Crimea is not only a point on the map rich in historical events. It is also a beautiful, diverse nature, making the peninsula the best place for recreation and tourism in the USSR, during which Crimea was rightly called the “All-Union Health Resort”. In those days, up to 8 million people annually vacationed in more than a hundred sanatoriums in Crimea. It will take more than one month to explore all the sights of the Crimean peninsula, but I bring to your attention 14 places that are definitely worth visiting.
Perhaps the most famous building on the Crimean peninsula can safely be called the Swallow's Nest. Designed in Gothic style, this castle looms fearlessly over the sea. However, this building has only looked like this for a little over a hundred years. The stone palace was built only at the beginning of the twentieth century. Until this time, a wooden house stood on the site of the modern Swallow's Nest.
Immediately after construction, the palace was surrounded by a beautiful garden, but most of it was destroyed during a strong earthquake. Miraculously, the architectural monument survived.
Swallow's Nest is located in the village of Gaspra. The best way to get to it is from Yalta, by direct buses in the direction of this village. There are also guided tours around the castle, their cost ranges from 300 to 600 rubles per person.
This lighthouse is located in the village of Gaspra on the cape, which gave it its name. This monument is rightfully considered important for the development of the entire Russian fleet. By order of Admiral Lazarev, the lighthouse was built here at the beginning of the nineteenth century, not far from the ancient fortress that had been destroyed by that time, which also served as a lighthouse.
Getting to Cape Ai-Todor is quite easy. A boat regularly runs from Sevastopol towards the cape. However, getting to the lighthouse is not as easy as it might seem. It is a military facility, and no one will give tours of it.
Access to the lighthouse is only possible with a special pass, which you need to stock up on in Sevastopol.
This unique building was built in the mid-nineteenth century in Sevastopol. It’s hard to believe, but without sufficient repairs and maintenance, she was able to survive to this day. The tower largely copies the famous Athenian Tower of the Winds. Of course, the Greek tower, which was built before our era, is much larger, but the beauty of the Crimean building is in no way inferior to its foreign relative. At the moment when the tower was built in Sevastopol, it was used for airing books from the Maritime Library.
The Tower of the Winds is located in the center of Sevastopol, on Frunze Street, 8. Visiting the architectural monument of regional significance is now free.
Surrounded by an aura of legends and secrets, Mount Ayu-Dag stands between two major cities. On the way from Yalta to Alushta or back, you will not miss the large stone bear, which lowered its face into the sea. He tries to drink all the water in order to return the lovers who decided to flee from him across the water.
Bear Mountain traces its history back to very ancient times. According to various sources, it is about 150 million years old. It may be interesting for tourists because it is here, in this unique natural area, that rare animals and plants live. Apparently, their patron is the same big bear who keeps trying to drink the sea.
From all the cities of the Crimean coast, the climb to Ayu-Dag can be reached by regular buses that go to Yalta or Alushta.
In Feodosia there is a huge stone giant - the Tower of St. Constantine. Its age makes it surprising that it has not yet been completely destroyed. It was built in the thirteenth century, at a time when the Genoese considered themselves masters of Crimea.
Initially, the tower was used to store weapons and was not called anything special. Later she received the name of Saint Constantine. Although, he was canonized later than the tower appeared.
The tower is located between the Feodossia bus station and Yubileiny Park. An interesting fact is that a capsule with a message to the people of the future is walled up in one of the walls of the tower, which will be opened in 2017.
In the village of Novy Svet, fans will definitely be able to find new sensations for themselves and tickle their nerves. It is here that the famous Golitsyn trail is located - a narrow piece of rocky soil, which is located directly above the cliff. When crossing the path, you can only hold on to a frail log.
A reward awaits those who can overcome the dangerous path: they find themselves in a wonderful grotto, which has two names. It is called Chaliapinsky because the famous bass performed there, and Golitsynsky, like the transition, because the prince kept bottles of wine in the grotto.
The last Russian Emperor Nicholas II also walked along the Golitsyn Trail, whose length exceeds five thousand meters.
A beautiful legend awaits those who want to visit the city of Simeiz, which is located 70 kilometers from Sevastopol. The town is home to the famous Mount Cat. It is also called “kosh-kai” or steam mountain. It is with her that the love story of a monk and a young girl is connected. The monk was able to save his beloved from the demon, whom he turned into a mountain. Now the mountain is overgrown with forest and does not look like a demon or a cat, but the history continues to attract tourists to it.
At the very top of the mountain there is a kind of wishing tree: tourists tie ribbons to it and make wishes. They say that they will definitely come true.
If you drive along the highway from Sevastopol towards Yalta, it is impossible to miss Mount Koshka. A funny landmark is a small market where they sell sweet Crimean onions.
Lovers of the supernatural come to Alushta every year. After all, this is where the famous Valley of Ghosts is located. Of course, there are no ghosts there, not even close, but the stones at the foot of Mount Demerdzhi at sunset cast very interesting shadows. The mountain itself can also attract tourists. At sunset it changes color. The nature of this phenomenon is still unknown; scientists do not want to solve the mystery of the Valley of Ghosts.
By the way, right at the foot of Demerdzhi, very close to the Valley of Ghosts, there still lies the stone on which Natalya Varley sang her song about bears in the film “Prisoner of the Caucasus.”
A bus runs regularly from Alushta and Simferopol towards the village of Luchistoye. It is on it that you can get to Demerdzhi and the Valley of Ghosts.
Crimea is ready to show its guests cultural values. They have always been developed here along with natural ones. So, in Gurzuf at the turn of the last century and the century before last, Anton Pavlovich Chekhov bought himself a house. The writer wanted solitude and peace, and noisy Yalta did not suit him at all in this regard.
A branch of his museum is now open in Chekhov’s house on the Crimean peninsula. Anyone can come here on a tour.
An entrance ticket with the right to take photos and videos costs 200 rubles, and with the right to inspect the garden - 50 rubles. You can get to the writer’s dacha from Yalta by minibus No. 316. You will need to get off at the final stop and walk a little.
This majestic building not only served as a residence for the governor of Novorossiya, Prince Vorontsov, but from the very beginning was a hymn to English traditions in architecture. Consisting of several parts, the structure is a mix of different styles and eras in architecture.
The palace complex is surrounded by a huge garden. It occupies almost 150 hectares and, like the building, is a combination of different plants.
