Plios is a Russian city located 395 kilometers northeast of Moscow. Situated on the right bank of the Volga, this enchanting settlement invites tourists to experience travel at its finest. It rises atop a hill amid lush vegetation—a perfect vantage point for witnessing authentic Russian landscapes.

Plios ranks among the most picturesque cities of the Golden Ring. It is renowned for its magnificent panoramas and striking architecture. Museums, monuments, and churches are merely a taste of what Plios offers visitors. The city is notably home to the Isaac Levitan House-Museum and the stunning Church of Saint Barbara the Martyr with its golden cupolas. Rainbow-hued buildings are equally enchanting to discover.

History

Once a major trading hub in the 17th century, Plios faded from prominence in the centuries that followed. It was painter Isaac Levitan who restored the city to fame, having created nearly 200 works here. He lived in Plios with his wife Sofia, also an artist, for two years. By capturing the city's beauty and authenticity through his paintings, his works became celebrated, and Plios reclaimed its prestige.

Throughout the 19th century, Plios attracted increasingly more visitors drawn by the landscapes immortalized in Isaac Levitan's paintings. It became a thriving artistic hub and gathering place for the country's artists and intellectuals. Figures such as Ilya Repin, Vasiliev, and singer-actor Feodor Chaliapin were equally captivated by this remarkable destination.

Plios Today

Often called 'Russian Switzerland', Plios is now recognized as the most beautiful city of the Golden Ring and all of Russie. Its renown stems from the remarkable monuments it harbors. Museums and churches are essential visits for history enthusiasts. Charming winding streets guide visitors through picturesque corners at every turn.

Situated on the right bank of the Volga, Plios is equally essential for nature lovers. From the hill that overlooks it, visitors enjoy sweeping views of the river and the lush vegetation of the surrounding landscape. Along the riverbanks, numerous observation points allow tourists to admire the picturesque panoramas evoked in Isaac Levitan's paintings.

What to Do in Plios?

Though small, Plios offers visitors much to explore.

• Begin by immersing yourself in this generous natural landscape. Climb to the summit of a hill where you'll enjoy an expansive view of the entire city, the Volga River, and its surroundings.
• Follow the banks of the Volga and settle by the river to rest. In summer, swimming is a delightful option.
• Embark on a Volga River cruise: this allows you to reach hidden paradises for fishing and pursue other engaging activities.
• During winter months, you can ice-skate on the frozen Volga. It is also possible to try ice fishing.
• Visit the galleries and museums along Sovetskaya Street, which borders the Volga River. Beside the former merchant residences stands the house-museum of the celebrated painter Isaac Levitan. This residence showcases various masterpieces by this exceptional artist.
• Before entering, observe the sculpture of the painter in the act of painting, drawing inspiration from the Volga's landscapes.
• You must climb another hill to reach the wooden Church of the Resurrection, dating from the late 17th century. Another opportunity to enjoy views of Plios, the river, and its surroundings.
• To end your day, nothing surpasses a visit to the Pliosski Brewery to sample local beer and other culinary specialties featuring regional fare.

When to Visit?

Summer is naturally the most comfortable season to visit Plios. The weather is warm and days are long. Additionally, cultural sites like museums stay open later than usual during summer months.

Winter brings intense cold, though proper clothing makes it manageable. It's an ideal time to experience nature and witness the city blanketed in snow. During this season, the Volga River freezes solid, transforming into a vast skating rink.

Romantics will be enchanted by Plios's autumn palette. As leaves turn yellow, red, and gold, they paint the city and its surroundings in spectacular hues. The town becomes an idyllic setting for a stroll with a partner or family.

Plios is accessible from two of Russie's major cities: Moscow, 395 km away, and Saint Petersburg, 998 km away. Various transportation options are available to travelers.

From Moscow, take the Lastochka high-speed train to reach Ivanovo, then board a bus for the transfer to Plios. The complete journey takes up to 5 hours 30 minutes. Alternatively, follow the route that traverses the Golden Ring. Plios is the third city after Vladimir and Suzdal.

Meanwhile, at 998 kilometers, the journey from Saint Petersburg to Plios is best suited for those who embrace long-distance travel. While it can be tiring, the scenery along the way is well worth the effort.

Traveling by car is, of course, an option.

To get around Plios itself, public transportation is not available. In any case, given its small size, the city is an oasis best explored on foot.