Samara, a picturesque city on the banks of the Volga River, is known for its beautiful embankment, rich history, and unique space heritage. As one of the host cities for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Samara welcomed the world to experience its charm, blending modern culture with historical depth.

One of the city’s highlights is its river embankment, stretching about 5 kilometers, making it one of Russia’s longest. This scenic promenade is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, filled with cafés, urban gardens, sandy beaches, and walking paths. It’s also home to Zhiguli Brewery, one of the oldest breweries in Russia, founded in 1881. Visitors can sample the famous Zhiguli beer, a beloved local tradition.

At the heart of the city, in true homage to Russia’s space exploration legacy, stands a real R-7 rocket. Built in 1984 at the Samara Progress Rocket Center, this giant rocket was installed in 2001 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin’s historic mission as the first human in space. The sight of this towering structure serves as a reminder of Samara’s contribution to the Soviet space program and its ongoing role in aerospace manufacturing.

From riverside relaxation to space exploration landmarks, Samara offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity that captures the spirit of Russia in a single city.