The palace and garden are located in Alupka, which can be reached, for example, from Simferopol, by bus that goes towards Simeiz.
It is interesting that during the Great Patriotic War, Hitler, who considered himself a winner, managed to donate the Vorontsov Palace along with the park to one of his marshals. However, he was unable to keep the architectural masterpiece in his possession for long.
The village of Koktebel is well known to all poetry lovers. It was there that Maximilian Voloshin lived and Marina Tsvetaeva often visited. However, this place is known not only to lyricists. The reason for this is the factory of vintage wines and cognacs, which is located there.
Growing grapes in Crimea is a long-standing tradition that has taken root. People living in this mountainous area have always made stronger wine and drinks, so it was logical to create large-scale production here.
Now they offer excursions to the plant; they are ready to show, tell and even give everyone a try.
Depending on the degree of immersion in the atmosphere of viticulture, the cost of the excursion varies from 500 to 900 rubles per person. The plant itself is located at the entrance to Koktebel; local residents say that it is simply impossible to drive past.
On the territory of the city of Bakhchisarai there is one of the most ancient buildings in the Crimea - the Mausoleum of Hadzhi Giray. Khan Hadji-Girey himself, his son who initiated the construction, as well as about twenty more of their relatives are buried there. Scientists say that the mausoleum is now more than fifty years old.
Historians constantly conduct excavations on the territory of the mausoleum. This object cannot be called fully excursion, they will only tell you about the history of the Khan’s family, but if you value places of power, places with bright energy, then you should definitely visit it and just touch the ancient stones.
The mausoleum is located near the hospital for the mentally ill on Basenko Street.
Ai-Petri is a place that has become a unique natural reserve. It is there that you can find various natural areas and landscapes. The mountain itself relatively recently calmed down and stopped moving. Even 100-150 years ago, it could gradually sink into or out of the sea.
Now tourists who go to Mount Ai-Petri can not only admire the beauty of nature, but also appreciate the longest cable car in Europe, which is located right here in Crimea.
Bus number 32 runs from Yalta to Ai-Petri. You need to get off at the “Ropeway” stop. You will be able to climb to the very top of Ai-Petri, accompanied by a guide and special equipment. This pleasure will cost three to five thousand rubles per group.
The monument to lost ships is one of those points that it is simply impossible not to visit when visiting Sevastopol. It was installed more than a hundred years ago, at the beginning of the twentieth century. Then it was considered a reminder of the first defense of Sevastopol, but over time it became a symbol of the city.
Video about the nature of Crimea
The Republic of Crimea is deservedly the true pearl of the Black Sea. This is one of the most beautiful corners of modern Russia. Thanks to its diversity of natural beauty, distinctive history and mild climate, the peninsula has attracted millions of tourists for decades. There is everything here that even the most sophisticated vacationer, curiosity seeker and incorrigible romantic dreams of. The enchanting landscapes are created by majestic mountains, picturesque bays, beautiful beaches, cliffs, caves, forest reserves and an abundance of vegetation.
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The territory of the peninsula is penetrated by an extensive network of roads. Routes to the famous resorts of Crimea run through steppe regions and steep mountain serpentines. When in cities and towns, you can leave your car in the parking lot and go on an exciting walk. Most of the attractions of Crimea are located along the vast coastline of the peninsula.
Kerch
On the eastern tip of the peninsula is the hero city of Kerch, the historical chronicle of which dates back to the 6th century BC. This small port place has been of great strategic importance from time immemorial. The city stands on the strait of the same name, connecting the waters of the Black and Azov seas. There were fierce battles for the possession of this piece of land, as evidenced by the walls of the Yeni-Kale and Kerch fortresses. The citadels are masterpieces of fortification art of the 18th-19th centuries.
Kerch is famous for its abundance of historical attractions. On one of the well-groomed seaside streets stands the Church of John the Baptist. The Byzantine style church was built in the 8th century. In the center of the city rises Mount Mithridates, the top of which is definitely worth climbing. It is actually a 92 meter high hill. To get to the highest point of the mountain, you need to climb 436 steps of a staircase decorated with sculptures of griffins (mythical winged predators) and vases. From the slope, tourists can see an amazing view of the city, surrounded by greenery, the obelisk of glory to Soviet troops, the “eternal flame,” as well as unique ancient ruins.
Feodosia
The eastern resort of Crimea - Feodosia - hospitably welcomes its guests. The city, located at the junction of mountains and steppes, attracts tourists with beautiful landscaped streets with picturesque parks, magnificent sandy beaches and cultural and historical museums.
The calling card of Feodosia is the embankment with its characteristic architectural flavor. The appearance of the main street of the resort is determined by 19th century villas. The facades of the buildings are decorated with columns, arches, towers and terraces with balustrades. Shrubs and flower beds are planted along the alleys. Near the embankment there are picturesque parks where you can relax in the shade of trees. Walking around the city, you can see many monuments, ancient churches, fountains and playgrounds.
A visit to the National Art Gallery named after I.K. will leave an unforgettable impression on tourists. Aivazovsky. The richest collection of seascapes is located in the personal home of the world famous artist, who was born in Feodosia. You can also visit the museum of another talented master - writer A.S. Greena. This is a literary and memorial institution that shows visitors the environment in which the famous romantic writer lived and worked.
Sunny Valley
Tourists who prefer solitude with the surrounding nature without noise and fuss will really like the village of Solnechnaya Dolina. This place, located 12 kilometers from Sudak and 3 kilometers from the sea, is considered one of the least crowded in Crimea, even at the height of the summer season. Severe huge rocks, forming a group of picturesque cliffs, tightly surround the settlement and protect the area from cold winds. Forest plantations and grape fields set a special tone for the local landscape.
The best grape varieties are grown in the Sun Valley, which is facilitated by a special microclimate. It is warm and sunny more than 300 days a year, and there is little rainfall. The heart of the village is the winery named after Prince L.S. Golitsyn, founded by him in 1880. Hidden among the abundance of exotic plants and flower beds are long tunnels of cellars with barrels and bottles of the noble drink. In the tasting room, tourists are offered to experience the unique flavors of several varieties of wine.
The nearest pebble-sand beach is in the village of Pribrezhnoye. Along the coastline you can find guest houses for vacationers and a green alley with shopping tents and small cafes.
