Crimea is not only a point on the map rich in historical events. It is also a beautiful, diverse nature, making the peninsula the best place for recreation and tourism in the USSR, during which Crimea was rightly called the “All-Union Health Resort”. In those days, up to 8 million people annually vacationed in more than a hundred sanatoriums in Crimea. It will take more than one month to explore all the sights of the Crimean peninsula, but I bring to your attention 14 places that are definitely worth visiting.

Perhaps the most famous building on the Crimean peninsula can safely be called the Swallow's Nest. Designed in Gothic style, this castle looms fearlessly over the sea. However, this building has only looked like this for a little over a hundred years. The stone palace was built only at the beginning of the twentieth century. Until this time, a wooden house stood on the site of the modern Swallow's Nest.

Immediately after construction, the palace was surrounded by a beautiful garden, but most of it was destroyed during a strong earthquake. Miraculously, the architectural monument survived.

Swallow's Nest is located in the village of Gaspra. The best way to get to it is from Yalta, by direct buses in the direction of this village. There are also guided tours around the castle, their cost ranges from 300 to 600 rubles per person.

This lighthouse is located in the village of Gaspra on the cape, which gave it its name. This monument is rightfully considered important for the development of the entire Russian fleet. By order of Admiral Lazarev, the lighthouse was built here at the beginning of the nineteenth century, not far from the ancient fortress that had been destroyed by that time, which also served as a lighthouse.

Getting to Cape Ai-Todor is quite easy. A boat regularly runs from Sevastopol towards the cape. However, getting to the lighthouse is not as easy as it might seem. It is a military facility, and no one will give tours of it.

Access to the lighthouse is only possible with a special pass, which you need to stock up on in Sevastopol.

This unique building was built in the mid-nineteenth century in Sevastopol. It’s hard to believe, but without sufficient repairs and maintenance, she was able to survive to this day. The tower largely copies the famous Athenian Tower of the Winds. Of course, the Greek tower, which was built before our era, is much larger, but the beauty of the Crimean building is in no way inferior to its foreign relative. At the moment when the tower was built in Sevastopol, it was used for airing books from the Maritime Library.

The Tower of the Winds is located in the center of Sevastopol, on Frunze Street, 8. Visiting the architectural monument of regional significance is now free.

Surrounded by a halo of legends and secrets stands between two major cities Mount Ayu-Dag. On the way from Yalta to Alushta or back, you will not miss the large stone bear, which lowered its face into the sea. He tries to drink all the water in order to return the lovers who decided to flee from him across the water.

Bear Mountain traces its history back to very ancient times. According to various sources, it is about 150 million years old. It may be interesting for tourists because it is here, in this unique natural area, that rare animals and plants live. Apparently, their patron is the same big bear who keeps trying to drink the sea.

From all the cities of the Crimean coast, the climb to Ayu-Dag can be reached by regular buses that go to Yalta or Alushta.

In Feodosia there is a huge stone giant– Tower of St. Constantine. Its age makes it surprising that it has not yet been completely destroyed. It was built in the thirteenth century, at a time when the Genoese considered themselves masters of Crimea.

Initially, the tower was used to store weapons and was not called anything special. Later she received the name of Saint Constantine. Although, he was canonized later than the tower appeared.

The tower is located between the Feodossia bus station and Yubileiny Park. An interesting fact is that a capsule with a message to the people of the future is walled up in one of the walls of the tower, which will be opened in 2017.

In the village New World Fans will definitely be able to find new sensations for themselves and tickle their nerves. This is where the famous Golitsyn trail is located - a narrow piece of rocky soil, which is located directly above the cliff. When crossing the path, you can only hold on to a frail log.

A reward awaits those who can overcome the dangerous path: they find themselves in a wonderful grotto, which has two names. It is called Chaliapinsky because the famous bass performed there, and Golitsynsky, like the transition, because the prince kept bottles of wine in the grotto.

The last Russian Emperor Nicholas II also walked along the Golitsyn Trail, whose length exceeds five thousand meters.

A beautiful legend awaits those who want to visit the city of Simeiz, which is located 70 kilometers from Sevastopol. The town is home to the famous Mount Cat. It is also called “kosh-kai” or steam mountain. It is with her that the love story of a monk and a young girl is connected. The monk was able to save his beloved from the demon, whom he turned into a mountain. Now the mountain is overgrown with forest and does not look like a demon or a cat, but the history continues to attract tourists to it.

At the very top of the mountain there is a kind of wishing tree: tourists tie ribbons to it and make wishes. They say that they will definitely come true.

If you drive along the highway from Sevastopol towards Yalta, it is impossible to miss Mount Koshka. A funny landmark is a small market where they sell sweet Crimean onions.

