Minsk is the Capital city of Belarus, and is home to over two million people. The city has history dating back to over a thousand years ago, but its annexation to Russia has left the most lasting impact. As a result, many of the buildings in Minsk have some resemblance to those found in Russia. To move around the city, your transportation options include the metro bus, subway, and taxis that play around the city. You can visit places like the City Hall, City Gates, and the Red Church, or hang out in places like GUM or Lido. There are more things you can do here, and we’ve made a list you can follow, for your next trip to Minsk, Belarus! SO read on to check out the top things to do in Minsk.
1. Explore the fabulous Victory Monument
The Victory Monument is a 38 m (124.7 ft) high column that symbolizes the liberation of Belarus after World War II. It is located in the Victory Square, right in the heart of the city. It is made of granite, and each side of the column marks an important part of the liberation movement. Under the monument is a glass wreath and the names of many Belorussians who were considered heroes. It is the most-visited site in the city, with thousands of tourists flocking here each year. This monument is the most important landmark in all of Minsk, as it is a reminder of the triumph of people over war.
Victory Square Minsk
Address: Zakharau St. corner Independence Ave., Minsk, Belarus
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
2. Visit the divine Church of Saints Simon and Helena
The Church of Saints Simon and Helena is a Catholic church in the Independence Square in downtown Minsk. Named after the children of an influential landowner, the church is also known as the Red Church because of the red bricks and tiles used to build it. In front of the church is the Nagasaki Bell, named after the town hit by an atomic bomb in 1945, and was built as a symbol of unity and peace. This iconic structure is a must-visit for any tourist in Minsk.
Church of Saints Simon and Helena
Address: Ulitsa Sovetskaya 15, Minsk, Belarus
Website: Red Church
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
3. Enjoy an exciting night at Belarusian State Circus
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
You can see various performances ranging from water shows to aerial acrobatics at the Belarussian State Circus. A monument of its former Soviet status, the new circus preserves the atmosphere of the old circus. The current circus was erected in the place of an original wooden building from 1930. Inside, the circus features four basic arenas, a training ground, a ballet room, and a swimming pool. Outside, there are sculptures of a horseman, a pyramid of animals, and a clown, all in front of the building. Lastly, you can learn more about the history of the Belarusian State Circus from the museum on the top floor of the building.
Belarussian State Circus
Address: Praspiekt Niezaliežnasci 32, Minsk 220030, Belarus
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
4. Admire the architecture of National Library of Belarus
The National Library is the largest library in the country, and is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. Opened in 2006, the library sports a very unique shape resembling a cut diamond; this symbolizes the value of knowledge. Inside, different sculptures and works by local artists are on full display. There are almost nine million different information resources in the collection, from books to video discs. Conference rooms and computer laboratories are also present in the library. Finally, at the top of the library is the sky deck, where you can see a great panoramic view of the Minsk skyline.
National Library of Belarus
Address: Niezaležnasci Ave, 116, 220114, Minsk, Belarus
Website: National Library of Belarus
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm
Price: 1 USD
5. Walk around Old Town
The Old Town in Minsk is one of the most picturesque areas you can visit. Baroque-style houses are common in this part of town, and are painted in different bright colours. Cobblestone streets also add to the old-style experience here. The view of the houses from Svislach river are excellent, too. The Sons of the Fatherland monument and the Bolshoi Theater are two nearby attractions you can visit too. After your trip, you can visit the cafes and souvenir shops, if you want to just relax or buy some gifts to bring home
Old Town
Address: Troitskoe Predmestiye, Minsk
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Sightsee at Independence Avenue
Independence Avenue is the main road of the city of Minsk, spanning a distance of 15 km (9.5 mi). It serves as home to many historic landmarks. In fact, some of the places on this list are located along this road, like the Red Church and the National Library. It crosses five park squares. Many of the buildings along the road were built after World War II, which is why they have similar Stalinist styles. Moving around here is easy, as public buses travel along the road, and stop at many of the important landmarks.
Independence Avenue
Address: Praspiekt Niezaliežnasci, Minsk, Belarus
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
7. Watch a show at National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre
Opened in 1933, the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre of the Republic of Belarus is one of the biggest theaters in Europe and is one of the finest architectural landmarks of Minsk. This theater was built in 1930 for the finest shows in town, and you have a chance to watch them up close. The seats are lined in only the finest fabrics, fit for royalty. The stage itself is a modern design, with multiple elevations for different setups, a feature not very common in a theatre. Ballet and opera are popular in Minsk, and are a must-watch for any visitor to the city.
