Founded in 1651 by Russian settlers as a fortress, Irkutsk today is a city that reflects the mixing of cultures - traders from the east and exiles from the west. Feel the pulse of the city where Siberian harshness is reflected in people's faces and their "soul".
Walk through old Irkutsk's where you can read the evolution of the city represented by a mix of styles:
from Russian classical architecture dating to the 1880's (during the "Gold Rush" period), Russian Orthodox Churches
next to the Polish Cathedral (the only Gothic-style building in Siberia) and "Soviet" era buildings accompanied by
Revolution and WWII memorials
Enjoy intriguing beauty of the Siberian wooden architecture. See unique one-and two- story wooden homes,
all with hand-carved window decorations.
Learn about remarkable people lived in Irkutsk and their stories. You will be surprised and touched!
This tour begins from your hotel or B&B. During the tour we will visit all major landmarks of Irkutsk city, such as Kirov square, local artisans on Gagarina and Lenin streets, bazaar (market place), drive through wooden part of Irkutsk, stop at the Decembrist museum and Znamenskaya convent founded in 1658. If there is enough time, we will also drive on top of the Irkutsk hydropower dam or a bridge across Angara River for panoramic views of the city and the river.
upon request