bahamas cruise from galveston

8 - Day Eastern Caribbean from Galveston, TX

Cruise itinerary.

Day 1: Galveston

Day 2: Fun Day at Sea

Day 3: key west, day 4: freeport, day 5: half moon cay, day 6: nassau.

Day 7 & 8: Fun Day at Sea

Day 9: galveston.

Get to Know Carnival Dream

It's one thing to be fun, but it's another thing to be first. Carnival Dream was at the forefront of a recent wave of amazingly innovative and fun Carnival ships. As the genesis of the Dream class, Carnival Dream set the direction for the ships that followed in her footsteps — first Carnival Magic and then Carnival Breeze. But back to Carnival Dream: the ship itself is a unique experience with the way-fun RedFrog Rum Bar ® and the very cool BlueIguana Tequila Bar ™ . Get your appetite ready, because you're gonna need it. Carnival Dream features two dual-level dining rooms, a gourmet steakhouse and dedicated sushi spot Bonsai Sushi ™ . It's also got a full menu of our latest and greatest casual spots for a bite: BlueIguana Cantina ™ , Pizzeria del Capitano, Guy's Burger Joint ™ and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse ™ . (That's Guy as in Guy Fieri, by the way — so you know the food's delish.) Carnival Dream also features the borderline-magical Alchemy Bar ® and Ocean Plaza, which combines tasty treats with perhaps even tastier entertainment. Entertainment options are all up and down the ship, and so is soaking-wet fun, from the heart-racing waterslide action at Carnival WaterWorks ™ to the soul-soothing Thalassotherapy pool at the Cloud 9 Spa ™ . Despite its name, Carnival Dream is definitely a reality. Can't believe it? Pinch yourself... and book your dream cruise today.

Onboard Activities

Onboard Dining

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Bahamas Cruises from Galveston, Texas

Want to see the Bahamas but don’t want to travel all the way to Florida? Cruises departing from Galveston, Texas get you there and back in seven days’ time.

For years, Carnival Cruises maintained this route, taking travelers along the Gulf Coast to Key West, before departing for the Bahamas. More recently, Disney Cruises starting offering similar seven-day trips that include a stop to their own private island, Castaway Cay.

Cruise Lines

As of 2016, two companies offer Bahamas cruises from Galveston: • Carnival Cruise Lines • Disney Cruises

Both offer multiple stops in the Bahamas and spend time in Key West.

You’ll have a choice of two basic itineraries: Galveston to Key West and then to the Bahamas, or Galveston directly to the Bahamas with a stop going back in Key West. Generally, you spend three days on the water and one day in each port.

Freeport: Located on Grand Bahama Island, Freeport is best known for its soft white sands and many outdoor activities. Those seeking nightlife in the country’s northernmost city head toward the hotels, restaurants, and casinos, but Freeport’s equally known for its natural destinations. If this describes you, make sure to include an excursion to Lucayan National Park or to the beach, where you’ll get to swim with the dolphins, kayak, or snorkel.

Nassau: Nassau’s the Bahamas’ most busiest port. For one, this capital city, characterized by pastel-colored buildings, is the country’s population center and home to multiple resorts, casinos, and duty-free shopping areas. But while the city sits on New Providence Island, it’s not far from Paradise Island, so you’ll have an opportunity to explore the country’s outdoor attractions – Predator Lagoon and Blackbeard’s Cay, for starters – and take in its pastiche of European, Caribbean, and African cultural influences.

When you want to take a cruise starting closer to home, schedule your next trip to the Bahamas from Galveston. To find the right itinerary and start planning your vacation, browse Direct Line Cruises today.

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Best Bahamas Cruise From Galveston

Find the Best Bahamas Cruise From Galveston with our cruise search. Save even more when you activate free price alerts and use our price prediction on your Bahamas cruise departing from Galveston.

Very good price

16 Night Transatlantic

Galveston; Nassau, Bahamas; Cadiz & Seville; Malaga; Cartagena, Spain; Valencia, Spain; Barcelona

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11 Night Caribbean Eastern

Galveston; Montego Bay; Amber Cove (Puerto Plata), Dominican Republic; Grand Turk; Nassau,... Galveston

8 Night Caribbean

Galveston; Key West, Florida; Freeport, Bahamas; Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (Private Island); N... Galveston

8 Night Caribbean Western

Galveston; Cozumel, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Galveston

Cruises from Galveston, Texas: Gateway to Caribbean Adventures

Plan your ideal Western Caribbean voyage with ease. Discover the best times to cruise from Galveston with our month-by-month weather guide.

Tag: 7-Day Caribbean Wonders from Galveston

Galveston, Texas, emerges as the quintessential starting point for 7-day cruises, offering an extensive range of destinations that encapsulate the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean and Mexico. These week-long voyages are perfect for exploring a variety of cultures, landscapes, and historical sites, making every moment count on your sea adventure. Just a short 50-mile journey from downtown Houston in Texas leads you to the enchanting Galveston Island . Here, the historic city of Galveston beckons with sun-kissed beaches, architectural marvels, and a vibrant cultural scene, including numerous museums and galleries. As you step onto the island, you’re stepping into a world rich with Texas’ coastal heritage, poised for exploration and discovery. Alongside the thrills of your cruise, delve into the wider array of Texas wonders that can enrich your travel experience even further.

A Week of Exploration: Diverse Destinations Await

From the bustling Port of Galveston , embark on a journey with renowned cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line. Each line offers 6-day itineraries with a unique perspective on the Caribbean and Mexican wonders, allowing you to tailor your experience to your personal taste for adventure, elegance, family fun, or relaxation. Explore the diverse and captivating destinations that await and set sail for an extraordinary week-long escape.

Carnival Cruise Line

A Week of Unparalleled Fun . Carnival Cruise Line ‘s 7-day itineraries from Galveston are a blend of excitement and relaxation, featuring stops in Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and the Cayman Islands. Each destination offers unique experiences, from Mayan ruins to crystal-clear waters.

Royal Caribbean

Adventure on Every Horizon . Royal Caribbean ‘s 7-day cruises from Galveston take you on an adventure to Mexico, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands, each promising its own distinct flavor of Caribbean culture, adventure, and natural beauty.

