TOP-10 THINGS TO DO IN ODESSA

Odessa’s stunning architecture, friendly people and incomparable atmosphere of a resort city annually attract thousands of travelers from all over the world. If you’re one of them and planning your trip to this beautiful city, be sure to check our top 10 places to visit in Odessa that will make your journey truly unforgettable:

VISIT ODESSA NATIONAL OPERA AND BALLET THEATER

 Odessa Opera House, built in 1887, is one of the most splendid in Europe.  You will be amazed by the beauty of its Baroque exterior, decorated with sculptures of the mythological heroes – Orpheus playing the cittern, dancing Terpsichore and the muse of tragedy Melpomene.  The interior of the theatre is even more impressive, so if there is a performance during your staying in Odessa, we highly recommend you to buy the tickets and enjoy the play.

Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater
Auditorium. An interior of opera theatre. Odessa, Ukraine

INDULGE YOUR PASSION FOR THE SEA AND THE BEACH

The best way to escape the heat in the summertime is relaxing on one of the numerous Odessa’s beaches. The most popular of them are situated in the Arcadia district (Itaka, Ibiza, Portofino etc.); however, such beaches as Langeron and Otrada are also worth visiting. The access to the beach is usually free but there is an additional fee for the lounge chair and umbrella rentals. Don’t miss your chance to swim in the Black Sea and get a great suntan!

DISCOVER THE MYSTERIOUS UNDERGROUND WORLD OF ODESSA CATACOMBS

Did you know that there is no metro in Odessa because the major part of the city stands over the underground labyrinths of catacombs? You can discover the history of the appearance of the catacombs and their role in the life of the city on a catacombs guided tour. This is the best way to explore this fascinating Odessa attraction.

The Catacombs of Odessa
The Catacombs of Odessa

WALK DOWN THE FAMOUS POTEMKIN STAIRS (STEPS)

One of the most famous travel attractions in Odessa is definitely the Potemkin Stairs (Steps). There is a peculiar optical illusion in this construction – if you look at them from the top, you’ll see only the landings while from the below only steps are visible. In addition, a stunning view of the port and the sea opens from the top.

The Potemkin Stairs (Steps)
The Potemkin Stairs (Steps)

STROLL AROUND THE CENTER OF ODESSA – THE DERIBASOVSKAYA STREET AND SURROUNDINGS

Like in any other city, Odessa’s main street is a vivid and happening place that attracts many locals and travelers. Cozy cafés, great restaurants, and modern shops are opened here for you. Moreover, you will enjoy the performances of the street musicians and take a lot of cool pictures. There are many interesting sights in this area, as the Monument to the 12th Chair, the City Garden and the Monument to L. Utesov.  The most interesting places in Odessa are located near the main street, so it’s a must visit place when you travel to Odessa

TRY DELICIOUS AND VERSATILE ODESSA CUISINE

You can’t visit Odessa without trying its mouthwatering food. Odessa cuisine is a kind of a mixture of different national dining traditions, like Greek, Jewish, Russian, Moldavian etc. Wondering what to try first? For the appetizer, we recommend hummus, forshmak, and small shrimps. Moreover, the selection of restaurants for dinner is impressive; you will surely find something for your taste.

Delicious Shrimps
Delicious Shrimps

EXPLORE THE ODESSA COURTYARDS AND SEE HOW LOCALS LIVE

 If you want to feel the peculiar color of Odessa and discover the hidden gems of the city, you should wander through its interior courtyards. Many intriguing stories are related to them, and the architecture is quite peculiar. Don’t be surprised to see a monument to the inventor of Esperanto next to the washing line with laundry. To understand better the spirit and significance of this Odessa attraction you can take a local guided tour.

Odessa Courtyard
Odessa Courtyard

BUY SOME GOODS AND BARGAIN AT THE PRIVOZ MARKET

 Another must-visit place in Odessa is a famous Privoz Market. What is so special about it? It is not only a market where you can make a purchase – it is a place, where you can enjoy the juicy Odessa language and meet the picturesque representatives of the trade business. By the way, Privoz is one of the biggest food markets in Europe.

VISIT COGNAC OR WINE TASTING

 You can combine your holiday in Odessa with a visit of the “Shustov Cognac Museum” or the “French Boulevard” boutique where you can order a tasting of wine and cognac and later buy the one you like in the brand shop. It can be a nice souvenir from Odessa. If you have more time, you should definitely visit a famous “Shabo Wine Culture Center”, situated 76 km from Odessa, with its own vineyard and wine manufacture.

Shabo Wine CenterShabo Wine Center

DANCE TILL THE DAWN AT ODESSA OPEN-AIR NIGHTCLUBS

Odessa is a capital of the nightlife in Ukraine, especially in summer. The best nightclubs, like Ibiza, Itaka, Bono Beach Club and others are waiting for you there. Forget all your troubles and have a great time dancing, drinking cocktails and enjoying the vivid atmosphere of the party.