Surrounded by the Taiga Forest at the base of the Ural Mountains, Kemerovo is a hub for winter adventure in nearby Sheregesh Alpine Resort. Elegant neoclassical facades and grand cathedrals mix with communist-style architecture embellished with Soviet symbols.

Things to do

Visit the grand Soviet Square and see the towering Lenin Monument, a reminder of the bygone Soviet-era. Within the square, you can shop for traditional Kuzbass souvenirs at the open-air market. Pick up unique Matryoshka dolls and native Kazakh rugs, then sample local treats like cedar-cone jam.

See a thrilling show at Kemerovo Regional Lunacharsky Drama Theater, which dates back to 1934. The theatre is a symbol of the city and preserves Russia’s theatrical traditions while embracing new innovations. For a glimpse into Kemerovo ancient history, visit the Kemerovo Regional Museum, which features archaeological finds, including prehistoric fossils and antique weapons and cars.

Explore an impressive collection of mining monuments, machinery and equipment at the Krasnaya Gorka Museum, an open-air exhibit preserving the history of coal mining in Kemerovo. Don a hard hat and tour the old mining buildings, then explore the mouth of Kemerovo Mine, which was discovered in 1907.

Stroll along the Tom River esplanade towards the towering Monument to the Miners of Kuzbass. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, the modern sculpture is a poignant reminder about the sacrifices of Kemerovo’s first miners. Admire the 12-meter-high bronze miner statue who holds a burning piece of coal in his hands.

Getting around

Kemerovo is on the Trans-Siberian Railway and receives direct trains from Moscow, Tashtagol and Novosibirsk. Kemerovo has an extensive network of buses, taxis and trams. Kemerovo International Airport is an hour's bus ride or 20-minute taxi ride away.