Princess Cruises

Elegance and Exotic Destinations . Princess Cruises offers a refined 7-day journey from Galveston, with itineraries that let you explore the depths of Mexico’s coastal wonders and the exotic landscapes of Belize and Honduras.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Diverse Routes, Unique Experiences . NCL ‘s 7-day cruises from Galveston are perfect for those who crave variety. Explore the vibrant life of Mexico, the rich history of Honduras, and the natural splendor of Belize with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Disney Cruise Line

Enchanting Caribbean Tales . A 7-day cruise with Disney Cruise Line from Galveston is an experience filled with magical moments for families. From the enchanting islands of the Bahamas to the cultural richness of Jamaica, Disney ensures a memorable journey.

The Caribbean and Beyond: Ports of Call on Your 7-Day Journey

Mexican charm.

Cozumel and Costa Maya . Your 7-day cruise from Galveston takes you to Cozumel and Costa Maya , where you can immerse yourself in Mexico ‘s rich history, relax on beautiful beaches, and explore underwater wonders.

Belize and Honduras

Natural Beauty Unveiled . In Belize and Honduras , experience the thrill of exploring ancient Mayan ruins and the serenity of sandy beaches. Belize City and Harvest Caye, along with Roatan and Mahogany Bay , offer a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty.

Jamaica and the Cayman Islands

Islands of Rhythm and Luxury . The vibrant culture of Jamaica and the luxury of the Cayman Islands await. Discover the rhythmic heart of Jamaica in Falmouth , Montego Bay , and Ocho Rios , and indulge in the serene beauty of George Town in the Cayman Islands.

The Bahamas

A Tropical Escape . The Bahamas portion of your 7-day cruise offers a chance to explore the idyllic beaches of Freeport , the rich history of Nassau , and the natural beauty of Key West . These destinations promise a perfect tropical getaway.

Embark on Your 7-Day Cruise Adventure from Galveston

A 7-day cruise from Galveston is an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the Caribbean and Mexico. Experience the pinnacle of adventure with Royal Caribbean’s innovative and exhilarating itineraries, or embark on a journey of unparalleled diversity and excitement with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). Alongside the vibrant and fun-filled voyages of Carnival, the luxurious journeys of Princess Cruises, and the family-oriented adventures of Disney Cruise Line, each cruise line promises a unique and unforgettable cruise experience from Galveston . For a complete overview of the itineraries available, explore the 2024 Galveston cruise schedule and the 2025 cruise schedule . These comprehensive guides offer a detailed look into the variety of options available, helping you choose the perfect cruise to fulfill your Caribbean and Mexican dreams.

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, August 23, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 549 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, August 16, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, August 16, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 549 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, August 9, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 599 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, August 2, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, August 2, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 699 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, July 26, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, July 26, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 749 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, July 19, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 799 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, July 12, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 799 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, July 5, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, July 5, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 799 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, June 28, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, June 28, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 799 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, June 21, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, June 21, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 799 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, June 14, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, June 14, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 799 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, June 7, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, June 7, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 749 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, May 31, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, May 31, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 749 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, May 24, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 749 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, May 17, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 599 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, May 10, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, May 10, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 559 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, May 3, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 559 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

Norwegian Viva, Western Caribbean from Galveston, April 4, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026; Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Norwegian Viva; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 1,006 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (4:00pm), Cozumel (7:30am-4:30pm), Harvest Caye (10:00am-5:00pm), Roatan (7:00am-5:00pm), Costa Maya (7:00am-1:00pm),[…]

MSC Seascape, Mexico and Honduras from Galveston, April 26, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Seascape; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 559 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-6:00pm), Roatan (8:00am-4:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (7:00am); 7-day cruise[…]

Carnival Jubilee, Honduras and Mexico from Galveston, April 25, 2026

Cruising from: Galveston, Texas; Departure Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026; Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Carnival Jubilee; Duration: 7-day cruise; Price from: 799 $; Ports of Call: Galveston (4:00pm), Mahogany Bay (8:00am-6:00pm), Costa Maya (8:00am-5:00pm), Cozumel (8:00am-4:00pm), Galveston (8:00am);[…]

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News Release

Debuting more new itineraries for 2026/27, carnival cruise line will bring more guests to half moon cay after expansion work is complete.

Popular Destination to Expand Just Ahead of New Deployment Plans for Carnival Ships in Several Key Homeports

MIAMI, Aug. 27, 2024 – Carnival Cruise Line today announced an array of new itineraries for seven of its ships setting sail in 2026 and 2027 from four of its U.S. homeports: Miami , Port Canaveral , Galveston and Baltimore . Among the many destinations featured in the new itineraries is Half Moon Cay , a private island set for expansion. The highly rated destination known for relaxing, beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters will be enhanced to include an expanded beach, dining and beverage experiences along with a pier that will allow some of its ships to dock, making way for Carnival’s Excel class ships Mardi Gras , Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee to visit for the first time. More details on the expansion plans will be announced soon.  Also featured on many new sailings is Celebration Key, the first exclusive destination Carnival is developing for its guests.

Cruise from Miami on New Itineraries for Carnival Celebration Carnival’s newest and most innovative ship from Miami, Carnival Celebration , will offer a variety of seven-day cruises exploring both the Eastern and Western Caribbean, with a range of departure dates available through spring 2027. Guests can choose from a diverse selection of itineraries, including visits to the soon-to-open Celebration Key and popular destinations like Nassau and Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Cozumel, Mahogany Bay, St. Thomas and San Juan.             Itineraries for additional ships that homeport in Miami will be announced soon.

Cruise from Port Canaveral on New Itineraries for Mardi Gras and Carnival Venezia             From Port Canaveral, Carnival’s popular Mardi Gras will sail a variety of seven-day cruises exploring both the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Along with new itineraries that feature Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay, the new Mardi Gras sailings also include several guest-favorite destinations, such as Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Nassau, Cozumel and Mahogany Bay. Guests can choose from a range of departure dates available into spring 2027.             New itineraries are also offered for Carnival Venezia , which sails from Port Canaveral seasonally. The ship will be sailing to both the Western and Eastern Caribbean, with a mix of seven- and 14-day cruises. The “Carnival Fun Italian Style” ship will sail guests to destinations such as Celebration Key, Cozumel, Mahogany Bay, Grand Turk, San Juan and St. Thomas. Three Southern Caribbean 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises are also available and include a range of destinations including Aruba, Curacao, Grenada, Barbados, Dominica, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, St. Kitts and Antigua.             More itineraries for other ships that homeport in Port Canaveral will be announced soon.

