standard Single

The Standard Single cabin offers solo adventurers a cozy sanctuary complete with a private balcony to enjoy the ocean's splendor. Spanning 185 square feet, this cabin is thoughtfully designed to maximize space and comfort. Essential amenities, including turndown service and a comfortable bed, ensure a pleasant and restful stay. It's the ideal choice for solo travelers seeking a comfortable and convenient home away from home on their journey.

Adapted Standard Balcony Cabin

The Adapted Standard Balcony Cabin merges accessibility with the joy of cruising. Specially designed at 23 square meters to accommodate guests with mobility needs, these cabins feature wide doors, roll-in showers, and grab rails to ensure a comfortable stay. The private balcony allows for serene moments gazing at the sea, making these cabins a thoughtful blend of functionality and charm for travelers desiring ease and accessibility.

• Grab rails for shower and toilet

Adapted Deluxe Balcony Cabin

Elegantly appointed, the Adapted Deluxe Balcony Cabin provides a seamless blend of luxury and accessibility over its 23 square meters. Offering wider doorways, a spacious, roll-in shower area, and a larger balcony, it is meticulously designed to cater to guests with mobility needs. Enhanced with luxury amenities and superior comfort, it stands as a testament to inclusive design without compromising on the finer details of a premium cruising experience.

• Larger balcony

Deluxe Single

Merging comfort with a touch of luxury, the Deluxe Single cabin offers solo travelers a spacious retreat. Each cabin, designed for one, features enhanced amenities including a larger seating area for added comfort, and a walk-in wardrobe for ample storage. The private balcony serves as your personal lookout to the ocean's vastness, providing a peaceful backdrop to mornings and evenings spent at sea. A perfect blend of coziness and sophistication awaits in this deluxe single-space.

• larger seating area
• walk in wardrobe

Superior Single

The Superior Single cabin encapsulates the essence of refined solo travel. Offering a unique blend of luxury and privacy, the cabin features a comfortable bed, modern amenities, and a private balcony to enjoy the sea breeze. Guests will appreciate the thoughtful touches including fresh fruit and a serene atmosphere to retreat to after a day of adventure. Ideal for solo travelers who seek a blend of independence and indulgence.

• fresh fruit

Standard Twin with Balcony

The Standard Twin with Balcony cabin perfectly balances comfort, convenience, and scenic views. Guests will find themselves enveloped in a tastefully designed environment, outfitted with modern amenities for a seamless stay. The private balcony adds an extra layer of pleasure, offering a personal space to admire the seascape. Ideal for travelers who value privacy and comfort, combined with the charm of ocean views.

Twin Deluxe with Balcony

The Twin Deluxe with Balcony refines the cruising experience with its blend of spaciousness and elegance. Ample room complemented by a larger seating area provides a relaxed setting perfectly suited for unwinding or entertaining. The walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom enhance the sense of luxury, providing both functionality and style. This cabin, with its private balcony, invites guests to savor serene moments amidst the majestic beauty of the ocean.

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Saga Cruises Spirit of Discovery Review. The Best Things About The Ship

by Gary Bembridge · July 5, 2019

Saga Cruises launched Spirit of Discovery in July 2019, the first of two sister cruise ships (Spirit of Adventure in 2020). These are the first new-build ships for cruising ever for Saga, which had previously bought and refurbished existing cruise ships. The Spirit of Discovery holds 999 passengers and in my blog and video, I discuss the 8 things that I think are best about the ship, and show and explain why. I also talk about one major watch-out and issue that could stop you from cruising.  

My Saga Spirit of Discovery Review Video

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Jw1VYSLd_eQ

You’re about to discover the eight best things about the new Saga Spirit of Discovery cruise ship, plus one thing that could be a deal breaker and stop you from cruising on this ship

Facts and figures

The Spirit of Discovery is the first of two sister ships being built by Saga Cruises. Spirit of Discovery is the first one, and Spirit of Adventure is the second one.

It holds 999 guests, has 505 crew and 10 passenger decks. Those stats mean that it falls, in many people’s definitions, within the small ship cruising category, which is normally defined as less than a thousand passengers.

The first great thing is the design. It is a great look from the outside. It’s unique. It’s different because it was specifically designed for Saga. But inside, the designers which were SMC (a London-based design organisation) have created a boutique hotel feel and that what’s Saga are going for.

The inspiration for the design was taken from London-based boutique hotels. It is a modern and contemporary look.

A couple of things that I really liked about this more as a ship geek is this that there is a really great connection to the ocean. They have an enormous and wide promenade deck. If you walk around the promenade deck four times, you’ve done one mile. That has disappeared from many modern cruise ships.

At the back of the ship there’s a magnificent terrace area, where you can sit and watch the world go by. It’s multi levels and you can see the ocean.

I love the fact that the design inside is a boutique contemporary hotel feel, and there’s a real sense of a connection to the sea. You even see that in the open spaces. For example, the Lido, which is the pool area. This is also very open. It’s large and again there’s great connection to the ocean.

There’s a real sense of Britishness around the design and the aesthetics. For example, there are 1,000 pieces of artwork across the ship, 400 of which were created for the ship and all have been created by artists that are based in the UK. Most of the suppliers the cheese, the salmon and wine are again from British suppliers.

Dining Options

The second thing that struck me about the ship were the dining options. Saga is all-inclusive and all of the dining, both speciality dining and regular dining, is included within the fare.

There are six dining options across the ship.

• The most important, of course, is the main dining room which is known as the Grand Dining Room. it serves British and international cuisine. It’s a magnificent traditional liner looking type of dining room.
• You then have the Grill and the Verandah, which is up on the Lido deck and this is the more informal dining, so it’s more buffet. Although importantly on formal nights they have the same menu in here as in the main dining room. So, if you don’t want to get dressed up for formal nights you can have the same menu up in the Grill and the Verandah area. The Verandah is an outside area where you can dine alfresco when the weather is good.
• There are three speciality dining options. The first of which is one that I know Saga are very excited about, and passengers are also very excited about, and this is The Club by Jools Holland. Jools Holland being a well-known British entertainer and musician. The Club is a steakhouse, and, in the evenings, they have cabaret, which is all curated by Jools Holland.
• Then there’s Coast to Coast, which is a beautiful restaurant and it’s the seafood restaurant. This seats 74 diners. It’s a new concept to Saga and is only open in the evening.
• The one which really appeals to me is East to West, and this is an Asian fusion restaurant with beautiful decor. It’s only open in the evenings and holds 76 diners.
• Also, which is included, is your sixth dining option on board the Spirit of Discovery and that’s 24-hour room service. Again, no charge as all of the dining options are included within the fare.

Britannia Lounge

For me, the third most amazing and great thing about the ship is the Britannia lounge. Britannia lounge is a classic on all the Saga ships, and this particular lounge is spectacular. When you walk in there’s a real wow factor.

The Britannia lounge is used during the day for talks, or various events, and in the evening it’s where you can go dancing as there’s a dance floor. You have the Britannia deck outside which has some beautiful artwork there and, as it’s on the front of the ship, you have great views as the ship sails through the beautiful scenery.

Britannia lounge I’ve pulled out as one of the best things about the new ship because I do think it is one of the absolute best parts of the ship. It really is a magnificent space.

The fourth thing that I’ve identified as being really good about the ship are the cabins. I want to talk about a couple of cabins specifically.

All of the cabins have balconies, so there’s no inside cabins and no ocean view cabins. It is entirely a balcony ship.

In the brochure and on the website they I identify nine grades, but I think you can better split those down into three key categories: solo cabins, balcony cabins (with two types: standard and deluxe) and then Suites (where there are three types midships, forward and aft).

One of the things I really wanted to talk about solo cabins. 20% or 109 cabins on board the Spirit of Discovery are solo cabins. Saga really cater for solo travellers in a big way. Also, what’s great is they cater for different budget types within solo cabins. They have a standard cabin, superior cabin, deluxe cabin and even have solo suites. So, catering for solo travellers is a really big plus.

Accessible cabins

The other great thing that Saga do is cater phenomenally well for people who have disabilities or need accessible cabins. The accessible cabins I was really impressed with. Of course, it’s a great size to have extra space if you’re in a wheelchair, there is a wet room style bathroom, ramp which heads up and out onto the balcony, but the great thing about it is every single accessible cabin has an interconnecting door to a solo cabin next door. It means if you’re traveling with a friend, family or even a carer, they can have a separate cabin connected to yours – and they don’t have to share a cabin or bunk up with you.

I think there’s real plusses here. Not only do they have a range of cabins for all budgets, but they really cater phenomenally well for solo travellers, with those many different grades, and for people with accessibility needs especially if they’re travelling with carers or friends.

So, the cabins for me definitely are a real big plus.

Entertainment

The fifth thing that I want to talk about is entertainment and their take on entertainment as I think they do somethings slightly differently.

They have the Playhouse Theatre, which can seat 440 at one time. They have production shows in the evening and have guest artists. At other times it acts as a cinema. So, that’s fairly standard and, as you’d expect, it’s pretty high-tech being a new ship.

The Library

The other thing which they have, which I think is great, is the Library. The library is a really interesting venue. It’s not only a great looking venue, where they have 3,500 books in an enormous library, they have self-service teas and coffees here, but they have a couple of really interesting things. They have an enormous craft area, and they run classes on jewellery making and paper crafts. Then they have a large card room. Bridge and card playing is very popular on board, so this dedicated card room which can hold up to 40 people at one time.

In terms of entertainment and activities they have a large enrichment program. There’s always guest speakers and lecturers. The entertainment definitely is more enrichment orientated and they do some great things.

Social Venues

• In terms of social venues, they have a number of places where you can socialise. One of the most interesting is the South Cape Bar. This is the name of a bar which originally appeared on one of their first and earlier ships within the cruise line which was the Saga Ruby back in 2005.
• Another great space, which is part of a hub of the ship is known as the Living Room. During the day this is a coffee bar, and, in the evening, it becomes a cocktail bar. Because it’s right in the heart of the ship and near the atrium, it’s a real hub during the day and in the evening. The living room is a great space, beautiful seating areas and a fun bar.
• Of course, you have the Britannia lounge which I’ve already spoken about, and you have the Terrace at the back of the ship which I’ve also spoken about.

The next thing that I thought was really good, and struck me about the ship, was just how much space and effort was focused on the whole area of wellness.

First of all, they have a spa, which is huge. In the spa you, of course, have traditional spa treatments, a pretty big salon area, a large steam room and sauna area and a great hydrotherapy pool area. So, lots of space dedicated to the pampering side of wellness.

Right up on the top of the ship they have a fitness area and the gym area.

There’s an outdoor sports area, and they have a Fairway golf simulator. So, lots of space and focus on wellness.

All-inclusive

Another really good thing on board the Spirit of Discovery is the all-inclusive nature of the fare.

Saga had been pretty inclusive, but from 2020 they’re going completely all-inclusive. So, what does that mean?

Obviously, your accommodation, all the dining as I’ve already mentioned, gratuities, Wi-Fi and from 2020 drinks are included. They also include a pickup service where you get picked up from your home and taken to and from the ship. Insurance is included, and if you don’t take the insurance you can then also get a slight discount on the fare.

Of course, you have extras like excursions, spa treatments and if you buy stuff in the shop.

But, it’s great to know that all the fundamentals of the cruise experience are included within the fare.

So, those are my views about the eight great and good things about the brand-new Spirit of Discovery ship from Saga. So, what about the downsides that could stop you cruising?

Saga is a UK-based company and they do all of their marketing to UK passengers, and they create a very British experience. Now, that doesn’t mean if you’re not a UK resident you can’t cruise on Saga! If you want to cruise on Saga and you’re out of the UK, make sure that you connect through with Saga in the UK.

However, the biggest issue that you face is: in order to cruise with Saga Cruises, you need to be over 50 years of age. However, if you are 50 years of age and your partner or friend is over 40, they can cruise with you. But you do need to be over 50 before you can cruise on a Saga Cruise.

If you want to find out much more about cruising and Saga Cruises, I have many more videos on the topic so why don’t you watch one of those right now!

Note: I cruised as a guest of Saga on a pre-naming shakedown cruise and toured the ship on its arrival into Dover. Saga had no input or say on the content or images used in my video.

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Tags: adult cruise adult travel cruise advice cruise holiday cruise tips cruise vacation over 50's cruise over 50's travel saga saga cruises spirit of discovery

Gary Bembridge

I grew up in Zimbabwe, but I have been based in London since 1987. My travel life spans more than three decades and that includes more than 95 cruises. In 2005, I launched Tips for Travellers to make it easy and fun for people to discover, plan and enjoy incredible cruise vacations. And the rest, as they say, is history. I have the largest cruise vlogger channel currently on YouTube, with more than 3 million video views per month.

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Single cabin experience?

By heathermk57 , January 6, 2023 in Saga Cruises

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heathermk57

Happy New Year to all.