National Opera and Ballet of Belarus
Address: 1 Parizhskoi Kommuny Square, Minsk
Website: National Opera and Ballet of Belarus
8. Swing by the City Gates of Minsk
Located near the railway station, overlooking the station square, you can find the city gates of Minsk. The gates are easily recognizable; the gates are two nearly identical buildings. One of the buildings is called by the locals as “The time of Minsk”, because of the clock situated on its wall, while the other is called “Coat of arms of Belarus”. The architecture and beauty is one of the first things you will see if you come by train. This beauty is a great introduction for you to the city’s other attractions.
City Gates of Minsk
Address: Kirova St., Minsk, Belarus
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Pay your tribute at the Afghan War Memorial
The Island of Tears is a monument dedicated to the Belarussian soldiers lost in Afghanistan during the 1980s, one of the darkest days of the country since World War II. The crying angel figure symbolizes the loss and inability to save those soldiers. During February the 15th, people come from all over the city to pay their respects and commemorate the end of that period. The monument has also come to symbolize everyone’s desire for peace across the world.
The Island of Tears
Address: Minsk 223050, Belarus
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
10. Discover the stunning Zair Azgur Memorial Museum and Workshop
The Zair Azgur museum is housed inside the sculptor’s former home and workshop, and is a feature on any tour around the city. It is named after Zair Azgur, one of the most celebrated Belarusian artists of the Soviet era, known for his statues and busts of which many are on display. A massive head of Karl Marx greets visitors, just to give you an idea of what to expect. The main reason for dropping by is the vast space on the second floor, which is dominated by a series of large floor-to-ceiling shelves packed with Azgur’s work. You can see more of his amazing work on your visit here!
Azgur Museum
Address: ul. Z. Azgura, d. 8 Minsk
Website: Azgur Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: 2 USD
11. Check out the unique sculptures of Nezavisimosti Avenue
Independence Avenue is not only famous for the historic buildings, but it also is famous for its five squares. These are the Kalinin Square, Yakub Kolas Square, Victory Square (mentioned earlier on this list), October Square, and Independence Square. The Kalinin Square commemorates the former Soviet head of state Kalinin, while the Yakub Kolas Square is named after the poet Yakub Kolas. The other three squares commemorate each of the nation’s great achievements, which are inscribed in each monument. To make traveling here easier, you can take the metro bus, which stops at each of these squares along the avenue.
12. Revisit history at Belarusian Great Patriotic War Museum
The Belarusian State Museum of the History of the Great Patriotic War was the first museum in the world to tell the story of the bloodiest war of the 20th century, created in 1944 during the years of war. The current museum building was inaugurated in 2014, and is a strikingly modern design, with a glass exterior providing plenty of light inside. 28 collections are on exhibit, and display all facets of the war, from the soldiers’ weapons and documents, to pictures depicting the liberation of the country. There are plenty more items to view, and is worth a whole afternoon trip to this museum.
Belarusian Great Patriotic War Museum
Address: Pobediteley 8, Minsk 220004, Belarus
Website: Belarusian Great Patriotic War Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 5 USD
13. See a concert at Palace of the Republic
With its angular design, the Palace of the Republic is an imposing structure, inspired by temples of the past. This huge building stands solitary along a vast open space off Minsk’s central thoroughfare. Inside, the Palace hosts large-scale concerts from visiting guests or by the Presidential Orchestra, as well as conferences and political meetings. The Palace is also home to a 3D cinema and several bars, cafes, and clubs in its surrounding spaces. Taking a quarter-century to build, the Palace of the Republic was completed in 2001. You can view its full grandeur in person when you visit Minsk.
Palace of the Republic
Address: Oktoberpl. 1, Minsk 220030, Belarus
Website: Palace of the Republic
14. Visit the beautiful All Saints Church
Located on the outskirts of Minsk, the All Saints Church is one of the most dominant structures in this part of town, and is the tallest of its kind among the former Soviet nations. It was built to honor the heroes, saints, and innocents who died in the war. Its spire rises 74 meters (243 ft) into the sky, and its elaborate exterior styling is unlike most churches. The cavernous interior is just as elegant as its exterior, with plenty of gold accents and paintings depicting religious figures. The last feature here is the crypt, where over 500 people are buried, who died for the country’s welfare.
All Saints Church
Address: Vulica Kalinouskaha 121, Minsk 220086, Belarus
15. Pray at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit Cathedral is the center of the Belorussian Orthodox Church. It was completed in 1642 as part of a larger ensemble to serve Bernadine nuns, but was destroyed in 1741 and subsequently renovated. It carries a Baroque style, much like the other old churches in the city. Inside, many paintings and murals of religious icons are present, and the altar is one of the most elaborately designed. This gem is a must-visit.
