population: 1.61 million

extension: 502.1 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Novosibirsk and want to visit museums, I suggest checking out the Novosibirsk State Museum of Local Lore, which features exhibitions on the history, culture, and natural environment of Siberia. You may also enjoy the State Art Museum, which showcases Russian art from the 18th century to the present day. If you're interested in science, the Planetarium is another great option for exploring astronomy and space.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes in Novosibirsk, according to local people, include:

1. Pelmeni - small dumplings filled with meat and served with sour cream or butter.
2. Shchi - a cabbage soup seasoned with herbs and often served with sour cream.
3. Olivier salad - a Russian-style potato salad made with boiled potatoes, carrots, eggs, pickles, peas, and mayonnaise.
4. Blini - thin pancakes often served with sour cream, jam, or caviar.
5. Beef Stroganoff - a classic Russian dish made with sautéed beef strips in a sour cream sauce.
6. Kvass - a non-alcoholic fermented drink made from rye bread.

These dishes are all traditional Russian cuisine and can be found in many restaurants and cafes throughout Novosibirsk.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people like in Novosibirsk include:

1. Walking or jogging along the Ob River embankment, which offers great views of the city and is a popular spot for outdoor exercise.
2. Visiting the Central Park of Culture and Recreation, which has a variety of attractions including a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and small zoo.
3. Checking out the local food and drink scene by visiting cafes, bars, and restaurants that serve traditional Siberian cuisine and local brews.
4. Attending performances at the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theater, one of the largest and most prestigious theaters in Russia.
5. Exploring the local art scene by visiting galleries and attending exhibitions showcasing works by local artists.
6. Taking a day trip to nearby nature reserves such as the Stolby Nature Sanctuary or the Akademgorodok forest park, which offer opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife spotting.