It’s one of the biggest and most well-known cities of Ukraine. So, here are three great reasons to visit Odessa this summer.
Visit Odessa and you will see lots of wonderful sights, such as Deribasovskaya street, Primorsky Boulevard, and Potemkin Stairs. Here, however, would like to dwell on three less famous places to go, because they are not mentioned in mass-produced guidebooks.
In this short review, we will let you feel like a real citizen of this amazing seaside city. Explore the secret locations only locals know about!
Local Restaurants
It is said in Ukraine that there are two types of cuisines in this country: Ukrainian and Odessa one. “The seaside pearl” – this is how Ukrainians lovingly call their South Palmyra (another way how locals call it). The good news is flights to Odessa Ukraine are frequent enough to come here for a weekend. This city is known for its delicious food and unusual cafes. Many Jewish people live here that is why you can try kosher dishes in one of many specialised restaurants.
One of such places is “Rozmarin”: here you can learn what being Jewish means and what is a local food heritage. If you prefer more mainstream cuisine, then “Kompot” would be a great choice. Their recommended drink is the one having the same as the whole place does. This is a cold fruity drink on a base of cherries and boiled water. However, you should definitely try seafood in Odessa because this is one of many things this city is famous for.
Frightening Underworld
Odessa has the world’s longest network of underground catacombs being almost 1, 600 miles long. Though, only a small portion of underground tunnels is opened for visiting. This dark museum has been hiding much history and you can discover its part.
Catacombs started appearing in the far 19th century with a purpose of quarrying but during the World War II, local insurgents used them as a place to hide, live, and even as a command post. When you decide to visit catacombs there is one important thing to remember: do not go there on your own or even with your friends. Hire a professional tour guide because it is very easy to lose the way there and become a part of its underground history.
Local Culture
You might have heard about colorful Eastern markets. Odessa markets are not famous for their unusual spices but they are worldwide known for their culture. It is said that the biggest local market called “Privoz” is a particular state where a real local culture lives.
This is a place where you can purchase literally everything: from homemade food to old and rusty cars. Here people do not come for just buying things, they come for a buying process instead. In the Privoz market, you can test and improve your bargaining skills. Furthermore, Odessa is also called a “homeland of humor”, so if you want to feel a real local culture then go to Privoz.
This city can put an inexplicable magic on its visitors. Everyone who comes to Odessa for the first time will never be the same anymore. This is the place where a unique culture, architectural beauty, and rich history become intertwined.