Lovers of the supernatural come to Alushta every year. After all, this is where the famous Valley of Ghosts is located. Of course, there are no ghosts there, not even close, but the stones at the foot of Mount Demerdzhi at sunset cast very interesting shadows. The mountain itself can also attract tourists. At sunset it changes color. The nature of this phenomenon is still unknown; scientists do not want to solve the mystery of the Valley of Ghosts.

By the way, right at the foot of Demerdzhi, very close to the Valley of Ghosts, there still lies the stone on which Natalya Varley sang her song about bears in the film “Prisoner of the Caucasus.”

A bus runs regularly from Alushta and Simferopol towards the village of Luchistoye. It is on it that you can get to Demerdzhi and the Valley of Ghosts.

Crimea is ready to show its guests cultural values. They have always been developed here along with natural ones. So, in Gurzuf at the turn of the last century and the century before last, Anton Pavlovich Chekhov bought himself a house. The writer wanted solitude and peace, and noisy Yalta did not suit him at all in this regard.

A branch of his museum is now open in Chekhov’s house on the Crimean peninsula. Anyone can come here on a tour.

An entrance ticket with the right to take photos and videos costs 200 rubles, and with the right to inspect the garden - 50 rubles. You can get to the writer’s dacha from Yalta to minibus No. 316. You will need to go to final stop and walk a little.

This majestic building not only served as a residence for the governor of Novorossiya, Prince Vorontsov, but from the very beginning was a hymn to English traditions in architecture. Consisting of several parts, the structure is a mix of different styles and eras in architecture.

The palace complex is surrounded by a huge garden. It occupies almost 150 hectares and, like the building, is a combination of different plants.

The palace and garden are located in Alupka, which can be reached, for example, from Simferopol, by bus that goes towards Simeiz.

It is interesting that during the Great Patriotic War, Hitler, who considered himself a winner, managed to donate the Vorontsov Palace along with the park to one of his marshals. However, he was unable to keep the architectural masterpiece in his possession for long.

The village of Koktebel is well known to all poetry lovers. It was there that Maximilian Voloshin lived and Marina Tsvetaeva often visited. However, this place is known not only to lyricists. The reason for this is the factory of vintage wines and cognacs, which is located there.

Growing grapes in Crimea is a long-standing tradition that has taken root. People living in this mountainous area have always made stronger wine and drinks, so it was logical to create large-scale production here.

Now they offer excursions to the plant; they are ready to show, tell and even give everyone a try.

Depending on the degree of immersion in the atmosphere of viticulture, the cost of the excursion varies from 500 to 900 rubles per person. The plant itself is located at the entrance to Koktebel; local residents say that it is simply impossible to drive past.

On the territory of the city of Bakhchisarai there is one of the most ancient buildings in the Crimea - the Mausoleum of Hadzhi Giray. Khan Hadji-Girey himself, his son who initiated the construction, as well as about twenty more of their relatives are buried there. Scientists say that the mausoleum is now more than fifty years old.

Historians constantly conduct excavations on the territory of the mausoleum. This object cannot be called fully excursion, they will only tell you about the history of the Khan’s family, but if you value places of power, places with bright energy, then you should definitely visit it and just touch the ancient stones.

The mausoleum is located near the hospital for the mentally ill on Basenko Street.

Ai-Petri is a place that has become unique nature reserve. It is there that you can find various natural areas and landscapes. The mountain itself relatively recently calmed down and stopped moving. Even 100-150 years ago, it could gradually sink into or out of the sea.

Now tourists who go to Mount Ai-Petri can not only admire the beauty of nature, but also appreciate the longest cable car in Europe, which is located right here in Crimea.

Bus number 32 runs from Yalta to Ai-Petri. You need to get off at the “Ropeway” stop. You will be able to climb to the very top of Ai-Petri, accompanied by a guide and special equipment. This pleasure will cost three to five thousand rubles per group.

The monument to lost ships is one of those points that it is simply impossible not to visit when visiting Sevastopol. It was installed more than a hundred years ago, at the beginning of the twentieth century. Then it was considered a reminder of the first defense of Sevastopol, but over time it became a symbol of the city.

Video about the nature of Crimea

The Republic of Crimea is deservedly the true pearl of the Black Sea. This is one of the most beautiful corners of modern Russia. Thanks to its diversity of natural beauty, distinctive history and mild climate, the peninsula has attracted millions of tourists for decades. There is everything here that even the most sophisticated vacationer, curiosity seeker and incorrigible romantic dreams of. The enchanting landscapes are created by majestic mountains, picturesque bays, beautiful beaches, cliffs, caves, forest reserves and an abundance of vegetation.

