Home Search by budget Destinations Beaches Interactive map Services Booking Collections Ratings VIP Club
Find flights Book transfer
Home / Destinations / Solovetsky Islands

Solovetsky Islands

Russia · Island · RUB · 65.025600, 35.710800
Family friendly 5.3/10 · Rank 2001 of 2 709
Best season: June-August

Best for

Suitable for pilgrims, history and nature lovers

Best season

June-August

Daily budget
8 856 ₽ (≈ $105.53)
For 7 days
61 992 ₽ (≈ $738.70)
The Solovetsky Islands are an archipelago in the White Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The main attraction is the Solovetsky Monastery, founded in the 15th century. It is a place of pilgrimage, history, and unique northern nature.
Summer
20.5°C
Winter
-26.0°C
Sea
16.0°C
Search by budget Atmosphere Pros and cons Climate Sea and beach Hazards Attractions Excursions Prices FAQ
Search by budget
Enter an amount — we'll show destinations within your reach
Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Solovetsky Islands residents are friendly, hospitable and proud of their spiritual heritage

Pros and cons

Pros

  • UNESCO site
  • Rich history
  • Scenic nature
  • Calm atmosphere
  • Spiritual centre

Cons

  • Cold climate
  • Short summer
  • Difficult accessibility
  • Limited infrastructure
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
10.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
13.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
20.5°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
-5.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
-5.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
-26.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
12.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
16.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
August-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gradual
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Malibu Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
No
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
No
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
No
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
No
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

The White Sea is cold, swimming is possible only in the warm season. Jellyfish possible

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are found in the White Sea off the Solovetsky Islands, but they are not numerous. They inhabit rocky bottoms and algae thickets.
  • For swimmers, urchins pose a moderate risk — their spines can cause painful punctures, so caution is advised when swimming in rocky areas.

Corals and reefs — details

  • There are no true coral reefs in the White Sea off the Solovetsky Islands due to the cold water and low salinity. However, soft corals, anemones and hydroids are found on underwater rocks, covering the surface of stones.
  • Cuts from corals are possible on contact, but they do not pose a serious danger.

Jellyfish — details

  • Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) — found in the White Sea, stings are mild but unpleasant
  • Lion's mane jellyfish (Cyanea capillata) — largest jellyfish in the world, found in the White Sea, stings can be painful

Sharks — details

  • Sharks in the White Sea off the Solovetsky Islands do not pose a danger to swimmers. Only the Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) inhabits this region, found at great depths and not approaching the shore.
  • No shark attacks have been recorded in the White Sea, swimming is safe.
Attractions

Solovetsky Monastery

Majestic 15th-century monastery, UNESCO World Heritage Site, spiritual centre of the Russian North

Sekirnaya Hill

Historic site with the Ascension Church and panoramic views of the island

Botanical Garden

One of the oldest botanical gardens in Russia, founded by monks in the 19th century

