sochi as a tourist destination

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Sochi, Russia

You are here, about sochi.

Sochi is Russia's only subtropical resort city that stretches along the picturesque coast of the Black Sea. With a permanent population approaching 350,000, it holds the record as the largest resort city in Russia. As the unofficial capital of the Riviera of the Caucasus, its many beaches make the city popular in summer. In contrast, skiing in the nearby mountain makes it an ideal place for winter vacations.

The city is set in the Krasnodar Krai, which stretches 145 km (90 miles) along the Black Sea, making Sochi the second longest city behind only Mexico City. The resort has a long history that dates back to Ancient Greek and Roman times when the Zygii people inhabited the Area. The first Russian settlement on the site was called Fort Alexander, founded in 1838 at Sochi River's mouth.

History of Sochi

In fact, Sochi is a relatively new name for the city, as it was first called that in 1896. The name has two possible sources: it could be a variation of the term "sshatche," was used by the local people to mean "place by the sea" or "shacha," which locals used to mean "sell ahead" because the territory of the town used to be where slave markets were held.

One of the first big names to put Sochi on the map was Soviet leader Joseph Stalin - he built his favorite vacation home or dacha here. The city was also known as the "All-Union health resort" of the Soviet Union, and after the collapse of the USSR, the city was, in fact, the only Black Sea resort in Russia. It is still famous today for its recreation facilities.

Reasons to travel to Sochi

It is here that many well-to-do Russians go to rejuvenate in some of the most popular healing mineral springs in Russia. These vibrant spas are the best known of the Matsesta Sulfur Springs, renowned since antiquity as the “fiery river” springs because of the tanned hue that treatment in its waters leaves. A legend says that a local girl bravely wandered into the underworld and brought back its healing waters to the surface as a gift from the spirits below.

Natural mineral springs are a component of Sochi’s vast collection of natural attractions encompassed in the nearby Caucasian State Nature Biosphere Reserve . The Agura and Orekhovskaya waterfalls are perhaps the most strikingly beautiful representations of these attractions. Still, the mountains also hide mysterious caves where traces exist of the first humans migrated northward through here into Neanderthal-dominated Europe some 35,000 years ago. Sochi also boasts a large trout farm, as well as a spectacular dolphinarium and aqua theater. What is more, the air quality in Sochi is excellent, due in part to the fact that the city boasts nearly 500,000 acres of forests, with about 10,000 of those acres located in the city center! Sochi has a beautiful collection of parks, including a botanical garden and arboretum with rare and exotic species of tropical flora, as well as beautiful coastal promenades and trails.

Many local experts consider daily walks as important for the restoration of health to the body and mind, so it's not unusual to find many strollers on scenic pedestrian byways like the gorgeous Eagle Rocks path .

Sochi also contains a special tea plantation , the only one in Russia and the northernmost in the world. Its tea-house’s picturesque view of the Black Sea from the exclusive Dagomys district provides the perfect setting for sampling Russia’s home-grown offerings. Another interesting fact about this city is that it is merely a 37-hour train ride away from Russia’s capital Moscow !

In addition to its status as a resort city, Sochi is known for its sports facilities . For example, Sochi tennis schools have trained such athletes as Maria Sharapova.

With so much local attention to health and exercise, the International Olympics Committee found Sochi to be the obvious choice to host the 2014 Winter Games . The 22nd Winter Olympics welcomed thousands of visitors, and the attention of millions of international television viewers, to this proud resort area. The Games were a first for the Russian Federation - the Moscow Olympics of 1980 were, in fact, hosted by the Soviet Union, a now an extinct country.

The city has undergone several immense changes with billions of rubles spent preparing the city and the nearby Krasnaya Polyana skiing area for hosting this world event. All competitions took place in two areas: the newly constructed Coastal Cluster, for indoor ice events, and the Mountain Cluster - featuring a renovated Krasnaya Polyana for all downhill and skiing sports. The two clusters are only 30 minutes apart, making the 22nd Winter Olympic games one of the most compacts ever held. The Russian Formula 1 Grand Prix is held here until at least 2020, and Sochi is one of the host towns for the 2018 FIFA World Cup . So it is fair to say that Sochi is clearly familiar with top-notch athletes! It would be fair to say that Sochi is long used to being among the most glamorous spots in Russia. Since 1909, Russian glitterati have thronged here, and movie stars have been a regular feature at the city’s Kinotavr Film Festival every June since 1991. The Russian president himself maintains a dacha near the tea plantation in Dagomys, which is used to entertain foreign heads of state.

