The city has an ‘otherworldly’ feel, renowned for its elaborate ‘gingerbread’-style designs on ornate wooden buildings, as well as its captivating art scene. A visit to Tomsk provides rare insights into Siberia’s rich heritage, away from the striking cathedrals and picture-perfect scenery that Russia has become synonymous. It maintains a dignified ambiance with its ensemble of traditional wooden houses, culture-rich museums and enchanting atmosphere brought about from the many universities here.
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The KGB Memorial Museum is a reminder of the region’s influential Soviet past and Communist years. Located in the dungeons of the former Tomsk KGB headquarters, the museum is one of a kind, featuring prison cells accompanied with survival stories and a range of KGB memorabilia and artifacts. It also features an enticing exhibition that pays tribute to those who were brave enough to fight and share their experiences.
The charming city center of Ploshchad Lenina is located in the heart of Tomsk and consists of an attractive melange of historical buildings. Beautifully-designed edifices line the center, together with the occasional Soviet-style concrete structure to remind of the city’s mysterious past and beautiful future. One of the main attractions of the center is the Lenin Statue which stands proud on its own roundabout; another is the Iverskaya Chapel, topped with a glistening golden angel, and the historic trading arches.
Located on the top of Resurrection Hill, the Tomsk History Museum provides a journey deep into the city’s long-stretching past. It offers interesting insights into how the people of Siberia have lived within the city for centuries, from the first inhabitants of 400 years ago, to present day citizens. A 19th century wooden lookout tower is one of the museum’s highlights; those brave enough to climb to the top will be rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views over the city.
Voskresenskaya Mountain, or Resurrection Hill, was named after the Church of the Christ’s Resurrection, the first church built by the founders of Tomsk in 1662. A climb up this steep hill within the city will bring visitors to the point where the original fortress was constructed. An intriguing stone block marks the spot of the city’s foundations, with the words “Here was founded the city of Tomsk in 1664” engraved upon it.
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Although the sheer vastness of Eastern Siberia might overwhelm some, this handcrafted seven-day itinerary guides you to the region’s must-see spots. Venture from Tomsk to the more built-up Novosibirsk, through the ancient city of Omsk, ending in Tobolsk after a week on the road and and the famous Trans-Siberian rails.
Tomsk, Siberia & Russian Far East
One of the grandest hotels in town, the four-star Magistrat Hotel occupies a splendid location in the heart of the city, just minutes’ walk from some of the main sights and attractions including Tomsk’s Epiphany Cathedral and the Conservatory Concert Hall. Rooms here are particularly well-appointed, with elegant décor, wooden furnishings, carpets and large windows presenting lovely views of the surrounding city. Rooms offer air conditioning, a mini-bar and cable television. Downstairs, a hearty American breakfast is served up every morning, while the hotel’s signature ‘Parmesan’ restaurant specializes in European and Italian food which can be ordered via room service too. Magistrat Hotel is just a half-hour’s drive from Bogashevo Airport and a shuttle service can be arranged at any time at reception.
Tomsk, Siberia & Russian Far East
The Toyan Hotel enjoys an ideal city center location in the heart of Tomsk; an excellent choice for visitors tight on time and wanting to see the main sights of the city, such as Tomsk’s Epiphany Cathedral and the Conservatory Concert Hall. All rooms here are furnished to western standards, coming with air conditioning, satellite television, spacious en-suite bathrooms and room service is also available. There’s a highly-rated downstairs restaurant that prepares a sizeable buffet spread for breakfast, staying open for the rest of the day, serving European and international dishes. The main river in Tomsk is also just a short walk away, and the immediate surrounding area has plenty in the way of shops, bars and restaurants.
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