Odessa, Ukraine 5 Day Itinerary
Odessa, Ukraine: A 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City
Morning
- Arrive at Odessa International Airport (ODS)
- Take a taxi or bus (#117) to your accommodation in the city center
- Check-in at Hotel Otrada or similar
Afternoon
- Visit the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theatre, a stunning example of neo-baroque architecture ( tickets from 100 UAH)
- Walk to Deribasovskaya Street, the main pedestrian street, lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings
- Stop by the City Garden, a beautiful park with fountains and walking paths
Evening
- Enjoy traditional Ukrainian cuisine at Kumanets’ (average price 200 UAH per meal)
- Take a stroll along the Primorsky Boulevard, offering stunning views of the Black Sea
Things to Know
- Odessa is known for its humor and laid-back atmosphere, so be prepared for some good-natured joking from locals!
- The city has a rich history, with many buildings and landmarks dating back to the 19th century.
Transportation
- Taxi: use apps like Uklon or Opti to order a taxi
- Bus: an affordable way to get around the city ( tickets from 5 UAH)
Day 2: History and Culture
Morning
- Visit the Odessa Museum of Regional History, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage (tickets from 50 UAH)
- Stop by the Transfiguration Cathedral, a beautiful Orthodox church with stunning architecture
Afternoon
- Explore the Odessa Art Museum, featuring an impressive collection of Ukrainian and European art (tickets from 30 UAH)
- Visit the Literary Museum, dedicated to the life and works of famous Odessan writers (tickets from 20 UAH)
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at Mama Mia (average price 300 UAH per meal)
- Catch a performance at the Odessa Philharmonic Society, offering a range of concerts and shows (tickets from 100 UAH)
Tips
- Many museums offer guided tours in English, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time.
- Be prepared for some steep staircases and uneven pavement when exploring the city.
Day 3: Beaches and Coastal Delights
Morning
- Head to Lanzheron Beach, one of Odessa’s most popular beaches (free entrance)
- Take a leisurely walk along the coastal path, offering stunning views of the Black Sea
Afternoon
- Visit the Odessa Marine Station, a historic building with beautiful architecture and great sea views
- Stop by the Fish Market, where you can try some fresh seafood or local delicacies (average price 100 UAH per meal)
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf (average price 250 UAH per meal)
- Take a romantic sunset stroll along the Primorsky Boulevard
Things to Do
- Try some water sports or activities, like surfing or paddleboarding, at one of Odessa’s many beaches.
- Take a day trip to the nearby Akkarzhanka Beach, known for its picturesque scenery and tranquil atmosphere.
Day 4: Wine Tasting and More
Morning
- Visit the Shustov Cognac Winery, offering wine tastings and tours (tickets from 200 UAH)
- Stop by the Odessa Wine and Brandy Factory, another historic winery with tastings and tours (tickets from 150 UAH)
Afternoon
- Explore the Privoz Market, a bustling marketplace with fresh produce, souvenirs, and local delicacies
- Visit the Museum of the History of Odessa Jews, dedicated to the history and culture of Jewish community in Odessa (tickets from 50 UAH)
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Dacha (average price 350 UAH per meal)
- Catch a show or concert at the Odessa Academic Theater of Musical Comedy (tickets from 100 UAH)
Tips
- Wine tastings can be quite popular, so it’s a good idea to book ahead of time.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting religious sites or cultural institutions.
Day 5: Day Trip and Departure
Morning
- Take a day trip to the nearby Belgorod-Dniester Fortress, a historic fortress with stunning views (tickets from 50 UAH)
- Stop by the Zatoka Village, known for its picturesque scenery and traditional Ukrainian architecture
Afternoon
- Return to Odessa and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute sights
- Depart for the airport and head back home
Things to Know
- The Belgorod-Dniester Fortress is about an hour’s drive from Odessa, so plan your day accordingly.
- Be sure to exchange any remaining hryvnia (UAH) before departing Ukraine.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Odessa!