What to see in Krasnoyarsk in winter - attractions in the city and surrounding area, photos, tourist reviews

Attractions What to see in the surrounding area What to do in winter in Krasnoyarsk Winter festivals and holidays Reviews and stories from tourists Where to stay in Krasnoyarsk Excursions

Mountains covered with snow, trees covered in frost and the smoking Yenisei - a picture of winter Krasnoyarsk. Winter here is real, with frosts down to -20...-30 °C, although there are thaws. All this has its own charm, as well as good opportunities for winter recreation.

Undoubtedly, in winter in Krasnoyarsk you can see the sights of the city - let’s identify them first. In addition to them, it is worth seeing Siberian nature, dressed in white, climbing into a cave, where it is warmer than outside, and be sure to climb the famous Krasnoyarsk “Pillars”. The acquaintance will be diversified by winter fun: bright city Christmas trees, ice towns and skating or skiing. All popular ideas on where to go and what to do in Krasnoyarsk in winter will also be covered on this page.

Winter in the vicinity of Krasnoyarsk Photo: © Alexander Reshetnikov

Attractions

In order not to freeze while searching for Krasnoyarsk attractions, you should find out about them in advance. Walk along the main streets of Mir, Lenin, Karl Marx - you will find interesting places, monuments, beautiful buildings and museums, as well as cafes where you can have a snack. The last two are especially relevant for walking in winter, allowing you to combine business with pleasure.

The main exhibitions are covered in a separate publication:

Museums of Krasnoyarsk

Chapel of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa

It is symbolic to start your journey around Krasnoyarsk from Karaulnaya Mountain. In the first half of the 17th century, there was a watchtower on it, guarding the Siberian borders and the fortress lying below. A hundred years later, the need for it disappeared; a wooden chapel of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa appeared on the top. Later it was rebuilt in stone, receiving an octagonal volume and a dome-tent.

Today the chapel has been restored and is one of the most important symbols of Krasnoyarsk. It is she who is depicted on the 10-ruble bill, and therefore is familiar to every Russian. But the place is interesting not only to her: from here the whole city is in full view - it’s a wonderful observation deck.

Read more: Chapel of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa

Paraskeva Pyatnitsa Chapel Photo: © Anastasia-11

Yenisei

Krasnoyarsk is located on both banks of one of the longest rivers in Russia and the world - the Yenisei. Much is connected with the river in the history of the city, and today it is an indispensable point on the route of guests. It is interesting that due to the construction of the Krasnoyarsk hydroelectric power station, the Yenisei within the city does not freeze and therefore significantly affects the local climate. In cold weather, the river soars and the trees are covered with white frost - this is definitely a mesmerizing sight. However, in humid climates the cold is felt more strongly. When going to Krasnoyarsk, be sure to dress warmly.

There is more than one promenade along the Yenisei. The left bank embankment is closest to the center . It stretches for several kilometers. It offers views of the snow-capped hills and the Communal Bridge , which was once an innovation of its time. The bridge is also depicted on the 10 ruble banknote.

Communal bridge Photo: © hardsign

If you get cold, take a look at the museums, there are three of them: the museum-steamer “St. Nicholas” , which carried both V.I. Lenin and Nicholas II; a local history museum , which in appearance resembles an Egyptian temple, and Peace Square , presenting contemporary art to Krasnoyarsk residents. There is always some unusual art object standing next to it.

You can not only walk along the embankment in winter Krasnoyarsk. along its upper tier near Central Park . In the evening, when the ice and trees are illuminated, the skating will be especially colorful. You can rent skates and leave your belongings in the storage room.

Winter Krasnoyarsk embankment in the evening Photo: © hardsign

theatre square

The square near the Krasnoyarsk Opera and Ballet Theater is adjacent to the embankment at the entrance to the Communal Bridge and is one of the central ones. In front of the theater building, Apollo, the Greek god of the arts, stands on a column. There are also fountains: in winter, their work is replaced by illumination, reminiscent of streams of water.

