Travelers who are just discovering the southern city know that you should definitely explore Primorsky Boulevard and Deribasovskaya. Today, we'll guide you on where to wander in Odesa, whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest. You'll also discover how to easily plan a route to explore the most popular sights in Odesa.
Key Locations for a Tourist Itinerary in Odesa
Primorsky Boulevard is the heart of Odesa, featuring numerous intriguing monuments, including the famous Bronze Duke. As you continue along this spacious boulevard, you'll reach the Teschin Bridge, renowned as one of the most romantic spots in Odesa.
Zhvanetsky Boulevard, named in honor of the renowned Odessan humorist, was previously known as Boulevard of Arts. It's a fantastic place for leisurely strolls in Odesa, suitable for family outings during the day and romantic walks in the evening. While here, be sure to admire the monument to the Orange, a symbol that holds historical significance as these sunny citrus fruits once saved Odesa over 200 years ago.
History enthusiasts should definitely take a leisurely stroll through Odesa, starting with Catherine Square, where a monument to Catherine the Great and her closest associates proudly stands. From Catherine Square, make sure to explore Tchaikovsky Lane, where you'll discover the renowned Odessa Opera House. Continue a little further, and you'll find yourself near City Hall and the monument to A. Pushkin. This area also hosts Odesa's most popular museums, including archaeological, maritime, and literary ones.
A stroll through Odesa's Deribasovskaya is a must on every tourist's itinerary, but few venture into the charming Odessa courtyards. In one of these courtyards, you'll find a monument to Zamengof, the founder of Esperanto. As you return to Deribasovskaya, don't forget to admire the monument to the 12th chair and the picturesque city garden.
As you explore the central street, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of "Passage," the first shopping center constructed here in the 19th century.
It's hard to picture Odesa without the iconic Maritime Station and the famous lighthouse. This place is a haven for true romantics, especially on sultry, hot days. While wandering Odesa, remember to look around as often as possible. Near the Maritime Station, you'll find the "Golden Child" monument and a tribute to the wives of sailors.
Exploring Off the Beaten Path
If it's not your first visit to the "Southern Palmyra," you don't have to stick to the familiar tourist routes. We'll suggest some delightful places to take a leisurely stroll in Odesa and make your visit even more enjoyable.
- Health Route and Langeron Embankment: The embankment is relatively new, just a few years old. Here, you can enjoy romantic sunsets, sit on benches while using free internet, and witness a constant flow of runners and cyclists on the health track.
- Beaches from the 12th to the 16th station of the Big Fountain: These beaches are considered the finest in Odesa, offering pristine shores and the inviting waves of the Black Sea to welcome tourists.
- Moldavanka and the Old-Con Market: These places should be on the itinerary for those seeking to explore the historic side of Odesa. You'll encounter colorful locals and shouldn't miss a visit to the flea market.