Top 22 Things To Do In Odesa (Odessa), Ukraine - Updated 2024

Manjiri
Manjiri 
Updated
| 9 min read

Famous for its pleasant beaches, impressive 19th-century architecture, and mild climate, Odesa (also spelt Odessa) is an amazing port city located on the Black Sea in southern Ukraine. It is also popular as ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’. The monumental giant stairway Potemkin Stairs, the best-known symbol of Odesa, lead down to the beachfront. 27.2-meter (89.23-feet) tall red-and-white Vorontsov Lighthouse is another fabulous attraction in the city. Refresh your mind by strolling on the grand Primorsky Boulevard, which runs parallel to the water and is outlined with monuments and mansions. Visiting outstanding architectural attractions, such as Odesa Opera and Ballet Theater, will amaze you. Thus, being home to several incredible attractions, Odesa in Ukraine is popular for being a relaxing holiday escape for several tourists worldwide. And, if you are planning to spend your coming vacations in this port city, having a list of fabulous attractions and activities to enjoy will make your excursion here more enjoyable. Keep reading to find the best things to do in Odesa, Ukraine.

1. Explore Monument to the founders of Odessa

things to do in odessa ukraine | explore monument to the founders of odessa
Source: instagram

Located at Ekaterininskaya Square, Monument to the founders of Odesa is a commanding monument in this fascinating city. It was constructed in 1900, dismantled in 1920, and restored in 2007. This outstanding monument has several clues to the past of Odesa. Catherine the Great, who is famous for issuing a decree to develop a port and city at this location in 1794, stands on the plinth. And, the base of the monument has statues of Count Grigory Potemkin, known for being Catherine’s advisor; Platon Zubov, one of the favorites of Catherine; military officer José de Ribas; and François Sainte de Wollant, a Flemish engineer.

Monument to the founders of Odessa

Address: Katerynyns'ka Square, 5, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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2. Offer prayers at Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral

Украина, Одесса - Свято-Преображенский кафедральный собор 02
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Alexostrov used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Visit Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral, a Transfiguration Cathedral in Odessa, which is dedicated to the transfiguration of Saviour. This first and foremost cathedral in this port city was founded by Gavril Bănulescu-Bodoni in 1794, and it belongs to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. It was expanded well throughout the 19th century. However, in 1936, Soviets demolished the original structure. From 1999, its rebuilding started and, in 2003, the new cathedral was consecrated. There is a statue of Prince Mikhail Semyonovich Vorontsov, who is known to be the popular governer of Russia, on the cathedral square.

Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral

Address: Soborna Square, 3, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)

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3. Soak in the rich culture at the Odessa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet (from USD 30.0)

Visit one of the most beautiful theaters in Europe by visiting Odesa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet. Tour through eye-catching exteriors and interiors of this theater. Stroll through its halls and visit the main auditorium. The Odessa Opera hall is popular for having hosted performances of well-known, talented artists. Climb the magnificent staircase to marvel at the top view and stunning ceiling. Get to know about the interesting story of this iconic theater that comprises its construction, restorations, fire, and glory.

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Odessa National Opera and Ballet Theater Tour

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

1 review

4. Get an insight into the regional history at the Odessa Archeological Museum


Are you a history buff? If yes, do not miss visiting Odesa Archaeological Museum when you are touring through Odesa, Ukraine. It is one of the oldest archeological museums in the country and dates back to 1825. It is home to about 170,000 exhibits, which are related to the noteworthy history of this region as well as Italy, Cyprus, Greece, and Egypt. You simply can’t miss viewing the sarcophagi, hieroglyphics, and papyrus in the incredible Egyptian galleries here. Also, you can find a big collection of 50,000 coins which belongs to Ancient Greece.