Closer to the river there is another fountain - “Rivers of Siberia” . The sculptures of men and women represent the Yenisei and small rivers - the Angara, Biryusa, Manu and others. The cascades of water in it are also replaced by LEDs, creating a play of water flow. Nearby there is a monument to A.P. Chekhov : the writer was passing through Krasnoyarsk and was fascinated by its beauty and the power of the Yenisei.

Opposite the square near the City Administration building is a remarkable clock , whose appearance and function have earned the title of local Big Ben .

Observation deck on Nikolaevskaya Sopka

Nikolaevskaya Sopka on the western outskirts of Krasnoyarsk is the highest point of the city. The observation deck on it opened in March 2021, and is not yet mentioned in every guidebook. The city is visible from the western side: tall buildings stand out, the Yenisei River runs along the blocks and the Stolbov Mountains on the other side, covered with dark forest and white snow.

Designers worked on the appearance of the observation room; it is simple in a modern way, but unusual. The design combines glass and wood and has wonderful evening lighting. The hanging part is interesting, as if hanging in the air. For those who want to endlessly admire the view, benches and canopies have been installed. You can get here on foot or by car from Biathlonnaya Street and the Gremyachaya Griva Park, but it’s worth considering that it’s a 1.2 km uphill serpentine road. Another option is the MSK Sopka cable car.

Read more: observation deck on Nikolaevskaya Sopka

More main attractions of the city in publications:

What to see in Krasnoyarsk in 1 day Sights of Krasnoyarsk

Roev Ruchei

“Roev Ruchey” is a Krasnoyarsk zoo, occupying a forested area on the western outskirts of the city along the right bank of the Yenisei. This is one of the largest and best zoos in Russia. In winter, animals live in closed and open enclosures. Polar bears are especially happy in winter. The zoo makes a pleasant impression not only on children, but also on most adults who care about animals.

Bear from Roev Ruchey Photo: © Official page of the Roev Ruchey park VKontakte

Roev Ruchey holds themed days all year round. In winter, for example, for Titmouse Day in November and the Winter Birds Festival in January, the zoo, together with visitors, prepares houses and bird feeders. On Maslenitsa he invites you to dance in circles, enjoy pancakes and take pictures with your pets. On Snow Day, January 17, you are invited to walk along clean snow-covered paths, play snowballs and take part in a snow quest. Announcements of events can always be found on the zoo’s website.

Read more: Roev Ruchey Flora and Fauna Park

What else to do for a little tourist:

Where to go with a child in Krasnoyarsk

One of the Pillars Photo: © Alexander Reshetnikov

Reserve "Stolby"

This is one of the main attractions of Krasnoyarsk. It is unique in terms of flora and fauna. On an area of more than 47 thousand hectares covered with taiga, there are rocks of the most varied shapes and heights. Therefore, “Pillars” is a mecca for climbers. The highest rock in the reserve is the “Second Pillar” (748 meters above sea level), and the most visited one, “Grandfather,” resembles the head of a stern old man.

What to see in the area

There are no fewer beautiful places in the Krasnoyarsk region that can delight a traveler. Already in the suburbs you can get acquainted with the legendary Siberian nature, but what better time to experience its temperamental character than in winter? But don’t be scared, because we’re not talking about the remote taiga. Let's note the most popular natural attractions around the city, where Krasnoyarsk residents themselves enjoy going on weekends.

Reserve "Stolby"

“Stolby” is a national park and protected area on the southwestern outskirts of the city. Pillars are huge mountains of boulders, each of which has its own apt name: Feathers, Chinese Wall, Sparrows, First Pillar and others. In total, there are more than a hundred stone sculptures in the protected forest, and these are its most important objects. Some tourists come to Krasnoyarsk specifically to see these rocks.

Takmak Pillar Photo: © Alexander Reshetnikov

The pillars are visited at any time of the year. You can go there on your own by studying the map and website of the reserve, or join an excursion. There are several routes in the park. The most famous rocks are located at the end of the Laletinskaya road, starting from the “Turbaza” stop on Sverdlovskaya Street, on one of the long routes (13–15 km on both sides). It is worth remembering that you are going to the forest in winter: you need to carefully consider your clothes and shoes, and also take a snack and a thermos of tea with you.

