Major Highways & Driving Tips in Astrakhan, Astrakhanskaya Oblast’, Russia
1. Volga Federal Highway (A-354)
The main highway connecting Astrakhan with Moscow. It follows the Volga River and offers scenic views.
- Length: Stretches over 1,100 kilometers
- Two-Lane Road: Consists of two lanes, with plans for upgrading to four
- Landmarks Along Route: Passes through notable cities such as Saratov and Volgograd
2. Caspian Highway (A-146)
Connects Astrakhan with the border of Azerbaijan and offers a route to Baku.
- Length: Approximately 730 kilometers long
- Border Highway: Runs near the Caspian Sea coastline
- Cultural Destinations: Passes through cities like Makhachkala and Derbent
3. Astrakhan Bypass Highway (M-29)
By-passes Astrakhan City, reducing traffic congestion within the city.
- Length: Over 130 kilometers long
- Reducing Traffic Congestion: Helps to avoid delays and eases city traffic flow
- Construction Timeline: Construction completed in 2019
4. Astrakhan-Volgograd Highway (R22)
Connects Astrakhan and Volgograd via the Caspian Sea coast.
- Length: Approximately 610 kilometers long
- Scenic Coastal Route: Runs parallel to the Caspian Sea coastline
- Major Cities on Route: Passes through cities such as Volgograd and Kalmykia
5. Astrakhan-Akhtubinsk Highway (P183)
Connects Astrakhan with Akhtubinsk and offers a route to the Volga Delta.
- Length: Approximately 90 kilometers long
- Natural Beauty: Travelers can enjoy the scenic Volga Delta along this route
- End Point: Akhtubinsk serves as a gateway to the Caspian Sea coast
6. Astrakhan-Moscow Highway (M-4)
Connects Astrakhan with Moscow and passes through major cities like Saratov and Nizhny Novgorod.
- Length: Over 1,500 kilometers long
- Major Cities on Route: Passes through notable cities such as Saratov and Nizhny Novgorod
- High-Speed Rail Connection: Parallel high-speed rail line for faster travel options
7. Astrakhan-Volgograd Toll Road (P184)
An alternative route to Astrakhan-Volgograd Highway (R22), this toll road reduces travel time.
- Toll Cost: A fee is charged for using this toll road
- Reduced Travel Time: Faster travel compared to the free R22 route
- Construction Quality: Well-maintained and of higher quality construction
8. Astrakhan Ring Road (R360)
Surrounds Astrakhan City and reduces traffic within the city.
- Length: Over 85 kilometers long
- Reducing Traffic Congestion: Helps to avoid delays and eases city traffic flow
- Construction Timeline: Construction completed in 2018
9. Astrakhan-Elista Highway (P176)
Connects Astrakhan with Kalmykia's capital city, Elista.
- Length: Approximately 300 kilometers long
- Cultural Destinations: Passes through the capital of Kalmykia, Elista, and other significant cultural sites
- Kosmoskaya Stavitsa: Features the Kosmoskaya Stavitsa space center
10. Astrakhan-Caspian Sea Ferry
Offers a ferry service to Baku, Azerbaijan across the Caspian Sea.
- Service Schedule: Frequent departures throughout the week
- Travel Time: Takes approximately 24 hours for a one-way journey
- Passenger and Vehicle Capacity: Can accommodate up to 1,500 passengers and multiple vehicles
11. Astrakhan Car Rental Services
Offers car rental services for travelers exploring Astrakhan and the surrounding region.
- Vehicle Selection: Variety of vehicles to choose from, including cars, SUVs, and vans
- Rental Duration: Daily, weekly, and monthly rental options available
- Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive insurance coverage included in the rental rate
12. Astrakhan Public Transportation
Provides bus and minibus services within Astrakhan City.
- Routes: Extensive network of routes covering all areas of the city
- Frequency: Regular departures throughout the day, with increased service during peak hours
- Fare Structure: Affordable fares for both single and multiple rides
13. Astrakhan Taxi Services
Offers taxi services within Astrakhan City and to nearby destinations.
- Availability: Taxis are readily available throughout the city
- Fare Structure: Fares based on distance traveled and time of day
- Safety Considerations: Drivers undergo regular background checks for passenger safety
14. Astrakhan Carpooling Services
Provides carpooling options to help reduce travel costs and environmental impact.
- Routes: Popular routes between Astrakhan and nearby cities
- Cost Savings: Lower costs compared to solo travel due to shared expenses
- Safety Considerations: Drivers and passengers undergo background checks for safety
15. Astrakhan Gas Stations (Fill Stations)
Offers gasoline and diesel fuel to travelers in Astrakhan.
- Location: Conveniently located near major highways and city centers
- Fuel Types: Offers various fuel types, including regular unleaded, diesel, and LPG (propane)
- Payment Methods: Accepts cash, credit cards, and mobile payment apps