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The territory of the peninsula is penetrated by an extensive network of roads. Routes to the famous resorts of Crimea run through steppe regions and steep mountain serpentines. When in cities and towns, you can leave your car in the parking lot and go on an exciting walk. Most of the attractions of Crimea are located along the vast coastline of the peninsula.

Kerch

On the eastern tip of the peninsula is the hero city of Kerch, the historical chronicle of which dates back to the 6th century BC. This small port place has been of great strategic importance from time immemorial. The city stands on the strait of the same name, connecting the waters of the Black and Azov seas. There were fierce battles for the possession of this piece of land, as evidenced by the walls of the Yeni-Kale and Kerch fortresses. The citadels are masterpieces of fortification art of the 18th-19th centuries.

Kerch is famous for its abundance of historical attractions. On one of the well-groomed seaside streets stands the Church of John the Baptist. The Byzantine style church was built in the 8th century. In the center of the city rises Mount Mithridates, the top of which is definitely worth climbing. It is actually a 92 meter high hill. To get to the highest point of the mountain, you need to climb 436 steps of a staircase decorated with sculptures of griffins (mythical winged predators) and vases. From the slope, tourists can see an amazing view of the city, surrounded by greenery, the obelisk of glory to Soviet troops, the “eternal flame,” as well as unique ancient ruins.

Feodosia

The eastern resort of Crimea - Feodosia - hospitably welcomes its guests. The city, located at the junction of mountains and steppes, attracts tourists with beautiful landscaped streets with picturesque parks, magnificent sandy beaches and cultural and historical museums.

The calling card of Feodosia is the embankment with its characteristic architectural flavor. Appearance main street The resort is defined by 19th-century villas. The facades of the buildings are decorated with columns, arches, towers and terraces with balustrades. Shrubs and flower beds are planted along the alleys. Near the embankment there are picturesque parks where you can relax in the shade of trees. Walking around the city, you can see many monuments, ancient churches, fountains and playgrounds.

A visit to the National Art Gallery named after I.K. will leave an unforgettable impression on tourists. Aivazovsky. The richest collection of seascapes is located in the personal home of the world famous artist, who was born in Feodosia. You can also visit the museum of another talented master - writer A.S. Greena. This is a literary and memorial institution that shows visitors the environment in which the famous romantic writer lived and worked.

Sunny Valley

Tourists who prefer solitude with the surrounding nature without noise and fuss will really like the village of Solnechnaya Dolina. This place, located 12 kilometers from Sudak and 3 kilometers from the sea, is considered one of the least crowded in Crimea, even at the height of the summer season. Severe huge rocks, forming a group of picturesque cliffs, tightly surround the settlement and protect the area from cold winds. Forest plantations and grape fields set a special tone for the local landscape.

The best grape varieties are grown in the Sun Valley, which is facilitated by a special microclimate. It is warm and sunny more than 300 days a year, and there is little rainfall. The heart of the village is the winery named after Prince L.S. Golitsyn, founded by him in 1880. Hidden among the abundance of exotic plants and flower beds are long tunnels of cellars with barrels and bottles of the noble drink. In the tasting room, tourists are offered to experience the unique flavors of several varieties of wine.

The nearest pebble-sand beach is in the village of Pribrezhnoye. Along the coastline you can find guest houses for vacationers and a green alley with shopping tents and small cafes.

New World

Among the juniper groves and pine forests, framed majestic rocks, spread out small town- New World. The coastline is indented with cozy windless bays, where Ottoman pirates have long hidden their ships. A winding serpentine of roads penetrates the hilly terrain that surrounds the village. The resort was born thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of Prince Lev Golitsyn, who founded the resort here in 1878 winery. Barrels of wine were stored in caves in rock formations.

The amazingly beautiful landscapes of the New World make a memorable impression on travelers. Tourists are recommended to walk along the Golitsyn trail to see the breathtaking Crimean nature. The road consists of stone steps carved into the mountainside, fenced with a curb. The 3-kilometer-long trail runs along the cliff above the edge sea ​​coast and under high rock overhangs. Along the way, you can visit a grotto carved out of the rock by the waves. Its height is 30 meters. The cave cavity is occupied by stone arches.

The end point of the Golitsyn trail is Cape Kapchik. The rocky ledge resembles the outline of a lizard quenching its thirst with the waters of the Black Sea. This is a natural boundary between two bays with steep mountains. Here the sea waters are striking in their transparency and the cleanliness of the pebble beaches is pleasantly surprising. Nearby rises the highest coral reef in Europe - Mount Sokol (472 meters).