Best Things to Do in Sochi

• Catch the relaxing vibe of resorts and beaches of the Black Sea
• Explore the Olympic Park of 2014 and the famous Riviera Dolphinarium
• Get inspired bu the natural marvels in Sochi surroundings
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10 Things to Do in Sochi If You Love Nature

Host to 2014 Winter Olympics , Sochi is now mostly known for the snowy slopes of Krasnaya Polyana and Rosa Khutor Alpine resort. However, the “Russian Riviera” is much more than a glorified ski-resort. With its picturesque waterfalls and pristine lakes, alpine meadows and spruce-fir forests, snow-capped mountains and dreamy river valleys, Sochi is an ultimate nature lover’s dream.

Aul tkhagapsh.

Founded in the middle of the 19th century, this village only consists of two streets and two lanes. Circled by a picturesque chestnut forest, Aul Tkhagapsh is surrounded by many visually-arresting natural landmarks – a mysterious rock formation called “the canyon of a hundred crying eyes”, beautiful waterfalls with organically formed stone basins and the Tiger cave, which is called so because of the whimsical clay dripstones. Despite its tiny size, the village itself has a lot to offer. You can see the only wooden mosque on the coast, learn about the customs and traditions of the Adyghe people, try on traditional clothes and taste authentic food and local wines.

Aul Tkhagapsh, Krasnodar Krai, Russia

If you love picturesque ancient ruins put the Loo Temple on your must-see list. Drowning in the lush greenery of the Sochi National Park, Loo Temple is the remains of a 10th-century Byzantine temple, that’s been ruined and reconstructed multiple times. The temple was used as a place of worship and a fortification over the years.

Loo Temple, Bolshoy Sochi, Krasnodar Krai,Russia

Aibga Ridge

This spectacular mountain ridge stretches for 23 kilometers and has the Rosa Khutor Alpine Resort nestled at its feet. The ridge comprises of 10 peaks, with the four tallest being the best known: Aigba peak I (2391 m), peak II (2450,5 m), peak III (2462,7 m) and Black Pyramid (2375,3 m). Save a day or two to explore the ridge, full of rapid rivers, alpine meadows and waterfalls.

Aibga Ridge, Krasnodar Krai, Russia

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Achepsinskie Waterfalls

To admire the spectacular views that Achepsinskie Waterfalls offer, you’ll have to endure a pretty tiring trekking route through the Achishkho Mountain to the Achipse River. But those striking panoramas are totally worth the sweat and while the trekking may be tough going, it has a very decent infrastructure.

Achipse River, Krasnodar Krai, Russia

Khmelevskie Lakes

Located almost 2000 meters above sea level, Khmelevskie Lakes is an alpine lake system, named after the Russian botanist Vikenty Khmelevsky. Spread around emerald-green alpine meadows and surrounded by lush green forests, there are four rather sizable overgrown lakes and a few smaller ones.

Khmelevskie Lake, Krasnodar Krai, Russia

Lake Kardyvach

Arguably the most popular tourist spot near Sochi, Lake Kardyvach is simply breathtaking. Situated 44 kilometers from the Krasnaya Polyana resort at the altitude of 1838 meters, the lake stays frozen for seven to eight months a year and even in summer the water temperature is never hotter than 12℃. The water in the lake changes its color depending on the time of year: in spring it turns green and in autumn it becomes dark blue, and no matter what season, it’s unbelievably clear. Lake Kardyvach, Krasnodar Krai, Russia

Akhshtyrskaya Cave

A unique monument of prehistoric architecture, Akhshtyrskaya Cave is set on the right side of Akhshtyrskaya Gorge, about 120m above the Mzymta River and 185m above sea level. The cave begins with a 20m corridor and then gets divided into two halls, 10m and 8m wide. The cave has been heavily explored by archaeologists, who discovered traces of Neanderthal culture dating back to 40,000 BC.