Cruise from Galveston on New Itineraries for Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Dream and Carnival Breeze             Carnival is launching a new rotation of itineraries for its newest ship, Carnival Jubilee , from Galveston beginning in September 2026. The ship will offer a variety of six- and eight-day cruises exploring the Western Caribbean and The Bahamas. The new six-day itineraries include visits to Cozumel and Mahogany Bay; and the eight-day itineraries visit Key West, Nassau, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key. Prior to September 2026, Carnival Jubilee will offer seven-day itineraries visiting Cozumel, Mahogany Bay and Costa Maya.             Carnival Dream is offering a variety of itineraries from Galveston as well with a range of new six-, seven- and eight-day cruises that visit popular Western and Eastern Caribbean destinations. Several cruises feature stops in Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay. For guests seeking longer adventures, Carnival Dream will also offer 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises to the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, with stops in a variety of destinations including Ocho Rios, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, San Juan, Amber Cove, Key West, Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten and St. Croix             Carnival Breeze will offer a variety of Western Caribbean itineraries from Galveston. Four-day cruises to Mexico typically visit Cozumel and five-day cruises add a stop in Yucatan (Progreso).  An eight-day option features a more diverse itinerary, including stops in Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, Costa Maya and Cozumel.

Cruise from Baltimore on Carnival Pride Week-long voyages from Baltimore on Carnival Pride include Bahamas cruises featuring stops at Half Moon Cay or Princess Cays, Nassau and Celebration Key, as well as cruises to Bermuda that offer an overnight stay. Several longer adventures are also available, with three 14-day Carnival Journeys sailings that feature unique itineraries. One of the Carnival Journeys cruises to Greenland and Canada will sail guests to Nanortalik and Qaqortoq, Greenland as well as St. Anthony, Corner Brook, and Sydney, Canada. The two 14-day Carnival Journeys sailings will explore the Southern Caribbean with stops in St. Thomas, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, Aruba, Curacao, Amber Cove, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua and Tortola. For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation on Carnival, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit http://www.carnival.com , or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site. # # #

ABOUT CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE Carnival Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is the first cruise line to sail over 100 million guests and is proud to be known as America's Cruise Line, for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other. Since its founding in 1972, Carnival has continually revolutionized the cruise industry and popularized the cruise vacation as an affordable and fun travel option. Carnival operates from 14 U.S. and two Australian homeports, as well as seasonally from Europe and employs more than 48,000 team members representing 120 nationalities.

Carnival’s fleet of 27 ships reflects an exciting period of growth that continues with the addition of seven ships through 2033: two ships joining in February 2025 when P&O Cruises Australia integrates into Carnival; a fourth and fifth Excel class ship scheduled for 2027 and 2028 respectively; followed by three additional new ships from an innovative new class currently under development. Carnival’s next new guest offering will be the all-new exclusive destination, Celebration Key, set to debut on Grand Bahama next summer.

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE MEDIA CONTACT: [email protected]

AIDA Cruises is the market leader in the German-speaking cruise market. Home of the smile, AIDA Cruises is the epitome of a premium-quality, relaxing cruise and operates one of the world’s most state-of-the-art fleets. Visit: www.aida.de

Carnival Cruise Line, also known as America’s Cruise Line, is a leader in contemporary cruising and operates a fleet of ships designed to provide fun and memorable vacation experiences at a great value. Visit: www.carnival.com

Costa Cruises delivers Italy’s finest at sea, bringing modern Italian lifestyle to its ships to provide guests with a true European experience that embodies a unique passion for life through warm hospitality, entertainment and gastronomy. Visit: www.costacruise.com

Cunard is the epitome of British refinement for travelers who relish the line’s impeccable White Star Service, gourmet dining, world-class entertainment, and the legacy of historic voyages and transatlantic travel. Visit: www.cunard.com

Holland America Line's premium fleet of spacious, elegant mid-sized ships feature sophisticated five-star dining, extensive entertainment and activities, innovative culinary enrichment programs and compelling worldwide itineraries. Visit: www.hollandamerica.com

P&O Cruises (UK) is Britain’s favorite cruise line with a fleet of ships combining genuine service and a sense of occasion and attention to detail, ensuring passengers have the holiday of a lifetime, every time. Visit: www.pocruises.co.uk

P&O Cruises (Australia) provides a quintessential holiday experience for Australians and New Zealanders, taking them to some of the world's most idyllic and hard-to-reach places across Asia and the South Pacific. Visit: www.pocruises.co.au

Princess is the world’s leading international cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of modern cruise ships, renowned for the innovative design and wide array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities. Visit: www.princess.com

Seabourn provides ultraluxury cruising vacations in a unique, small-ship style that focuses on genuine, intuitive service, all-suite accommodations, superb cuisine and unique experiences in destinations worldwide. Visit: www.seabourn.com

Caribbean vs. Bahamas cruises: Which itinerary will I like better?

You're looking for warm weather, gorgeous beaches, water sports and guaranteed R&R on your next cruise. Should you book a cruise to the Caribbean or the Bahamas ? With so many islands on a vast number of itineraries, the vacation choices can get overwhelming – the exact opposite of the therapeutic cruise you're hoping to take.

Bottom line: You can't go wrong with any island cruise, but you can pick the itinerary that will suit your travel style and preferences best. Here, we'll compare Bahamas and Caribbean cruises to give you a cheat sheet for picking the perfect cruise for you.

Caribbean vs. Bahamas cruise itineraries

Both Bahamas and Caribbean cruise itineraries come in short and long varieties. The main difference when it comes to Caribbean versus Bahamas sailings is that Bahamas cruises visit multiple islands within one country, whereas Caribbean cruises include a mix of island and Central American mainland ports across several countries.

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Caribbean itineraries are broken down into Western, Eastern and Southern Caribbean routes. Western Caribbean cruises depart from southern U.S. ports from Galveston, Texas, to Florida and either go to Mexico and Central America or to the islands west of Cuba and Haiti. Short cruises tend to hit one or two ports in Mexico; weeklong cruises visit a mix of island and mainland destinations.