Zander

The sunny city of Sudak is located on the coastal mountainous area of ​​​​the southeast of the peninsula. The resort is great for families with children. There are many sandy beaches, as well as a gentle and safe entrance to the sea. A narrow alley of cypress trees leads to a lively and well-maintained embankment, replete with entertainment venues. There are pleasant places where you can spend leisurely time surrounded by lush subtropical vegetation.

The main symbol of Sudak is the legendary Genoese fortress. This is a unique architectural monument of medieval Crimea, erected at the turn of the 14th-15th centuries by colonialists from the Genoese Republic. The citadel stretches along a steep cliff, offering a picturesque view of the surrounding city, and occupies 30 hectares of territory. The fortress structure consists of powerful battlements and quadrangular towers, the height of which reaches 15 meters. The historical building fits harmoniously into the sea and mountain landscape.

Alushta

You can take a walk through the historical and memorable places where the legendary “Prisoner of the Caucasus” was filmed in one of best resorts southern coast of Crimea - Alushta. The city is framed by a chain of majestic mountain ranges, which contributes to the constant circulation of air flows. The long and wide central embankment is dotted with fluffy crowns of evergreen coniferous trees, under which there are rows of benches. In addition to a separate alley with restaurants, iconic symbols of the city are located on the embankment. This is a rotunda with six columns, a monument to the Olympic Bear, a Boy with a Fish fountain and a large park with an abundance of plantings and flower beds.

The surroundings of Alushta deserve attention. You should definitely visit the Valley of Ghosts on the slopes of Mount Demerdzhi. This is literally an open-air natural museum, where, as a result of weathering, huge stone pillars have taken on bizarre shapes. The thick fog settling over the valley gives a special mystery to the figures. Walking through these places, you can see the famous tree from where Yuri Nikulin’s hero threw nuts. The rock formations of the valley, which have their own names, are fascinating. For example, you can see the “Head of Catherine” rock, as it resembles the profile of the Empress.

30 kilometers from Alushta there is an amazingly beautiful temple of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. The church, built in the shape of a lighthouse, is dedicated to the travelers who died at sea. The temple, instead of a dome, is crowned with a golden cross. In the basement of the shrine there is a unique museum of maritime disasters, in which the walls and ceilings are decorated with shipwrecks.

Yalta

The most famous and popular resort of the Republic of Crimea is the unsurpassed Yalta, which is definitely worth a visit. This business card southern coast of the peninsula. Mountain ranges, landscaped parks and squares, palm and cypress groves, the azure Black Sea and many interesting places replete with attractions give a special ambiance to this city.

The long sea embankment of Yalta is a favorite street of tourists and local residents, where you can take a pleasant walk, admiring the natural beauty. Here you can admire alleys of palm and coniferous trees, sculptural compositions, marinas with yachts and plenty of entertainment for every taste. Along the promenade there are a long row of ancient buildings of the 19th century, the facades of which are decorated with columns and roofing balustrades. The embankment is popular with street musicians and artists.

While in Yalta, you have the opportunity to go on an air trip by cable car, which passes over the ancient streets of the city. Tiny two-seater cabins make the climb up to Darsan Hill. During the trip, you can see the gilded domes of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and historical buildings. From a height of 138 meters there is an amazing panoramic view of the city.

The park and palace complex in the village of Massandra, 5 kilometers from the center of Yalta, will leave a pleasant impression. On a mountain slope, surrounded by forests and well-groomed alleys, stands a castle built for Emperor Alexander III. The beautiful architecture of the three-story palace evokes admiration. The façade is decorated with galleries, balconies, and towers with spiers. The terraces are framed by balustrades with flowerpots. In front of the building there is a small artificial pond with goldfish and a fountain. Those interested can examine the interior decoration of the premises and get acquainted with the conditions of royal life of those times.

Gaspra

The famous symbol of Crimea “Swallow’s Nest” is located in the cozy resort village of Gaspra, 12 kilometers from Yalta. This place attracts vacationers with its picturesque landscapes and beneficial marine climate. The village is literally covered by mountain ranges, so cold winds do not reach here. The town is dotted with garden and park complexes containing palaces, fortresses and estates.

The famous structure “Swallow’s Nest” was erected on a steep forty-meter cliff of Cape Ai-Todor in 1912. The Gothic architectural style of the castle with its characteristic battlements and lancet windows is reminiscent of the times of the valiant knights of the Middle Ages. The palace is crowned by a round tower with spiers.

Alupka

The city of Alupka, located between magnificent mountain Ai-Petri and the sparkling Black Sea seemed frozen in silence and calm. Here, the enchanting landscapes are filled with lush vegetation, and the combination of pine and sea air creates a healing charge of energy.

