When asked what place for walking and relaxing is the most popular and beloved in Odessa besides Deribasovskaya, you will certainly be answered: “Of course - Primorsky Boulevard.” And this is indisputable: built at the beginning of the 19th century, this is one of the best urban planning ensembles in Europe. Successfully connecting the city center with the sea, it is the front façade when exploring Odessa from the sea side.
Opera theatre
One of the main attractions of Odessa is the National Academic Opera and Ballet Theater. It is the first theater in Odessa in terms of the time of construction, its significance and fame and is located in the very center of the city - Tchaikovsky Lane, 1. Nearby are Dumskaya Square, Primorsky Boulevard, as well as the world-famous Deribasovskaya Street.
Sights of Odessa - The Potemkin Stairs
Conceived as the main entrance to the city from the sea, the staircase has become the hallmark of Odessa. It is one of the most visited attractions in Odessa, an architectural masterpiece that attracts tourists from all over the world. Here hundreds of Odessa residents and guests of the city welcome the new year and say goodbye to the old year. Many events and concerts take place here. And, if you believe the legend, this is the most expensive gift given to a woman in Odessa. And if you believe the rumors, then this is where the stolen jewelry of Mishka-Yaponchik is hidden. The symbol of Odessa is the Potemkin Stairs.
“Southern Palmyra” is also known outside of Ukraine. This colorful town with sparkling humor has a rich history (thanks to the multinational composition of the population). Therefore, the Black Sea “pearl” will find something to surprise tourists with. We have compiled a guide to the main attractions and today we will share information about where you can go and what you must see in Odessa to get a complete impression of the city.
The main attractions of Odessa
The Potemkin Stairs
This monumental structure of the southern city, which was praised in their time by Alexander Greene and Mark Twain, is considered the symbol of the city and the main attraction of Odessa. The soaring structure is one of the most beautiful staircases in Europe. Today, the stone staircase is one of the best places in Odessa that is definitely worth visiting.
Take a few hours to walk up the 192 steps. And if you have serious physical training, take part in a marathon to climb to the “top” of the Potemkin Stairs. This sporting competition is held on Physical Education Day.
Address: blvd. Seaside
Opera theatre
If you are wondering where you can go in the evening in Odessa, we recommend visiting the Opera and Ballet Theater. This is one of the most famous places not only in Odessa, but also outside the country. The building, erected in the Viennese Baroque style, looks luxurious not only from the outside, but also from the inside. Lovers of cultural recreation will appreciate the quality of acoustics.
Also an interesting place for tourists will be the museum at the Odessa Opera House. Its exhibition will allow guests of the city to feel the spirit of the Odessa opera and touch its history.
Address: per. Tchaikovsky
Deribasovskaya street
If you ask a passerby where you need to visit in Odessa, he will say that “southern Palmyra” begins precisely from the central promenade. This pedestrian street will delight you with cozy restaurants and cafes, and shop windows. By the way, one of them, “Passage,” was built back in the 19th century.
Primorsky Boulevard
The iconic historical landmark of Odessa, located on a steep bank, has repeatedly changed its appearance. Although the length of the boulevard is only 500 meters, the recognizable Vorontsov Palace, the City Duma and an abundance of architectural monuments are concentrated here (including the Duke de Richelieu who “welcomes” city guests from a pedestal).
Monument to the 12th chair
The life-size bronze monument is located on Deribasovskaya. It was erected in honor of Ilf and Petrov, who wrote the famous work. Moving closer to the back of the chair, tourists can read the most popular phrases of Ostap Bender and Kisi.
Address: st. Deribasovskaya
Greek Square
The recreation area, popular among locals and tourists, got its name thanks to the Greeks who moved into Odessa under the patronage of Empress Catherine II. In addition to fountains and flower beds, there is one of the tallest buildings in the city - the Athena shopping complex.
Odessa Museum of Western and Eastern Art
The building in which the museum is located is an architectural monument of Ukraine, built in the mid-19th century. The interiors of the palace are decorated with stucco, carvings and bronze fittings. The museum's collection will allow visitors to get acquainted with the features of Eastern, Western European and ancient art.
Address: st. Pushkinskaya, 9
Sea port
It is the largest passenger and cargo port in Ukraine. It has a marine terminal, around which the most interesting places in Odessa for tourists are concentrated: Potemkin Stairs, Primorsky Boulevard, architectural structures).