Eastern Caribbean cruises depart mainly from Florida or Caribbean destinations like San Juan or St. Thomas. These sailings include the islands east of Cuba and Haiti, such as the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, St. Martin/Maarten, and Puerto Rico. Sailings labeled Eastern Caribbean that depart from northeast ports are either longer than a week or mainly Bahamas cruises that include a visit to one Caribbean port, such as the Dominican Republic or Grand Turk.

You won't find short cruises to the Southern Caribbean, so if you want to cruise to places like Aruba or St. Lucia, you'll need at least a week. These sailings mostly depart from Florida or Caribbean islands. If you're looking for luxury, the small-ship and high-end lines focus their attention in this area, as well as on the smaller Eastern Caribbean islands. Southern Caribbean sailings tend to be more port-intensive, with fewer sea days of all the Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries.

Bahamas cruises depart from the broadest range of home ports, from Galveston on the Gulf Coast to Florida and Northeast ports like Baltimore and Bayonne, New Jersey (one of several ports in the New York City area). You'll find many short sailings to these islands since they're located close to Florida. (Freeport, Bahamas, is closer to Miami than Key West is.) Weeklong sailings can be Bahamas-only or include ports in Florida or close-in Caribbean destinations like Grand Turk.

RELATED: Bahamas vs. Bermuda cruise itineraries

To make matters more confusing, cruise lines will often mix destinations from the different tropical regions on one itinerary. A Southern Caribbean cruise may include ports in the Eastern Caribbean, and a Western Caribbean sailing might stop at a cruise line's private island in the Bahamas.

Ignore the sailing's name and look at the ports of call to figure out where you're actually going.

Caribbean vs. Bahamas ports of call

The main Bahamian ports are Nassau on New Providence Island (the country's capital) and Freeport on Grand Bahama Island. Some ships have recently started calling on Bimini as well. Beaches and water sports are the main activities. Most cruise line private islands – Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay , Carnival Corp.'s Half Moon Cay, Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Cay, Princess Cruises ' Princess Cays and Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Stirrup Cay – are in the Bahamas and make for a great beach day.

Western Caribbean cruise ports include several ports in Jamaica and Mexico, as well as Grand Cayman, Roatan (Honduras) and Belize City. If you want to explore the ruins of ancient Mayan cities, you'll want to choose an itinerary that visits Mexico and/or Belize.

Big-ship cruise lines call at the bigger Eastern Caribbean ports, such as San Juan (Puerto Rico), Grand Turk, the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas and St. Maarten/Martin. Smaller and more upscale ships will head for the more intimate Virgin Islands, such as St. John, Tortola, Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda. Most of these islands are beach and water sport destinations, though St. Thomas and St. Martin have a reputation for shopping. San Juan mixes old-city charm with modern restaurants and boutiques.

The Southern Caribbean encompasses a wide range of ports, from ritzy St. Barth's to volcanic St. Lucia, rugged Dominica, French Martinique and British Barbados. Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire are so far south that they're out of the main hurricane belt and your fun in the sun will be less likely to be disrupted by seasonal storms.

Caribbean vs. Bahamas beaches and water sports

Divers, snorkelers, kayakers, paddleboarders and straight-up beach bums will find plenty of water-based fun in both the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

In every destination, you'll find a swimming beach within driving, if not walking, distance from the cruise port. Many have coral reefs offshore to thrill snorkelers and divers; the waters of the Caribbean are littered with shipwrecks that will make your underwater adventure extra scenic.

If you're a novice snorkeler or dedicated sunbather, you'll be pleased with any Bahamas or Caribbean itinerary you choose. Experienced divers or water sports enthusiasts should research the ports that offer particular water sports experiences, such as windsurfing or advanced-level wreck diving.

Caribbean vs. Bahamas shore excursions and activities

With more ports and itinerary options, it's not surprising that you have more choices of activities in the Caribbean versus the Bahamas.

If you're into shopping, Nassau's Bay Street offers the gamut of retail outlets selling everything from diamonds and high-end brands to rum cake, T-shirts and items woven from straw. The other Bahamian ports aren't shopping destinations for much beyond souvenirs. In the Caribbean, St. Barth's is the place for swanky boutiques; French Martinique and St. Martin sell goods from France. St. Thomas is known for its duty-free shopping within easy reach of the port, and San Juan is full of art galleries and boutiques.

Stopping in Belize City or the Mexican ports of Cozumel and Costa Maya is a must for history buffs who want to visit the ruins of ancient Mayan cities. If you prefer forts and military history, look for Caribbean cruises that stop in San Juan, Dominica or Grenada. Bahamas visitors can tour Fort Charlotte in Nassau.

St. Lucia, Dominica, St. John and Puerto Rico are tops for hikers. Bonaire has many trails for cyclists; in the Bahamas, private islands Half Moon Cay and Castaway Cay offer bike paths, as well. If you're looking for river-based activities, you can go cave tubing in Belize and river tubing in Jamaica.

Wildlife lovers will have more options in the Caribbean than the Bahamas. Book a tour to Gumbalimba Park in Roatan or Lamanai in Belize to see monkeys and macaws, or Puerto Rico's El Yunque Rainforest to search for coqui (tree frogs). In the Bahamas, your best bet is the zoo at the Ardastra Gardens in Nassau.

You'll find zip line adventures, 4x4 tours and culinary experiences throughout the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Bottom Line

When comparing the Caribbean and the Bahamas for your next cruise, you will be happy with either choice for a relaxing beach vacation. If you have specific travel goals, such as wildlife viewing or visiting historic sites, the Caribbean will offer the widest variety of activities, but you'll still need to pick the right ports.

Some travelers will find that departure port and cruise length are the most important considerations; if you need a drive-to home port or a four-night sailing, you won't have the same variety of itinerary choices as cruisers who can take a weeklong vacation and fly to their ship.

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Carnival Cruise Line Reveals New Itineraries and Plans for Half Moon Cay Expansion

Carnival Cruise Line has announced new itineraries for seven of its ships setting sail in 2026 and 2027 from Miami, Port Canaveral, Galveston and Baltimore.

The new itineraries include a stop in Half Moon Cay, Carnival’s private island set for expansion. These changes include an expanded beach, dining and beverage experiences and a pier that will enable some of its ships to dock for the first time. 