Alupka owes its popularity to the Governor-General of the Novorossiysk Territory M.S. Vorontsov. In the first half of the 19th century, on the initiative of the count, a luxurious castle was erected, which is framed by a fragrant subtropical park with exotic plants and ornate paths. The Vorontsov Palace is a majestic and austere monumental complex that combines several architectural styles.

The southern facade includes elements of oriental architecture. These are arches covered with stucco ornaments, thin columns, low minarets and open terraces with sculptures. The northern façade of the palace is designed in the medieval Gothic style, which is characterized by crenellated walls, round and quadrangular towers, pinnacles and protruding polyhedral columns.

The program for a walk around Alupka is unthinkable without climbing to the top of Mount Ai-Petri. Its mighty stone walls rise 1234 meters to the sky. You can go up by cable car or by car, overcoming the winding mountain serpentine. During a self-guided trip along the scenic road, you will encounter famous mountain sites: the Wuchang-Su waterfall, Turtle Lake and the Silver Gazebo. Once on a plateau shrouded in trees, a breathtaking panorama opens up before tourists.

Sevastopol

The legendary naval port of Sevastopol is located on the western coast of Crimea along several bays. Covered in the spirit of historical glory and great achievements, the hero city abounds with numerous attractions that will not leave anyone indifferent. The architectural ensembles of the city reflect the greatness, valor and honor of the Russian people.

You should start your walk from the central Nakhimov square. Here, the monument to Admiral Pavel Nakhimov, the memorial defense wall with a relief image of a warrior, the Walk of Fame and the “Eternal Flame” attract attention.

Next to the square is the Count's Pier, the main entrance of which is a snow-white colonnade with a massive attic, built in 1846. Going down to the sea along a wide staircase, you can see a monument to sunken ships 20 meters from the shore. The monument is presented in the form of a seven-meter column installed on a granite rock and topped with a bronze eagle.

The Count's pier smoothly turns into an embankment, from where a panorama of the Sevastopol Bay opens up. Particularly noteworthy are the powerful Mikhailovskaya and Konstantinovskaya batteries, which provide protection against the entry of an enemy fleet into the city’s sea area. Primorsky Boulevard, adjoined by a picturesque alley with lawns, trees, fountains and numerous architectural structures, leaves a pleasant impression. There is a theater, a palace of culture, an oceanarium and a dolphinarium here.

The museum complex "35th Coastal Battery" should be a must-visit point of the hero city. During the defense of Sevastopol in 1941-1942, the fortress with artillery pieces in Cossack Bay resisted the fascist occupiers to the last. On the territory of the complex there are two battery towers, a pantheon in memory of defense heroes, gun exhibits and military equipment.

In the surrounding area there are the largest ancient Greek ruins of cultural value to humanity. This is the national archaeological reserve of Chersonesos-Tavrichesky. Tourists have a unique opportunity to walk around the city, founded in 420 BC. On a vast territory of more than 500 hectares of land there are ancient ruins, columns, fragments of buildings and structures. A significant place in Chersonesus is the Cathedral of St. Vladimir. According to legend, Prince Vladimir converted to Christianity here in 988.

Bakhchisaray

In a mountain gorge among dense vegetation and far from the coast, there was once the capital of the Crimean Khanate, which existed under the patronage of the Ottoman Empire until 1783. This is the colorful city of Bakhchisarai. Narrow streets with small old houses immerse you in the atmosphere of antiquity.

The main pearl of the city is the vast quarter of the residence of the Crimean Khanate. This is a palace complex of buildings that forms a labyrinth of unique oriental buildings. The two-story buildings are decorated with openwork window bars, tall minarets, galleries and paintings reflecting the traditions of Tatar culture. On the territory of the complex there are gardens, fountains, gazebos, utility buildings, a harem, a stable, baths, a falcon tower and a mosque.

Walking through the small rooms of the Khan's residence, you can notice the oriental luxury. The halls of the palace are decorated with bright floral patterns, decorative patterns, and carpets. In addition, there is a museum of culture, art, and history of the Crimean Tatars.

After getting acquainted with the traditions and way of life of the Crimean Khan, it is recommended to go to Chufut-Kale. This is one of the masterpieces of cave cities, located on a rocky plateau of a sheer cliff 600 meters high. In the Middle Ages, this area was inhabited primarily by Karaites, who professed a religious doctrine similar to Judaism. IN rock formations utility and residential premises were skillfully carved. During the time of the Crimean Khanate, a mint was located in the cave fortress.