Address: pl. Customs, 1
In the Black Sea city there are also attractions that are located underground. Legends are made about the ominous and mysterious catacombs. You can take part in a day or night excursion and immerse yourself in a “parallel world” with a length of 2.5 thousand km.
Market Privoz
Where to go in Odessa? Of course - to Privoz! A visit to the legendary market will help you feel the atmosphere and flavor of the city even better. It is believed that you can buy everything here. When visiting Privoz, don’t forget to bargain.
Address: st. Privoznaya, 14
Museums and exhibitions of Odessa
People who prefer cultural recreation should definitely visit the following places: Wax museum "At Baba Uti's", Museum of Contraband, cinema museum.
Connoisseurs of quality alcohol will enjoy it. There are permanent exhibitions here where you will learn many of the intricacies of making a strong drink.
And if you are a real book lover, then be sure to check out your local literary museum. Inside you will find 20 rooms, each of which represents a specific artistic period.
What interesting things can art and painting lovers see in Odessa? Odessa exhibition of paintings, decorative arts and photos from Ukrainian and foreign masters at the Museum of Western and Eastern Art - this is a place where tourists should go.
Monuments of Odessa
Most of them are located in the central part of the city. Besides bronze Duke monument, which is the very first monument in Odessa, it is worth looking at: memorial to the founders of the city, a tribute monument to Odessa residents Ilf and Petrov, sculptural ensemble “Laocoon”. By the way, the latter is an exact copy of the artifact located in the Vatican.
Parks of Odessa
The oldest a park cities them. Shevchenko is replete with historical sights: the Quarantine Wall, the monument to the dead sailors, the monument erected in honor of T.G. Shevchenko.
Victory Park is located 10 minutes walk from the famous Arcadia. There is everything you need for relaxation: comfortable benches, sports and playgrounds and the highest fountain in Odessa.
Istanbul Park opened in Odessa quite recently, but has already become a favorite among locals and vacationers. Gravel paths lead to an outlandish fountain, which is a huge stone with a grotto.
If you come to Odessa on vacation with children, you should definitely go to Botanical Garden of Odessa National University, where a huge number of exhibits from all over the world are presented.
Temples of Odessa
As you know, Odessa is a multinational city. Therefore, it is not surprising that there are many buildings here representing different religions. It is noteworthy that Odessa churches will be of interest not only to believers, but also to lovers of unusual architecture.
Among the most popular churches in Odessa are: Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral, Armenian Church, located on the top of a hill near the sea, Church of St. Peter the Apostle and Lutheran Cathedral of St. Paul, which has Romanesque and Gothic “features”.
Observation platforms in Odessa
Those who want to admire the beauty of “South Palmyra” should climb one of the city’s observation platforms. Observation deck of the Marine Station will allow you to observe the beauty and grandeur of the city’s iconic buildings: the Vorontsov Lighthouse, the Opera House. Eat Observation deck And on Arcadia beach.
It is impossible not to say about Potemkin Stairs And Mother-in-law's bridge, which overlooks the harbor and the old part of the ever-smiling, hospitable city.
The surrounding area is no less interesting than the city itself. You can admire the historical grandeur and beauty Belgorod-Dnistrovsky, which is one of the most ancient European cities. Also worth a visit Shabo village, which is the center of winemaking in Odessa. There is a museum on its territory where you can learn about the process of developing winemaking in the region.
Summer is already knocking on our door. In just a few days the long-awaited period of rest will begin. Have you already planned your vacation? If not, we have a great option for you. We suggest spending a weekend in the beautiful, sunny city of Odessa. The city is full of warmth, interesting locations, and the aromas of the sea. It combines a bustling market with sophisticated avenues. It is impossible to be sad in this city, this is the capital of humor, and everyone knows that it is the best. Next in the material from IGotoWorld.com are the places you need to visit in Odessa.
The Potemkin Stairs
Photo source: snap.com.ua.
Deribasovskaya street
You can get to know the city better by visiting the central pedestrian street of Odessa. Here you will immerse yourself in the unique local flavor. There are many cozy restaurants, cafes, boutiques, hotels. The development of the street took place mainly in the 19th century. These houses, which have survived to this day, have been visited by famous personalities of world significance. The legendary one is located nearby.