Cathedral of the Holy Spirit
Address: Kirilla I Mefodiya 3, Minsk 220030, Belarus
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
16. Relax at Janka Kupała Park
Janka Kupała Park is one of the main parks in central Minsk, and sees plenty of visitors every day. It is dedicated to the Janka Kupala, a famous Belorussian writer from the 20th century. The park used to be where the writer’s residence was located, but has since been moved into the nearby museum after his death. The park faces the Svislach river, and at the center is a monument dedicated to Kupala. There are benches around, and walking trails, so you can relax here after a long day of touring Minsk.
Janka Kupała Park
Address: 4 Janki Kupaly, Minsk, Belarus
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
17. Ride the Ferris wheel in Gorky Park
Gorky Park in Minsk is named after famous Russian writer Maksim Gorky. Most former Soviet Union countries have a park named after him. The park is filled with trees, and is bordered by the Svislach river. A planetarium and observatory help educate about Earth and space. At the center of the park is a large Ferris wheel, a 56-meter (184 ft) high structure that can give you a view of the city from the top. Children can appreciate and enjoy this park during the weekends, making it an experience great for the whole family.
Gorky Park
Address: Vulica Frunze 2, Minsk 220034, Belarus
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
18. Enjoy live music at Kurilka
A bar-lover’s den that serves exceptional drinks and is a hot music spot. It oozes a hip and lively ambiance and draws exceptional local and foreign musical talent to the small stage. The bar serves great cocktails, along with affordable beer and wine, with a snack cart providing some goodness. Kurilka has the Dvor Kurilki (Kurilka’s Courtyard), an open-air live-music space in the heart of the Old Town, where musicians can play the best tunes for you to enjoy the night.
Kurilka Bar
Address: Svobody 23, Minsk 220030, Belarus
Opening hours: 6pm - 4am (daily)
19. Pray at the Cathedral of the Holy Name of Mary
The Cathedral of the Holy Name of Mary is one of the main shrines of the Roman Catholic church in Belarus, and is one of the most well-known structures. Built in 1710 as a Jesuit house, the church has undergone renovations, and was heavily damaged during the World War. Inside, the Baroque style is prevalent even in its bright interior, from the walls, all the way to the altar and pews. Many services are held here, so the church is usually busy. The cathedral is located right across the road from the historic Town Hall building, and is a popular stop for most tours around Minsk.
Cathedral of the Holy Name of Mary
Address: Svobody 9, Minsk 220030, Belarus
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
20. Admire the greenery at Loshitsa Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Loshitsa Park is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in the country, with many paved walkways that pass through lush trees and grasses. It was created in the 16th-century featuring a wooden manor, one of the few remaining structures in the area. An oak tree is visited by locals, and is believed to grant many wishes, like business, lottery, or even love. The lake is one of the most picturesque natural sights, and in the morning, a mist gives it a mysterious air. There are many stories and legends surrounding the park, and locals can tell you about it on your visit here.
Loshitsa Park
Address: Minsk, Belarus
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
21. Catch a football game at Dinamo Stadium
Dinamo Stadium is home to the Belarus national football team, and also hosts some local and international league games. Opened in 1934, it has undergone three major renovations and has a unique shell roof for cover. Today, the stadium can seat around 22 thousand people, and can be a venue for different sporting events and even concerts. Football is a way of life in many European countries, Belarus included, so watching an available football game is a must-do during your stay here.
Dinamo Stadium
Address: Kirova 8, Minsk 220030, Belarus
22. Shop at GUM store
This GUM department store is one of the largest of its kind in the country, with four floors of retail space available for shoppers. The building was constructed over 60 years ago, and remains one of the most popular shops in Minsk. Soviet-era designs and decorations are still present, from the elaborate staircases to some of the exterior design cues. You can buy plenty of the latest fashion and accessories here in GUM, to keep up with the times. Lastly, there are many discount days here, so don’t be afraid to stock up on supplies here.
GUM Store
Address: Prospekt Nezavisimosti, 21, Minsk, Belarus
Website: GUM
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 9pm; Sun: 10am -8pm
23. Start your day with a coffee at Union Coffee
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Posted by Union Coffee on Friday, 14 June 2019
Union Coffee is one of the favorite places for the younger workers and college kids to dine and out, just like in many other countries. Plush seats and industrial design help give the shop a modern character. The crew is friendly and cheerful, and will serve you some great dishes. You can start by choosing one of their great coffees, from espresso to their frappes. Their entrees are also great, with selections like grilled fish, pasta, and pizza. Salads and dessert choices are help complete your meal. They also serve a good collection of wines in the bar, so you can take a sip at night, after a long day in Minsk.