Simferopol

Simferopol is the capital of the Republic of Crimea and the gateway to the peninsula that greets tourists arriving at the international airport. This is where the exciting journey by car begins. Highly developed transport network roads lead to absolutely any resort places in Crimea. Most travelers are often carried away by a trip to the coast, so Simferopol remains without due attention. However, there is plenty to see and walk in the city.

The central street is Lenin Square, on which there is a monument to the leader of the proletariat, the building of the government of the republic and the academic theater. You should walk along the pedestrian street Pushkin. Ancient buildings from the 19th century are lined up along the boulevard. The Gagarin Park is replete with plantings, manicured lawns, fountains, monuments, memorials, benches and entertainment areas with attractions. The central part of the vast territory of the park is occupied by a lake with a small island in the middle, which can be reached by catamaran.

Noteworthy, ennobled Vorontsovsky Park with a botanical garden, rich in flowers and rare plants. More than 200 types of roses of all colors of the rainbow are grown here. In the garden you can retire to the gazebos, stroll along narrow forest paths or along wide alleys under the canopies of tall trees. On the territory of the park there is a small estate of Count Vorontsov with classical columns. The hallmark of Simferopol is the railway station, built in 1951. The majestic building is decorated with a clock tower and an elegant arcade gallery. The architectural ensemble forms a courtyard with a laid out square and a fountain.

Evpatoria

The amazing resort of Evpatoria is one of the few Crimean cities that combines comfort, entertainment and cultural monuments. Beautiful sandy beaches, marvelous beautiful parks, a landscaped embankment with endless entertainment venues and various historical buildings evoke enthusiastic feelings among tourists.

Evpatoria is famous for its religious architectural buildings. You can see the multi-domed Juma-Jami Mosque, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, temple complex ancient Karaites, Armenian Church, synagogue. The shrines, reflecting the cultural heritage of different peoples, amaze with their beautifully designed facades. The city is full of sculptures and monuments dedicated to the historical past, famous figures, and fairy-tale characters. For lovers of active and cultural recreation there is a water park, a dolphinarium, a zoo, a theater and a museum.

Cape Tarkhankut

The pearl of the western part of the peninsula is Cape Tarkhankut. This place attracts tourists with its pristine nature, untouched by civilization. The lack of vegetation is compensated by numerous coastal cliffs rising vertically from the sea. Over a thousand years, waves and wind have carved caves, arches and strangely shaped blocks of stone along the shore.

Among the enchanting landscape, the natural aquarium “Cup of Love” deserves attention. This picturesque place is a heart-shaped pool surrounded by boulders. The bowl is filled with water thanks to an underwater tunnel made by waves in the coastal rocks.

The coast fascinates with the incredible beauty of its bays, wild beaches and the emerald waters of the Black Sea. On the sun-scorched steppe terrain of Cape Tarkhankut there are no buildings or signs of settlements, which creates a special flavor. Arriving by car, you can pitch a tent on a steep rock or on a sandy beach and enjoy a vacation away from the bustle of the city, noisy crowds of tourists and festive Crimean embankments.

In this article, I will try to briefly describe the TOP 15 attractions of the Crimean peninsula that are worth visiting. I would like to immediately make a reservation that when compiling this TOP, I had to cross out many other beautiful places from it and leave on the list only the most beautiful and worthy of your attention sights of Crimea.

1) Mount Ai-Petri.

I consider Ai-Petri the most beautiful mountain on the peninsula. Its height is 1234 meters above sea level. Unforgettable views, majestic pine trees, dizzying cliffs, caves, waterfalls... Ai-Petri has everything you can imagine.

From the top of Ai-Petri, the Black Sea, in clear weather, can be seen 150 km into the distance, and this, after all, is half the distance to Turkey!

You can climb Ai-Petri in various ways: by cable car, minibus or taxi, and on foot. You can learn more about these methods. But I advise you to hike along the picturesque hiking trails. Only in this case can you say that you have conquered Ai-Petri!

You can create a route in such a way that in one daylight you can see the highest waterfall of Crimea - climb and look at Yalta through the Taraktash windows, walk along the Ai-Petri plateau and enjoy the aromas of mountain herbs, climb the famous Ai-Petri cogs and then go down by cable car or cable car. And all this in one day!

We organize one-day hiking trips and will be glad to see you among the participants! Read more about hikes and. 🙂

More detailed information about Ai-Petri and its attractions can be found in

2) Cape Fiolent.

Cape Fiolent is an incredibly beautiful place. Be sure to visit this cape, it will impress you, I assure you. Fiolent is also known for its jasper beach, which is about a kilometer long. And the water in the sea is considered the cleanest in the vicinity of Sevastopol.

So take a snorkel with a mask, a camera and go ahead for impressions!