Photo source: soundtracktomyjourney.wordpress.com.
And the main architectural monument and calling card of Odessa is the Odessa Passage, built in 1898-1899. The architecture of Passage perfectly combines baroque, classic and modern, but the highlight of the building is the glass atrium. The complex looks more like a museum than a shopping center.
Ostap Bender Square
The square on the street is really incompatible things, isn't it? But in Odessa, everything is possible, which is why Ostap Bender Square is located on Deribasovskaya Street. And its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is the smallest in the world: it occupies only 5 square meters. Named after the famous hero of the book “12 Chairs”, the authors of which are Ilya Ilf and Evgeny Petrov. The place is a small pedestal where it is installed from the novel. Tourists especially like to take pictures on the chair; almost everyone who has visited the city has such a photo.
Photo source: igorok.kiev.ua.
Archaeological Museum
In Odessa, at 4 Lanzheronovskaya Street, there is a unique and valuable. It was founded back in 1825. The largest number of monuments on the history of the Northern Black Sea region, and not only, are stored here. The museum displays an exhibition of Egyptian antiquities. You can even see ancient Egyptian mummies, just imagine how old they are. The monuments date back to the Stone Age and the Middle Ages.
There is an exhibition of Trypillian, Chernyakhov, Scythian, Sarmatian cultures, household items of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Visit the archaeological museum, you won’t regret it, even non-history buffs will find it interesting.
Photo source: hotelesperanto.com.ua.
Greek Square
It received its name in honor of its founders - the Greeks, back in the time of Catherine II. Here was the secret organization “Filiki Eteria”, which advocated for Greek independence. In honor of this it was opened. Greek Square is one of the main squares of the city; it hosts a variety of entertainment events, festivals, exhibitions, and concerts. It is located between Deribasovskaya and Bunin streets. Tourists and guests of the city can visit the Afina shopping center, cozy cafes and restaurants.
Photo source: timer-odessa.net.
Odessa Museum of Western and Eastern Art
The next point of travel around the city will be, which is located at st. Pushkinskaya. Odessa has always been able to combine different cultures of the world. So, in the house of the merchant Abaza, made in the eclectic style, in 1923, an art museum appeared. The art of the East, Antiquity and Western European countries is presented here.
In the museum you will find works by famous artists: Caravaggio, Francesco Guardi, Magnasco, Jals and others. The East department deserves special attention. Odessa's sister city Yokohama donated about 20 ukiyo-e - Japanese prints - to the museum. You can also see furniture, decorative items, sculptures from Iran, Tibet, China, and India.
Photo source: odessa-tour.od.ua.
Regional Philharmonic
There is no such thing as too much art. Therefore, we next invite you to visit, located on the corner of Pushkinskaya and Bunin. The Philharmonic building is made in the Italian Gothic style with Renaissance elements and was built in 1899 according to the design of V. Prohaska.
Photo source: travel.tochka.net.
Nowadays, wonderful symphony orchestra concerts, solo performances and many other equally exciting events are held here. Odessa never ceases to amaze with its beauty and grace.
Photo source: hor.net.ua.
City Duma
All internal affairs of the city are decided behind the doors, but we are not interested in this, but in the building. The building is an architectural monument, built in the neoclassical style and located on. This is the former old stock exchange. The main facade is decorated with columns of the Corinthian order, and the white color gives the building sophistication.
Photo source: panoramio.com, author Belov Igor.
Walk of Fame
This is a memorial complex in memory of the defenders of Odessa who courageously fought during the Second World War. It is located in Shevchenkovsky Park. The task is not only to honor the dead, but also to remind how terrible and unjustified the war is, which is not worth a single precious human life.
At the end of the Walk of Fame stands, created in honor of the sailors who did not return home. The 21-meter obelisk was designed by Topuzov, Tomilin and Naruzetsky. Tourists come here to look at the panorama that opens onto the sea from above.
Photo source: uk.wikipedia.org. by Nick Grapsy.