Miami: Carnival Celebration  

Carnival’s newest ship, Carnival Celebration, will offer a variety of seven-day cruises exploring both the Eastern and Western Caribbean, with a range of departure dates available through spring 2027.

Guests can choose from a selection of itineraries, including visits to the soon-to-open Celebration Key and popular destinations like Nassau and Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Cozumel, Mahogany Bay, St. Thomas and San Juan.

Port Canaveral: Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Venezia  

Carnival’s Mardi Gras will sail a variation of seven-day cruises exploring both the Eastern and Western Caribbean. New itineraries feature Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay along with Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Nassau, Cozumel and Mahogany Bay. Guests can choose from a range of departure dates available into spring 2027.

Also sailing from Port Canaveral seasonally, Carnival Venezia will travel to both the Western and Eastern Caribbean, with a mix of seven- and 14-day cruises. The “Carnival Fun Italian Style” ship will visit destinations such as Celebration Key, Cozumel, Mahogany Bay, Grand Turk, San Juan and St. Thomas.

Three Southern Caribbean 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises include a range of destinations including Aruba, Curacao, Grenada, Barbados, Dominica, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, St. Kitts and Antigua.

Additional itineraries on other Carnival ships from Miami and Port Canaveral will be announced soon.

Galveston: Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Dream and Carnival Breeze

Beginning in September 2026, Carnival Jubilee will offer a variety of six- and eight-day cruises exploring the Western Caribbean and The Bahamas. The new six-day itineraries include port visits to Cozumel and Mahogany Bay. Eight-day itineraries stop in Key West, Nassau, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key. Before September 2026, Carnival Jubilee will offer seven-day itineraries visiting Cozumel, Mahogany Bay and Costa Maya.

Carnival Dream is offering a variety of itineraries from Galveston along with a range of new six-, seven- and eight-day cruises that visit popular Western and Eastern Caribbean destinations. Several cruises feature stops in Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay.

For those seeking longer adventures, Carnival Dream will also offer 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises to the Eastern and Southern Caribbean with stops including Ocho Rios, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, San Juan, Amber Cove, Key West, Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten and St. Croix.

Carnival Breeze will offer a variety of Western Caribbean itineraries from Galveston. Four-day cruises to Mexico typically visit Cozumel and five-day cruises add a stop in Yucatan (Progreso).  An eight-day option features stops in Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, Costa Maya and Cozumel.

Baltimore: Carnival Pride

Week-long voyages on Carnival Pride include the Bahamas with stops at Half Moon Cay or Princess Cays, Nassau and Celebration Key, as well as cruises to Bermuda offering an overnight stay. Longer adventures are available, with three 14-day Carnival Journeys sailings featuring unique itineraries.

One of the Carnival Journeys cruises to Greenland and Canada will take guests to Nanortalik and Qaqortoq, Greenland along with St. Anthony, Corner Brook, and Sydney, Canada. Two 14-day Carnival Journeys sailings will explore the Southern Caribbean with stops in St. Thomas, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, Aruba, Curacao, Amber Cove, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua and Tortola.

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Carnival Unveils Some of Its 2026 and 2027 Sailings, All Featuring Half Moon Cay

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Carnival Cruise Line on Tuesday unveiled itineraries for seven ships for the 2026 and 2027 seasons from four of its most popular U.S. homeports—Miami, Port Canaveral, Galveston, and Baltimore.

Most notably, the itineraries include stops at Half Moon Cay, Carnival’s private island set for a significant expansion. The destination, which has become a major selling point for many travel advisors , will get a private beach, more dining and beverage experiences, and a new pier that will allow some ships, including Mardi Gras, to dock for the first time. More details of those plans should come soon.

In the meantime, among the itineraries announced this week are:

• Seven-day, Western and Eastern Caribbean sailings on Carnival Celebration out of Miami through spring 2027.
• Seven-day Eastern and Western sailings on Mardi Gras out of Port Canaveral into spring 2027.
• A mix of seven-day and 14-day sailings out of Port Canaveral, seasonally, on Carnival Venezia. That includes three 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises.
• Six-day and eight-day cruises to the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas on Carnival Jubilee starting in September 2026 from Galveston.
• Six-day, seven-day, and eight-day cruises from Galveston on Carnival Dream, along with some 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises to the Eastern and Southern Caribbean on the same ship.
• Four-day Mexico and Western Caribbean cruises on Carnival Breeze, along with an eight-day option with more diverse port stops, from Galveston.  
• Week-long sailings on Carnival Pride from Baltimore that feature an overnight stay in Bermuda, along with three 14-day Carnival Journeys sailings.

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Kazan (Tatarstan Russia)

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Region Russia Rivers

Local Time 2024-08-31 03:30

Kazan (Казан) is a Volga River cruise port, as well as the largest city and capital of Tatarstan (one of Russia's republics). By population (around 1,2 million) the city is ranked Russia's 8th largest. It is located at the confluence of two rivers - Volga and Kazanka.

The city's best-known tourist attractions are Kazan Kremlin and Kazan Riviera. Kazan Kremlin is a citadel built by Tzar Ivan Grozny (1547-1584) on the ruins of the khan's castle. Kazan Kremlin includes the buildings Annunciation Cathedral (an orthodox church with 6 piers and 5 apses), Soyembika Tower, Spasskaya Tower, Secret Tower, snow-white towers, and walls, Qol-Sarif mosque, Governor's House (Tatarstan's presidential palace). Since 2000, the city is being constantly renovated and rebuilt (including Kazan Kremlin), and in 2005 was celebrated its 1000th anniversary.

Kazan is one of Russia's largest industrial and financial centers, ranked Russia's 3rd by total banking capital. The main industries are mechanical engineering, chemical and petrochemical industries, food processing, aircraft (engines plant, aircraft production factory). Here is Russia's largest IT-park.

The city is served by Kazan International Airport (approx 26 km / 16 mi from downtown). Railways connect Kazan to Moscow, Ulyanovsk, Yoshkar-Ola, Yekaterinburg. The federal highway links it to Moscow and Ufa, Orenburg, Ulyanovsk , and Igra, as well as to Northern Europe and Western China.

Kazan cruise terminal

Among the  Russian cruise ships  visiting Kazan are the VODOHOD-owned boats MS Pushkin, MS Kuchkin, MS Novgorod, MS Gorky, MS Suvorov, MS Frunze, MS Budyonny.

