Founded in 1783, Sevastopol Port is one of the most important on the Black Sea. Due to its unique geographic location, the city has become a popular resort and tourist destination. Sevastopol is the former location of the Soviet Black Sea Fleet until it was besieged by the British forces in the Crimean War. At present, the place is the home of a Ukrainian naval base. Most of the city’s buildings were built by top architects from Moscow, Kiev, and Leningrad after World War II; they incorporated Mediterranean and Venetian style. Locals often enjoy a nice stroll along the boulevards and avenues around the Central Hill. These are adorned with lovely Sevastopol chestnut trees all the way up to the picturesque Marine Boulevard.
Things to do
Sevastopol provides many popular spots for visitors such as museums and parks. One of the more famous tourist spots in the city is Panorama Park. It features an impressive display depicting the siege of Sebastopol from the point of view of the Russians. Another key attraction in the museum is the 2000 square meter circular canvass backdrop to cannons and models of redoubts which are found in the foreground.
Another must-see is the Sapun Gor Park which pays tribute to the battles of the Second World War. You may also want to visit the ‘Valley of Death’ which is the location of the infamous Charge of the Light Brigade. About three kilometers from Sevastopol is the ancient Greek city of Chersonesos Taurica. Visitors are required to pay an admission fee of approximately $1.27.
Sevastopol is home to several Soviet war memorials so you can expect to find many statues such as of Lenin and Nakhinov. You may also want to cross the bay by riding ferry boats which makes stops to several areas in the north where you can find amazing white sand beach. In the village of Loobeemovka, which is 30 minutes from Sevastopol, you will find a nice sandy beach popular with tourists. During the summer, you can hang out at the many tented beer bars located on the waterfront and watch ships pass by at the beautiful bay.
Shopping
The best place to shop in the city is at Bolshoi Morskoe which is adorned with numerous chic boutiques where you can buy high-end clothes. Most shops in the city accept debit and credit cards, except the markets.
Restaurants and bars
The city offers a wide variety of bars and restaurants. The restaurants offer several dishes that cater to discriminating tastes. One of the more popular restaurants is the Rybatsky Stan located on the west side of Artillery Bay. The place is well known for its excellent service and sumptuous dishes mostly made up of fish. But make sure to bring with you enough money because the place is quite expensive.
For a taste of excellent authentic Ukrainian dishes, head over to the Ukrainiski Shinok located on the basement of the Hotel Sevastopol. As a major naval port, you can expect to find several places that sell beer and other drinks.