A good central starting point for exploring the town’s historic centre is Ded Moroz’s part-time ‘residence’ where the Russian Santa shows up from early December. He also makes appearance at other times throughout the year. There’s a ‘throne room’ and a vaguely interesting exhibition room. Tours in Russian are given by volunteers who explain how Grandfather Frost came to reside in Veliky Ustyug. It's an extremely surreal experience, especially if you are there without kids.
Grandfather Frost Residence
Northern European Russia
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
3.44 MILES
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Nearby Northern European Russia attractions
1. Grandfather Frost Post Office
0.03 MILES
Ever wondered why you never got that bike for Christmas? You were probably sending your Santa letters to the North Pole instead of to this adorable log…
3.44 MILES
At this expensive-yet-low-budget theme park of sorts, visitors have to run the gauntlet of determinedly cheerful storybook characters and talking animals…