New World
Among the juniper groves and pine forests, framed by majestic rocks, lies the small town of Novy Svet. The coastline is indented with cozy windless bays, where Ottoman pirates have long hidden their ships. A winding serpentine of roads penetrates the hilly terrain that surrounds the village. The resort was born thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of Prince Lev Golitsyn, who founded a winery here in 1878. Barrels of wine were stored in caves in rock formations.
The amazingly beautiful landscapes of the New World make a memorable impression on travelers. Tourists are recommended to walk along the Golitsyn trail to see the breathtaking Crimean nature. The road consists of stone steps carved into the mountainside, fenced with a curb. The 3-kilometer-long trail runs along a cliff above the edge of the sea coast and under high rock overhangs. Along the way, you can visit a grotto carved out of the rock by the waves. Its height is 30 meters. The cave cavity is occupied by stone arches.
The end point of the Golitsyn trail is Cape Kapchik. The rocky ledge resembles the outline of a lizard quenching its thirst with the waters of the Black Sea. This is a natural boundary between two bays with steep mountains. Here the sea waters are striking in their transparency and the cleanliness of the pebble beaches is pleasantly surprising. Nearby rises the highest coral reef in Europe - Mount Sokol (472 meters).
Zander
The sunny city of Sudak is located on the coastal mountainous area of the southeast of the peninsula. The resort is great for families with children. There are many sandy beaches, as well as a gentle and safe entrance to the sea. A narrow alley of cypress trees leads to a lively and well-maintained embankment, replete with entertainment venues. There are pleasant places where you can spend leisurely time surrounded by lush subtropical vegetation.
The main symbol of Sudak is the legendary Genoese fortress. This is a unique architectural monument of medieval Crimea, erected at the turn of the 14th-15th centuries by colonialists from the Genoese Republic. The citadel stretches along a steep cliff, offering a picturesque view of the surrounding city, and occupies 30 hectares of territory. The fortress structure consists of powerful battlements and quadrangular towers, the height of which reaches 15 meters. The historical building fits harmoniously into the sea and mountain landscape.
Alushta
You can take a walk through the historical and memorable places where the legendary “Prisoner of the Caucasus” was filmed in one of the best resorts on the southern coast of Crimea - Alushta. The city is framed by a chain of majestic mountain ranges, which contributes to the constant circulation of air flows. The long and wide central embankment is dotted with fluffy crowns of evergreen coniferous trees, under which there are rows of benches. In addition to a separate alley with restaurants, iconic symbols of the city are located on the embankment. This is a rotunda with six columns, a monument to the Olympic Bear, a Boy with a Fish fountain and a large park with an abundance of plantings and flower beds.
The surroundings of Alushta deserve attention. You should definitely visit the Valley of Ghosts on the slopes of Mount Demerdzhi. This is literally an open-air natural museum, where, as a result of weathering, huge stone pillars have taken on bizarre shapes. The thick fog settling over the valley gives a special mystery to the figures. Walking through these places, you can see the famous tree from where Yuri Nikulin’s hero threw nuts. The rock formations of the valley, which have their own names, are fascinating. For example, you can see the “Head of Catherine” rock, as it resembles the profile of the Empress.
30 kilometers from Alushta there is an amazingly beautiful temple of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. The church, built in the shape of a lighthouse, is dedicated to the travelers who died at sea. The temple, instead of a dome, is crowned with a golden cross. In the basement of the shrine there is a unique museum of maritime disasters, in which the walls and ceilings are decorated with shipwrecks.
Yalta
The most famous and popular resort of the Republic of Crimea is the unsurpassed Yalta, which is definitely worth a visit. This is the calling card of the southern coast of the peninsula. Mountain ranges, landscaped parks and squares, palm and cypress groves, the azure Black Sea and many interesting places replete with attractions give a special ambiance to this city.
The long sea embankment of Yalta is a favorite street of tourists and local residents, where you can take a pleasant walk, admiring the natural beauty. Here you can admire alleys of palm and coniferous trees, sculptural compositions, marinas with yachts and plenty of entertainment for every taste. Along the promenade there are a long row of ancient buildings of the 19th century, the facades of which are decorated with columns and roofing balustrades. The embankment is popular with street musicians and artists.
While in Yalta, you have the opportunity to go on an air trip by cable car, which passes over the ancient streets of the city. Tiny two-seater cabins make the climb up to Darsan Hill. During the trip, you can see the gilded domes of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and historical buildings. From a height of 138 meters there is an amazing panoramic view of the city.
The park and palace complex in the village of Massandra, 5 kilometers from the center of Yalta, will leave a pleasant impression. On a mountain slope, surrounded by forests and well-groomed alleys, stands a castle built for Emperor Alexander III. The beautiful architecture of the three-story palace evokes admiration. The façade is decorated with galleries, balconies, and towers with spiers. The terraces are framed by balustrades with flowerpots. In front of the building there is a small artificial pond with goldfish and a fountain. Those interested can examine the interior decoration of the premises and get acquainted with the conditions of royal life of those times.
Gaspra
The famous symbol of Crimea “Swallow’s Nest” is located in the cozy resort village of Gaspra, 12 kilometers from Yalta. This place attracts vacationers with its picturesque landscapes and beneficial marine climate. The village is literally covered by mountain ranges, so cold winds do not reach here. The town is dotted with garden and park complexes containing palaces, fortresses and estates.
The famous structure “Swallow’s Nest” was erected on a steep forty-meter cliff of Cape Ai-Todor in 1912. The Gothic architectural style of the castle with its characteristic battlements and lancet windows is reminiscent of the times of the valiant knights of the Middle Ages. The palace is crowned by a round tower with spiers.
Alupka
The city of Alupka, located between the magnificent Ai-Petri Mountain and the sparkling Black Sea, seems to have frozen in silence and tranquility. Here, the enchanting landscapes are filled with lush vegetation, and the combination of pine and sea air creates a healing charge of energy.
Alupka owes its popularity to the Governor-General of the Novorossiysk Territory M.S. Vorontsov. In the first half of the 19th century, on the initiative of the count, a luxurious castle was erected, which is framed by a fragrant subtropical park with exotic plants and ornate paths. The Vorontsov Palace is a majestic and austere monumental complex that combines several architectural styles.
