Irkutsk, Russia + Add a trip

The city has some nice theaters. But it is mostly about NATURE.

Possible to find pro tourists and showboarders who will show you the freeride surroundings (extreme ones in the wilderness, without utilities, I warned you). The location is surrounded with wild nature. Can find wild bears and wolves there (but you'd better not). Mountains and rivers all around, excellent for trekking or cross-country biking. And, of course, Lake Baikal: check out Olkhon island (mid-Baikal, west coast) and places on the east coast of the lake.

DO NOT do the Transsiberian railroad unless you are a European retired person and can stand being bored like hell. DIVE IN the city, this is unforgettable.

The best thing is of course to first find local young guys who can show you around. They are interested in making new friends, are open and entertaining people.

GOOD PLACES TO EAT IN, if you do not have any specific preferences and want to check out authentic Russian food that normal people eat when they work.

Check out the canteens (Menzas) of huge institutions and companies, like East Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences. It is located at Lermontova street, 134, and is full between 1200 and 1400, as the scientists have lunch break at that time. Food is traditional Russian, not unhealthy, not restaurant-style, not fast food, reasonably inexpensive, high-quality.