Zoo
In Odessa it is one of the oldest in Ukraine. It is located on Novoshchepny Ryad Street, 25. On the territory of the menagerie there are 2,000 animals and about 245 species. We are all used to seeing lions, leopards, zebras, monkeys, pelicans, elephants in films or cartoons, but here you will see them live. The aquaterrarium is home to tropical fish, reptiles and amphibians. To see them, you need to look into the zoo: your children and you will certainly enjoy this place.
Photo source: zoo.ua.
Dolphinarium "Nemo"
We've already looked at the elephants and zebras, it's time to visit the dolphins. A wonderful dolphinarium called . was created in Odessa in 2005. Most animals avoid contact with people, but dolphins, on the contrary, love to swim with them. The Nemo complex offers dolphin therapy courses, diving and various shows with the participation of marine mammals.
Photo source: odesa.solydarnist.org.
Beaches of Odessa
What is Odessa without beaches? It's like England without a queen or Paris without the Eiffel Tower. The city is rich in beaches along the Black Sea. But the question arises, which ones to choose. The beach is considered the oldest and best, it is sandy. Right next to it is the Otrada beach, but here the surface is mixed with sand and pebbles. If you want to go where there are the least number of people, then the beach is suitable. It is clean, with amenities, but difficult to get to.
Photo source: guwentravel.com, author Belov Igor. Lanzheron beach embankment.
There are many hotels and apartments for rent along the coastline. Prices are steep, but if you book a hotel in Odessa in advance, you can save money.
The most famous is the city’s club life, which means you can not only swim in the sea, but also dance.
Riviera Beach is the most comfortable, offering everything from cold drinks to spa treatments.
Photo source: rivierabeach.com.ua. Riviera Beach.
And “Luzanovka” is the most democratic option, a sandy beach and a flat seabed, which pleases children the most. This is not the entire list, just a few of the Odessa beaches.
The choice is yours, the main thing is to relax and soak up the sun.
Vorontsov lighthouse
The first thing ships encounter when arriving at a port is a lighthouse. Lighthouses are a kind of marine traffic lights that ensure the safety of water transport. In 1845, by order of Admiral Mikhail Lazarev, it was built. It is located at the tip of the Raid Pier. This place has become not only a strategic site, but also a landmark that attracts guests and residents of the city. Excursions are held here.
Photo source: culturemeter.od.ua.
There are excursions to the Vorontsov Lighthouse. In addition, what is worth visiting is a colorful walk with a real Odessa resident, a visit to the catacombs, etc.
Sea port
An interesting industrial landmark of the city is the local one. It is the largest in Ukraine. The port of Odessa is like a mini-city within a city, with its own train station, open-air museum, art gallery, yacht complex, hotel and, of course, the port itself with specialized equipment. Excursions are offered on the territory of this sea giant.
Photo source: barokko-live.livejournal.com, author - BAROKKO_LIVE.
Odessa catacombs
This is a whole network of underground labyrinths and passages located near Odessa. Most of the dungeons were formed as a result of stone quarrying. Researchers say that the length of all underground passages is 2.5 thousand km, but only 1.7 thousand km have been explored.
The catacombs attract tourists with their mystery and mystery. Until this time, it is not known for certain why such a large network of underground passages was created. But it’s better not to go here yourself; to be on the safe side, take a guide.
Photo source: planetofhotels.com.
Market "Privoz"
Do you know what is the most picturesque place in any city? Yes, yes, this is a market. At the bazaars you can always see the city from the inside. And here it’s also full of overseas spices and seafood. Odessa residents say: “If you haven’t been to , then you haven’t seen Odessa.” There are interesting signs on the shelves like this: “If you don’t buy here, you’ll be robbed elsewhere.” The locals have a particularly good sense of humor. To make sure of this, be sure to look here.
Photo source: borisovskij.blogspot.com.
Hotel "Londonskaya"
There is a 4-star hotel on Primorsky Boulevard, the building of which is fascinating. The building was built back in 1825 according to the design of F. Boffo. The hotel attracts tourists with its elegance. A combination of history and modernity, the highest quality of services - all this is present in. Many celebrities have been here.
Photo source: booking.com.
You can choose housing in Odessa using the link. There is an option for every wallet.
Odessa is a city that you want to return to and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere created by the locals. Quickly complete your business and go on a journey.
