Located in western Siberia, Tomsk is a small city but a well-known academic and cultural center in Russia. Set against a backdrop of gorgeous taiga landscapes, the city is a delightful blend of engrossing history and breathtaking natural beauty. Tomsk is one of the oldest cities of the region, and its history spans over 400 years. Warm and friendly, it offers a great introduction to Siberian heritage and way of life. You will have much to admire here as the city has retained its historical charm - characteristic ‘gingerbread’-style elaborate wooden houses, monuments, verdant parks and of course numerous museums. But it’s not all history! Called ‘Siberian Athens’, Tomsk has a strong student population, and this guarantees a lively atmosphere and an exciting nightlife. Read on to find out the best things to do in Tomsk, Russia and make the most of your Siberian visit.
1. Go stargazing at the Tomsk Planetarium
7 марта планетарий проведёт праздничную программу http://planetarium.tomsk.ru/news/549/
Posted by Томский планетарий on Monday, 3 March 2014
One of Russia’s oldest planetariums, Tomsk Planetarium is surprisingly well equipped. Go up to its domed observatory deck where the night sky can be observed with spectacular clarity. Thanks to its location and low levels of light pollution, stargazing is an incredible visual feast here - you’ll be able to see stars, far constellations, nebulae clusters, planets and so much more, it will leave you breathless! The planetarium also features several interesting exhibitions including 3D shows throwing light on fascinating celestial phenomena.
Tomsk Planetarium
Address: Lenin Ave., Tomsk
Website: Tomsk Planetarium
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 10am - 5pm
Price: 200 RUB (3 USD)
2. Browse through absorbing exhibits at the Tomsk History Museum and check out the observation deck
Located up on Resurrection Hill, this museum retells the history of the city of Tomsk through a vast array of exhibits comprising artifacts, clothing, and other collectibles through the centuries. The museum was opened on the city’s 400th anniversary and is situated close to where the city had its origins. The highlight, of course, is the lookout tower located in the complex offering magnificent 360-degree views of the city. Try spotting all the seven churches from the tower! If you want to have some fun, rent historical costumes for some memorable photo ops.
Tomsk History Museum
Address: Ulitsa Bakunina, 3, Tomsk
Website: Tomsk History Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Museum: 60 RUB (0.9 USD); Tower: 50 RUB (0.7 USD)
3. Visit the interactive Monument to Happiness
The Monument to Happiness features the statue of a wolf, a beloved character from the popular 1982 Russian cartoon film “Once Upon a Dog.” What makes it fun is that when you touch the button on the wolf’s belly, you’ll hear one of its eight well-known phrases from the movie. While you may not be able to appreciate the statue’s significance without viewing the film, it is nonetheless a charming facet of the city to experience.
Monument to Happiness (Monument Shhas Spoyu)
Address: Shevchenko St.,19/1, Tomsk
4. Soak in the breathtaking panoramic view of the city from the top of the Voskresenskaya Mountain
Пятигорск вошел в топ-5 направлений внутреннего туризма для отдыха на ноябрьские праздники Фото : Наталья Воскресенская...
Posted by Туристско-информационный центр "Пятигорск" on Friday, 3 November 2017
Climb up the steep hill of Voskresenskaya to be rewarded with the most glorious vistas of the city and the countryside. The significance of the Voskresenskaya Mountain is that this was where the city of Tomsk was founded and a stone panel marks the spot. Now a historic district you can walk around to take in the sights and also visit the numerous places of interest including the Museum of Tomsk which tells the story of this distinctive Siberian city and the Voskresenskaya Church.
5. Spend a day in the Camp Garden on the edge of the Tom River
Enjoy the gorgeous natural beauty of Siberia at this beautiful park situated on the banks of River Tom. A popular gathering place for the locals, this wooded park features several walking trails as well as a major war memorial honoring World War II heroes. Admire spectacular views of the river winding its way around from the memorial, and then walk down to its banks via the stairs provided or take one of the scenic walking paths.