Odessa Archeological Museum

Address: Lanzheronivs'ka St, 4, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Website: Odessa Archeological Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 2 - 2.7 USD

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5. Travel back in time at Vorontsov Palace

Odesa Vorontsov Palace SAM 2907 51-101-0160
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Haidamac used under CC BY-SA 4.0

At the end of the beautiful Primorsky Boulevard pedestrian track, you will find spectacular Vorontosav Palace, which is an iconic 19th-century landmark and colonnade in this port city. Prince Mikhail Semyonovich Vorontsov hired Francesco Boffo, a Sardinian architecture, to design it. And, in 1830, this praiseworthy palace was completed. Impressed by the amazing work of Boffo, Vorontsov commissioned the architect to design the famous Potemkin Stairs. You can find a crescent-shaped colonnade present over the port. View the structures of a pair of lions guarding the palace.

Vorontsov Palace

Address: Vorontsovs'kyi Ln, 2Д, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: Free

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6. Climb the unique Potemkin Steps

things to do in odessa ukraine | climb the unique potemkin steps
Source: instagram

You simply cannot miss climbing the iconic Potemkin Stairs, a giant stairway in this Ukrainian port city. They are paved with granite and are famous for being a formal entrance into Odesa from the sea. Originally, Potemkin Steps were called Boulevard steps, the Richelieu steps, or the Giant Staircase. This magnificent stairway was ordered by Prince Vorontsov as a loving gift to his beloved wife. You can find 192 steps in total.

Potemkin Steps

Address: Odesa, Odessa Oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily); best time to visit: 7am - 7pm (daily)

Price: Free

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7. Visit the Odessa Passage for a true touristy experience

things to do in odessa ukraine | visit the odessa passage for a true touristy experience
Source: instagram

Make sure you visit Odesa Passage, an outstanding passage and a great hotel located on Deribasivska Street in the heart of Odesa. This attraction has four floors. You can find several boutiques on the ground floor and a hotel occupying the other three floors. Explore this splendid late 19th-century shopping track which is covered with a glass and metal canopy. Shop your choice of souvenirs and other items at the souvenir shops, boutiques and have refreshments at the cafes all of which you can find at this iconic Odessa Passage.

Odessa Passage

Address: Preobrazhenskaya Street 34, Odessa, Ukraine

Website: Odessa Passage

Opening hours: 11am - 8pm (daily)

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8. Embark on an informative shore excursion to Port of Odessa

embark on an informative shore excursion to port of odessa
Source: instagram

One of the biggest ports in the Black Sea basin and the biggest seaport in Ukraine, the Port of Odesa is a prominent attraction which you should visit during your holidays in Odesa. It features 80 yacht berths, a direct railway connection, and numerous venues for entertainment. Pay a visit to the passenger terminal which is accessed by a large number of travelers every year. Check out amazing maritime museums here. Behind the terminal building on the jetty, you can watch a statue portraying a fisherman’s wife holding a kid and viewing the sea as well as a couple of seafood restaurants and a small maritime museum.

Port of Odessa

Address: Mytna Square, 1, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Website: Port of Odessa

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: 4.01 USD

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9. Reignite your love for art at the Odessa Museum of Western and Eastern Art


If you are an art lover, do not miss the great opportunity to visit Odesa Museum of Western and Eastern Art when vacationing in Odesa. This museum of fine arts is located on Pushkin street in a noble sky-blue colored mansion. It was established in 1923. You can find here exquisite art from western Europe, prominently from Italy and the Netherlands, as well as some porcelain, pieces of furniture, and weapons. Admire the beautiful painting by talented artists.

Odessa Museum of Western and Eastern Art

Address: Pushkins'ka St, 9, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Website: Odessa Museum of Western and Eastern Art

Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 10:30am - 5:30pm (closed on Wed)

Price: 2.45 USD

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10. Drop by Park Tarasa Shevchenka while touring the city

Park Shevchenko6
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Yuriy Kvach used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Spend some relaxing time by visiting pleasant Park Tarasa Shevchenka which is located in the center of this Ukrainian port city. View the monument to Shevchenko present at the entrance and restored the monument to Tsar Alexander II. Stroll at your pace on the tracks of this charming park. Get rid of your stress by spending some time in this serene green space.

Park Tarasa Shevchenka

Address: Marazliivska St, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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11. Shop till your drop at Sady Pobedy Shopping Mall

Posted by Alexander Co. Abroad on Friday, 10 August 2018

Shop all your favorite accessories, apparels, and other items at amazing Sady Pobedy Shopping Mall when touring through Odesa. This shopping center boasts a luxurious setting and is home to noteworthy shops of luxe class. At this lavish mall, you can not only find boutiques but also restaurants, concert halls, grocery delicacy-market, and art gallery. So, take time out of your busy travel schedule and visit this fabulous mall.

Sady Pobedy Shopping Mall

Address: Akademichna St, 28, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Website: Sady Pobedy Shopping Mall

Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)

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12. Witness a game of football at Chornomorets Stadium

Odesa Chornomorets Stadium 3
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user V&A Dudush used under CC BY 3.0

Are you a big fan of football? If yes, have a great time watching a game of football at sprawling Chornomorets Stadium when holidaying in Odesa. This stadium was constructed in 2011 in this port city and houses FC Chornomorets Odesa. It can accommodate 34,164 spectators. So, book your ticket quickly and enjoy a game of football here.

Chornomorets Stadium

Address: Black Sea, Odessa, Odessa Oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Website: Chornomorets Stadium

Price: 2 - 8 USD

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13. Party hard at Ibiza Beach Club

party hard at ibiza beach club
Source: instagram

If you are looking for a great place to party with your friends when in Odesa, choose to party at Ibiza Beach Club, which is on the coast of the exquisite Black Sea. It is popular as one of the most prestigious clubs in entire Ukraine. The resort includes a beach zone, restaurant, and extensive terrace which overlooks the seafront, a pair of yachts, and white sandy shores. This club offers you hot appetizers, fresh salads, homemade pasta, soups, seafood, oysters, pizza, and many other delicacies. Order your choice of scrumptious cuisines or light snacks to please your taste buds.

Ibiza Beach Club

Address: Arcadia Beach, Odessa, Odessa Oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Website: Ibiza Beach Club

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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14. Take a guided tour to Museum “Secrets of underground Odessa”

take a guided tour to museum “secrets of underground odessa”
Source: instagram

Situated inside a fallout shelter, you can find Secrets of Underground Odessa Museum which offers you an insight of the guerrilla warfare which the locals used in World War II. Learn about the troubled past of the city by going for informative guided tours of this historic network of the underground tunnel. Originally, it was a quarry which then in 19th-century served as a prison for women and a secret place of gathering of the gangs of the area.

Museum “Secrets of underground Odessa”

Address: 2nd Razumoskiy ln, 3, Odessa, Ukraine

Website: Museum “Secrets of underground Odessa”

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 9.95 USD

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15. Meet the dolphins at Odessa City Dolphinarium


Are you fond of dolphins? Then, make sure you visit Odesa City Dolphinarium with your family for a memorable experience when in Odesa. Located at eye-catching Langeron Beach, 25, this fascinating dolphinarium is an excellent attraction which will cheer you up. Founded in 2005, this Nemo Dolphinarium greets you to view the best dolphin shows in Europe in which not only dolphins participate but also you can see South American fur seals and lions. Have a great time.

Odessa City Dolphinarium

Address: Langeron Beach,25, Odesa, Odessa Oblast, 65000 Ukraine

Website: Odessa City Dolphinarium

Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 10am - 8pm; Sat: 10am - 11pm

Price: 160 USD

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16. Visit the Museum of Interesting Science

visit the museum of interesting science
Source: instagram

Do not miss the wonderful scientific experience by visiting the Museum of Interesting Science when vacationing in Odesa. The entire exposition here is interactive and lets you touch the objects and conduct interesting scientific experiments with your hands. It fascinates kids and adults alike. Children learn several things from the academic curriculum in a new and interesting manner.

