What do you need to know before visiting the Republic of Dagestan

• Most of the population of the republic are Muslims; therefore, well-mannered behavior is appreciated there. Alcohol is not available in most restaurants and stores (and it is not available at all during the month of Ramadan).
• Women should avoid revealing outfits, short skirts or showing cleavage. This is not a strict rule, but a gesture of respect for local traditions.

Day 1

You arrive in Derbent. An electric train runs there from Makhachkala, the capital of Dagestan, which takes about 2.5 hours. 

Climbing up to the Naryn-Kala Fortress 

One of the main attractions of Derbent is the Persian fortress of Naryn–Kala, built in the 6th century. It is located on the top of a mountain, and two of its huge walls go straight into the Caspian Sea, thereby protecting the city from enemies from all sides. It’s for this reason the fortress is also called the ‘Caspian Gate’.

From the top, you will see picturesque views of the Caspian Sea and the Caucasian Mountains. In this beautiful place, you can learn about the rich history of the city and, for example, take a picture in traditional national Dagestani clothes.

In addition, the fortress houses a valuable collection of archaeology and, on its territory, you will find interesting ancient underground reservoirs. The cross-domed architecture of one of them has led historians to believe that Christianity was practiced there before Islam.

Wandering through the old town

From the fortress, descend down the narrow streets with houses made of sandy-yellow stone. Look into the courtyards, buy souvenirs from the locals (and try homemade confectionery from the store shelves). If you are interested in relaxing in an authentic spa, visit one of the ancient ‘hammams’ right there.

You will also find the oldest mosque in Russia in Derbent. It was built in the 8th century and its modern appearance was formed in the 14th century. And although the mosque itself is currently under reconstruction, be sure to step into its courtyard and get saved from the heat and sun by century-old plane trees, recognized as natural monuments.

Watching the fountain show

During the warm months, from Friday to Sunday, the ‘Nizami Ganjavi’ Park holds one of the largest 3D water shows in Russia.

You can sit in a restaurant on the square in front of the fountain, as well as walk through the green maze around the Khan's Tower. In the evening, it’s also interesting to walk along the Crystal Bridge, which was erected over the archaeological site, so you can even see the remains of an ancient water pipeline.

Day 2 

Having got acquainted with the history of the city, continue your journey by exploring it from the gastronomic side!

Tasting the national dishes

Exploring Dagestan in isolation from food is unthinkable! Many restaurants serve traditional dishes, such as ‘khinkal’, ‘kurze’ dumplings and ‘chudu’ tortillas with various fillings.

It’s especially pleasant to try such dishes in small family-owned restaurants in the courtyards. For example, look for ‘Apricot’ or ‘Grisha's House’.

Getting to know the local wine industry

Since the 18th century, the area has also been famous for its vineyards. During the Soviet era, winemaking reached great heights there. And now, one of the oldest cognac factories in the Caucasus, as well as two wine factories, are located there. And there are plenty of tasting tours!

Eating candy on the ‘happy people street’ 

Mirza Mukhammad-Ali Kazem-Bek Lane is commonly nicknamed the ‘Street of Happy People’, which is exactly how it is marked on the map. It’s a popular meeting place with numerous restaurants and cafes.

There, you will also find a monument to the “friendship of three religions”, where a Christian priest, a Muslim mullah and a Jewish rabbi are sitting at the same table, emphasizing that representatives of different faiths have always peacefully coexisted in Derbent.

Definitely have some tea or coffee there, try the local confectionery, such as ‘urbech’ nut paste, dogwood and fig jam, shortbread cookies and ‘baklava’.

Have dinner at sunset on the beach

If you haven't tried ‘shashlik’, then you haven't been to the Caucasus! Take a seat at one of the coastal restaurants to listen to live music, watch the sea, enjoy the sound of the waves and order some lamb ribs or ‘shashlik’.

READ MORE: How to spend a perfect weekend in Makhachkala