Camp Garden or Lagerney Sad
Address: Nakhimova St., 1/1, Tomsk
6. Rub the nose of the Chekhov Monument for good luck
Anton Chekhov monument in Tomsk. One of the most famous city landmarks. Built in 2004, it has soon become a symbol of...
Posted by Tripsib on Saturday, 13 May 2017
Installed as a part of the city’s 400th-anniversary celebrations, this bronze statue of the famous Russian author Anton Chekhov is Tomsk’s tongue-in-cheek response to Chekhov’s disdainful description of the city. Located on the bank of the river Tom and looking at a restaurant he ate at, the statue is said to depict the author as a “drunk fallen into a ditch”! Be sure to rub his already shiny nose as it is said to bring good luck!
Chekhov Monument
Address: Tom’s embankment, Tomsk
7. Walk down the tragic path of Stalin's dictatorship at the NKVD Memorial Museum
This small but culturally significant museum captures the full horror of people’s sufferings under the regime of Stalin in the 1930s and 40s. Located in the basement/dungeon of the erstwhile NKVD office where political prisoners where reportedly held, you will find various exhibits that showcase what it was to live in that repressive time. The museum gives a peek into the life of prisoners in gulags, offers life-like recreation of interrogation rooms and prisoners’ cells, plus gives access to original documents like personal correspondences of prisoners, photograph collections and much more.
NKVD Memorial Museum of Political Repression History
Address: Lenina Prospekt, 44, Tomsk
Website: NKVD Memorial Museum of Political Repression History
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: 100 RUB (1.5 USD)
8. Wonder at the intricate wood carvings of the House with Firebirds
The exquisite wooden architecture of Tomsk is a sight to behold, making it a must-do activity on any traveler’s itinerary. One of the foremost examples of its famous wooden “lace decoration” is the House of Firebirds. This four-storied residential house dating from the early 20th century features detailed carvings all over its facade that are breathtaking, particularly its lacy window frames and intricate firebirds that line the roof towers. Restored painstakingly, this brightly colored yellow-red house cannot be missed on Krasnoarmeyskaya Street. Although you may not be able to go inside, do walk around to admire the house externally from all angles.
House with Firebirds
Address: Krasnoarmeyskaya St., 67/1, Tomsk
9. Explore the cool Slavic mythology paintings at the First Museum of Slavic Mythology
Posted by THE MUSEUM OF SLAVIC MYTHOLOGY on Thursday, 26 January 2017
A one-of-a-kind museum, the First Museum of Slavic Mythology gives visitors a look into the mystical and intriguing Slavic culture. Get an introduction to fascinating Slavic history and mythology, and learn about Russian epics, fairy tales, and customs. The museum also boasts of an extensive art collection featuring works by prominent Slavic artists themed on this subject. Don’t forget to visit the souvenir shop to pick up pieces created by authentic Russian artists.
The First Museum of Slavic Mythology
Address: Zagornaya, 12, Tomsk
Website: The First Museum of Slavic Mythology
Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 10am - 7pm
10. Witness beer-making process at the Tomskoye Pivo brewery
Tomsk’s beer is among the best in Russia and one of the best ways to experience it is to taste it freshly brewed! Founded in 1876, Tomskoye Pivo is a leading beer brand in Tomsk and offers a guided factory tour of its production plant. You get an inside look at how beer is prepared and see the various automated machinery used in the factory. Also part of the tour is a visit to Tomsk Beer Museum where you get an understanding of how beer production in Tomsk evolved, and of course a visit to the sampling bar.
Tomskoye Pivo
Address: Moskovskiy Trakt, 46, Tomsk
Website: Tomskoye Pivo
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 6pm
Price: 100 RUB (1.5 USD)
11. Get insights into the life of the Siberian people at the Tomsk Regional Museum
Set up inside the grand mansion built by gold mine owner I. D. Astashev, this museum contains nearly two million artifacts that relate to the history of the Siberian people. Starting from Paleolithic age onwards up to the present day, this museum gives a comprehensive look at how the region’s history evolved and grew through fascinating exhibits spread over two floors. Don’t miss out on seeing the 2500-year-old bear amulet and the Old Believers collection.