Akhshtyrskaya Cave, Bolshoy Sochi, Krasnodar Krai,Russia

Shakhe River

Sochi’s second most significant river, Shakhe begins high in the mountains and flows down to the Black Sea . 59 kilometers long, the river has some amazing natural attractions in its valley: Dzhegosh Gorge, 33 waterfalls, stone lake basins, ancient oak trees, rare plant life and so much more.

Shakhe River, Krasnodar Krai,Russia

Ethnicities and religions

Sochi is one of the most multinational cities in Russia with people of more than 100 ethnic groups living there. Most of them are ethnic Russians (68%), the important minorities are Armenians, Ukrainians, Georgians, Greeks, Circassians, Belorussians, Tatars, and Jews.

Russian is the predominant language spoken by almost everyone in the city, including nearly all minorities, but many local placenames came from Abkhazian and Circassian languages. The most commonly used ones include "pse" / "psh" / "psta" (water), "akh" (high), and "nykh" (holy).

The major part of Sochi inhabitants are Orthodox Christians (80%). There are also Muslims (5%), Catholics and Jews. Orthodox cathedrals are represented in all the parts of the city. The only Catholic cathedral in Central Sochi was built in 1997 (most churchgoers are Catholic Armenians). There is also a mosque, albeit a very small and remote one (in Tkhagapsh community, 15 km towards the mountains from Lazarevskoe). The city authorities are planning to build a new mosque and a synagogue by 2014.

Orientation

Greater Sochi occupies 105 km along the Black Sea coastline. Its total area is 3,500 km² (3 times as large as Moscow ). However, most of the population is spread along the narrow coastline stripe, while the mountain area (1,900 square km) mostly belongs to Sochi National Park and partly to Caucasian Biosphere Reserve . The city alignment is from north-west to south-east, from the neighboring city of Tuapse right to the Russian border with Abkhazia .

Greater Sochi has 4 administrative districts. Central Sochi District is the core of the city and its most developed and populated part. Many of the city attractions, hotels and most shopping centers are there. During the summer season, Central Sochi is usually overcrowded and traffic-jammed. Lazarevskoye District is the largest (1744 km 2 ) and the longest (65 km coastline) one among Sochi districts, includes 34 sub-districts, most of them are spread along the sea shore. Lazarevskoe district is less urbanized that other ones in Greater Sochi. In fact it has many various settlements, often poorly connected with each other and lacking basic infrastructure. Khosta District is to the south-east from Central Sochi, this district contains some major attractions, such as Akhun mountain . While Adler District is the city's important transport hub, which includes Sochi International Airport, Adler train terminal (final point for most trains going to Greater Sochi) and the only open border crossing with Abkhazia . The role of Adler is rapidly increasing now because it will host all the Olympic venues for the 2014 Games (the Olympic coastal cluster at Imeretinskaya lowland and the mountain cluster at Krasnaya Polyana ). By 2014 the look of Imeretinskaya lowland and Krasnaya Polyana has drastically changed, as well as the local transport infrastructure.

The best developed, urbanized and monolithic part of Greater Sochi is the coastline between Dagomys (south-east of Lazarevskoe district) and Imeretinskaya lowland of Adler district.

Like elsewhere in Russia, the Russian rouble (RUB) is the only currency officially accepted in the city. Money exchange is not a problem, but use only official counters at banks and avoid people offering you exchange at major transport hubs. By Russian legislation passport is needed for exchange operations.

Sochi has many ATMs, especially in Central Sochi and Adler. You may withdraw not only roubles, but also dollars or euro at some of them (approximately 10% of all ATMs). Take into account, that Visa and MasterCard are widespread in Russia, but American Express cards are usually not accepted even at major tourist places. Also, expect possible problems with paying by card at minor shops or restaurants and at small private hotels. Have some cash with you for such cases.