Odessa is called the pearl of the Black Sea and the capital of humor. People come here to recharge themselves with a positive mood and feel what real freedom is. This is an incredibly beautiful city, about which there are many legends. Having visited Odessa, it is impossible to forget about it, because every street is full of local flavor, every monument is history. The air in it is saturated with sunlight and the aromas of the sea.
Local residents are always happy to see tourists; they welcome guests in Odessa with special warmth. There is probably no street in the city that does not have a cozy square, a beautiful architectural building or a monument. And what are seascapes worth... What places in Odessa should every tourist visit?
It was by decree of the Great Empress in 1794 The port city of Odessos was created. In 1900, in order to honor the memory of Catherine II, it was decided to erect a bronze monument in her honor. It is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful. It is located near Primorsky Boulevard and features the Empress depicted in full growth.
In her hands, Catherine the Second holds a scroll with the words of the decree - “I command the city and the port to be…”. At the base of the monument are four of her associates Joseph de Ribas, Franz de Volan, Platon Zubov and Grigory Potemkin. With the advent of Soviet power, the monument was dismantled and only in 2007 was it returned to its place, although almost all of its elements are of original origin. You should visit the monument because around it there is the famous Catherine Square and a park where you can relax and enjoy the splendor of this place.
Address: Ekaterininskaya Square.
Its most important purpose is to serve as a walking place for couples in love who got married and want to leave their little lock of happiness on the bridge. Mother-in-law's bridge is an incredibly romantic place, as anyone who walks along it can witness how young couples who have just sworn eternal love to each other emerge from the Civil Registry Office, which is very close by.
From the bridge there is a beautiful view of the ship repair yard and the sea harbour. It connects the austere Vorontsov Palace and the luxurious Shah's Palace. The length of the Mother-in-law Bridge is 120 meters, and in height it reaches 30 meters.
While in Odessa, you should definitely come and look at the famous house, which from a certain angle seems completely flat. However, if you then look at it from a different angle, it becomes noticeable that in fact it is not flat, but triangular. No one knows exactly the legend of the creation of the monument; some say that such architecture was created deliberately, others say that during construction there simply was not enough money to build a side wall and the house received a triangular shape.
You should look at the Wall House not only from the outside, but also from the inside, since its residents did everything possible to preserve the ancient interior, namely the forged railings, the marble staircase and the original sculpting on the ceiling.
Address: Vorontsovsky Provulok-4.
This cultural object is also the property of Odessa. The House with Atlanteans itself is an ancient estate. Its difference is asymmetry of the composition. The corner protruding towards the street is slightly skewed. It is decorated with a turret with a high spire, and it is held by Atlanteans, who seem to be carrying a star sphere. The sculpture is very realistic - every muscle of the Atlanteans is tense, and their tired gaze is directed downwards. Only in Odessa there is a monument to the Atlanteans who hold up the sky; this cannot be seen anywhere else.
Address: Gogol street, 5-7.
The Opera House is famous primarily for its architecture, which is designed in the Viennese Baroque style. The building has three floors, the last one has more refined processing of details, therefore it creates the appearance that it is openwork and light. The last floor is decorated with columns and loggias. A group of sculptures dominates the facade of the theater, the most notable of which is the sculpture of Melpomene.
The patroness of art sits in a chariot drawn by four angry panthers. To her left is Orpheus playing the cithara for the centaur. On the right, Terpsichore, the muse of dance, dances with the girl. The theater is also decorated with busts of Griboyedov, Gogol, Pushkin and Glinka. Near the main entrance, an episode from the comedy “Birds” by Aristophanes is depicted, and on the left you can see an episode from the tragedy of Euripides – “Hippolytus”. The inside of the theater is even more luxurious - the halls are decorated with stucco ornaments and gilding, and a large crystal chandelier hangs in the center.
Address: Tchaikovsky Provulok-1.
This park is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful in Ukraine and is the calling card of Odessa. The total area of the park is 48.8 hectares, and the length of the reservoirs in which silver carp, crucian carp, pike swim and turtles and swans live is 700 m.
On the territory of the park there are islands that are connected to each other by bridges, recreation areas with fountains, slides for viewing the landscapes of the park and a pond consisting of four artificial lakes. A huge number of different trees grow in the park - bird cherry, hornbeam, juniper, pine, maple and oak. In the park you can feed birds and animals, as well as ride horses.
Not far from Primorsky Boulevard, on a hill overlooking the sea, is the magnificent Vorontsov Palace. Balls are still held there. It’s hard to believe, but just a few centuries ago A.S. Pushkin himself used the palace library. The palace of Count Vorontsov was built in the Alexander Empire style. The building is decorated with columned porticoes; next to the palace building there is a stable building with high ceilings. The inside of the Vorontsov Palace is decorated with stucco and gilding. There is a dining room with an open terrace, a Ballroom with a fireplace, a billiard room decorated with paintings, and a Turkish study decorated in green and gold tones.
Address: per. Vorontsovsky- 2.
When it was decided to build the city in 1974, it was decided to build several churches, one of which was the cathedral, the construction of which continued for many years. When the Kherson diocese was transferred to it, the architects did everything possible to make the cathedral of impressive size and have rich decoration.
The Transfiguration Cathedral experienced destruction, complete decline and restoration. Currently, the Odessa Cathedral has the shape of an elongated cross. The architecture combines both Russian classicism and European style. The bronze bells are considered the largest in Ukraine and were delivered from Greece. The walls of the halls are stunning with their beauty - they are decorated with ancient ornaments and Orthodox paintings. The shrines of the temple are the remains of members of the Vorontsov family and the icon of the Kasperovskaya Mother of God.
Address: Cathedral Square-3.
This cultural heritage site is considered one of the main symbols of Odessa. It stands on the cliff of a hill, so when approaching the city from the sea it is clearly visible. The Vorontsov Colonnade is a continuation of the Vorontsov estate, consisting of two rows of ten columns, which are placed on a high stepped base.
The original architecture makes the object majestic and strict. From the Vorontsov Colonnade you can look at the entire sea coast as a viewing platform. There is a legend that it was from the colonnade that Count Vorontsov, during his morning tea, watched what was happening in the seaport and thus learned all the local news.
Address: Vorontsovsky lane - 2k.
This monument arose on 210th anniversary of Odessa as a tribute to the fact that it was thanks to this exotic fruit that the city was preserved while the Russian Emperor Paul the First decided to stop its construction due to the fact that it required a lot of expenses. Local merchants saved the situation; they presented the emperor with several carts of oranges, which he loved very much.
After such a generous gift, Pavel decided to provide financial assistance and Odessa began to be actively built. The monument is located on the Boulevard of Arts, which is now called Zhvanevsky Boulevard. The monument itself looks like a bronze orange with several slices taken out. Inside the fruit is a figure of the Russian Emperor Paul. The orange is harnessed to three horses, and on top of it are depicted the three most famous monuments of art in Odessa - the Transfiguration Cathedral, the Opera House and the colonnade of the Vorontsov Palace.
The Potemkin Stairs is considered one of the main attractions of Odessa. It consists of 10 marches and 192 steps. Climbing the stairs, every pedestrian can rest, as there are many platforms on which you can sit and relax. The peculiarity of the Potemkin Stairs is that its base is much wider than the top. This creates the illusion that it is much longer and wider than it appears. The top of the staircase is decorated with a monument to the Duke de Richelieu, made of bronze.
It is not for nothing that the palace has an oriental name, since Shah Mohammed Ali previously lived in the palace, who was sent into exile from Persia and therefore was forced to settle in Odessa, renting the palace. The Shah did everything possible to ensure that the palace was as luxurious and beautiful as his palace in his homeland. The building itself was built from shell rock and faced with Inkerman stone.
Unfortunately, the current generation will not be able to see either the marble interior decoration of the palace or the ancient sculptures, but the external architectural ensemble has been preserved, so everyone can admire its beauty.
Address: Gogolya street-2.
The figure of one of the mayors of Odessa is made of bronze, and the pedestal itself is made of pink granite and limestone. In the hands of the famous de Richelieu is a scroll, and he himself is dressed in a Roman toga. The pedestal also features sculptures that symbolize justice, agriculture and trade. They are located on the edges of the pedestal in rectangular niches.
On the facade there is a gilded brass plate with an inscription stating that this monument was erected in honor of the general - governor of Odessa. Local residents have many superstitions associated with the monument. So, to attract good luck, you just need to rub the bronze bas-reliefs with a coin.
Address: Komissarova street 45.