Torgashinsky ridge

The Torgashinsky ridge is also located in the southwestern outskirts of Krasnoyarsk and is chosen for a walk no less often. The ridge stretches for several tens of kilometers in a southerly direction. Its most visited part starts from SNT behind Sverdlovskaya Street. From high points on the rise you can see city blocks and the Yenisei with bridges. On the ridge itself, interesting are the bizarre rocks and wonderful views of the taiga sea in “Stolby” and the Takmak rock.

The main trail, site attractions and sweeping panorama are located on the ridge crest. In winter it is exposed to all winds, and windproof clothing is required to visit it.

Ice waterfall

Ice Falls is a man-made frozen waterfall cascading down the rock wall of a former granite quarry. It is located at the eastern entrance to the Stolby reserve. The ice rock was specially created for training climbers, but it did not go unnoticed by other park guests. People come here to take pictures in the kingdom of ice and ride down the slide - the icy tail of the waterfall.

A warm visit with luggage storage, a fireplace and toilets is located very close. The walk will be conveniently complemented by the short routes of the park, passing by the Takmak and Ermak rocks.

Karaulnaya Cave

There are many caves hidden in the vicinity of Krasnoyarsk. Karaulnaya-2 is an equipped cave-museum. It is convenient for any visitor. The temperature is +4 °C all year round, and in winter such weather will not come as a surprise, because you are probably dressed in warm clothes. In addition to the grottoes themselves with strange growths and deposits, you can see sleeping bats, the skeleton of a cave bear, and also explore exhibitions on the geology, archeology and paleontology of the place.

The route to the cave passes through the Karaulna Highlands. This is a rocky forest area on the left bank of the Yenisei near the village of Izvestkovy. From the high bank there is an excellent view of the river and the village of Ovsyanka lying opposite. During the cold season, there is a fire pit near the cave and a warm house where you can drink tea. On Maslenitsa, guests are invited to take part in active fun: snowball fights, cheesecake riding and construction of labyrinths.

Mokraya Cave

Mokraya Cave is located on the territory of the Torgashinsky ridge. One of its vaults is decorated with large ice crystals - graceful branches, snowflakes and hexagonal plates. The fragile beauty is more pronounced during thaws and high humidity, and therefore the cave is most interesting at the end of winter.

The cave has no category and is not considered difficult due to its horizontal path. However, it is not equipped, so not everyone will decide to visit it. If desired, escort can be found in local tourist clubs. The path to it is about 6 km on foot one way. The route starts from the “Polygon” stop in SNT “Krasnoyarets-4”, at the terminus of bus number 27. On the way you will also come across the Ice Cave, but the complexity of its structure requires experience and equipment for the visit.

King fish

The Tsar Fish is a story by Krasnoyarsk writer V.P. Astafiev about nature and man, as well as an observation deck on the high right bank of the Yenisei near Krasnoyarsk. From here, the wide Yenisei stretches out in both directions, tirelessly running through the mountains. In 2004, for the writer’s 80th birthday, a sculpture of a sturgeon appeared on the site. The majestic fish froze over the picturesque panorama, making it unique. Needless to say, the character became a popular participant in the photo.

“Tsar Fish” Photo: © Anastasia-11

The place for the fish, the hero of the story by Viktor Astafiev, was not chosen by chance. In the village of Ovsyanka at the foot of the cliff, he was born and spent the last years of his life. memorial complex has been opened in his house . Continuing the route to Divnogorsk , you can take a walk along its embankment . The city received its name for a reason: it lies surrounded by low but picturesque peaks. The Divny ski complex operates on one of them .

Read more: observation deck “Tsar Fish”

Divnogorsk embankment Photo: © Alexander Reshetnikov

Krasnoyarsk Sea

The reservoir on the Yenisei, formed by the dam of the Krasnoyarsk hydroelectric power station , is called the Krasnoyarsk Sea. Incorrect calculations in the operation of the station are the reason for the lack of ice on the Yenisei; there is none for many kilometers below. You can look at the hydroelectric dam from the viewing platforms on the left and right banks.