The southern facade includes elements of oriental architecture. These are arches covered with stucco ornaments, thin columns, low minarets and open terraces with sculptures. The northern façade of the palace is designed in the medieval Gothic style, which is characterized by crenellated walls, round and quadrangular towers, pinnacles and protruding polyhedral columns.
The program for a walk around Alupka is unthinkable without climbing to the top of Mount Ai-Petri. Its mighty stone walls rise 1234 meters to the sky. You can go up by cable car or by car, overcoming the winding mountain serpentine. During a self-guided trip along the scenic road, you will encounter famous mountain sites: the Wuchang-Su waterfall, Turtle Lake and the Silver Gazebo. Once on a plateau shrouded in trees, a breathtaking panorama opens up before tourists.
Sevastopol
The legendary naval port of Sevastopol is located on the western coast of Crimea along several bays. Covered in the spirit of historical glory and great achievements, the hero city abounds with numerous attractions that will not leave anyone indifferent. The architectural ensembles of the city reflect the greatness, valor and honor of the Russian people.
You should start your walk from the central Nakhimov square. Here, the monument to Admiral Pavel Nakhimov, the memorial defense wall with a relief image of a warrior, the Walk of Fame and the “Eternal Flame” attract attention.
Next to the square is the Count's Pier, the main entrance of which is a snow-white colonnade with a massive attic, built in 1846. Going down to the sea along a wide staircase, you can see a monument to sunken ships 20 meters from the shore. The monument is presented in the form of a seven-meter column installed on a granite rock and topped with a bronze eagle.
The Count's pier smoothly turns into an embankment, from where a panorama of the Sevastopol Bay opens up. Particularly noteworthy are the powerful Mikhailovskaya and Konstantinovskaya batteries, which provide protection against the entry of an enemy fleet into the city’s sea area. Primorsky Boulevard, adjoined by a picturesque alley with lawns, trees, fountains and numerous architectural structures, leaves a pleasant impression. There is a theater, a palace of culture, an oceanarium and a dolphinarium here.
The museum complex "35th Coastal Battery" should be a must-visit point of the hero city. During the defense of Sevastopol in 1941-1942, the fortress with artillery pieces in Cossack Bay resisted the fascist occupiers to the last. On the territory of the complex there are two battery towers, a pantheon in memory of defense heroes, gun exhibits and military equipment.
In the surrounding area there are the largest ancient Greek ruins of cultural value to humanity. This is the national archaeological reserve of Chersonesos-Tavrichesky. Tourists have a unique opportunity to walk around the city, founded in 420 BC. On a vast territory of more than 500 hectares of land there are ancient ruins, columns, fragments of buildings and structures. A significant place in Chersonesos is the Cathedral of St. Vladimir. According to legend, Prince Vladimir converted to Christianity here in 988.
Bakhchisaray
In a mountain gorge among dense vegetation and far from the coast, there was once the capital of the Crimean Khanate, which existed under the patronage of the Ottoman Empire until 1783. This is the colorful city of Bakhchisarai. Narrow streets with small old houses immerse you in the atmosphere of antiquity.
The main pearl of the city is the vast quarter of the residence of the Crimean Khanate. This is a palace complex of buildings that forms a labyrinth of unique oriental buildings. The two-story buildings are decorated with openwork window bars, tall minarets, galleries and paintings reflecting the traditions of Tatar culture. On the territory of the complex there are gardens, fountains, gazebos, utility buildings, a harem, a stable, baths, a falcon tower and a mosque.
Walking through the small rooms of the Khan's residence, you can notice the oriental luxury. The halls of the palace are decorated with bright floral patterns, decorative patterns, and carpets. In addition, there is a museum of culture, art, and history of the Crimean Tatars.
After getting acquainted with the traditions and way of life of the Crimean Khan, it is recommended to go to Chufut-Kale. This is one of the masterpieces of cave cities, located on a rocky plateau of a sheer cliff 600 meters high. In the Middle Ages, this area was inhabited primarily by Karaites, who professed a religious doctrine similar to Judaism. Utility and living quarters were skillfully carved into the stone formations. During the time of the Crimean Khanate, a mint was located in the cave fortress.
Simferopol
Simferopol is the capital of the Republic of Crimea and the gateway to the peninsula that greets tourists arriving at the international airport. This is where the exciting journey by car begins. A highly developed transport network of roads leads to absolutely any resort areas in Crimea. Most travelers are often carried away by a trip to the coast, so Simferopol remains without due attention. However, there is plenty to see and walk in the city.
The central street is Lenin Square, on which there is a monument to the leader of the proletariat, the building of the government of the republic and the academic theater. You should walk along the pedestrian street Pushkin. Ancient buildings from the 19th century are lined up along the boulevard. The Gagarin Park is replete with plantings, manicured lawns, fountains, monuments, memorials, benches and entertainment areas with attractions. The central part of the vast territory of the park is occupied by a lake with a small island in the middle, which can be reached by catamaran.
Worthy of attention is the landscaped Vorontsovsky Park with a botanical garden, full of flowers and rare plants. More than 200 types of roses of all colors of the rainbow are grown here. In the garden you can retire to the gazebos, stroll along narrow forest paths or along wide alleys under the canopies of tall trees. On the territory of the park there is a small estate of Count Vorontsov with classical columns. The hallmark of Simferopol is the railway station, built in 1951. The majestic building is decorated with a clock tower and an elegant arcade gallery. The architectural ensemble forms a courtyard with a laid out square and a fountain.
Evpatoria
The amazing resort of Evpatoria is one of the few Crimean cities that combines comfort, entertainment and cultural monuments. Beautiful sandy beaches, marvelous beautiful parks, a landscaped embankment with endless entertainment venues and various historical buildings evoke enthusiastic feelings among tourists.
Evpatoria is famous for its religious architectural buildings. You can see the multi-domed Juma-Jami mosque, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, the temple complex of the ancient Karaites, the Armenian church, and the synagogue. The shrines, reflecting the cultural heritage of different peoples, amaze with their beautifully designed facades. The city is full of sculptures and monuments dedicated to the historical past, famous figures, and fairy-tale characters. For lovers of active and cultural recreation there is a water park, a dolphinarium, a zoo, a theater and a museum.
