How to get to Tomsk

Tomsk is a historic city in Western Siberia, renowned for its unique wooden architecture and its status as a major university hub. Travelers here will find a blend of rich history, cozy streets, and a lively student atmosphere. You can reach the city in various ways: by flying, using the railway network, or embarking on a road trip along the region's picturesque roads.

The fastest way to reach the city is to take a flight to the international airport Bogashevo, which is located not far from the city limits. The air hub receives regular flights from the capital and other regions, ensuring convenient connections with the outside world.

If direct tickets are unavailable, flying to neighboring major cities is an excellent alternative. The airport in the city of Novosibirsk (Tolmachevo) is Siberia's largest hub with a wide geography of flights. You can also consider arriving in Kemerovo or Novokuznetsk, from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

Contrary to popular belief, the city has direct railway connections, and trains arrive at the Tomsk-1 station. Direct trains run here from Moscow and other major cities, making the trip comfortable for those who appreciate the romance of rail travel.

A popular option also remains traveling through the major transport hub of Novosibirsk or Taiga station on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Commuter trains run regularly from these points to the final destination, allowing for flexible route planning.

Bus services connect Tomsk with most neighboring regional centers, making this mode of transport one of the most accessible. Comfortable buses depart regularly from bus stations, allowing passengers to enjoy the Siberian landscapes along the way.

The most in-demand and frequent routes run from the cities of Novosibirsk and Kemerovo. The travel time on such routes is optimally balanced, making the bus an excellent alternative to a private car or train.

A trip by car offers you freedom of movement and the ability to plan stops independently. The route from the city of Kemerovo, spanning about 213 km, will take approximately 2.8 hours, making it a great option for a quick trip.

If you are driving from the city of Novosibirsk, be prepared to spend about 3.7 hours on the road, covering a distance of 266 km. The journey from the city of Novokuznetsk (about 425 km) will be longer and take about 5 hours, but it will allow you to fully appreciate the scale of the local nature.

Preparing for a trip to Siberia requires attention to detail to ensure your stay is as comfortable and safe as possible. Here are a few practical tips to help you enjoy the city:

1. Seasonal Clothing. The climate here is sharply continental. In winter, a down jacket, hat, and warm footwear are essential (temperatures can drop below -30°C), while in summer, light clothing and a windbreaker for the evening will come in handy.
2. Transport. The historic city center is compact and convenient for walking. For trips to outlying districts, use popular taxi apps or local buses and trams.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Russian Ruble. Bank cards are accepted in most shops and cafes, but having some cash for markets or souvenir stalls will be useful.
4. Insect Protection. If you plan a trip during the warm season (May-June) and intend to visit nature spots, be sure to use repellents against ticks and mosquitoes.
5. Time Zone. Consider the time difference: the city is in the UTC+7 time zone (+4 hours difference from Moscow). Plan your calls and connections in advance.
6. Souvenirs. Do not miss the opportunity to buy local delicacies: pine nuts (cedar nuts), pine cone jam, or birch bark crafts.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in exploring the unique wooden architecture and cultural life of this Siberian city.