House of Europe
Irkutsk's iconic 'Lace House,' a historic merchant mansion turned cultural hub and hotel, offering a glimpse into 19th-century grandeur.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
House of Europe
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Irkutsk's iconic 'Lace House,' a historic merchant mansion turned cultural hub and hotel, offering a glimpse into 19th-century grandeur.
"This place is just gorgeous! Quiet, the territory is fenced, a museum, clean, beautiful. The rooms are excellent!"
Cash for Museums
Museums on-site may not accept card payments. Bring cash for entry fees to avoid disappointment. :moneybag:
Explore the Grounds
The entire complex is beautifully maintained. Take time to wander through the Sister Cities Alley and enjoy the ambiance. :park:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The "Lace House" Facade
Exterior of the main mansion
Admire the intricate, lace-like architectural details that give this 19th-century merchant mansion its iconic nickname.
Decembrists' Quarter
Surrounding area
Explore the historical heart of Irkutsk, adjacent to the Volkonsky and Trubetskoy estates, offering a deep dive into Russian history.
Museum Complex
Onsite
Discover the Museum of Tea and the Museum of Urban Life for a glimpse into local traditions and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Book Ahead for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash for Museums
Museums on-site may not accept card payments. Bring cash for entry fees to avoid disappointment. :moneybag:
Explore the Grounds
The entire complex is beautifully maintained. Take time to wander through the Sister Cities Alley and enjoy the ambiance. :park:
Comfortable Stay
Rooms are well-equipped with amenities like bath sets, robes, and slippers. Enjoy a comfortable and authentic experience. :bed:
Central Location
Perfectly situated in the city center, making it easy to walk to other attractions. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash for Museums
Museums on-site may not accept card payments. Bring cash for entry fees to avoid disappointment. :moneybag:
Explore the Grounds
The entire complex is beautifully maintained. Take time to wander through the Sister Cities Alley and enjoy the ambiance. :park:
Comfortable Stay
Rooms are well-equipped with amenities like bath sets, robes, and slippers. Enjoy a comfortable and authentic experience. :bed:
Central Location
Perfectly situated in the city center, making it easy to walk to other attractions. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the House of Europe for its stunning 'Lace House' architecture, excellent hotel service, and prime central location. Many highlight the cleanliness, well-equipped rooms, and the overall beauty of the complex. Some minor drawbacks include the potential for museums not accepting card payments.
"We got here by accident at midnight from the airport. They explained everything over the phone, they were friendly, they greeted us warmly, they showed us everything and told us everything. Everything is as it should be, thank you girls! We have seen many hotels while traveling around Russia, this place is just gorgeous! Quiet, the territory is fenced, a museum, clean, beautiful. The rooms are excellent, everything you need is there. We could not find fault) usually there are some flaws everywhere. Either the rooms are poorly cleaned, or the hair dryer is a parody, and many other things. Everything is perfect here! Thank you for the excellent service, good mood, attitude towards guests and such beauty on the territory! The price is more than acceptable."
13Alein
"The first mention of this estate dates back to 1843, when it was a one-story house with a vegetable garden on the outskirts of the city. The estate grew and changed, acquiring its current appearance under its new owner, merchant Apollos Ivanovich Shastin. This two-story house with its unique decor can be considered an example of merchant mansions of the late 19th century. The "Lace House" leaves no one indifferent and is rightfully considered the hallmark of Irkutsk.
Restoration took place in the 1990s, after which the complex was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, the Shastin estate is part of the "Decembrists' Quarter"—very close to the Volkonsky and Trubetskoy estates and the Church of the Transfiguration.
The estate became known as the "House of Europe," and an institution of the same name is located here. The hotel on the complex grounds often hosts guests from sister city and partner organizations. However, as far as I know, "ordinary mortals" are also welcome to stay here. Visitors are also welcome to use the Tourist Information Service, a branch of the Irkutsk History Museum, and the Sister Cities Alley."
Valerii Panfilov
"A great place! In the center of Irkutsk, a museum complex with a small hotel. The room service is excellent and has everything you need: breakfast, bath and shower sets (including a toothbrush, comb, and razor), robes, slippers, and even a shoe polish. My wife and I stayed there and were very pleased."
Ed Akhmetshin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The House of Europe is centrally located in Irkutsk, making it easily accessible. Many visitors arrive by taxi or public transport from the airport or train station. Its proximity to other historical sites means you can often walk to it from nearby attractions. +1
While not directly adjacent to the airport, the House of Europe is a manageable distance away. Travelers have mentioned arriving late at night and finding clear directions and friendly service upon arrival.
Given its central location, walking is a great way to explore the area around the House of Europe. Taxis and local buses are also readily available for longer distances within Irkutsk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and the hotel complex is generally open. However, to visit the specific museums within the complex, such as the Museum of Tea or the Museum of Urban Life, you will need to purchase tickets.
The House of Europe, as a hotel and cultural institution, typically operates throughout the day. Specific museum hours may vary, so it's advisable to check locally or upon arrival.
Yes, the House of Europe has a hotel on its grounds that welcomes guests. It's known for excellent service and comfortable rooms, making it a great base for exploring Irkutsk. +1
While exploring the exterior and grounds is usually free, the museums within the complex do have admission fees. Be aware that these museums might not accept card payments.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the 'Lace House' architecture, visit the Museum of Tea and the Museum of Urban Life, explore the Sister Cities Alley, and enjoy the historical ambiance of the Decembrists' Quarter. +1
Yes, the House of Europe complex includes two museums: the Museum of Tea and the Museum of Urban Life, offering insights into local culture and history.
Absolutely! The unique architecture of the 'Lace House' and the historical surroundings make it a very photogenic location, especially during the golden hour. +1
Originally a merchant mansion built in the late 19th century, it's now a cultural center and hotel, part of the UNESCO World Heritage listed 'Decembrists' Quarter,' preserving significant Russian history.
It's known for its distinctive 'Lace House' facade, its role as a hub for international relations through its sister city connections, and its well-appointed hotel rooms. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the House of Europe itself is primarily a hotel and museum complex, its central Irkutsk location means numerous cafes and restaurants are within easy walking distance, offering a variety of culinary experiences.
Yes, guests at the hotel have reported that breakfast is available and that the room service is excellent, including amenities like tea and coffee.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricate facade of the 'Lace House' is a must-capture. The surrounding historical buildings and the Sister Cities Alley also offer beautiful photographic opportunities. +1
Late afternoons often provide beautiful lighting, known as the 'golden hour,' which can enhance the architectural details and create a magical atmosphere for your photos.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed on the grounds. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful of guests and any specific signage within the museums.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during quieter times to allow children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. While specific child-focused activities might be limited, the historical context and the beautiful grounds provide a pleasant environment for a family outing. Ensure you have cash for museum entry, as card payments may not be accepted.
🏛️ History Buffs
Explore the adjacent estates of the Decembrists and delve into the stories of these influential figures. The on-site museums provide deeper context on urban life and local traditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The "Lace House" - An Architectural Gem
Preservation and Recognition
Following extensive restoration in the 1990s, the Shastin estate, including the 'Lace House,' was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition underscores its historical and cultural importance. Today, it stands as a testament to Irkutsk's rich past and continues to be a focal point for cultural exchange and tourism.
A Hub of History and Culture
Cultural Institutions and Sister Cities
Within the House of Europe complex, you'll find several cultural institutions, including the Museum of Tea and the Museum of Urban Life. These museums offer fascinating insights into local traditions and daily life throughout different periods.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit