Odessa, a port city on the Black Sea, is famous for its beaches and 19th-century architecture.

Today, modern energy blends with ancient classicism to complete the picture of historical grandeur.

So, here are the reasons. and activities Things to do in Odessa that will make you come to visit this city at least once.

Top Things to See and Do in Odessa

Enjoy classical music at the Odessa Opera House

Locals appreciate music and consider a visit to such a place an important cultural event.

Ukrainians are also more familiar with Russian musicians like Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky, so Ukraine is the perfect place to get acquainted with their masterpieces at very reasonable prices, starting from 50 UAH (2 USD).

Moreover, a magical atmosphere prevails inside and outside the theatre, where one is influenced by Opera building Odessa National Ballet Theatre, dating back to the 19th century in French and Italian Baroque styles.

Odessa

Opera House

Odessa Catacombs Tour

Underneath Odessa lies a huge network of tunnels known as the Catacombs.

They are a big part of the city's history, having been a refuge for Soviet partisans during World War II and later for smugglers.

Nowadays, there is a small museum, and you can explore the tunnels on organized subway tours.

But it's easy to get lost there, so don't try to visit these tunnels on your own or with an unregistered tour guide.

Catacombs

Explore the cafes along Deribasivska Street.

It is a pedestrian street in the center of Odessa. A busy road surrounded by monuments, old shops and many restaurants and cafes.

You can go there in the morning for a cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast and lunch; in the middle of the day, cafes and restaurants offer business lunches.

While in the evening the street is an ideal place for fine dining or just to stroll and enjoy the atmosphere of the city.

Odessa

Deribasivska Street

Harbourside Tour

Odessa has a major seaport, the largest in Ukraine. One of the most important ports on the Black Sea. 

So, take a walk along the harbour, and you will feel its importance to the vitality of the city; watch the bustle of ships, sailors and passers-by and head to the end of the pier.

Its end also offers a wonderful view of the sea, which is especially impressive at sunrise or sunset.

City Port

Climb the Potemkin Ladder

Film buffs will remember this iconic landmark from Eisenstein's Battleship Potemkin.

Built in the 19th century to give the city direct access to the harbour, these massive stairs are now the most famous symbol of Odessa. 

Fortunately, the length of the stairs is just an optical illusion, from the bottom it looks endless. In fact, there are only 192 degrees.

Odessa

Potemkin Ladder

Attending a party in Arcadia

Arcadia, a historic area about half an hour from the city center, is called the “Ibiza of Ukraine.”

Arcadia district hosts the wildest parties in Odessa and concerts of world famous stars.

In addition, during the day Arcadia is filled with families going to the beach, but at night it turns into a party hotspot, and people enjoy themselves all night long, especially in the summer.

Arcadia area

Sunbathing on Lanzeron beach

Odessa is a coastal city. So there are many beaches, all of which are very crowded in summer.

The closest to the heart of the city is Lanzeron Beach. It has become a popular beach due to its easy accessibility.

Moreover, you can rent umbrella and sun loungers there.

Between sunbathing and swimming in the sea, you can pop into one of the many restaurants and cafes.

Odessa

Lanzeron Beach

Visit Vorontsov Palace

This palace is an architectural gem of Odessa. The palace was built in 1827 with a mixture of different architectural styles but at the same time gives the impression of lightness and elegance.

as The palace was built on the site of a Turkish fortress, and later became the residence of the Russian statesman and military leader Governor-General Mikhail Vorontsov.

Nowadays, it is an art center and a center for cultural events for young people.

Vorontsov Palace