When mentioning the “sea,” they often mean the part adjacent to the dam and closer to Krasnoyarsk. Biryusinsky Bay is also popular. Ice appears on the reservoir only in mid-January or February. The period when it is safe for walking and driving is short. A snow-covered or clear ice field is instantly filled with fans of active recreation and photo shoots, because the local nature pleases with its beauty, rocky shores and caves. Kiters and fishermen often gather for competitions on the ice.

Krasnoyarsk Sea Photo: © Alexander Reshetnikov

The most convenient area for accessing the ice is the Shumikha area with recreation centers. The camp sites organize for guests the rental of buns, skis, skates and snowmobiling on the icy expanses of the river.

Microdistricts

Leninsky district is divided into the following microdistricts:

Verkhniye Cheryomushki
Upper Bazaikha
Hydrolysis village
DK 1 May
Stone Quarter
Quarry village
KrasTPP
Pos. Energetikov is one of the oldest microdistricts in the Leninsky district of Krasnoyarsk. Historically, the area developed as an industrial and factory area. The village was formed around 1940 for workers at the Krasnoyarsk Thermal Power Plant-1 (Festivalnaya, 2). The village of Energetikov borders on the villages of Shinnikov, Cheryomushki, and Suvorovsky. The former Zernogorodok is located on its territory.
Kuznetsovskoe plateau
Oil depot
New Bazaikha
Berth
Suvorovsky village (Partially)
Technical village
Festival village
Chaikovsky
Cheremushki village
Shinnikov village

What to do in winter in Krasnoyarsk

Krasnoyarsk has not only beautiful postcard attractions, but also places that will not surprise you with something unusual, but will provide an opportunity to have a fun, useful and interesting weekend or vacation. In winter, the city has dozens of outdoor recreation areas, slides have been built, recreation centers with bathhouses and swimming pools operate, and snowmobile and dog sled tours are organized. Below are the most famous places to go in Krasnoyarsk to experience a truly winter Siberian city.

Ducks on the Divnogorsk embankment Photo: © Alexey Reshetnikov

Tatyshev Park

Tatyshev is an island 6 km long, it is located on the Yenisei right within the boundaries of Krasnoyarsk. When the gophers, the main symbols of the island, sleep in their burrows, Krasnoyarsk residents are actively exploring it. A 600-meter pedestrian Vinogradovsky Bridge .

In winter, Tatyshev Park has the city's largest ice skating rink and kilometers of ski slopes. The rental offers all the necessary equipment. Plush bikes, snow scooters and fat bikes are also available for rent. If you want more comfortable weather conditions, you can skate in the Crystal Arena or Arena. North" - covered areas. They are located near the Oktyabrsky automobile bridge from Tatyshev.

In November, the island hosts the “Don’t Freeze, Gopher!” holiday. , where visitors are entertained with competitions and performances by creative and sports teams. On New Year's Eve , Tatyshev is decorated with a tall spruce tree in lights; it is the main one in the city. An ice town with slides, sculptures and a labyrinth will definitely grow near the Christmas tree. In addition, the main Maslenitsa festivities . The program includes performances by creative groups, horse riding, competitions and, of course, the opportunity to taste pancakes.

Dream Gardens Park

“Dream Gardens” is a private park with landscaping, sculptures and manicured plants. Despite the snow cover, the park remains a good location for photo sessions even in winter. It’s convenient to go here with a child: different slides are available for both adults and children. They grow up in the middle of a small but magnificent ice town. There is also a skating rink and snow labyrinths here. The park's café invites you to warm up after snowy fun. Entrance to the territory is paid.

Eco-park "Rattling Mane"

The park on Gremyachaya Griva, on the western outskirts of Krasnoyarsk, won the recognition of residents after reconstruction. At the entrance there is a visitor center with changing rooms, lockers and toilets. In the first stage, paths and trails were marked, and viewing areas were made safe.

