Where to spend time in Novosibirsk to get to know it better and get unforgettable impressions? This city, located on the banks of the Ob River, offers guests a variety of attractions: from historical monuments and theaters to modern entertainment centers. Most places require from a few hours to a whole day for full immersion, so it is important to plan your route in advance. In this article, we will consider where you can go alone or with family, taking into account the time it will take to visit.
What to visit in Novosibirsk if you are traveling alone
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
The first stone church in Novosibirsk, built in the neo-Byzantine style at the end of the 19th century. This is a landmark place for lovers of history and architecture. It will take 1–2 hours to see the cathedral and its grounds. - Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre
The Bolshoi Theatre of Siberia is a symbol of the city, famous for its acoustics and magnificent productions. In addition to attending a performance, take the time to examine the building from the outside and inside. Tickets should be purchased in advance. The visit will take 2-3 hours. - Novosibirsk State Museum of Local History
One of the largest museums in Siberia, where exhibits are presented that tell about the history of the region – from ancient tribes to modern achievements. Here you will find rare artifacts, including a mammoth skeleton and coin collections. It will take 3-4 hours to see all the halls. - Museum of World Funeral Culture
An unusual museum dedicated to the burial traditions of different peoples of the world. The exhibition includes mourning suits, hearses and even obituaries. A visit here will take about 2 hours, excluding travel. - Krasny Fakel Theater
A theater with a rich history and a repertoire that includes both classical and modern productions. A great place for lovers of dramatic art. Tickets should be purchased in advance. One performance will take 2-3 hours. - Akademgorodok
A unique scientific center in the suburbs of Novosibirsk, surrounded by picturesque forests. Here you can take a walk, visit scientific institutes or stop at the Central Siberian Botanical Garden. A stay in Akademgorodok can take from several hours to a whole day, excluding travel. - Big Novosibirsk Planetarium
A modern scientific complex with an observatory and interactive lectures. Films about space projected onto the dome and excursions will make your visit unforgettable. It will take 3-4 hours to see it, excluding travel. - Monuments and walking areas
- Monument to the laboratory mouse: a symbol of scientific achievements, representing a mouse knitting a DNA molecule (30 minutes).
- Traffic light monument: a reminder of the city’s first traffic lights, a popular place for photos (15-20 minutes).
- Novosibirsk metro bridge: the longest metro bridge in the world, which connects the two banks of the Ob River. It will take about an hour to travel along it.
Where to go in Novosibirsk with family
- Novosibirsk Zoo named after R. A. Shilo
One of the largest zoos in Russia, home to more than 11,000 animals, including rare representatives of the fauna, such as ligers and white tigers. Here you will find spacious enclosures and thematic zones. A full inspection of the zoo will take a whole day. - Aquapark “Akvamir”
A modern water park with many slides, pools and recreation areas. A great place for the whole family, where you can spend 4-5 hours. - Children’s Railway
A unique attraction where children can try themselves in the role of train drivers or conductors. The narrow-gauge railway with real diesel locomotives and carriages is located in Zaeltsovsky Park. A visit will take 2-3 hours. - Central Park
A historical park in the city center, ideal for walks with children. There are rides, playgrounds and cafes. The walk and entertainment will take 3-4 hours. - Central Siberian Botanical Garden
A spacious natural complex with rare and exotic plants. Here you can take a walk, have a picnic or ride a bike. It is worth allocating half a day for a visit, excluding travel. - Novosibirsk Theater “Globus”
The theater offers performances for children and adults. A great place for a family evening, for which it is worth planning 2-3 hours. - Museum of Railway Equipment
Here are retro trains, carriages and specialized exhibits, such as a hospital carriage and a church carriage. An interesting place for children and adults, which will take 2-3 hours to explore, excluding travel. - Big Novosibirsk Planetarium
A place where children and adults can learn about the stars, planets and space. A visit with interactive activities will take 3-4 hours, excluding travel.
There is entertainment for everyone
Novosibirsk is a city where modernity meets rich cultural heritage. There is something for everyone: history and architecture buffs will appreciate museums and cathedrals, families will appreciate the zoo and water park, and solo travelers will enjoy theaters and walks along Krasny Prospekt. Plan your trip and discover the multifaceted Novosibirsk!
Travel Tips
- Transportation: Take the metro to save time. Be sure to ride the Novosibirsk Metro Bridge, the longest metro bridge in the world.
- Food: Try Siberian dishes such as stroganina, pelmeni, and pine nuts.
- Accommodation: Choose hotels in the center to be closer to the main attractions. For example, Hotel N, which is located near the city center, Railway Station and the water park.