3) Balaclava - Crimean Venice.

Balaklava Bay is a unique place that attracts the attention of tourists from all over the world. The bay is protected on all sides from wind and waves, and is considered the best place for yachting enthusiasts.

At the height of the season, Balaklava Bay resembles a busy road, small boats and majestic yachts scurry back and forth every now and then, delivering tourists to the most beautiful beaches, of which there are many in Balaklava. This includes Vasili and the Golden and Silver beaches. You can also get from Balaklava to , and to Cape Aya. The selection of beaches is truly impressive.

There is also something to see in Balaklava itself. You can visit the secret submarine repair plant, or you can explore the Chembalo fortress, or take a tour hiking through picturesque places to one of the beaches.

4) Golitsyn Trail.

A picturesque trail originating in the New World. The route of the trail is absolutely not difficult and does not require any special skills or good physical fitness.

Entrance to the trail is paid - 100 rubles.

The trail owes its name to Prince Golitsin, who ordered a passage to the grotto to be cut in the rocks and a cellar to be equipped in it for storing wines. The grotto itself has excellent acoustics and coolness that saves you from the heat.

The trail passes through all the Novy Svetov bays (green, blue and blue, which have such names because of the color of the sea in them), in close proximity to the sea and leads to Cape Kapchik.

From the cape you can return through the juniper grove to the New World, or you can continue the journey and go down to the Royal Beach or go to conquer the Peak of Cosmos mountain, from which you can see beautiful views for all bays.

You can read photo reports of our adventures here...

5) Yalta is the pearl of Crimea.

Yalta! How great it is to walk along the Yalta embankment, listening to the surf and enjoying the beauty of the kilometer-long mountains surrounding Yalta on all sides. Yalta is beautiful. Chekhov himself said that Yalta is in no way inferior to Nice, and in many ways even better.

Therefore, if you are thinking of going to Yalta or choosing some other city, then I can give you advice - of course, go. Beautiful nature, clear sea, mountains, palm trees - this is all about Yalta!

6) Chatyr-Dag Caves.

Not far from Alushta there is a mountain - Chatyr-Dag, with the highest peak - Eklizi-Burun (1527 meters above sea level - the 4th peak of Crimea). Chatyr-Dag itself is also very interesting and you can conquer its peaks on your own,

But we're talking about caves. There are several dozen caves known on Chatyr-Dag, but there are only two specially equipped for tourists - these are the Marble and Mammoth caves (Emine-Bair-Khosar). You can visit these caves on your own, or you can go on a guided tour.

We also visited both of these caves, but Mramornaya did not impress us at all, but I can’t say the same about Mamontova. There's a lot to see there. And it was named after the baby mammoth, whose remains lie in the cave.

In any case, the Chatyr-Dag caves are worthy of your attention, and I recommend you visit them.

All of you, most likely, have seen films or heard about the Grand Canyon in the USA - the deepest canyon in the world. But imagine that in Crimea there is also such a canyon, of course not as huge as the American one, but that doesn’t make it any worse.

The Grand Canyon of Crimea is located 5 km from the village of Sokolinoe - this is an amazing and beautiful place. The depth of the canyon is over 320 meters, the length is 3.5 km, and the width of the canyon in some places does not exceed 3 meters.

A mountain river flows along the bottom of the canyon and forms small waterfalls 3-4 meters high. Waterfalls, in turn, wash away erosion pits, which are called baths of youth. The water in the river does not exceed 11 degrees even on the hottest days. There is a legend that taking a bath in the bath of youth will rejuvenate your body. But not everyone will be able to overcome themselves to take such a bath. The water is very refreshing.

And now add to all this the long-term Crimean forest and the singing of hundreds of birds. Introduced? No? Then plan your next trip to Crimea in such a way that you will definitely visit the Grand Canyon.

8) Dzhur-Dzhur is the deepest waterfall in Crimea.

The Jur-Jur waterfall is located in the Khap Khal reserve valley, not far from the village of Generalskoye (from Turkic - wolf's mouth), so at the entrance to the reserve you must pay a tourist fee of 100 rubles.

The Ulu-Uzen River on its way to the Black Sea encounters a 15-meter cliff and, noisily falling from the cliff, forms a waterfall. Jur-Jur is the deepest waterfall in Crimea, and translated from Turkic it means water-water.

In spring, this waterfall is truly impressive; it is so powerful that it is impossible to resist its pressure. Every second, 350 liters of water rush down from the cliff. The falling water creates such noise that it is impossible to hear each other.

By the end of summer, due to the lack of precipitation, the waterfall noticeably weakens, but, nevertheless, remains quite powerful.

