12 day itinerary for Irkutsk

Itinerary

Irkutsk is a fantastic destination, especially for families, with its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and proximity to Lake Baikal. Here’s a fun and engaging 12-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and family-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Irkutsk

• Morning: Arrive in Irkutsk. Settle into your family-friendly accommodation. Consider a hotel with amenities for kids, like the Baikal Business Center or a cozy guesthouse.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Angara River. The riverside park is perfect for kids to run around and enjoy the fresh air.
• Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Siberian dishes like pelmeni (dumplings) or borscht.

## Day 2: Explore Irkutsk

• Morning: Visit the Irkutsk Regional Museum. It has fascinating exhibits on the region’s history and culture, and kids will enjoy the interactive displays.
• Afternoon: Head to the 130th Quarter, a charming area with wooden architecture, shops, and cafes. Grab lunch here and let the kids explore.
• Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a restaurant with a view of the river.

## Day 3: Listvyanka Day Trip

• Morning: Take a short drive or bus ride to Listvyanka, a picturesque village on the shores of Lake Baikal.
• Afternoon: Visit the Baikal Museum to learn about the lake’s unique ecosystem. Kids will love the aquariums! Then, take a walk along the beach or go for a boat ride on the lake.
• Evening: Have dinner at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying fresh fish from Baikal.

## Day 4: Nature and Adventure

• Morning: Go hiking in the nearby hills or visit the Chersky Stone for stunning views of Lake Baikal. It’s a family-friendly hike with a rewarding vista!
• Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch in nature. Bring along some local snacks and enjoy the scenery.
• Evening: Return to Irkutsk and relax at your accommodation. Maybe watch a family movie together!

## Day 5: Cultural Day

• Morning: Visit the Decembrists’ Museum to learn about the history of the Decembrists in Siberia. The museum is engaging and has activities for kids.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Church of the Savior and the nearby Epiphany Cathedral. The architecture is stunning!
• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try some local pastries for dessert!

## Day 6: Baikal Day Trip

• Morning: Take a guided tour to Olkhon Island, the largest island in Lake Baikal. It’s a bit of a journey, but the scenery is breathtaking!
• Afternoon: Explore the island, visit the Shaman Rock, and enjoy some outdoor activities like hiking or biking.
• Evening: Stay overnight on Olkhon Island in a family-friendly guesthouse. Enjoy a cozy dinner together.

## Day 7: Olkhon Island Exploration

• Morning: Spend the day exploring more of Olkhon Island. Visit Khuzhir village and learn about local traditions.
• Afternoon: Go for a swim in the lake (if the weather permits) or enjoy a family-friendly nature walk.
• Evening: Have dinner at your guesthouse and share stories about your day.

## Day 8: Return to Irkutsk

• Morning: Head back to Irkutsk. Enjoy the scenic drive and take photos along the way.
• Afternoon: Once back, visit the Irkutsk Art Museum. It has a lovely collection of Russian art, and kids can enjoy the colorful exhibits.
• Evening: Dinner at a local pizzeria or a family-friendly café.

## Day 9: Day at the Zoo

• Morning: Visit the Irkutsk Zoo. It’s a great place for kids to see animals and learn about wildlife conservation.
• Afternoon: Have lunch at a nearby café, then head to the nearby Botanical Garden for a relaxing stroll.
• Evening: Enjoy a family game night at your accommodation or visit a local arcade.

## Day 10: Historical Sites

• Morning: Explore the historic wooden houses of Irkutsk, like the House of the Decembrists. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s history.
• Afternoon: Visit the Memorial to the Victims of Political Repression. It’s educational and important for understanding the region’s past.
• Evening: Dinner at a restaurant with live music or entertainment for the kids.

## Day 11: Relaxation Day

• Morning: Have a leisurely breakfast and enjoy some downtime. Maybe visit a local market for souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Spend the day at a local park, like the 50th Anniversary of the USSR Park, where kids can play and families can relax.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, reflecting on your adventures.

## Day 12: Departure

• Morning: Pack up and enjoy a final breakfast in Irkutsk. If time allows, take a last stroll along the river.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Don’t forget to grab some local snacks for the journey home!

This itinerary balances cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and relaxation, making it perfect for families. Enjoy your trip to Irkutsk and Lake Baikal! If you have any specific interests or need adjustments, feel free to ask!