Sochi is among several Russian seaports, where international tourists have the opportunity of visa-free entry for up to 72 hours (applicable for cruise ships and ferry line passengers only). Check limitations and requirements carefully before use.

For other foreign visitors standard Russian visa requirements apply.

International flights

There are regular air connections with Vienna ( Austrian Airlines [ dead link ] ), Istanbul ( Turkish Airlines ), and Tel-Aviv ( Rossiya Airlines ). Also Belgrade (air serbia, 2022)

Former Soviet Union countries are also connected to Sochi:

Yerevan , Armenia ( Ural Airlines ), Minsk , Belarus ( Belavia ), Chișinău , Moldova ( Air Moldova ), Tashkent , Uzbekistan ( Rossiya ), and Dushanbe , Tajikistan ( Tajik Air ).

Domestic flights

Several flights per day connect Sochi with Moscow and Saint Petersburg . Other major cities of Russia, such as Kazan , Krasnodar , Krasnoyarsk , Perm , Rostov-on-the-Don , Samara , Yekaterinburg and others are also connected by air with Sochi.

Key carriers:

• Aeroflot [ dead link ] - flights to Sochi from Sheremetyevo airport, Moscow
• Nordavia [ dead link ] - flights from Arkhangelsk
• S7 - flights to Sochi from Domodedovo airport, Moscow
• Sky Express - domestic discounter, flights to Sochi from Vnukovo airport, Moscow
• Utair - flights from Tyumen , Ufa and Surgut
• Yakutia [ dead link ] - flights from Yakutsk

Airport transfer

By bus/marshrutka:

• 51 - from the airport to Adler (central market)
• 105 , 124 - from the airport to Sochi central railroad station
• 135 - from the airport to Krasnaya Polyana

Taxi service at the airport is chaotic, taxi drivers can rarely speak English, and the declared price for a ride can be inadequate. To protect yourself, book taxi or hotel transfer in advance. The price varies greatly depending on the district you are going to.

• Sky Express Taxi ( airport transfers only ), ☏ +7 8622 358-100 . SkyExpress discounter airline offers the airport taxi transfer as an addition to other flight services (don't expect discount prices for that).  
• Taxi Galant ( airport transfers only ), ☏ +7 918 101 0342 . Transfers from Sochi International airport to any part of Greater Sochi and back. Order in advance, at least 2 hours, or better one day prior to ride.  

Russian Railway company has completed a two-way railway to Sochi airport and it is the easiest way to get to Sochi Adler from the airport. Tickets are fairly cheap and the train goes approximately every hour.

Sochi has two major rail terminals in Central Sochi and Adler. However, most trains make short stops at small transit stations of Great Sochi: Lazarevskaya, Loo, Dagomys, Matsesta and Khosta. Tickets can be purchased via Russian Railways website , at RZD counters, or via travel agencies. RZD opens ticket sales 45 days prior to ride, book in advance during the high season.

There are regular train connections with key cities of Russia, and also with major cities of Belarus and Ukraine . Round-the-year destinations include:

International:

• Kyiv , Ukraine (30 hours)
• Minsk and Gomel , Belarus (34-39 hours)
• Kaliningrad (64 hours, via Vilnius , Lithuania )
• Sukhum , Abkhazia (from Adler station, 5 hours)
• Moscow (25-28 hours, speed trains and 15 hours route are planned to be launched by 2014 Olympics)
• Saint Petersburg (40-49 hours)
• Chelyabinsk (64 hours)
• Kazan (49 hours)
• Krasnodar (6-7 hours)
• Krasnoyarsk (95 hours)
• Novosibirsk (81 hours)
• Perm (68 hours)
• Rostov-on-the-Don (14 hours)
• Samara (43 hours)
• Saratov (32 hours)

During the high season (May to September) the number of trains and the diversity of destinations increase dramatically.

The M4/E115 road connects Sochi with Moscow (1660 km) via Voronezh (1150 km), Rostov-on-the-Don (570 km) and Krasnodar (300 km).