Departure ports are  Saratov ,  Volgograd ,  Perm ,  Nizhny Novgorod ,  Cheboksary ,  Astrakhan , Samara ,  Rostov-on-Don ,  Moscow ,  St Petersburg . The VODOVOD-operated routes (excluding itineraries through Kazan) are:

• Novgorod-Kazan-Novgorod (4-5-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Moscow (6-day cruisetour)
• Moscow-Kazan (5-6-day cruisetour)
• Moscow-Kazan-Moscow (11-day cruisetour)
• Moscow-Kazan-Ulyanovsk-Moscow, and Moscow-Kazan-Yelabuga-Moscow (12-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Kalyazin-Moscow (2 days)-Tver-Kazan (12-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Kalyazin-Moscow (6-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Yelabuga-Moscow (8-day cruisetour)
• Novgorod-Kazan-Yelabuga-Novgorod (6-day cruisetour)
• Samara-Togliatti-Tetyushi-Bulgarians-Kazan-Sviyazhsk-Ulyanovsk-Volga Cliff-Samara( (5-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Astrakhan-Bulgarians-Kazan (10-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Astrakhan-Kazan (10-11-day cruisetour)
• St Petersburg-Samara-Ulyanovsk-Kazan-St Petersburg (17-day cruisetour)
• St Petersburg-Kazan (7-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Karelia-St Petersburg (2 days)-Kazan (17-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Samara (3-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Samara-Kazan (3-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Samara-Ulyanovsk-Kazan (4-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Mariinsky Posad-Novgorod-Kazan (4-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Volgograd-Bulgarians-Kazan (7-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Volgograd-Kazan (7-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-St Petersburg-Kazan (18-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-St Petersburg (8-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Rostov-Astrakhan-Kazan (16-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Rostov-Kazan (14-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Makaryevo-Novgorod-Kazan (4-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Perm-Samara-Kazan (10-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Cheboksary (Yoshkar-Ola)-Novgorod-Kazan (4-day cruisetour)
• Samara-Kazan-Cheboksary-Samara (4-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Perm-Kazan (7-day cruisetour)
• Kazan-Uglich-Myshkin-Kazan (8-day cruisetour)
• Moscow-Kazan-Novgorod (7-day cruisetour)

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Kazan Travel Guide - Perfect Your Travel Itinerary

Home / Russia Travel Experiences / Kazan Travel Guide – Perfect Your Travel Itinerary

Craving a one-of-a-kind, awe-inspiring trip to a place of ancient histories, visually spectacular, and spiritual marvels? The Kazan Travel Guide has everything you need to get just that.

Kazan is the capital of the Tatarstan Republic, also known as Russia’s third capital. Just an hour-and-a-half flight away from Moscow, this beautiful and thriving metropolis has a centuries-old history. Founded in 1005, Kazan is one of Russia’s oldest cities (older than Moscow) with sites and architecture reminiscent of its glorious 12th-century reign by the river Kazanka. The multiethnic region is famous for the harmonious co-existence of many different religions, whose sculpted sacred sites are some of the world’s most beautiful buildings. You’ll find a sublime fusion of Tatar and Russian culture in this city, creating a glorious melting pot of different cultures. Whilst predominantly Muslim, you will find all religious backgrounds within the republic. Discover how easy it is to be entranced by the captivating Kazan – it is even worth making a detour on the Trans-Siberian Railway for.

This Kazan Travel Guide will help you plan everything down to preferred months of travel according to seasonal highlights, main attractions, meals from our pick of Tatar cuisine delicacies, methods of transport, and activities from morning until noon.

Table of Contents

Why travel to Russia’s Kazan?

Kazan kremlin.

This UNESCO listed fortified citadel is the most familiar landmark of Kazan. Kazan Kremlin is full of cozy parks, picturesque streets, delectable foods, and beautiful sites. Take a tour through the only surviving Tatar fortress in Russia and lose yourself in its Middle Ages era splendor with this heritage-listed site. Many of the Kremlin’s architectural wonders are sculpted by the famous Postnik Yakovlev and Ivan Shirjay, recruited by the Tzar. Kazan Kremlin is also home to the Söyembikä Tower and museums, where Kazan’s extensive history and legends take centre-stage. Many also flock to the multi-faith place of worship for its glorious sculpted sacred sites such as Kul Sharif Mosque.

Söyembikä Tower

Kazan’s tiered tower of Soyembika, also known as the leaning tower or ‘Khan’s Mosque’ is the highlight of Kazan Kremlin. Its construction is recorded by scholars to date back as far as the 16th century, whose age-old history is expressed in some of its majestic colonial architecture. The colours are stunning in summer, and even in winter, the snow creates a fairytale-like scene. Once inside, you should pay attention to the haram carpet and elaborate details on the ceiling. Romantic and mystic legends surround the tower and the only woman to rule the Kazan Khanate for which it’s named after. It is said to be the same tower that led the beautiful Princess Syuyumbike to her death, built for her by Ivan the Terrible who seized Kazan in 1552 and then demanded they wed. Others tell a different history of a Soyembika forcibly detained here by Muscovite forces, before being taken to Kasimov where she died. For those interested in its story, be wary of self-nominated guides- the official Kazan guides are a purchase worth making. Despite its tragic history, many locals believe if you touch the tower and make a wish it will come true.

Kul Sharif Mosque

The Kul Sharif Mosque is Kazan Kremlin’s main mosque and one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. You will hardly be able to take your eyes off this one-of-a-kind structure. This attraction is not just for Muslims. It is open to all Kazan’s travellers, but it is preferred that women have their hair covered during their visit. The Kul Sharif Mosque takes the place of a former mosque conquered by Ivan the Terrible in 1552. From outside, the majestic lotus-flowered dome landmark sits atop a hill overlooking Kazan. Inside, it’s fitted with a modern yet classical interior where you can pray with the names of 99 gods inscribed on ceilings and window glass. On the ground floor is a Museum of Islam, where a tour in English may be available if there’s an English-speaking docent on shift. Otherwise, there are booklets in English that explain the whole exhibit. Whilst everything is free to all visitors, they ask you pay 3 rubles for shoe slip-covers to help keep its floors clean. It is recommended you go in the morning to avoid a queue to visit the Kul Sharif Mosque, boasting a reputation as one of the best mosques in the world.