I'm thinking of cruising with Saga for the first time at the end of February on the Northern Lights cruise.  I'm an experienced cruiser with RCCL and Celebrity.  I will be looking to book a single cabin for the first time this time.  I'm just wondering if anyone has any experience of the single cabins on the Spirit of Adventure please?  Is there a favourite deck or location for instance?  There seem to be a few different locations available at the moment. Thank you for any guidance or words of wisdom. 

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I have sailed in (standard) single cabins on both SoD and SoA; they are identical apart from the decor. The cabins are of a good size - as big as twin cabins on some lines - and have all the facilities found in twin cabins. They are plenty big enough for a solo traveller, and storage is more than adequate for one. They have a double bed not a single - Saga must think that there is life in the old dogs yet 🙂   - and a small sitting area with a chair and table. All have balconies.

As regards location. it's very much a matter of personal choice; whether you want to be closer to the open decks or the public rooms, or somewhere inbetween. I tend to avoid cabins situated immediately below open decks or public rooms because of the potential noise, so would avoid A deck if possible.

On 1/7/2023 at 1:58 PM, Denarius said: I have sailed in (standard) single cabins on both SoD and SoA; they are identical apart from the decor. The cabins are of a good size - as big as twin cabins on some lines - and have all the facilities found in twin cabins. They are plenty big enough for a solo traveller, and storage is more than adequate for one. They have a double bed not a single - Saga must think that there is life in the old dogs yet 🙂   - and a small sitting area with a chair and table. All have balconies. As regards location. it's very much a matter of personal choice; whether you want to be closer to the open decks or the public rooms, or somewhere inbetween. I tend to avoid cabins situated immediately below open decks or public rooms because of the potential noise, so would avoid A deck if possible.

Thank you for the information. I'm dithering a bit but hoping to make a decision soon! 

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Spirit of the Rhine cabins and suites

Spirit of the rhine staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

Spirit of the Rhine cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by Saga River Cruises (Saga Cruises) en-suite amenities and services.

The Spirit of the Rhine cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

French Balcony Cabin

Layout (floor plan).

Window Cabin

Spirit of the Rhine cabins review

Saga Spirit of the Rhine ship has mainly French Balcony cabins (with floor-ceiling, slide-opening window doors opening to a railing). The number of cabin categories is 9 (max capacity is 2 guests per cabin). Only Lower Deck cabins are with non-opening windows (located at water level and near the ceiling).

A total of 12 cabins are "Single" and can be booked without a single supplement (subject to availability). These rooms are in the category "Single Deluxe" with French Balcony (IS-Middle Deck, GS-Upper Deck) and "Single Standard" (KS-Lower Deck).

The Saga river cruise ship Spirit of the Rhine offers as standard cabin amenities (provided complimentary to all staterooms regardless of cabin category) a hotel type Queen bed (convertible to two twin beds) sized 200 x 160 cm, with luxury bedding sets and pillows, ample wardrobe storage space, bedside tables, wall-mounted reading lamps, LED ceiling lights, individual air-conditioning (thermostat controlled), 220V / 110V voltage outlets. The seating area is furnished with two armchairs, a coffee/dining table, a mirrored vanity table (writing desk) with a chair, wall-mounted magnifying mirror.

All accommodations have private/en-suite bathroom (with glass-door shower stall, single-sink vanity, WC, hairdryer, premium bath amenities, plush robes), electronic safe box (in the closet), direct-dial phone (for shipboard use only), mini-bar (fridge), complimentary bottled water (supplied daily), smart HDTV (satellite reception, Infotainment system / Internet, movies-on-demand, real-time bridge cam views), free of charge WiFi Internet (shipwide coverage).

Complimentary alcohol (beer and wine by the glass) and soft beverages are provided during lunch and dinner. On MS Spirit of the Rhine, Saga Cruises for the first time included (as standard) in the cruise fares gratuities (onboard tipping), beverages (beer, wine, soft drinks) and VIP travel transfers (from homes/hotels).

Spirit of the Rhine cabin and suite plans are property of Saga River Cruises (Saga Cruises) . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

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The bourgeois charm of Siberia's oil capital

If you’re driving west across Russia from the Pacific Ocean, the first thing that you notice upon entering the city of Tyumen is the McDonalds. Tyumen has long been one of the only Siberian cities with a McDonalds restaurant. Although the fast-food giant has plans to open locations in nearby Novosibirsk and other regional cities, Siberia still contains one of the longest distances on earth outside of Africa where you can remain on a major highway and not see a McDonalds. Until you reach Tyumen, that is.

