Trade vector in the development of a Volga city

Methodological significance of socio-cultural approach in the research of the regional trade is represented in the article. Theoretical and practical opportunities of this approach are shown after the example of history, modern conditions and development perspectives of the Great Volga Way and the city of Saratov. It is underlined that correlation between traditions and innovations of merchant and trade culture is determined as a peculiar image of routine life of a certain Volga city (local level), its place in the co-operation of cities of the Great Volga Way (regional level).