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How to Get to Kemerovo

How to Get to Kemerovo

Kemerovo Kuzbass, Russia Travel Guide

Air Travel to Kemerovo

Kemerovo International Airport KEJ

Kemerovo International Airport (KEJ), officially named "Aleksey Leonov International Airport," serves as the main airport for the metropolis. Mainly Russian carriers operate flights to Kemerovo.

Airlines and Routes

  • Airlines include Aeroflot, S7 Airlines, Pobeda, and Ural Airlines.
  • Direct flights connect Kemerovo mainly to Moscow (SVO, DME, VKO) and Saint Petersburg (LED).
  • International flights from many Western countries to Russia are suspended.

International Travel & Facilities

Travelers from Western regions may need to transit through a third country (e.g., Turkey, UAE, China, Central Asian countries) and then take a domestic Russian flight to Kemerovo, usually via Moscow.

Airport Services and Transfers

  • Kemerovo International Airport offers cafes, shops, ATMs (Mir or UnionPay cards), and car rental services.
  • Public buses connect the airport to the city center, offering a budget-friendly option.
  • Official airport taxis and ride-sharing apps like Yandex Go are available.

Seasonal Availability

Flight frequency and prices generally increase during summer months (June-August) and around major holidays.

Finding Flights

Utilize platforms like Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for flight deals.

Winter Travel Note

Winter flights can be affected by severe weather conditions, leading to potential delays or cancellations.

Airport Facilities and Transfers

Airport Services

  • Cafes and shops are available for refreshments.
  • ATMs accept Mir or UnionPay cards for cash withdrawals.
  • Car rental services can be found at the airport.
  • Wi-Fi availability may vary; avoid reliance for critical communications.

Transfer Options

  • Public buses connect the airport to Kemerovo city center, a budget-friendly choice.
  • Official airport taxis and Yandex Go provide direct transport to the city center.
  • Private transfers can be arranged through your hotel or tour operator for convenience.
  • Journey to city center takes approximately 20-30 minutes, traffic dependent.

Domestic Flight Note

Transit Requirement

All international travelers will require at least one transit stop, typically in Moscow or another Russian city if arriving from allied nations.

Third Country Transit

When arriving from Western nations, transit through a third country (e.g., Turkey, UAE, China, Central Asian countries) is expected.

Connection Planning

Plan your international connections accordingly to guarantee a seamless journey to Kemerovo.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Kemerovo acts as a major railway hub, with Kemerovo-Passazhirskiy railway station connecting the city to other parts of Russia. Russian Railways (RZD) is the main operator.

Train Routes

  • Moscow: Approximately 2 days (branch of the Trans-Siberian Railway).
  • Novosibirsk: Frequent connections, approximately 4-6 hours.
  • Other Siberian cities: Direct routes to Tomsk and Krasnoyarsk.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Kemerovo's central bus station provides intercity and interregional routes. Bus travel is generally cheaper than train travel but can be slower and less comfortable for very long distances.

Bus Destinations

  • Connections to Novosibirsk, Tomsk, Novokuznetsk, Krasnoyarsk.
  • Routes to smaller towns within Kemerovo Oblast.
  • Bus travel can be slower for very long distances.

Self-Driving & Car Rentals

An International Driving Permit (IDP) with your valid national driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance are important. Local Russian rental companies are available. International brands may have limited presence.

Car Rental Specifics

  • Minimum age (usually 21 or 23) applies.
  • A credit card is typically required for a deposit. Confirm accepted forms of payment due to sanctions (e.g., Russian bank cards, cash).
  • For best rates, check DiscoverCars.com.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions in Kemerovo and the surrounding region can vary. Major urban roads are generally paved, but you may encounter potholes. Outside the city, roads can be less maintained.

Driving Safety Tips

  • Winter has the biggest challenge, with ice and heavy snow.
  • Exercise caution, maintain safe distances, and be aware of local driving styles.
  • Carry all your documents, as checkpoints may occur.

Sea/River Arrivals

  • Not applicable. Kemerovo is an inland city positioned on a river, not a seaport.
  • The Tom River is navigable but mainly serves cargo transport.
  • Passenger river transport for tourism within the city or short excursions is seasonal and scarce.
  • It is not a main mode of arrival or departure for travelers.
  • Border crossing information for sea/river arrivals is not applicable.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable, as Kemerovo does not have a seaport.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures and Timing

Prepare for your departure from Kemerovo, whether by air or land, by understanding the necessary processes and timing.

Airport Departure

  • For international flights (when obtainable via transit countries), arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • For domestic flights, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Allows sufficient time for check-in, security, and any passport control procedures.

Station Departure and Fees

No particular exit fees or taxes are levied for departing Russia. Airline tickets typically include all required taxes.

Train/Bus Station Departure

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure.
  • Time to find your platform or bus and board without rush.
  • No particular exit fees or taxes are levied for departing Russia.

Included Taxes

Airline tickets usually include all required taxes, so no additional exit fees are expected.

Airport Facilities

Kemerovo International Airport offers basic waiting areas, cafes, and shops for departing travelers.

Station Amenities

Kemerovo-Passazhirskiy railway station provides waiting rooms, ticket offices, and small kiosks for refreshments.

Departure Checklist

Final Preparations

Ensure all your documents are organized and easily accessible for a smooth departure from Kemerovo.

Before Leaving Your Accommodation

  • Confirm you have your passport, migration card, and visa.
  • Double-check that you have all personal belongings and electronics.
  • Ensure you have enough local currency for immediate needs or airport expenses.

Travel Logistics

Plan your route to the airport or station, accounting for potential traffic or public transport schedules.

Getting to Your Departure Point

  • Confirm public transit timetables or pre-book a taxi.
  • Depart with enough time to spare, especially during peak hours.
  • Reconfirm flight or train times before heading to the station/airport.

Final Document Check

Passport & Visa

Ensure your passport and migration card are ready for presentation.

Boarding Pass

Have your boarding pass, either printed or on your mobile device.

Contact Information

Keep emergency contact information readily accessible.

Departure Reminder

A smooth departure completes your Kemerovo journey. Double-check all travel documents and timings to avoid any last-minute stress.