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About the City
Rostov-on-Don is a major city in southern Russia, known as the "southern capital", the "capital of the Don", and the "gateway to the Caucasus". It is a modern industrial and cultural centre that combines the pace of a major business hub with the open, distinctive character of southern Russia. A vibrant student community and well-developed infrastructure make Rostov one of the most attractive cities in southern Russia for young people.
History
On 15 December 1749, Empress Elizabeth of Russia established a customs post at the mouth of the Temernik River. The Fortress of St Demetrius of Rostov was soon built nearby and gave the new settlement its name.
Rostov was granted city status in 1806. In the nineteenth century, it merged with the neighbouring Armenian settlement of Nakhichevan-on-Don, which had been founded by migrants from Crimea.
Geographic Location
Rostov-on-Don lies on the East European Plain, on the banks of the Don River, 50 km from where it flows into the Sea of Azov and 1,000 km from Moscow.
The city forms part of the Southern Federal District and has been known informally as the "gateway to the North Caucasus" since the nineteenth century, as rail routes to the south of the country historically passed through it.
Landmarks and Attractions
The city's principal attraction is the Don River Embankment, which extends for approximately 2.5 km and offers views of the Voroshilovsky Bridge. Nearby are the atmospheric nineteenth-century Paramonov Warehouses, Theatre Square, the Drama Theatre, and Gorky Park.
Leafy Pushkinskaya Street is also close by, with welcoming cafés and monuments to Anton Chekhov, a writer born in the Don region.
Average Cost of Living
Cost of a minimum food basket: RUB 7,000
Subsistence minimum per capita: RUB 16,500
Average monthly salary: RUB 70,500
Figures are for 2025
Time Zone
UTC+3:00
Transport Links
Airport:
Platov International Airport, one of the largest in southern Russia, 29 km from the city centre; its operations are currently suspended
Public transport:
buses, trams and trolleybuses, which are gradually being replaced by electric buses; there is no metro
Climate
Overview:
temperate continental steppe climate with mild winters and hot summers
Temperature:
approximately −2 °C on average in winter and +25 °C in summer, often exceeding +30 °C
Precipitation:
distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, with no distinct rainy season; the highest level of precipitation is in late spring and early summer
Interesting Facts
Rostov-on-Don lies on two continents: the southern bank of the Don is considered part of Asia, while the northern bank is in Europe.
Thanks to this unique geographical position, the city has long played an important role in Russia's history and trade. Its waterways provide access to five seas: the Black, White, Baltic, Azov, and Caspian Seas.
The city participates in the Safe City program, with video surveillance systems operating in streets and public spaces.