People come here to get some air, walk or ski, and feed the squirrels and birds. The relief captivates with its diversity, allowing you to admire both the forest and open picturesque views. On weekends, the park organizes guided walks that anyone can sign up for, and sometimes hosts running competitions.

Funpark "Bobrovy Log"

“Bobrovy Log” is one of the most famous places in Krasnoyarsk for active recreation. In winter, the all-season complex becomes, first of all, a ski resort. For skiers and snowboarders, there are up to 15 trails with a height difference of up to 350 meters, as well as two cable car .

But it’s not just skis that are in demand. The whole family can go tubing, learn to skate, or “Rodelbahn,” an attraction that combines roller coasters and bobsleds. In addition, there is a children's room and a playground for children. From the end of winter, gazebos with barbecue areas located on the top of the mountain are opened for picnics.

More details: Bobrovy Log fun park

Ropeway in “Bobrovy Log” Photo: © hardsign

Next to Bobrovy Log there is another ski resort - Kashtak .

Sports complex "Sopka"

“Sopka” is located on the eastern slope of Nikolaevskaya Sopka, the observation deck at the top of which we noted above. The multifunctional complex is intended for training athletes, but in winter the parallel slalom track is also open to amateurs.

The slopes of the Sopka MSK are suitable for various skiing and snowboarding disciplines; they are prepared in accordance with all the requirements of the International Ski Federation. During the winter season, the site hosts several competitions in freestyle, snowboarding, and ski jumping, including world-class ones, and fans of these sports can become spectators. On the days of particularly large events, photo zones, husky riding, active games with animators and the opportunity to have a snack are organized for guests.

About these and other ski resorts in the article:

Ski resorts of Krasnoyarsk and Krasnoyarsk Territory

Competitions of the World Championship in freestyle and snowboarding on “Sopka” Photo: © Official group of the IFC SFU “Sopka” on Instagram

Celebrate the New Year in a club or restaurant

First of all, you should take care of your “daily bread” and start New Year’s Eve in a restaurant. Cozy atmosphere, delicious food, if you wish, you can choose an establishment with a program or arrange your own leisure time:

Restaurant "Emperor" invites guests on December 17-30 for unforgettable evenings with a show program:

charismatic presenter, professional musicians, DJ;
live voice, dancing;
gourmets will love the gourmet cuisine;
beautifully decorated hall;
solemn congratulations to Father Frost and Snow Maiden;
gifts for guests from the establishment.

“Roev Ruchey” is a restaurant and hotel complex, where celebrating the New Year 2022 in a resort location will be interesting, tasty and magical. Lots of photo zones, beautifully set tables, delicious dishes, show program.
"Izbushka", a banquet hall awaits guests. Exquisite dishes and a festive atmosphere are guaranteed.
“Siberian Venice” - the design in white and blue tones perfectly conveys the winter mood. 5 halls, European cuisine and affordable prices.
"Empire", banquet hall - a small cozy restaurant will give you privacy and delicious food with the delights of European cuisine.

There are many restaurants and small cafes here, so it will be easy to choose an option to suit your taste and budget.

Music lovers should celebrate the New Year at the club:

"Clouds"	They will hold a thematic show with competitions from Roman Kharlamov, songs by the Mint Breeze group and tracks from the club’s residents.
"Piano in the bushes"	Enjoy the classics. Host with competitions and various gifts, DJs, participation of Father Frost and the Snow Maiden, live music.
"London of Pride"	With a program in strict British style.
"Pavarotti"	Italian theme, a real Venetian carnival with mysterious guests in masks, Count Cagliostro and folk dances
"White Rabbit"	Festive program in traditional Russian style. Folk instruments, best hits, practical jokes, competitions, snowball fights.
"Hands up!"	A bar where you can join your favorite “Songs about the main thing”, there will be musical performances and fiery dances. The evening will be hosted by two charismatic presenters

You can also spend New Year’s Eve interestingly in:

Loft – will stage a humorous musical;
"Ioanidis" - Greek tavern;
“Zapovednoe” - the cafe promises a show ballet and a performance by drummers, competitions and parkour;
"Al Pacino" karaoke bar will host a themed party.