Tomsk Regional Museum Of Local Lore
Address: Lenina St, 75, Tomsk
Website: Tomsk Regional Museum Of Local Lore
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm
Price: 200 RUB (3 USD)
12. Enjoy the warm hospitality by interacting with Tomichi, the citizens of Tomsk
The residents of Tomsk call themselves Tomichi and are known to be friendly and welcoming to guests. Showing traditional Russian hospitality, they enjoy interacting with foreigners especially since their number is typically small! The best way to strike up a conversation is by hanging out at one the many buzzing bars or open spaces such as parks or main squares like the Novo-Sobornaya Square.
13. Make the most of the summer days by shopping at the local markets
Get a taste of local living by spending some time in the city’s local markets. Along with local color, you can indulge in seasonal fruits and vegetables, spices, the region’s specialty bread and even bargain on items like clothing and electronics! Some top markets to explore include The October Market on Ulitsa Irkutskiy Trakt, Tomsk Regional Market, the Central Market, The Fruit Market at Mira Ave, and the Dzerzhinskogo Market.
Tomsk Central Market
Address: Ulitsa Karla Marksa, 48, Tomsk
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 8am - 10pm (closed on Mon)
14. Soak in the sombre atmosphere at the Tomsk State University
One of the top universities of Russia, Tomsk State University is a major landmark of Tomsk. Although you may not be able to go inside, you have free access to the beautiful grounds of the university. There are several museums inside the university but you will need to check if you can visit them. Nonetheless, do visit the Botanical Garden that’s located inside the campus. This horticultural space has an extensive greenhouse complex with a huge collection of plants native to the region. Regular tours are conducted but book them ahead of time.
Tomsk State University
Address: Lenin St., 36,Tomsk
Website: Tomsk State University
15. Discover the historic Aleksiyevskiy Monastery of the Mother of God
Founded in 1605, this monastery is the oldest in Tomsk and was the site for the city’s first hospital and school. Built in the classical Siberian baroque style, the monastery’s striking towers are a remarkable sight. The monastery contains several major relics including that of the mystical St. Theodore of Tomsk, that you can view in its chapels.
Aleksiyevskiy Monastery of the Mother of God
Address: Krilova St., 121, Tomsk
Website: Aleksiyevskiy Monastery of the Mother of God
Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 7am - 7pm
16. Soak in some culture at the Tomsk Drama Theater
Located in the city’s main square the Tomsk Drama Theater is hard to miss. Founded in 1850, it is the oldest theatre in Siberia and now features two stages. Given Tomsk’s active art scene, it regularly hosts performances by local and international groups so be sure to check out its schedule.
Tomsk Drama Theater
Address: Lenina Sq.,4, Tomsk
Website: Tomsk Drama Theater
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm
17. Visit the Monument 400 Years Tomsk
Tomsk commemorated 400 years of its establishment in 2004 with this elegant monument. Located in the main Lenin Square the monument shaped as an obelisk features four panels or bas-reliefs, depicting four most significant events in the city’s history, such as Prince Toyon’s conversion in 1604, acceptance of Tomsk Tatars for Russian citizenship (17th century), and the setting up of academic/research centers (20th century). At the top of the pillar, you can see the city’s emblem, a prancing horse surrounded by a wreath of oak leaves and crowned with a classical Russian onion dome.
Monument 400 Years Tomsk
Address: Lenin Ave, Tomsk
18. Explore underwater depths of Siberia under professional guidance
Открытый урок по дайвингу для детей! В честь международного дня детей наш дайвинг-клуб проводит ОТКРЫТЫЙ УРОК??, чтобы...
Posted by Ultradive on Monday, 27 May 2019
This professionally accredited popular local dive club offers classes for scuba diving, and more excitingly organizes weekend trips to diving spots in Tomsk region and beyond. Join in one of these expeditions (after training!) to explore the beautiful underwater scenes of Siberia. Its expert instructors and friendly community make it a wonderful experience.