Filippov Gardens

System of dams and canals for fish breeding, created by monks

Cape Pechak

Scenic cape with a sandy beach and tundra

Best areas

Solovetsky Settlement

Main settlement with the monastery, museums and hotels

Cape Pechak

Nature area with a beach and tundra

Must-try food

Pomor Fish Soup

Traditional Pomor fish soup cooked over a fire

Kozuli

Pomor gingerbread in animal shapes, a traditional treat

Solovetsky Bread

Monastery bread baked according to ancient recipes

Fresh Fish

Catch from the White Sea, grilled

Where to go next

Kem

Town with a historic centre and port 2 hours by boat

Arkhangelsk

Major city with museums 1 hour by plane

Belomorsk

Town with petroglyphs 3 hours away

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Талаги (ARH).
Check flight prices Putivator
Compare prices from 800+ airlines — Putivator
Search
Visa
Visa requirements
not required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
June-August
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
2 109 ₽
≈ $25.13
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
5 904 ₽
≈ $70.35
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
10 121 ₽
≈ $120.60
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
16 868 ₽
≈ $201.00
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
12 651 ₽
≈ $150.75
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
5 060 ₽
≈ $60.30
Book a hotel Partner
Over 2 million hotels — Trip.com
Find
Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
843 ₽
≈ $10.05
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
1 687 ₽
≈ $20.10
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
253 ₽
≈ $3.02
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
253 ₽
≈ $3.02
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
84 ₽
≈ $1.01
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
843 ₽
≈ $10.05
Burger
Average price for a burger
675 ₽
≈ $8.04
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
337 ₽
≈ $4.02
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
675 ₽
≈ $8.04
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
3 374 ₽
≈ $40.20
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
169 ₽
≈ $2.01
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
843 ₽
≈ $10.05
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
4 217 ₽
≈ $50.25
Airport transfer Putivator
Comfortable transfer — Putivator
Book
Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
1 265 ₽
≈ $15.08
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
2 109 ₽
≈ $25.13
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
3 374 ₽
≈ $40.20
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
6 747 ₽
≈ $80.40
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Solovetsky Islands Partner
Museums, parks, tours - Tiqets
Find
Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
5 060 ₽
≈ $60.30
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
1 687 ₽
≈ $20.10
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
843 ₽
≈ $10.05
eSIM for travellers Partner
Internet in 200+ countries — Yesim
Connect
Frequently asked questions
Solovetsky Islands: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-August. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Solovetsky Islands: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +20.5°C, during the day — up to +13.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Solovetsky Islands: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +-26.0°C, during the day — up to +-5.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Solovetsky Islands: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +16.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Solovetsky Islands: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on August-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Solovetsky Islands: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, white sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Malibu Beach.
Solovetsky Islands: is it safe to swim in the sea?
The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Solovetsky Islands: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. The White Sea is cold, swimming is possible only in the warm season. Jellyfish possible. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Solovetsky Islands: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around 8 856 ₽ (≈ $105.53) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Solovetsky Islands: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — 2 109 ₽ per night, a 3-star hotel room — 5 904 ₽ per night, a 4-star hotel — 10 121 ₽ per night, a five-star hotel — 16 868 ₽ per night, an apartment — 5 060 ₽ per night, a villa — 12 651 ₽ per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Solovetsky Islands: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — 843 ₽, dinner at a restaurant — 1 687 ₽, a cup of cappuccino — 253 ₽, a 0.5L beer — 253 ₽, a 1.5L bottle of water — 84 ₽. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Solovetsky Islands: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — 3 374 ₽, a single public transport ticket — 169 ₽, a short taxi ride — 843 ₽, car rental — 4 217 ₽ per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Solovetsky Islands: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Solovetsky Monastery — Majestic 15th-century monastery, UNESCO World Heritage Site, spiritual centre of the Russian North; Sekirnaya Hill — Historic site with the Ascension Church and panoramic views of the island; Botanical Garden — One of the oldest botanical gardens in Russia, founded by monks in the 19th century; Filippov Gardens — System of dams and canals for fish breeding, created by monks; Cape Pechak — Scenic cape with a sandy beach and tundra. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Solovetsky Islands: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Pomor Fish Soup — Traditional Pomor fish soup cooked over a fire; Kozuli — Pomor gingerbread in animal shapes, a traditional treat; Solovetsky Bread — Monastery bread baked according to ancient recipes; Fresh Fish — Catch from the White Sea, grilled. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Solovetsky Islands: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Solovetsky Settlement — Main settlement with the monastery, museums and hotels; Cape Pechak — Nature area with a beach and tundra. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Solovetsky Islands: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Solovetsky Islands: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Талаги (code ARH). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is 3 374 ₽. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Solovetsky Islands: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — RUB. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is 8 856 ₽ (≈ $105.53). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Solovetsky Islands: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Solovetsky Islands: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Solovetsky Islands: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Kem — Town with a historic centre and port 2 hours by boat; Arkhangelsk — Major city with museums 1 hour by plane; Belomorsk — Town with petroglyphs 3 hours away. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.3/10
Overall rank: 2001 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1204

Best season

June-August

Useful information

Currency: RUB
Coordinates: 65.025600, 35.710800