Union Coffee
Address: Kupaly Yanki 17, Minsk 220030, Belarus
Website: Union Coffee Minsk
Opening hours: 8am - 12am (daily)
24. Tour the art galleries at Galereya Slavutasts
The Slavutast Gallery has one of the biggest and most unique collection of artworks in Belarus. Most of these works are made by local artists, who take pride in them. Many of these art pieces are for sale, if you have some interest in it. Textiles, beads, and ceramics are some of the fine works on display here, all done in a distinct local manner. Furniture pieces like tables, chests, and even coat hangers feature elaborate designs. There are also services you can take here, including hands-on workshops. You can even have your picture taken or painted by one of the artists there, for you to take home and show to your friends.
Slavutast Gallery
Address: M.Bogdanovicha st., 21, Minsk 220002, Belarus
Website: Slavutast Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm
25. Dine at Lido
Lido is a place where you can see the Minsk culture and cooking traditions put into practice. The interior is set in a cafeteria layout, and design cues are as Eastern European as it gets, with plenty of light wood and tile designs. Russian food is plentiful on the list, from soups to salads and even the cheese-based dishes. Seasonal menus are also available here. You can rent the restaurant for your parties, weddings, and even conferences for a top experience. Lido is a place where you can meet friends, enjoy with family or friends, and or even sip a cup of their coffee to relax.
Lido
Address: Nezavisimosti 49-1 | Kulman str. 5A, Minsk 220030, Belarus
Website: Bistro Lido
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 11pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 11pm
26. Look for the 19th century houses at Trinity Hill
The Trinity suburb is one of the oldest areas in Minsk. Located along the bank of the Svisloch River in the city center, the area boasts picturesque houses built in the 19th century. Its cozy little streets and houses, with their tile roofs and subtle colors, have become an icon of Minsk. Images of these houses can be often seen on postcards and candies. The suburb contains shops and historic centers dedicated to preserving the history of the city. Trinity, Upper Town, the ruins of the Minsk Castle, and Rakov Suburb together form the historic center of Minsk, altogether a must-visit place for any visitor.
27. Buy unique Belarussian products at Kamaroŭski market
The Kamaroŭski market is the largest market in Minsk, and is one of the most recognizable. Its distinct wave design gives the interior plenty of space, giving the place a cathedral-like air, and plenty of natural light. The market is filled with produce straight from the farmers themselves, which you can get for good prices and at the highest quality. Meats and other seafoods are also sold here, placed in closed chillers. Because of all the modern designed and layouts, Kamaroŭski feels more like a large supermarket than most farmer’s markets.
Kamaroŭski market
Address: V.Khorunzhey St. 8, Minsk 223050, Belarus
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
28. Eat at the gorgeous Bistro de Luxe
Bistro de Luxe is one of the finest French restaurants in the city, serving foods in a distinctly French style. The dining area is filled with some of the finest linens and decor around, giving luxury to the restaurant. Entrees like steak tartare, marinated salmon, and escargot are some of the more exclusive foods served here. Caviar and oyster dishes are also available for you to try out. Your dinner is completed with a serving of their salad and dessert. You’ll have an exquisite dining experience here at Bistro de Luxe.
Bistro de Luxe
Address: Vulica Haradski Val 10, Minsk 220030, Belarus
Website: Bistro de Luxe
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 12pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 12am
29. Try delicious cocktails at Bessonitsa
The Insomnia Bar in the Old Town is one of the few places you can visit for food in the middle of the night. You can try out their professional cocktails (the bourbon sour or a gimlet is the way to go). They also have their late-night eats, which include must-try dishes like mushroom risotto and salmon tartare. The bar has a large interior and a bustling patio tailor-made for people-watching, with a DJ filling the atmosphere on the weekends. You’ll make some new friends and dance the night away here at Insomnia Bar.
Insonmia Bar
Address: Vulica Hiercena 1, Minsk, Belarus
Opening hours: 12pm - 5am (daily)
Minsk, a charming heritage city
The city has enjoyed fast urbanization, with plenty of shops and diners that make life very convenient for you. But it has also kept plenty of its old-world charm, by preserving plenty of its heritage sites like churches and monuments. If you want to find out for yourself how, you can visit all these sites and more on your next trip to Minsk, Belarus!
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