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How to Get to Novokuznetsk

How to Get to Novokuznetsk

Novokuznetsk Kuzbass, Russia Travel Guide

Airport & Flights

Spichenkovo Airport NOZ

Spichenkovo Airport (NOZ), also Novokuznetsk Airport, is the main airport for the city. It is a regional airport handling mainly domestic flights.

Airlines & Routes

  • S7 Airlines, Aeroflot, Rossiya Airlines, Ural Airlines, Azimuth.
  • Predominantly domestic flights within Russia.
  • Frequent connections to Moscow (DME, SVO) and Saint Petersburg (LED).

International Connections

Novokuznetsk offers no direct international flights from major global hubs.

Connecting Flights

  • International travelers must fly into a major Russian hub (Moscow, Saint Petersburg).
  • Then take a domestic connecting flight to Spichenkovo Airport (NOZ).
  • Plan your itinerary with this connection in mind.

Seasonal Flight Demand

Flight frequency and prices fluctuate seasonally. Stronger demand and prices occur during summer and winter holiday periods.

Winter Sports Season Impact

The winter sports season (December-March) sees increased the need for flights, specifically to and from Moscow, due to Sheregesh ski resort proximity.

Airport Facilities

Spichenkovo Airport, a regional facility, offers basic services. These include check-in, security, waiting areas, small cafes, souvenir shops, and restrooms.

Airport Transfers

Transfer Options

  • Taxis are outside the terminal. Use licensed airport taxis or pre-booked services through ride-sharing apps.
  • Public bus routes connect the airport to various parts of Novokuznetsk.
  • Private transfers are arrangable through your hotel or local tour operators.

Cost Expectations

  • Taxi to city center: 600-1000 RUB.
  • Public bus: 50-100 RUB.
  • Advance booking for car rentals is useful.

Flight Booking Resources

Deals & Alerts

Dollar Flight Club for discounted fares.

Search Engines

Skyscanner for comprehensive flight comparisons.

Visa Assistance

IVisa or VisaHQ for visa application services.

Land Transportation Access

Train Travel

Novokuznetsk Railway Station is a primary hub on the West Siberian Railway network, with extensive connections.

Rail Routes

  • Moscow: Direct trains, 2.5 to 3 days travel time.
  • Saint Petersburg: Direct trains, 3 to 3.5 days travel time.
  • Novosibirsk: Frequent trains, approximately 7-9 hours.

Long-Distance Buses

Novokuznetsk Bus Station serves inter-city and inter-regional routes.

Bus Connections

  • Kemerovo: Frequent coaches to the regional capital.
  • Sheregesh: Direct buses, in demand during winter sports season.
  • Tomsk, Barnaul, Novosibirsk: Connections available.

Self-Driving in Novokuznetsk

For greater independence, consider renting a vehicle.

Driving Requirements

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) with national driver’s license.
  • Vehicle registration documents and proof of insurance (OSAGO).
  • Car rental options include local Russian companies. DiscoverCars.com to compare.

Road Conditions & Safety

Be aware of variable road quality and specific driving challenges.

Driving Factors

  • Road quality is not consistent; potholes common outside main roads.
  • Driving in winter: extremely challenging having snow, ice, black ice. Winter tires are mandatory.
  • Wildlife: caution outside urban areas, especially in the evening.

Important Driving Laws

  • Traffic drives on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Zero-tolerance alcohol policy for drivers.
  • Headlights recommended to be on at all times, often mandatory.
  • Traffic police (GIBDD) checkpoints are common; always carry your documents.
  • Aggressive driving can be observed.

Sea/River Arrivals

Sea & Ferry Services

Novokuznetsk has no direct sea or ocean access. Therefore, ferry services or cruise ports are not relevant for arrival.

Inland City Context

  • Novokuznetsk is a landlocked city in Siberia.
  • No seaports or cruise facilities.
  • International arrivals are at major Russian hubs.

River Transportation

The city sits on the Tom River, but passenger river transportation is limited.

Tom River Usage

  • Mainly for local excursions or recreational purposes during warmer months.
  • Not a main mode of arrival or departure for travelers.
  • No regular inter-city passenger services operate on the river.

Tour Buses

Novokuznetsk does not offer dedicated hop-on-hop-off tourist buses. Local tour operators might offer private bus tours for groups.

Accessibility Services

Specialized services for travelers with mobility needs are limited. Public transport often has challenges.

Unique Local Transport

No cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transports like tuk-tuks in Novokuznetsk itself. Cable cars are utilized at Sheregesh ski resort.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific departure taxes or fees are typically levied on flights from Russian airfields; these costs are generally in your ticket price.

Timing for Departure

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before scheduled departure at Spichenkovo Airport.
  • International Flights (from Russian hub): Arrive 3 hours before departure at that airport.
  • Train/Bus: Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to leaving.

Essential Departure Documents

Careful management of your documents on departure is important.

Checklist

  • Ensure you have your passport and valid visa.
  • Keep your migration card accessible.
  • Immigration officials collect the migration card upon your departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Spichenkovo Airport

Check-in, security, waiting areas, limited dining and shopping.

Novokuznetsk Railway Station

Waiting halls, ticket offices, food kiosks, restrooms.

Novokuznetsk Bus Station

Waiting areas, ticket counters, small shops.

Smooth Departure

Ensure all documents are in order and arrive early for your flight or train for a stress-free departure.