Irkutsk

Irkutsk city- the capital of Eastern Siberia, pleasantly historic Irkutsk is by far the most popular stop on the Trans-Siberian Railway between Moscow and all points east. With Lake Baikal a mere 70 km away, the city is the best base from which to strike out for the western shoreline. Amid the 19th-century architecture, revived churches, classy eateries and numerous hostels, plentiful English-speaking agencies can help you plan anything from a winter trek across the lake’s ice to a short walking tour through the city.

In recent years Irkutsk has seen something of a tourist boom, spawning a municipally funded information center, detailed city maps planted at strategic points and a handful of freshly conceived museums, as well as the blockbuster 130 Kvartal project, an entire neighborhood given over to typical Siberian timber buildings housing new restaurants, bars, cafes and the odd museum.

Modern Irkutsk is a historical city, which combines magnificence and unique nature of a historical center with blocks of modern buildings, traditions of the most intelligent and educated Siberian city with modern industrial, research and educational potential.

For many travelers Irkutsk is a starting point to begin exploration of Lake Baikal - the largest freshwater lake in the world and the world's deepest lake. Somewhat crescent shaped, it is in the southern Siberia area of Russia. In 1996 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Irkutsk is a city with a unique personality. And, in a faraway wilderness of Siberia, this city can become one of the most amazing places you’ll see in your life.