A sprawling Siberian metropolis, Omsk is full of history and culture, which can be seen through its museums and literary heritage. It’s also a family-friendly destination, where visitors of all ages can enjoy thrilling water parks and seasonal island adventures.
Things to do
Life in Omsk revolves around the bustling city centre, which was built in the 19th century and now harbours many of the area’s art and shopping venues. At the Omsk Natural History Museum, you’ll find yourself strolling along a recreated street lined with Russian and Ukrainian huts and a Cossack yurt. Feel free to try out an old-fashioned weaving loom and follow dioramas of rivers, forests and various ecosystems.
Stop by the Omsk Military Glory Museum to view weapons, officer uniforms and wartime letters as well as more than a dozen military technology exhibits with cannons, tanks and a katyusha rocket launcher. The little ones can even climb aboard the various vehicles.
In the warmer months, Green Island Park is the perfect place for cycling, row boating and riding the giant Ferris wheel. When the weather gets colder, the park maintains ski courses and an ice-skating rink. More family favourites include the rides at Pirate Island Amusement Park and visiting the Omsk Planetarium with space telescopes and genuine comet fragments.
Dine at one of the city’s trendy noodle bars, such as Lapshichnaya Noodle Shop with its spicy soups and Southeast Asian curries. In the evening, book a table at Tamada for a unique cave ambience with simulated ponds and palms. You’ll get a chance to try Georgian cuisines, such as khachapuri bread and spicy lobiyo stew.
Getting around
Omsk Tsentralny Airport lies just eight kilometres from the city centre, where you can take a shuttle or pick up a rental car. Buses, trains and taxis offer plenty of ways to get around in Omsk.