Museum of Interesting Science

Address: Shevchenka Ave, 4Е, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast, Ukraine, 65000

Website: Museum of Interesting Science

Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)

Price: 6 - 7 USD

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17. Tour the interesting Odessa Film Studio

Posted by Odessa Film Studio Одесская киностудия on Sunday, 13 May 2018

Do films fascinate you? Then, plan to visit interesting Odesa Film Studio during your excursion in this Ukranian port city. It’s famous for making entertaining films since 1907. It also offers production services for filming, television shows, advertising, series, and other new media. In October 2013, this amazing film studio in Odesa has opened a new multimedia art center. So, do include it in your itinerary.

Odessa Film Studio

Address: French Boulevard, 33, Odessa 65044, Ukraine

Website: Odessa Film Studio

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 3.98 USD (adult); 2.99 USD (child)

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18. Discover the beautiful Primorsky Boulevard (from USD 90.58)

discover the beautiful primorsky boulevard

Have a pleasant walk on the charming Primorsky Boulevard, which is a cultured street and wonderful walkway perpendicular to the Potemkin Stairs’ upper landing, in Odesa, Ukraine. Watch the row of hotels and museums on the city side as you explore this boulevard. You get to see four lanes of pedestrian tracks which are separated by beautiful lawns on the harbor side. View Ekaterina Square, which is recently renewed and holds the monument to the famous Queen Ekaterina and monument to Duc de Richelieu.

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Odessa City Tour: Full-Day Explore

Duration: 6 hour

4 reviews

19. Learn the history of war and resistance at Odessa Catacombs (from USD 62.27)

learn the history of war and resistance at odessa catacombs

If you want to learn about the history of the war in Ukraine, pay a visit to Odesa catacombs. The catacombs are known for past activities, such as slave trading and smuggling to being a Cold War bunker and sheltering partisans. These underground catacombs will acquaint you with the history of underground life and certain facts relating to World War II.

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Odessa: Underground Secrets Catacombs Tour

Duration: 3 hour

22 reviews

20. Take a lovely stroll at Deribasovskaya Street (from USD 56.72)

take a lovely stroll at deribasovskaya street

Deribasovskaya Street is a famous pedestrian walkway located in the heart of Odesa. It’s named in the honor of José de Ribas, who is popular as the head of civil and military administration, the builder of Odesa, and had an abode on this street. So, go for a refreshing stroll on this pleasant commercial Deribasovskaya Street when exploring Odesa.

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Odessa: Sightseeing Tour with Transportation

Duration: 2.5 hour

1 review

21. Breathe in some fresh air at City Garden (from USD 56.72)

breathe in some fresh air at city garden

Are you a nature lover? Then, make sure you visit the verdant City Garden when touring through Odesa. It is the oldest park in the city and popular for its Love Tree sculpture. Situated in the town center, this park is home to the summer theater of Odesa Orchestra, pavilion, and many monuments and sculptures. Spend a relaxing and pleasant time here.

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Odessa: Sightseeing Tour with Transportation

Duration: 2.5 hour

1 review

22. Witness the Cognac production process at N.L. Shustov Cognac Museum (from USD 67.0)

Cognac is known for its origin in the French town of the identical name, however, Shustov Cognac of Ukraine is one of the few foreign brandies which are allowed legally for being produced as Cognac. Learn about the interesting history when you tour through Shustov Cognac Winery Museum. Also, sample fine Cognacs.

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Shustov Cognac Winery Museum Tour with Tasting in Odessa

Duration: 2 hours

1 review

Have a wonderful time exploring Odesa

Odesa is a splendid destination to explore when holidaying in Ukraine. Its iconic landmarks and various attractions offer you exciting activities to enjoy. So, make sure you go for all these things to do in Odesa, Ukraine, on your upcoming holidays here.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Manjiri Kochrekar is a travel blogger from India. She loves exploring and learning various destinations, their history, culture, and peculiarities. Writing is her passion, which means she enjoys...Read more

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