How to get to Kotlas

Kotlas is an important transport hub in the north of Russia, situated in a picturesque location where the Northern Dvina and Vychegda rivers meet. This city in the Arkhangelsk region serves as a gateway to the Russian North, and you can reach Kotlas via various routes, choosing the option most convenient for you. Most often, tourists use combined routes, mixing train or car travel with air travel.

Despite its distance from the capital cities, the city has its own air connections. The local airport receives regular flights from major regional centres, such as Saint Petersburg and Arkhangelsk, allowing you to reach your destination quickly and comfortably. The airport is located within the city limits, so the transfer to your hotel will take minimum time.

If direct tickets are unavailable, a convenient alternative is a flight to neighbouring Velikiy Ustyug (57 km) or to Syktyvkar (228 km). From these cities, you can easily continue your journey by ground transport, enjoying views of the northern nature.

The railway is one of the most reliable and popular ways to get to Kotlas, as the city is a major railway junction. Long-distance trains from Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Vorkuta pass through the Kotlas-Yuzhny and Kotlas-Uzlovoy stations, ensuring stable connections at any time of the year.

Commuter trains are also available for tourists from nearby regions. Traveling to the rhythmic sound of wheels allows you not to depend on weather conditions and to cover long distances in comfort, watching the changing landscapes outside the window.

Bus services connect the city with neighbouring regional centres and settlements, offering a budget-friendly travel option. One of the popular routes is the service from the city of Syktyvkar: the distance is about 335 km, and the travel time takes approximately 5–6 hours.

Modern intercity buses run regularly, however, the schedule may change depending on the season. It is recommended to check the departure time in advance and be ready for a journey along the roads of the Russian North.

Traveling by private car gives you freedom of movement and the opportunity to plan stops yourself. The shortest and fastest route runs from the city of Velikiy Ustyug: the distance of 69 km can be comfortably covered in just 1 hour.

Travellers departing from the city of Syktyvkar will have to drive 334 km, which will take about 4.5 hours. The road from the city of Kirov will require more time and endurance: the distance is 527 km, and the time behind the wheel will be approximately 6–7 hours.

Preparing for your trip to Kotlas will help make your stay in the north comfortable and safe. Here are a few practical recommendations worth considering before departure.

1. Clothing and Weather. The climate here is changeable, so bring layered clothing. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, and in winter, thermal underwear and a windproof jacket are mandatory.
2. Transport. The city is quite compact, and the centre is pleasant to explore on foot. For trips to remote areas or neighbouring villages, it is convenient to use local taxi services, which offer affordable rates.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Russian Ruble. Supermarkets and hotels accept cards, but it is better to carry cash for visiting markets and small shops.
4. Health. In the summer period, especially in June and July, be sure to stock up on repellents: the proximity of rivers contributes to the activity of mosquitoes and midges. There are pharmacies in the city, but it is better to bring specific medicines with you.
5. Language. The main language of communication is Russian. English is not understood everywhere, so having an offline translator on your phone will be useful.
6. Etiquette. Locals appreciate politeness and calmness. It is customary to greet people when entering small shops and to maintain cleanliness on the streets and in nature.
7. Safety. The city is calm, but observe standard safety measures: do not leave valuables unattended and avoid unlit outskirts at night.

Following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the unique atmosphere of this northern river port.