The choice is large.

Winter festivals and holidays

In addition to the traditional New Year and Maslenitsa, as well as the sports programs noted above in various places in Krasnoyarsk, other festivals are held in the city.

Every year for almost 15 years, the Winter Surikov Arts Festival . The program of events includes piano concerts, folklore performances, painting and photography exhibitions and more. It covers various cultural institutions of Krasnoyarsk, including the museum-estate of V. I. Surikov.

At the same time, Krasnoyarsk embankment becomes the site for the Magic Ice of Siberia . Craftsmen from all over Russia and abroad come here every year to show their skills in creating ice and snow sculptures. The theme is different every year. The works of sculptors delight walkers, sparkling in the sun during the day and getting lost in the illumination of colored lights in the evening.

Holidays outside the city for the New Year 2022

Sports lovers know where to spend the New Year - on the ski track:

Beaver Log, a wonderful ski resort inside the village. Steep slopes for masters, developed infrastructure, there are cafes and many trails.
Tatyshev Island – with a 7 km highway and a rental point.
The Abakan Channel is a great place for ice fishing. There are no conditions, just the river, ice and like-minded people.

For long stops, local recreation centers are suitable: “Raukhova Mill”, “Manskaya Loop”, “Parnoye Lake”, “Chisty Bereg”, etc.

Reviews and stories from tourists

The average tourist in Krasnoyarsk in winter is the exception rather than the rule, and the reason is usually the weather. As a rule, at this time the most persistent guests, those on business trips or visiting the city for another specific purpose, arrive. Winter Krasnoyarsk is sometimes harsh, gloomy and inhospitable, but even those who are not lucky enough to have warm days note its picturesqueness and the beauty of the surrounding nature.

This is largely answered by reviews from site users:

the story “The City with a Ten-Ruble Bill” from Nina;
photo album “Vicinities of Krasnoyarsk” from Alexander Reshetnikov.

All tourist reviews about Krasnoyarsk on Tourist. RU

Concerts, performances and musicals for the New Year holidays

Poster of interesting events at the end of December – beginning of January:

date	Name
22.12	"The Nutcracker" - ballet
25.12	“Mama” musical by J. Bourgeois
25.12	A New Look. Favorite songs – Philharmonic concert
26.12	"Angel" - concert
29.12	"Sleeping Beauty" ballet extravaganza
05.01	"Merry Christmas!" dance ensemble of Siberia
05.01	Goodwin Shaw. New Year's illusions
06.01	"The Fox and the Hare" interlude
07.01	"Christmas" performance

Where to stay in Krasnoyarsk

Any common accommodation option is available to travelers in Krasnoyarsk. Hotels of 3 and 4 stars or without a specific category can be chosen in any price category and suitable comfort. The same can be said about the apartments. An economical option for one or two guests is hostels, of which there are two dozen in the city.

A significant part of the proposals covers the central part of the city, extending east of the Krasnoyarsk railway station. A large number of apartments are also offered in the Sovetsky district, on the left bank above Tatyshev Island. On the right, apartments are rented out in the new buildings along the embankment.

Krasnoyarsk Hotels
Hostels for Budget Travelers
Flats and apartments

When booking accommodation on Booking.com, do not forget about cashback: Cashback promotion for Tourist. RU

Excursions

Local guides will be happy to show you Krasnoyarsk at any time of the year. A classic sightseeing tour usually includes all the iconic sights. You will see the Yenisei more than once, walking along the embankment , going up to the chapel of Paraskeva Pyatnitsa or to the “Tsar Fish” observation deck . See with your own eyes the Communal Bridge , depicted on the “Ten Rubles”, and on the central streets you will get acquainted with the Siberian Baroque. You will learn about the life of famous Krasnoyarsk residents A.V. Astafiev , V.I. Surikov , D. Hvorostovsky, and also be impressed by unusual facts from the history of the city. even go to Stolby in the helpful company of a guide.

All excursions around Krasnoyarsk on Experts Tourist. RU