Cape Tarkhankut
The pearl of the western part of the peninsula is Cape Tarkhankut. This place attracts tourists with its pristine nature, untouched by civilization. The lack of vegetation is compensated by numerous coastal cliffs rising vertically from the sea. Over a thousand years, waves and wind have carved caves, arches and strangely shaped blocks of stone along the shore.
Among the enchanting landscape, the natural aquarium “Cup of Love” deserves attention. This picturesque place is a heart-shaped pool surrounded by boulders. The bowl is filled with water thanks to an underwater tunnel made by waves in the coastal rocks.
The coast fascinates with the incredible beauty of its bays, wild beaches and emerald waters of the Black Sea. On the sun-scorched steppe terrain of Cape Tarkhankut there are no buildings or signs of settlements, which creates a special flavor. Arriving by car, you can pitch a tent on a steep rock or on a sandy beach and enjoy a vacation away from the bustle of the city, noisy crowds of tourists and festive Crimean embankments.
I collected in one post the sights of Crimea that are worth visiting if you come to the peninsula. Here you will also find photos, a detailed description, as well as a map of Crimea with attractions.
It’s hard to imagine a vacation on the peninsula without visiting its many interesting places. Many of them are located quite compactly, especially on the southern coast, so you can see several at once in one day.
The most convenient way to get around is by personal or rented car, however, public transport is well developed, you can get almost everywhere without problems, I have provided information on how to get there.
There are a total of 33 places worth visiting in this review, and I hope it will bring clarity and help you plan your trip. Opening hours are for summer time and may vary during low season.
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Sights of Crimea
I’ll start my review of the sights of Crimea with interesting places on the western coast, and then the southern and eastern ones.
One of the most remote and beautiful places in Crimea. The cleanest transparent sea, fragrant steppe, which ends in the sea with picturesque cliffs. A Mecca for divers due to the properties of the water and artifacts at the bottom, windsurfers, kite surfers and lovers of other active recreation also come here.
Near the cape, it is worth visiting the natural pool of the Bowl of Love, the Bolshoy and Maly Atlesh rocks. The nearest village on the cape is Olenevka.
How to get there: to Olenevka from Simeropol by bus for 470 rubles (3 hours travel). Then you can rent a bicycle or motorbike, or drive your own car (the road is unpaved).
Juma-Jami Mosque in Evpatoria
A functioning mosque in the historical center of the city with a peaceful atmosphere inside. It was built in the mid-16th century, and since then it has been restored and restored several times. At the entrance you will be given suitable clothing that complies with the dress code, but it is advisable to arrive appropriately dressed in advance. The mosque is visible from many points in the city center.
Entry fee: free, you can make a donation for the tour
How to get there: minibus No. 1 or tram No. 1 to the stop “Park im. Karaeva"
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Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in Evpatoria
The cathedral is located directly opposite the mosque (and there is also a synagogue nearby) and ranks second in terms of capacity and height in Crimea. It was built at the end of the 19th century in honor of the liberation of Crimea during the Crimean War. The whole world collected money for construction, and during the war it was almost blown up, but they did not have time to carry out the order. In 1916, Emperor Nicholas 1 visited the cathedral.
How to get there: just like going to the mosque.
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Bakhchisaray
Khan's Palace in Bakhchisarai
A city with a rich history and surrounding ancient cave cities. The name is translated from Crimean Tatar as “garden-city”. Bakhchisarai arose in 1532 as the Khan's residence, although settlements existed here before.
In Bakhchisaray, you should definitely visit the Khan’s Palace, the Holy Dormition Monastery, madrassas, mosques, a miniature park, and the cave city of Chufut-Kale (more about it below).
How to get there: You can easily get there by bus from Simferopol (70-90 rubles, an hour's journey) or Sevastopol (110 rubles, an hour's journey).
Cave city Chufut-Kale
An ancient fortress city 2.5 km from Bakhchisarai, which is easy to climb from the Assumption Monastery. Built in the 5th-6th centuries, presumably by the Byzantines as a fortress to protect distant borders. In the 15th century it became the first capital of the Crimean Khanate before it moved to Bakhchisarai. It is in Chufut-Kale that ancient architecture is best preserved, and it is best to take a guide to not just see, but also learn something new. The city offers a wonderful view of the canyon.
Working hours: from 09:00 to 18:00 seven days a week
Entry fee: 200 rubles
How to get there: take minibus No. 1 to the monastery, then walk up the path.
Cave city Mangup-Kale
View of the Crimean mountains from Mangup-Kale
This is the largest of the cave cities of Crimea, with an area of 90 hectares, located on a huge plateau. It was founded in the 3rd century as a Byzantine fortress, and from the 15th century it became the capital of the Principality of Theodoro. It is from those times that the foundations, caves, and grottoes have been preserved. The city was later captured by the Turks, and the last people left at the end of the 18th century. Nearby, be sure to visit the Holy Annunciation Monastery, located right on the rocks.
Working hours: from 09:00 to 17:00
Entry fee: 100 rubles, you can bypass the ticket office, since there are several ways to climb.
How to get there: from the village of Khoja-Sala you can hire a UAZ for 1,500 rubles one way, or on foot. You can get to Khoja-Sal from Bakhchisarai by local bus (4 times a day, 50-90 rubles). The second option is to take a bus to Ternovka from Sevastopol from the 5 kilometer bus station. From there you can take a taxi to the foot of the plateau, then walk further.
One of the best natural attractions of Crimea is located 4 km from the village of Sokolinoe. It is famous for its relict trees, waterfalls and bizarre baths and basins that were washed by the river.
How to get there: It is best to visit with a tour, since transport in those places is very bad.
Panorama Museum "Defense of Sevastopol"
One of the most grandiose museums in Sevastopol, dedicated to the defense of the city during the Crimean War. Visiting is only possible as part of a group. There is a nice park around where you can take a walk.
Opening hours: from 10:00 to 18:00 on weekdays and from 10:00 to 20:00 on weekends
Entry fee: 350 rubles adult, 150 rubles (under 16 years old)
How to get there: trolleybuses No. 1, 3, 4, 7, 9 to the stop. pl. Ushakova; No. 12, 13, 17, 20 to stops pl. Ushakova/University. Route taxis and buses: No. 2a, 12, 17, 20, 22, 25, 26, 94, 95, 105, 120. Along the route from the city center - stops pl. Ushakova, University; to the city center - Panorama stop.
