Krasnoyarsk Sights and Landmarks Guide, Russia

Krasnoyarsk in an important stop for the Trans-Siberian Railway, right on the shores of Yenisei River. Most tourists arriving in Krasnoyarsk are either on their way to Lake Baikal, either attracted by the wonderful nature that surrounds this distant Siberian city. Therefore, most of them will only spend a day or two in the city, trying to visit as much Krasnoyarsk sights as time or weather allows them – which is quite a pity, as Krasnoyarsk has plenty of museums, historical landmarks and cultural events to display.

Krasnoyarsk Sights – Museums and Historical Landmarks

The oldest and most famous Krasnoyarsk museum is the Regional Studies Museum, whose ethnographic collection was started in the late 1880s. A proof of Krasnoyarsk’s role in the Siberian culture, Surikov’s Arts Gallery-Museum hosts three permanent exhibitions, located in different parts of the city: one focused on Russian art from the 18th century till present, another on contemporary art and a third one focused on decorative art. There is also a Geology Museum and a Steam Paddle Ship Museum, as well as several memorials and memorial houses: Victory Memorial, Mamorial Museum of Lenin, Krasikov’s House-Museum, Surikov’s House State Museum.

The most famous among Krasnoyarsk sights is the bridge constructed in the 1890’s in order to carry the train over the waters of Yenisei River, which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003. Among the oldest and most appreciated historical landmarks are the Intercession Cathedral, the Annunciation Cathedral, John the Baptist Church, the Roman-Catholic Transfiguration Church and the Krasnoyarsk Krai Museum.

Krasnoyarsk Sights – Culture and Entertainment

A city with almost 1 million inhabitants, Krasnoyarsk has a flourishing cultural life. There are five theaters in Krasnoyarsk: Krasnoyarsk State Opera and Ballet Theater, Pushkin Drama Theater, Theater of Musical Comedy, Theater of Youth and Krasnoyarsk Puppet Theater. Major cultural events are hosted by Krasnoyarsk Grand Concert Hall and Krasnoyarsk Cultural and Historical Center.

Those travelling with children can enjoy some family time visiting the city’s Zoo (‘Royev Ruchei’), amusement park or Krasnoyarsk Circus. The nearby mountains and forests are perfect for practicing all types of outdoor activities, from rafting to single climbing and cross-country skiing.

Stolby National Park attracts visitors (especially rock-climbers) with some unique rock formations and breathtaking panoramas. If you have only few hours to spend in Krasnoyarsk, the Prospekt Mira Street, 350-Year Anniversary Square or the river quays are perfect places to start your walk. Krasnoyarsk represents only a small part of what Siberia has to offer: if you have a few weeks to spend in Russia, I suggest you finish exploring Moscow sights and nightlife as fast as you can and embark on an adventurous journey with the Trans-Siberian.