Ultradive Diving Center
Address: Ulitsa Kotovskogo, 19, Tomsk
Website: Ultradive Diving Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm
19. Explore Russia's rich artistic heritage at the Tomsk Regional Art Museum
Housed inside a four-storied mansion of a local merchant, this art museum contains collections of Russian artists and Western European artists, primarily modern art. In addition to a range of permanent exhibitions, Tomsk Regional Art Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions from museums and collectors across the world on a variety of themes.
Tomsk Regional Art Museum
Address: Nakhanovicha Lane, 3, Tomsk
Website: Tomsk Regional Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 200 RUB (3 USD)
20. Visit the House with Dragons for a unique example of early Russian architecture
Yet another example of the marvelous wooden architecture of Tomsk is the House of Dragons. Possibly inspired by Norway’s Borgund Stave Church, the house features seven dragons on its roof gables and retains its original structure. The house is today a protected monument that you can admire from outside.
House with Dragons
Address: Krasnoarmeyskaya St., 68, Tomsk
21. Head to Statue of Pushkin to pay tribute to the Russian author, Alexander Pushkin
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Renowned Russian author Alexander Pushkin is a national icon and not surprisingly has been celebrated across Russia with statues. In Tomsk, the city has paid tribute with a statue of young Pushkin and it adorns one of the city’s’ main parks. Made by Mikhail Anikushin, this simple and understated statute was put up in 1999.
Statue of Pushkin
Address: Lenina Ave., 77a, Pushkinskiy Park, Tomsk
22. Pamper your taste buds at the famous Reka 827 restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
One of the top-rated restaurants of Tomsk, Reka 827 offers an upscale dining experience. While its delicious seafood is a must try, the restaurant’s menu also includes a wide variety of scrumptious options including steaks. Indulge in its delectable fare seated inside amid the cozy welcoming setting, or outside where you will have gorgeous views of river Tom.
Reka 827
Address: Pereulok Kooperativnyy, 2, Tomsk
Website: Reka 827
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 12pm - 12am; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 12am
23. Listen to some brilliant acoustics at the Organ Hall in Atashev Palace
While many come to admire this mansion’s luxurious rooms, experiencing the acoustics of the Organ Hall within the Atashev Palace makes for a mind-blowing experience. Concerts are held at regular intervals every month, so do check if there’s one playing anytime during your visit.
Organ Hall in Atashev Palace
Address: Lenina, 75, Tomsk
24. Visit Tomsk’s recreated Spasskaya Tower at the dimple-sized Resurrection Hill
Resurrection Hill or Voskresenskaya Mountain was where Tomsk’s first fort was built. Although long gone, the city rebuilt it partially on the occasion of its 400th anniversary in 2004, recreating the watchtower in the traditional architectural style along with a part of its wall. Walk around exploring the historic site and climb up to enjoy stunning views of the city around.
Spasskaya Tower
Address: Voskresenskaya Mountain, Tomsk
25. Witness a spectacular match of football at the Trud Stadium
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Trud Stadium is the home ground of the local team FC Tom Tomsk and the scene of many pitched football matches. If you are lucky enough to be there when a match is scheduled, be sure to attend it to experience the amazing atmosphere. A gift shop on site offers a range of souvenirs including Tomsk T-shirts and scarves.
Trud Stadium
Address: Belinskogo, 15/1, Tomsk
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: as per match timings
26. Enjoy some electrifying performances at the Aelita Theatre
Small and cozy with just 100 seats, Aelita Theatre is where you can enjoy an eclectic range of art performances in Tomsk. From indie movies to plays to dance and music shows, the theatre is a lively cultural center with an ever-changing menu of events. Take a look at its playbill and catch a show to enjoy the local art scene.
Aelita Theatre
Address: Lenin Ave., 78, Tomsk
Website: Aelita Theatre
Tomsk: a unique experience
There is more to Siberia than remote cold landscapes, and Tomsk is a prime example. Take your time to walk around the city to take in its unique culture and atmosphere as you explore the best things to do in Tomsk, Russia. Tomsk also has a vibrant festival calendar so look out for any that are scheduled when you’re there.
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