The most interesting places in Irkutsk in one day

The Lower Embankment is one of the most popular places among tourists and locals alike.
From different sides of the embankment there are picturesque views of orthodox cathedrals, sculptural works and temples.
The Angara River never freezes here, so it is beautiful at any time of the year.
You can see local fishermen both in summer and winter. The embankment is constantly transformed - new parks, sculptures and recreation areas appear.

The monument to Yakov Pokhabov was erected to the 350th anniversary of Irkutsk. The Cossack figure from Yeniseisk looks out over the Angara River, while the Moscow Gate and the Epiphany Cathedral can be seen nearby.
The appearance of the pioneer is solely the artist's creation. This bronze sculpture was first built in honor of all the founders of the city, but later it was renamed in memory of a particular pioneer. The monument is one of the largest in the city.

Be sure to get to the Moscow Gate, a kind of arch.
There is a belief that if you walk under this arch, any wish you make will certainly come true.
Modern Moscow Gate in Irkutsk was built and restored not so long ago - in 2009, for the 350th anniversary of the city.

Be sure to check out the organ hall at the Irkutsk Regional Philharmonic.
If you are lucky enough to hear the sounds of the organ, you will feel a powerful emotional impact thanks to this magical music. And the architecture of the Catholic Church - it's impossible to take your eyes away!

This is the main square in Irkutsk. And now it is officially called Count Speransky Square. But the locals never accepted the renaming and still call it Kirov Square.
In winter, a huge festive Christmas tree for the New Year reigns here, and an ice town is opened. The square is illuminated with light figures and garlands, and the residence of Santa Claus. In summer, there is a real flower garden near the fountain.
The place is perfect for a leisurely walk and a look around. Then go back to your car to explore the city further.

Victor Bronstein Gallery is a private art gallery. There is a permanent exhibition - ethnic sculptures and works of famous Baikal artists.
The peculiarity of the gallery is the frequent change of the collection, so here you can always discover something new, for example, pictures of young photographers.
The gallery itself is stylishly and tastefully done. Tourists love taking pictures of the space. There is a small shop with unusual souvenirs (besides classic magnets and postcards), such as Baikal jewelry, ceramics, books.
More about the gallery at official website.

We offer lunch in the same gallery. There is a restaurant-enoteca, which serves truly culinary masterpieces. If you are a fan of wine, the local wine gallery is a must.
Cozy atmosphere and unobtrusive music, so you can spend time with your family or company.
Be sure to try the tartare and steaks here, they are delicious!

The museum is located in a very attractive building, built for A. M. Sibiryakov and named after him.
There is an interesting exposition connected with the First World War, as well as temporary exhibitions.

The next no less attractive attraction is the N. P. Okhlopkov Drama Theatre. The architecture of the theater is very fascinating, preserved since its construction. The new finish does not spoil the beauty, but rather gives it charm. You can buy tickets in advance to see the show you're interested in.

After visiting the theater, take a walk along the Upper Embankment, another favorite place among Irkutsk residents. You can walk here along the stylish, modern and at the same time authentic 5th Army Street, and return to the monument already along the embankment.
Here people ride scooters, do sports and just stroll around, enjoying the wonderful time.

Gagarin Boulevard is a road and pedestrian area in the center of Irkutsk. It is considered a favorite pastime place for local residents. There is another promenade, no less beloved by Irkutsk residents.
Gagarin Boulevard is an old Irkutsk street, stretching along the right bank of the Angara River in the Right Bank district of Irkutsk.
Before the revolution, it had another name - Alexander Square, because a monument to Alexander III stands there. Then the street was called Vuzovskaya, later - Gagarin Boulevard (1961).

"Yunost" is an island on the Angara River in the center of Irkutsk.
It is connected to the shore and the neighboring island Konny by bridges.
These two islands are popular among tourists and locals in summer, but in winter there is something to do there as well.
Take a walk around Turnikovskaya Square, then take a ride on the Krugozor Ferris wheel, which also operates in winter. The Ferris wheel is open until 10 pm.
There are often festivals and exhibitions.

We finish the evening with dinner in the restaurant-bar Harat's Pub. Choice of cuisine: Russian, Japanese, European.
Large hall, in addition to tables there are rooms with sofas, as well as the dance floor. Nice staff.
Visitors recommend pasta carbonara, Caesar salad, scallops, cheesecake, dessert Furutsu roru age.The restaurant is open from 12 noon to 2 am.
Harat's Pub was founded in Irkutsk, so it's really cool to visit its historic homeland. There might be a Harat's in your city, too.
Now you're in the 130 block, where there's a plethora of restaurants for all tastes. And if a beer garden isn't to your liking, we recommend a visit to Georgian Kinza or Italian Pizza Pitano.

Your Irkutsk adventure has come to an end today, it must have been a great day! But tomorrow you have an equally busy and cool day ahead of you. Good night!