A stop in Tyumen provides an interesting glimpse into how modern Russia’s oil revenue has influenced Siberia’s oldest Russian city. Tyumen is a great stopover point on the Trans-Siberian Railroad and a short ride from Yekaterinburg (five hours) or Tobolsk (four hours).

In the 16th century, Russia started expanding eastward into parts of Central Asia ruled by the Tatars, an Islamic people who still live thoughout Russia. A band of Cossacks wrested control of Tyumen from the Tatars in 1580. Six years later, Russians established a fort in Tyumen on the Tura River.

For centuries, Tyumen vied with the nearby city of Tobolsk—once the official capital of Siberia—for the prestige of the region’s most important city. Tyumen won in the end, when the Trans-Siberian Railroad bypassed Tobolsk and was routed through this now oil-rich city.

Tyumen played an important role in Russian history during times of war. At the beginning of the Russian Civil War, the Bolshevik Red Army slowly pushed the White Army, commanded by Admiral Alexander Kolchak, into Siberia. Kolchak and his anti-Bolshevik forces holed up in Tyumen until the Red Army overtook them in January of 1918.

During the Second World War, many Russian industries were moved away from the front to Siberian cities. Tyumen had already become an industrial capital during the early Soviet era, and the city became an ideal spot to relocate Russia’s western factories. As Nazi forces approached Russia in 1941, the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin was sent from the Lenin Mausoleum in Moscow’s Red Square by train to the Tyumen State Agricultural Academy for safekeeping. In 1945, Lenin’s body was shipped back to Moscow.

Some of the factories relocated to Tyumen during wartime remained in the city. The discovery of oil in the region catapulted Siberia’s oldest Russian settlement to further prosperity. Modern Tyumen is a vibrant city with a number of universities and a revamped center well-suited for exploration by foot.

Start your walking tour around central Tyumen on Ulitsa Respubliki. The city’s main drag has fine pedestrian walkways and leads wanderers past an impressive collection of tsarist-era buildings that recall Tyumen’s importance in the beginning of Russia’s colonization of Siberia.

From the southeastern end of Ul. Respubliki, head north toward the Tura River and take a brief side trip onto Ul. Ordzhonikidze to visit the Fine Arts Museum (47 Ul. Ordzhonikidze) which houses exhibits of classical Russian and Soviet art as well as traditional bone carving and works produced by the native people who live in the far north of Tyumen Oblast.

Back on Ul. Respubliki, you’ll soon see the city’s requisite Lenin statue by the local government buildings. A block away, opposite Lenin, is Tyumen’s city park, a delightful place to walk or hop on one of its amusement rides.

Most Siberian cities developed under the watchful eyes of the atheist Soviet regime and churches are usually not Siberia’s strongpoint. But this isn’t true in four-centuries-old Tyumen. Strolling up Ul. Respubliki, you’ll soon come to the Church of the Saviour (41 Ul. Lenina) and the Znamensky Cathedral (13 Ul. Semakova). Each of these stunning Baroque-influenced churches are located right off Ul. Respubliki and were built in the late 18th century.

Tyumen is also famous for its historic wooden houses. Heading further up Ul. Respubliki, stop to wander around some of the side streets and snap photos of these ornate wooden structures which provide a glimpse back in time. Near the Tura River, you’ll pass a civil war monument in remembrance of the Tyumen natives who died fighting the White Army and the Tyumen State Agricultural Academy (7 Ul. Respubliki) an impressive building in its own right where Lenin was stored during the Second World War.

Near the end of Ul. Respubliki, take a walk over the Tura River on the Lover’s Bridge, a suspension bridge open to foot traffic only that has become one of Tyumen’s iconic sights. The other side of the river is a great place to see more of Tyumen’s signature wooden houses as well as take in the churches scattered around the city center.

Save the best for last and visit the Trinity Monastery (10 Ul. Kommunisticheskaya) at the end of Ul. Respubliki. A white wall surrounds the monastery, giving it the appearance of a mini-kremlin, and the golden onion domes of the 18th century churches within should not be missed.

Although navigating Tyumen is straightforward enough, the St. Petersburg-based travel company OSTWEST can arrange a city tour in Tyumen and the surrounding countryside.

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