The ruins of an ancient city founded by the Greeks more than two and a half thousand years ago. Located within the boundaries of Sevastopol on the very shore of the sea. Nearby is a museum containing numerous archaeological finds, a nice park and St. Vladimir Cathedral.
Opening hours: from 08:30 to 19:00 seven days a week
Entry fee: free, excursion 300 rubles/150 rubles (adult/child).
How to get there: from the center minibus No. 22A to the final one.
Cape Fiolent, Jasper Beach
A picturesque cape and a cool beach are located a few kilometers south of Sevastopol. There are 800 steps leading to the beach, passing next to the St. George’s Monastery, you can also go there (just don’t drink the water from the source!). There is no particular infrastructure, only a couple of cafes, the same number of changing cabins, and a toilet.
How to get there: bus No. 19 from the center, or minibuses No. 3, 13A, 79. From Balaklava you can sail by boat for 200 rubles (or sail from Jasper Beach to Balaklava).
Military Historical Museum of Fortifications, Balaklava
Balaklava itself is very unusual - it is a narrow bay that goes far into the mainland. Yachts are moored there, there are several beaches in the vicinity (you can go boating), and on the mountain you can see the medieval fortress of Chembalo.
Be sure to visit the submarine museum, this former secret military facility during the Cold War. It was planned to base submarines there (to launch a retaliatory nuclear strike), and the bunker could withstand a direct hit from a nuclear bomb. A very interesting excursion immerses you in the times of the Cold War.
Opening hours: from 10:00 to 18:30, except Monday and Tuesday.
Entry fee: 300 rubles for adults, 100 rubles for schoolchildren and students.
How to get there: from the 5 km bus station in Sevastopol by buses and minibuses No. 8, 9, 99, 108
The church is located high on the mountain near the village of Foros (which in turn is famous for the nearby “Gorbachev’s dacha”), and from there it offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding area. It was built by the tea merchant and merchant Kuznetsov in honor of the rescue of Emperor Alexander 3 and his family in a railway disaster.
How to get there: Taxis depart either in your own car or from the Foros bus station. Get to Foros by any passing bus from Yalta or Sevastopol, or by minibus from Yalta.
Mount Ai-Petri and cable car
Cable car cabin
Suspension bridge between Ai-Petri teeth
Mount Ai-Petri is the most popular of the Crimean mountains; more precisely, this is the name of both the peak itself (there are three of them) and the plateau that adjoins it. From Yalta or coastal villages you can get to the top in two ways: by cable car or along serpentines along a regular road. The view from the top is simply crazy, and you can also walk along the suspended bridge between the battlements, or ride a bungee or horseback ride.
The lower station of the cable car is located between Alupka and Koreiz; travel costs 400 rubles one way (250 rubles for children) or 800 rubles both ways (in summer there are long lines at the ticket office). Cars and minibuses often travel from Yalta along the regular road, the cost is 1000 rubles in both directions, 500 rubles in one direction.
How to get there: to the cable car from Yalta by minibuses No. 102 and 132.
Vorontsov Palace
Another top attraction of Crimea, included in any sightseeing tour. A luxurious palace, organically integrated into the surrounding mountains and built in the English and neo-Moorish style. It was built as a summer residence for Count and Governor General Vorontsov, and during the Yalta Conference in 1945 it was the residence of the British delegation led by Winston Churchill.
The beautiful park deserves special attention; there are also small pebble beaches below.
If you plan to visit only one palace in Crimea, let it be Vorontsovsky.
Opening hours:
Entry fee: entrance to the territory is free, visiting the main exhibition is 350 rubles for adults, 200 rubles for teenagers from 16 to 18 years old, under 16 years old is free.
How to get there: from Yalta minibuses No. 102 and 132 to the stop. “Vorontsov Palace”, or minibuses No. 107 and 115 to the stop. “Bus station”, then walk 10-15 minutes.
Yusupov Palace
It is a functioning state dacha, so access is only possible as part of an excursion under the watchful eye of security guards. Little has been preserved from the Yusupovs themselves, but the place is atmospheric and remembers many famous people. Stalin lived here during the Yalta Conference, his office almost unchanged, and Molotov, and Prince Yusupov, famous for the murder of Rasputin. They give you a rather interesting excursion for an hour and a half, after which you can take a walk in the park nearby.
Opening hours: tours are held at 10:00, 12:00, 15:00 and 16:30.
Entry fee: 450 rubles for adults.
How to get there: minibuses No. 102 and 132 to the Miskhora bus station or minibus No. 115 to the stop. "Upper Miskhor".
Bird home
Without exaggeration, it is a symbol of Crimea, known far beyond the peninsula. A fairy-tale castle on the very edge of the cliff, to which a staircase leads. Along the route there are several observation platforms and countless restaurants and souvenir shops. Great place, but too crowded and noisy.
Opening hours: from 10:00 to 19:00 seven days a week
Entry fee: access to the castle is free, entrance fee is 200 rubles, but there is nothing to see there.
How to get there: minibuses No. 102 and 132 from Yalta, you can also take a boat with or without disembarkation.
Livadia Palace
The luxurious residence of the Russian emperors, it was here that the Yalta Conference was held and it was here that the post-war structure of the world was decided. Summits and conferences are still held here, and the rest of the time it is a museum. You can walk around the park and along the so-called Tsar’s Path, but they are in rather disrepair.
Opening hours: from 10:00 to 18:00 seven days a week
Entry fee: 400 rubles for adults, 250 rubles for schoolchildren, pensioners and students - visiting the main exhibition.
How to get there: from Yalta by minibuses 11, 100, 108 to the stop. “Livadia”, further 5 minutes on foot.
Uchan-Su is the highest waterfall in Crimea (95 meters high), located 6 km west of Yalta near the Bakhchisarai highway. It is best to come here in the spring, when the snow melts in the mountains, or during periods of heavy rain, but in the summer it can dry out almost completely.
How to get there: by bus 30 from the bus station in Yalta, or you can take any transport to the Uzbekistan sanatorium and then walk about 4 km, by car - you need to turn off the highway near the Uzbekistan sanatorium and then up 4 km.
Massandra Palace
Initially, the estate was built by the Vorontsovs, and then it was purchased for Emperor Alexander 3. The palace looks absolutely fabulous and like a toy, it is really small in size.
