Located at the confluence of the Barnaulka and Ob rivers, Barnaul is nestled in the forest-steppe of the West Siberian Plain. It’s home to fascinating museums, a striking Russian Orthodox cathedral and picturesque parks.

Things to do

Delve into the local history at the Altai State Museum of Local Lore, which occupies an elegant 19th-century building in the heart of Barnaul. See taxidermy native animals and discover the cultural diversity of the region’s indigenous communities, then browse the exhibits detailing Barnaul’s military and mining history.

Visit the redbrick Pokrovsky Cathedral in the heart of the city and admire its bright blue domes. It’s a short walk from the Museum of the History of Orthodoxy in the Altai, which offers fascinating insight into the religious life of Barnaul.

Stroll through the leafy surrounds of Nagorny Park, which sprawls along the Ob River. It was founded in 1772 as the Nagorny Cemetery and exhibits old tombs belonging to some of the city’s most influential residents.

Travelling with kids? Head to the Barnaul Zoo, which is located in Lesnaya Skazka Park. In addition to enclosures housing lions, tigers, wolves and local birdlife, there are children’s play areas.

Getting around

Barnaul Airport is a 30-minute drive from Barnaul, while trains from Novosibirsk and Almaty in Kazakhstan arrive at Barnaul Station. Buses, trams, marshrutka share-taxis and trolleys access most of the city.