population: 0.6 million

extension: 707.16 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Barnaul and interested in museums, I recommend visiting the Altai State Museum of Local Lore, which is located in the city center. It features exhibits on the culture and history of the Altai region. Other museums in the area include the Museum of the History of Medicine and Pharmacy, and the Museum of Fine Arts. If you are willing to travel a bit further, you can also visit the Museum of Wooden Architecture and Folk Art in nearby Novosibirsk.

Food

Some of the most popular and typical dishes to eat in Barnaul, according to local people, include:

1. Pelmeni - boiled dumplings filled with minced meat or fish.
2. Shashlik - grilled skewers of marinated meat (usually lamb or pork).
3. Siberian dumplings (siberian pelmeni) - similar to pelmeni but larger, with a different filling and served with sour cream.
4. Kasha - a porridge made from buckwheat or other grains.
5. Pirozhki - small baked or fried buns filled with various fillings such as meat, cabbage, mushrooms, or potatoes.
6. Blini - thin pancakes eaten with sweet or savory toppings such as jam, cheese, or sour cream.
7. Borscht - a hearty soup made with beets, potatoes, cabbage, and meat.
8. Okroshka - a cold soup made with kvass (a fermented beverage), vegetables, and usually some type of meat.

These dishes are commonly found in many restaurants and cafes throughout Barnaul and are definitely worth trying if you visit the area.

Activities

There are a variety of fun activities that locals enjoy in Barnaul. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Altai Mountains: This stunning mountain range is located just outside of Barnaul and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and skiing.

2. Explore the city's parks: Barnaul has several beautiful parks, including Park Pobedy and Dinamo Park, where you can stroll, have a picnic, or play sports.

3. Check out the local markets: The city's markets, such as the Central Market and the Flea Market, offer a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce and meats to vintage items and souvenirs.

4. Attend a cultural event: Barnaul has a vibrant arts scene with regular concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.

5. Relax at a banya: Russian banyas (saunas) are popular among locals, and there are several in Barnaul where you can enjoy a steam bath, massage, and traditional Russian food and drink.