Temple of All Religions

For those interested in the spiritual marvels of Russia, it is also recommended you see the Temple of all Religions located along the Volga river of Kazan . This is under construction, so it’s not a must-see, but worth the visit if you have time to kill before taking a train or bus. It boasts 16 towers all for various different religions- a stunning sight to behold from the outside.

Baumana street

The Baumana Street is the main tourist and pedestrian zone between the Kremlin and Tokai Square. Tatarstan restaurants, stalls of street painters, boutiques, souvenir shops, fountains that fulfil wishes and kiosks are just a few of its gems that are ready to assure your every need and charm your socks off. Monuments and fountains make for a perfect photo backdrop, with statuary ranging from a bronze carriage of Catherine II to the “thick lazy Cat of Kazan”, a tribute to its feline protectors who fended off mice. Whilst mingling with the locals, the rich chimes of Kazan’s bell tower help bring the vibrant Arbat to life. Baumana street’s historical attractions include houses of the 19 th century, a monument to Feodor Chaliapin, and a Russian baroque style Epiphany cathedral. For opportunists seeking for the perfect Russian souvenir, Baumana street is the place to buy everything: Matryoshka dolls, Tatar folk costumes, and one particular favourite of tourists is the Tatar national male headwear “Tubeteika”. This is a street that never sleeps- when the sun sets, it becomes a hub for nightlife.

Palace of Farmers

The Palace of Farmers is a vast and regal building like something out of a fairytale. Despite being a recent addition to Kazan’s collection of ancient sites, it looks to be built well over a century ago. This eclectic architectural piece boasts elements of Classicism style, the Second Empire, and the Belle Epoque. A magnificent, 65-foot tall bronze tree sculpture grows in the archway of the palace’s façade- a sight that makes for a mesmerizing photo backdrop. This is a governmental building related to agriculture, so the interior is not accessible. However, it’s worthwhile just to see its magnificently sculpted exterior. Located adjacent to the Kremlin and Kazan river embankment, the Farmer’s Palace makes for beguiling scenery for your riverside stroll. Manicured gardens out front create a serene, relaxing space in the summer sunshine, the site’s most popular season. When the sun sets, the Palace of Farmers comes alive with an array of spectacular light displays.

Raifa Monastery

Whilst known as one of the largest monasteries in Russia, Raifa Monastery had humble beginnings as a place of solitude where monastic followers could dedicate themselves to God. Found in a serene location by Sumy Lakes in a lush pine forest, this centuries-old site has been rebuilt time and time again. Its history tells of temple destruction, brutal plundering, arson, and has once made a home for juvenile delinquents. The history behind the monastery’s name is no exception to this trail of tragedies. In fact, the hermitage was established and named in memory of holy fathers tortured in Sinai and Raithu. Abandoned for over half a century, the ruins have been given new life with well doted on additions. This includes the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Cathedral of God’s Mother of Georgia, the Church of the Ss Reverend Fathers and bell tower, with beautiful onion-domed architecture and intricate iconography. It’s free to wander monastery grounds, where small shops and cafes populate the area. Arrive at this stunning rural monastery via a 40-minute drive from Kazan (with some free parking available), bus tour, or a scenic boat trip.

Sviyazhsk Island

Sviyazhsk Island, or “Conqueror City”, began as a fortress for Ivan the Terrible in 1551 when Kazan was an unassailable fortress. Frozen in time, visiting the Island is like going through a time machine with no fewer than 37 cultural-historical monuments. Its religious marvels are a must-see. Trinity Church is the last of its kind in Sviyazhsk- a wooden structure dating back to the time of Ivan the Terrible. Axe marks made by Yaroslavl carpenters can still be seen. The Dormition Cathedral boasts a glorious collection of 16th-century frescos. Its most famed is St Christopher with a horse’s head- a fresco that tells the story of a saint so handsome he pleaded to God for ugliness, to avoid unwanted attention from women. However, these monasteries have seen their fair share of horrors- the Soviet political repression saw them turn into prisons, concentration camps, and psychiatric hospitals. A local museum, Sviyazhsk State Museum of History and Architecture, is no stranger to these horrors. Here, inmates and prisoners were executed and their belongings are still on display in abandoned cells inside. A monument to the victims of political repression forms a two-meter-tall marble slab on the island.

The Ancient City of Bolgar

Not far from Kazan, Russia’s mysterious Muslim City, Bolgar, dates back to the 7th and 15th centuries. With such a powerful history, this Eurasian metropolis is one of Russia’s first UNESCO listed sites. It’s served as the capital of the Mongol Golden Horde, ruled by the founder of the Timurids Empire, and even the Prince of Moscow. A 1969 excavation for the State Historical and Architectural Museum and Reserve saw the city turned into a huge open-air museum.  Stone citadels, mosques, and tombs are some of its jaw-dropping remains from its glory days. Other attractions include the Khan’s palace, White Mosque, the hidden healing well of Gabdrakhman, a 700-year-old burial chamber for Bolgar nobility, and an interactive bread museum. The city of Bolgar has great religious significance, once the center of Islamic civilization in Europe. Here, you can find the largest printed Kora in the world weighing at 500kg. Bolgar remains a sacred pilgrimage destination to Tatar Muslims. The city of Bolgar is a three hours’ drive from Kazan along the scenic route of the river Volga.

Kazan from a boat

Kazan’s river station is flocked to by tourists eager to experience the scenic water route along the city’s shores. Travelling through Kazan with a Volga River boat trip is filled with incredible landscapes and jaw-dropping scenes. Gorgeous views of some of the city’s beloved icons include the Kazan Kremlin, whose structure sparkles like a jewel in the sun in all its Russian glory. The comfortable steam-ships on the rivers and lakes of Russia depart a few times a day to make for regular service (12:00, 15:00, and 19:00 on most days). Two-hour boat trips without stops, with a guided tour along Kazan’s coast. A total of 9 dams choke the river and halt its waters to a standstill- a glistening, magical scene that is a magnet for artists, writers and explorers. By its shores, the Volga river is a favourite for camping, relaxing, fishing, and swimming.

