Novokuznetsk
Introduction
You will find Novokuznetsk situated in the Kuzbass region of southwestern Siberia. Located within the Kemerovo Oblast, this city serves as a significant urban center in the Siberian landscape.
Before you go
Prepare for your visit by familiarizing yourself with the local context and expectations of the region.
Getting there
You can reach the city by rail via trains arriving from Novosibirsk and Kemerovo. For those traveling from the east, connections are available from Taishet. Because the city is located near the Trans-Siberian Railway, it serves as a convenient stop if you choose to travel that route in sections.
Alternatively, you can fly into the local airport, which hosts flights from Moscow and Saint Petersburg. During the summer months, additional seasonal flights connect the area to the Black Sea Region, including destinations such as Sochi, Krasnodar, and Anapa.
Getting around
You can navigate the city using the local public transport system, which includes both a bus network and a small tram network.
Where to stay
You can find accommodations in the heart of the city center. Choose a stay at Novokuznetskaya if you require access to free wi-fi provided at the cafe located on the sixth floor.
Alternatively, you can stay at Gold wing, which offers a variety of amenities including a sauna with karaoke, a jacuzzi, and billiards. This location also features a cafe-bar and provides 24-hour reception services along with free wi-fi for your convenience.
Food & drink
Savor traditional Russian flavors while exploring the local culinary scene. You can sample hearty staples such as pel'meni, bliny, and schi, often served with smetana or spicy khren.
For your evening entertainment, you can visit a jazz club or explore various casinos and night clubs. When seeking a local spirit, you can choose between Vodka di Novokuzneck "Kuznechanka" or Ivan Vodka.
What to see and do
You can explore the local history and culture by visiting several museums, including the museum of regional studies and the museum of arts. For a deeper look into literary history, you can visit the house-museum of Fyodor Dostoevsky. The city also features significant historical landmarks such as the Kuznetsky Fortress and the Transfiguration Cathedral, an Orthodox church completed in the 19th century. You can also visit St. John Chrysostom Church, a modern Catholic church that hosts services for both Greek Catholic and Roman Catholic congregations.
For entertainment and recreation, you can attend performances at the Drama Theatre or see a show at the circus. If you prefer active pursuits, you can visit the ice hockey palace or spend time on the skating rink.
When to go
You can experience a variety of seasonal conditions when visiting Novokuznetsk. During the summer months, you will encounter warm weather accompanied by heavy precipitation.
If you travel during the winter, prepare for severe and dry conditions. While snowfall occurs frequently during this time, the snow has low moisture content due to the extreme cold.
Three days in Novokuznetsk
Day one, you begin your journey in the heart of Siberia. You explore the local history and architecture within Novokuznetsk, taking time to admire the spiritual atmosphere of the Transfiguration Cathedral.
Day two, you immerse yourself in the regional culture of Kuzbass. You can visit the historic site of the Kuznetsky Fortress and learn about the area's heritage as part of your exploration of the Kemerovo Oblast.
Day three, you focus on local flavors and traditions. You can savor traditional Russian dishes and sample local spirits like Novokuznetskaya or Ivan Vodka to conclude your stay in the region.