In pre-war times, a sanatorium was located here, and after that Stalin, Khrushchev, Brezhnev rested as if at a state dacha.
Opening hours: from 09:00 to 17:15, Saturday until 19:15 seven days a week
Entry fee: visiting the main exhibition - 350 rubles for adults, 200 rubles for teenagers from 16 to 18 years old, under 16 years old free.
How to get there: It’s most convenient with a tour, or by any transport (buses, trolleybuses) to the stop. "Upper Massandra Park" and further on foot.
What else to see in Crimea?
Nikitsky Botanical Garden
This is not just a garden with a huge collection of plants from all over the world, but a research center. It’s nice to walk here all day long; it will certainly be interesting with children. Each plant has its own flowering season, so you're sure to see something interesting. The garden was badly damaged during the Second World War, and the infrastructure still leaves much to be desired. Another disadvantage is the inadequate price tag for additional exposures.
Opening hours: from 08:00 to 19:00
Entry fee: 300 rubles for adults, 150 rubles for schools (separate fees for individual exhibitions)
How to get there: from Yalta minibuses 29 and 29A to the final stop, or by any transport to the stop. "Nikita" and then walk down to the entrance to the garden.
Mount Ayu-Dag
Mount Ayu-Dag or Bear Mountain is one of the most prominent landmarks on the southern coast of Crimea. The mountain is a failed volcano and part of a large ridge that frames the southern coast, an open-air mineral museum. Located between Gurzuf (more precisely, the children's camp "Artek" and Partenit). There are several routes on the mountain, they are marked, so it’s difficult to get lost. From the top there is a magnificent view of the surrounding area. Bring plenty of water and mosquito repellent.
Entry fee: In the summer, foresters stand by and charge 100 rubles.
How to get there: from Yalta - by trolleybuses 52, 53, 55, minibus 110 to the stop. “Cemetery”, then walk until you turn to Artek and follow the road perpendicular to the main highway; from Alushta, Partenit - by trolleybuses 52, 53, 55, minibus 110 to the Lavrovoe stop, then the same.
Mount Demerdzhi and the Valley of Ghosts
When visiting the sights of Crimea, do not ignore the bizarre rocks under Mount Demerdzhi, near Alushta. The climb up the mountain is of average difficulty, sometimes with steep sections. I recommend the ancient fortress of Funa nearby. It was in these places that some episodes of “Prisoner of the Caucasus” were filmed, for example, here is the tree from which Yuri Nikulin’s hero fell (he actually fell from it).
Entry fee: 50-100 rubles, you can easily bypass the security booths.
How to get there: from Alushta take the bus to the village. Radiant (runs from the bus station about once an hour), further on foot. Or take any bus or trolleybus to the stop. "Luchistoe" along the highway and further on foot.
Crimea is a real pearl of the Black Sea. This unique peninsula has attracted people since ancient times; there are traces of ancient and medieval civilizations here. Crimea managed to be a rich Greek colony, a harbor for Italian merchants, and an outpost of the Ottoman Empire before becoming a vacation spot for the rulers of the Russian Empire. During Soviet times, the peninsula was the main beach of a huge country.
First of all, a vacation in Crimea means relaxing on the beaches of the picturesque South Coast and the famous healing resorts of the West Bank. In between sunbathing, tourists go to explore numerous attractions: ancient cave cities on high mountain plateaus, magnificent imperial palaces in Livadia and Massandra, famous Sevastopol and the old Khan's Bakhchisarai.
Apartments and hotels at affordable prices.
from 500 rubles/day
What to see and where to go in Crimea?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.
A famous architectural monument of the southern coast of Crimea, one of the most famous attractions of the peninsula. In the 19th century here was the private residence of a retired general; later the land passed into the hands of the German Baron Steingel, under whom a palace in the neo-Gothic style was built in 1911. After the end of the Civil War, Swallow's Nest fell into disrepair and only in the 1960s. recovery has begun.
Palace complex with a landscape park in the village of Livadia. The first buildings appeared here at the beginning of the 19th century. After 1861, the Livadia Palace was sold to the royal family and began to be used as a summer house. The white stone building that has survived to this day was built at the beginning of the 20th century. During the Second World War, the entire territory of the park was destroyed, the palace lay in ruins. It was restored before the start of the Yalta Conference in February 1945.
Museum-reserve at the foot of Mount Ai-Petri in the village of Alupka. The complex was built in the first half of the 19th century for Count Mikhail Vorontsov according to the design of the English architect Edward Blore (he took part in the construction of Walter Scott's Scottish castle and Buckingham Palace). The western part of the building is made in the English Tudor style, the southern facade is an example of Moorish architecture.
Another Crimean palace of the late 19th century not far from Yalta. Originally belonged to the Vorontsov family, but then was purchased for the imperial dynasty. The castle was built with elements of the style of the times of the French king Louis XIII; the construction work was led by the architect M. Messmacher. During the Soviet years, the palace was used as a summer house for top officials of the state; now there is a museum on the territory.
The former residence of the Crimean khans, built in the 16th century. The main architectural idea of the complex is to convey the Crimean Tatars’ idea of heaven on earth. Several generations of rulers of the Girey Khan dynasty lived here, each trying to expand and complement the palace complex. In the XVIII–XIX centuries. the palace burned, was rebuilt, repaired and almost lost its original appearance. Only in the 20th century was it possible to restore the original interiors.
One of the mountain peaks of the southern coast of Crimea. Belongs to the Yalta Mountain Forest Reserve. Previously, the Greek monastery of St. Peter was located here. A cable car runs through the mountain for almost 3 km. in length, which is recognized as one of the longest in Europe. While climbing to the top in a cabin, the tourist gets the opportunity to admire the picturesque views from a bird's eye view.
A natural and archaeological monument of Crimea, located in the valley of the river. Biyuk-Karasu. The rock is a massif composed of white limestone rocks. At the foot of Ak-Kai, sites of primitive man, the remains of tools and fossilized bones were found. Ancient Scythian mounds were excavated at the top. An 800-year-old oak tree grows next to the rock. It is believed that under this tree Suvorov negotiated with a representative of the Turkish Sultan.
