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About the City
Tyumen was the first Russian city in Siberia. It has developed from a quiet merchant town into Russia's modern oil and gas capital. The city combines historical heritage and old Russian architecture, famous for intricate wooden lace decoration, with well-developed infrastructure, high-quality roads, and healthcare comparable to that of the capital. Tyumen regularly ranks among Russia's most comfortable cities to live in.
History
Tyumen was founded in 1586 by decree of Tsar Feodor I. It was built at the confluence of the Tura and Tyumenka Rivers, on the site of Chingi-Tura, the former capital of the Tyumen Khanate. Tyumen became the first Russian city beyond the Urals and the starting point for the subsequent development of the eastern territories.
Over time, Tyumen became a major centre of trade and crafts. Leatherworking, blacksmithing, and weaving all flourished. Merchants and other residents built Siberia's first water-supply system. The discovery of oil and gas gave the city a new impetus for development in the 1960s.
Geographic Location
Tyumen is situated in the south of the West Siberian Plain, on both banks of the Tura River, approximately 2,160 km east of Moscow. It is the administrative centre of the Tyumen Region.
The city stands at the crossroads of ancient trade routes and is regarded as the gateway to Siberia. It was from this area that the development of Russia's eastern territories began.
Landmarks and Attractions
The Tura River Embankment, with its four levels of terraces, ramps, and stairways, is the city's principal landmark. The pedestrian Bridge of Lovers crosses the river and is illuminated at night, making it a popular spot for evening walks.
The historic centre preserves Tyumen's renowned carved wooden decoration on old merchant houses. Numerous thermal springs with mineral-rich water surround the city and remain open for bathing year-round.
Average Cost of Living
Cost of a minimum food basket: RUB 8,000
Subsistence minimum per capita: RUB 17,500
Average monthly salary: RUB 93,500
Figures are for 2025
Time Zone
UTC+5:00
Transport Links
Airport:
Roshchino International Airport
Public transport:
buses; there is no metro, trams, trolleybuses
Climate
Overview:
continental climate with long, severe winters and warm, sometimes hot summers
Temperature:
approximately −15 to −18 °C on average in winter, although temperatures can fall to −40 °C; approximately +17 to +18 °C in summer, with maximum temperatures reaching +38 °C
Precipitation:
distributed across the seasons without pronounced peaks
Interesting Facts
The Tyumen Drama Theatre is housed in the largest drama theatre building in Russia.
The city participates in the Safe City program, with video surveillance systems operating in streets and public spaces.