Kazan Cuisine Guide: A Foodie’s Haven

Kazan is the central home of Russia’s Tatar cuisine, boasting many restaurants and cafes that have earned its keep in the hearts of foodies across the globe. This Kazan Travel Guide will convince you why this is a haven for Russian and eastern cuisine.

Museum of Chak-Chak

The Museum of Chak-Chak (Çäkçäk) is named after the mouth-watering honey-baked balls of doughy goodness, a delicacy served at celebrations and festivities. This museum-turned food establishment is dedicated to traditional Tatar foods and drinks, particularly their national sweet foods. Bashkir dishes, chak-chak, bursak, and kak-tosh made from almonds are some of the recipes derived from Tatar enlightener kayum nasyri. These are only some of the most popular must-try dishes that cannot go unsampled. Here, guests drink tea and sample desserts whilst guides tell stories of the ancient Tatar people’s way of life, tradition and customs. If you want to learn the secret to cooking the perfect Tatar dish, this is the place to be.

Dom Tatarskoi Kulinarii (restaurant)

Dom Tatarskoi Kulinarii, or House of Tatar Cuisine, is one of the oldest national restaurants that has earnt its place in the heart of foodies from across the globe. Its dishes are based on Yunus Akhmetzyanov’s time-tested recipes and traditions – a beloved local guardian of traditional Tatar cuisine. Here you can find confectionary like Tatar sweets, and authentic dishes such as:

• Echpochmak: These are triangle-shaped pastries stuffed with mince and potatoes. A small hole remains at the top of the stuffed and folded dough. Halfway through the oven baking process, the pastries are filled with a spoonful of broth, ensuring that the meat (stuffed raw) is moist and tender.
• Gubadiya: Layered pie which contains cottage cheese or quark, minced beef or lamb and boiled egg, which is combined with raisins or mixed dried fruits (such as figs, prunes and apricots). This filling is then covered with melted butter before being baked into a mouthwatering dessert.
• Kazylyk: Originating from Tatar nomadic culture, this dish is a horse meat sausage which has been traditionally cured by air-drying in the sun and wind. It is often spiced with coriander or cumin, served in thin slices with pickled sliced onions
• Talkysh kaleve: This intricate dessert involves honey and sugar spun into a stringy fairy-floss which is then moulded into miniature cones and coated with a powder of melted butter and flour
• Manti: Tatar dumplings made from either spiced lamb, beef or horse meat, which can be mixed with pumpkin or squash depending on the region. They can be boiled or steamed in their own juices, typically served with butter, sour cream, onion sauce or red pepper powder.

In the evenings, your wining and dining with this Bauman street food will be accompanied by live music and the opportunity for master classes about preparing national dishes.

Kazan Travel Guide: Summer Highlights

Months & temperature.

  June, July, August: +24 – +27 C

Summer is by far the most popular and most frequented time of year to trek to Russia’s glorious Kazan city. The bustling, sunny and comfortable seasons of June, July and August are some of the best months to travel here. July is its hottest month at an average of 27 degrees- the perfect time to bask by the mesmerising Volga River.

The Sabantuy Tatar National Festival in June is jam-packed with competitions, sports events, dances, feasts, and music. This holiday hallmarks the end of spring crop planting and draws crowds of up to 40,000 in Kazan’s village of Mirny. Competitions of sportsmanship draw contenders near and far, both amateur and professional, in games like the egg-and-spoon race, sack races, horse races, and wrestling matches. Contenders for the more professional scenes like wrestling can earn prizes varying from home electronics to cars. The wrestling champion is declared ‘Batyr’ and lifts an overweight ram onto his (or her) shoulders for the cheering crowd. This festival is a marvel to behold, especially witnessing it for the very first time.

Similar to this: See also International handicraft festival ‘Spasskaya Yarmarka’ in August, Elabuga city

Kazan Travel Guide: Winter Highlights

  November, December, January, February – 0 to -10 C

For those far-reaching globetrotters, here is your chance for a true white Christmas- Kazan in Winter gets especially chilly in November, December, January, and February, the coldest months to travel. In November and December, there is a high chance of snow. Besides public holidays, winter outings mean fewer crowds, fewer queues and a more serene, quiet atmosphere.

The Nardugan Pagan Holiday Festival is popular in Kazan as an annual celebration honouring the winter solace. According to the ancient Tatar calendar, the birth of the Sun is December 22. This begins weeklong festivities and celebrations acknowledging the awakening of nature and the beauty of life. Dancing, traditional costumes, theatrical performances, Tatar baker’s delicacies, and fortune tellers are part of the joyous festivities.

For those creative art buffs interested in the sophisticated art forms of ballet and opera, see Kazan’s Shalyapin International Opera Festival (February), and the International Festival of Classical Ballet, Rudolf Nureyev Dance Festival (May).

Kazan Travel Guide: How to Get There

Kazan international airport.

Kazan’s international airport in the Laishevsky district is the only one in Russia that secured a win in the World Airport Awards of 2018. It’s equipped with paid and free parking, medical facilities, free Wi-Fi, shops, cafés and restaurants, a post office and more whilst being English friendly. The train terminal of inner-city travel is located within the airport. Find out more about travel options via the air through the Russian Official  Kazan Aero site, Aeroflot Airlines, or plan your trip with Google Flights.

Railway station

For visitors travelling to Kazan from within Russia, the Russian railway is connected to the city’s two main stations: Kazan-Passazhirskaya and Vosstanie-Passazhirskaja station. Trains from the Russian cities  Moscow , Yekaterinburg, Nizhniy Novgorod, St. Petersburg , Novosibirsk and Adler pass by these stations. The railway stations are fitted to meet your every need, supplying luggage storage, baby changing facilities, tourist info desks, ATMs, cafes and more.

Trans-Siberian Railway

Kazan is one of the top must-see stops on the Trans-Siberian Railway . The traditional Russian Trans-Siberian Railway route stretches from Moscow to Vladivostok, and has Kazan as one of its main stops. Even if you weren’t planning on visiting Kazan but will be making your way through the Trans-Siberian Railway, this is a detour you won’t regret making. Kazan is a 1000-year-old ancient city, still full of life, and the perfect place to lose yourself in (but not too lost, because their diverse transport system will be sure to get you back on track).

Enjoy a short Kazan city tour via this entertaining video:

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