Novosibirsk is the largest city in Siberia and the third-largest in Russia, lying in Novosibirsk Oblast in the Asian part of the country. It serves as the administrative centre of the oblast and is often described as the unofficial capital of Siberia, which gives it the feel of a working regional hub rather than a town built around a single attraction.
For a visitor, the city's appeal lies in its scale and its mix of industry and culture. It is a major industrial centre, and it is also a cultural centre, so the city offers a sense of how life runs across a large Siberian metropolis. The city was also known as Novonikolayevsk, a name that appears in older references and may be useful to recognise when reading about its past.
What to expect
- A large Siberian city: Novosibirsk is a place to experience urban life in the heart of the region.
- Cultural life: As a cultural centre, the city suits visitors interested in the arts and local life.
- Regional base: Being the administrative centre of its oblast, it can serve as a starting point for exploring the wider area.
Novosibirsk suits travellers who want to see Siberia through one of its principal cities rather than a remote outpost. Those planning a visit should check current transport and practical details for their own dates before setting out.