A historical, archaeological and natural monument of the peninsula, where the remains of a fortified settlement from the 8th-15th centuries have been preserved. One of the legends says that the mountain is a petrified huge bear that wandered around the valley, destroyed everything around and calmed down on the shore at the behest of the sea god. The reserve is home to more than a dozen species of rare animals listed in the Red Book.
Karst cave near the village of Mramornoe. The age of formation is several million years. Until now, the cave continues to expand, as the processes of formation of the young Crimean Mountains continue. The cave has several large halls, through which excursion routes are laid about 1.5 km long. Here you can admire the rarest types of crystals and stalactites.
A fortified city located on a high mountain plateau near Bakhchisarai. The road to the cave city passes through the territory of the rocky Holy Assumption Monastery. It is believed that Chufut-Kale appeared in the 5th-6th centuries. as a fortification on the outskirts of Byzantine possessions. In the XIII-XIV centuries. the city became the center of a small principality - a vassal of the Crimean Khanate, where representatives of the Karaite people began to settle. In the 19th century, the last inhabitants left Chufut-Kale.
An ancient Greek city founded in the 5th century BC. Subsequently it became a large and rich center of the entire Greek colony on the peninsula. From the 2nd century BC. was dependent on the ancient Bosporan kingdom, and later became a vassal of Rome. Chersonesus is also one of the cradles of Christianity - the first followers of Christ settled here in the 1st century. In the 10th century, Prince Vladimir of Kievan Rus was baptized in Chersonesos.
Three fortified forts of Genoese sailors, located in Balaklava, Sudak and Feodosia. In the Middle Ages, they were Black Sea outposts of the powerful Genoa and were used for defense from the sea. According to an agreement with the Tatars in the 14th century, the Genoese annexed the territory from modern Feodosia to Foros to their possessions. The region was called Genoese Gazaria. In the 15th century, the fortresses passed into the hands of the Ottoman Empire.
Another name for the temple is the Church of the Resurrection of Christ. It was built at the end of the 19th century on a cliff rising 400 meters above sea level. Alexander III gave the order to build a temple in memory of the train crash, in which the entire family of the emperor almost died. A few years after the victory of the 1917 Revolution, a restaurant was placed in the building, which existed until the early 70s. In the 90s The temple was restored with funds from the Ukrainian government.
An active monastery, presumably founded in the 8th century AD. fugitive Byzantine monks. The monastery existed for many centuries; during the Ottoman rule, even the Crimean Khan came here to pay homage to local shrines. After the establishment of Soviet power, the monastery was closed, and the 1927 earthquake destroyed the buildings. Revivals and restorations began only in 1993.
The monument in the waters of the sea on the embankment of Sevastopol is considered a symbol of the city. It was erected in honor of the events of the mid-19th century, when Russian ships were deliberately scuttled in Sevastopol Bay in order to block the path of the Anglo-French fleet. To avoid a battle (since the enemy fleet was more powerful and better armed), Prince Menshikov decided to sink the ships, but not allow enemy troops to approach the city.
A historical monument dedicated to the events of the Crimean War of 1853-1856. This is a monumental panorama of the defense of Sevastopol by the master of battle painting Franz Alekseevich Roubaud, located in a round-shaped building. Work on the canvas began in 1901. F. Roubaud created his masterpiece with the help of students from the Bavarian Academy of Arts and several German painters.
Formerly a secret military facility in Balaklava, a former underground submarine base. During the USSR it was one of the most secret in the USSR. For many years, Balaklava Bay was not marked on maps. After the fall of the USSR, the facility was neglected and looted, only in 2004 the Ukrainian government organized a museum of the history of the submarine fleet there. After Crimea comes under Russian jurisdiction, the Russian authorities plan to establish a new base there.
A small bay with intricately rugged and picturesque shores, where, according to Homer’s Odyssey, the legendary navigator visited. On the shores of the bay stands one of the Genoese fortresses. It is believed that the first settlements arose here in the 8th-6th centuries. BC. During the Crimean War, the bay was the site of a British base; during Soviet times, it was a secret submarine station.
A landscape landmark of the Crimean Peninsula, a state reserve since 1974. The canyon is a wide crack in the rock formed during the formation of the Crimean Mountains. There are several cliff capes along the crevice, and the river flows along the bottom. Auzun-Uzen. There are several tourist routes with observation platforms along the bottom of the canyon and in the surrounding area.
A cluster of rocks on the western slope of the Southern ridge of the Demerdzhi mountain range. There are more than 100 rock blocks of different sizes scattered throughout the valley, the largest reaching 25 meters in height. At dawn and during sunset, the stones cast bizarre shadows that move and intertwine with each other. That is why the place received the poetic name “Valley of Ghosts”.
Natural area 15 km. from Sevastopol with an expressive landscape, a 10-kilometer coastline and a unique flora. On the cape there is the St. George's Monastery and Jasper Beach, connected by a staircase of several hundred steps. Cape Fiolent is considered the best place for diving, as there is almost one hundred percent visibility and there are no ships moored here.
A three-kilometer trail in the village of Novy Svet, created by the Golitsyn princes especially for the arrival of Emperor Nicholas II. Now it is a popular tourist route. The trail begins at Mount Orel, goes along the coast past Mount Khoba-Kai to the through Golitsyn grotto. Along the route, observation platforms are equipped in the most beautiful places, with fragrant pine trees growing all around.
It is considered the largest and most powerful Crimean waterfall. Jets of water fall from a height of 15 meters, the maximum size of the riverbed is 5 meters wide. It remains full of water even during the long dry season. Sometimes stones fall into the heights along with the water. The waterfall is located in a mountain-forested protected area; the water temperature, even in hot summer, does not exceed 10 °C.
Located approximately 10 km from Yalta. The garden covers an area of several tens of hectares; scientific activities are conducted on its territory and research institutions are located. It appeared at the beginning of the 19th century with the assistance of Count Vorontsov and the botanist F. Biberstein. The first director was the famous naturalist H. Steven, who over 12 years of work collected and adapted about 500 plant specimens to local conditions.
Crimean wines are several well-known brands that produce various varieties of grape drink. The most famous of them: “Massandra”, “Sunny Valley”, “Inkerman”, “New World”, “Koktebel”. The New World brand is famous for its excellent champagne (the brut variety is especially good), Massandra is famous for the specific taste of its wines, and Inkerman produces a good red wine under the same name.