Read more about our excursion to Jur-Jur and to the lighthouse temple of St. Nicholas

9) Cable car to Ai-Petri.

The cable car to Ai-Petri is a miracle of engineering. This road is included in the TOP 10 most impressive cable cars in the world. Also, the Crimean “cable car” is unique in that the length of the unsupported span is 1670 meters, longer only in Germany. And the angle of elevation near the mountains is 46 degrees.

The road is made according to the pendulum principle - the cabins move towards each other. The cabins themselves are quite large and spacious, they can accommodate up to 40 people and you can climb into them even with bicycles and tourist backpacks.

The price of the cable car ride is 250 rubles for adults and 100 rubles for children. Children under 6 years old are free.

More detailed information .

10) Memorial complex “35th Coastal Battery” in Sevastopol.

The 35th Coastal Battery Museum is a memorial complex where you can learn about the history of the defense of Sevastopol during the Great Patriotic War and the feat of our soldiers.

The museum is open to the public:

  • in summer (May-October) - daily from 10:00 to 18:00, except Mondays;
  • in winter (November-April) - from 10:00 to 16:00, except Monday and Tuesday.

Entrance to the museum is free.

The heroic defense of Sevastopol lasted 250 days. And the 35th battery played a very important role in this defense. The city was captured only after the battery was destroyed. I would also like to note that over the last 25 days of the assault on Sevastopol, German aircraft dropped as many air bombs on the besieged city as the British had dropped on all of Germany by that day since the start of the Second World War. Naturally, Sevastopol was completely destroyed.

I recommend everyone to visit this museum!

More detailed information

11) Swallow's Nest is the calling card of Crimea.

Swallow's Nest Castle is a miniature castle that rises on the Aurora rock of Cape Ai-Todor. Swallow's Nest is one of the most famous and popular places in Crimea. Crowds of tourists flock to the castle every day in an endless line to see this architectural miracle with their own eyes.

12) Sudak (Genoese) fortress

From the name of the fortress it becomes clear that in order to see it you need to visit the wonderful city of Sudak. This stunning fortress is a legacy of medieval history, built by the Genoese.

To be honest, before seeing the fortress with my own eyes, I was afraid that I would see something similar to it in Alushta. But what I saw was truly fascinating.

Every year, historians and reenactors hold festivals in the Sudak fortress, visiting which you can easily be transported to the Middle Ages.

An attraction worthy of your attention!

13) Livadia Palace

To say that the Livadia Palace made a strong impression on us is to say nothing. Imagine a leisurely walk through the park, and suddenly you come to a palace.

The palace simply amazes with its whiteness and grandeur. Well-groomed lawns and palm trees against the backdrop of the palace look especially bright, and the blue Black Sea is visible on the horizon. Amazing view!

I would also like to say that it was here that the division of Europe took place following the Second World War. Such great personalities as Stalin, Churchill and Roosevelt met here at the Yalta Conference in February 1945. And you can visit an exhibition of wax figures and immerse yourself in that atmosphere.

It starts at the Livadia Palace and you can take a leisurely stroll in the shade of the trees and enjoy the views from the path.

14) Vorontsov Palace in Alupka.

Vorontsov Palace also deserves your attention. The palace belonged to Count Vorontsov, one of the richest people of that time, and its architecture is made in the English style, but interweaves elements of different historical eras.

The Southern Terraces deserve special attention, with the famous lions, which offer stunning views of Ai-Petri.

The palace park (Alupkinsky) is also beautiful - a masterpiece of park and garden art. Walking through the park, you will be impressed by the scope of thought of its creator, Karl Antovich Kebach.

It’s worth visiting the Vorontsov Palace, but you need to set aside a full day to explore it, otherwise you simply won’t be able to see everything.

15) Chersonese Tauride in Sevastopol.

Chersonese Tauride was founded by the Greeks, and on this moment included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

I can’t say that I was greatly impressed by Chersonesos, or rather its ruins. But everyone should visit it. Enough interesting place. The remains of an ancient amphitheater and columns are impressive.

What more can be said? It was here that the Baptism of Rus' took place, and the font in which Prince Vladimir baptized Rus' remained. The very beautiful Vladimir Cathedral, which is located almost in the center of the ancient settlement.

They also say that when diving into the sea, you can see the remains of ancient ruins underwater. And this sight evokes strong emotions. I managed to visit Tauride Chersonesos in December and didn’t really want to dive with a mask, although I swam that day. The color is very beautiful by the sea. 🙂

I hope my short list will be useful and interesting for you, and you will visit one of these places. Or perhaps you know other interesting attractions that you think should be on this list. Share your thoughts in the comments.