The quality of this busy road differs from a narrow serpentine to a highway depending on its section, tending to improve during last years. Normally it takes 2 days to reach the city from Moscow and 5-9 hours from Krasnodar , depending on traffic.

Going to Sochi from Europe you can use transit roads through Ukraine or Turkey . In the last case a car can be transferred to Sochi from Trabzon by ferry. Entering Sochi via Georgia and Abkhazia is impossible because the border between these two countries is closed.

Sochi main bus terminal is near the main train terminal in Central Sochi. The second important terminal is in Adler.

International route destinations:

• Chișinău , Moldova (30 hours, except Fridays and Sundays)
• Odesa , Ukraine (27 hours, weekly by Sundays)
• Sukhum , Abkhazia (4.5 hours, 3 times a day)

Major domestic route destinations:

• Anapa (10 hours, daily)
• Astrakhan (26.5 hours, daily)
• Krasnodar (8 hours, 2 times a day)
• Maykop (8 hours, 2 times a day)
• Makhachkala (27 hours, daily)
• Nalchik (17.5 hours, daily)
• Novorossiysk (8.5 hours, daily)
• Rostov-on-the-Don (12.5 hours, odd days)
• Stavropol (14 hours, 2 times a day)

Going to Sochi by a cruise ship or by a regular ferry can be an attractive opportunity to visit Russia without a visa . Passengers are allowed to stay up to 72 hours at Russian territory if they live at the cruise ship or at the hotel, which is arranged for this particular group tourist program.

Unsurprisingly, up to now, most international tourists come to Sochi by cruise ships (please check the itinerary).

The seaport of Sochi [ dead link ] operates several regular international routes, mainly in the period from May to October:

• Fast ferry from Trabzon , Turkey - 3.5 hours, May to October, 2 times a week
• From Batumi , Georgia — 4.5 hours, daily, open only for citizens of Russia, Georgia , and CIS countries.

Ferry tickets from Sochi can be usually purchased only at the port, 1 day prior to departure.

There are also regular ship connections with neighbouring cities of Novorossiysk , Tuapse and Gagra , Abkhazia .

Within Central Sochi most distances are walkable, with some regard to hilly landscape and appropriate physical efforts needed.

Other districts of the city have significant spaces between their parts, so it's better to use some transport to get, for example, from Matsesta to Kudepsta or from Loo to Lazarevskoe . To walk between districts and sub-districts of Greater Sochi is also usually not convenient due to lack of sidewalks, hilly terrain, and intensive traffic.

It may seem that the city extended along the sea coast should have long promenades. In fact, most of the coastline space behind the beach is taken by the railroad. So, the only real promenade is between Riviera Park and Dendrarium of Central Sochi. The other one is under construction in the Olympic Park of Adler.

Due to the resort specifics of Sochi, the usual approach there is to measure the distance in meters from the beach. This may play a bad joke: you can find yourself at a hotel or apartment close to the sea, but far away from any infrastructure and transportation. So, be attentive while booking.

By wheelchair

Generally, Russia has a huge gap in the level of accessibility for people with disabilities. Several cities have started their improvement programs in this area, and Sochi is among them. The accessible city is a requirement for 2014 Paralympic Games organization.

So far, at least the airport facilities and new commuter trains in Sochi are accessible. The project to create the accessibility map of Sochi has been launched in 2011, giving the start to the same all-Russian project. Hopefully, next few years will bring the significant improvement in the city's accessibility, as it happened in Khanty-Mansiysk prior to another Paralympic sport event.

Fischt Olympic Stadium

Watch football at a stadium that has hosted the 2014 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, and the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The home team are PFC Sochi, who play in the Russian National League, the second tier of Russian football. Until 2018 they were FC Dynamo St Petersburg, then they upped sticks and moved down to the Black Sea. The stadium (capacity over 47,000) is actually in Adler, 25 km east of Sochi and only 3 km from the border with Georgia. Long-distance and metro trains terminate at nearby Olympic Park Station.

Festivals and events

• Kinotavr . Open Russian Film Festival - conducted in June annually since 1990. Kinotavr is the largest Russian film festival attracting the top talents of Russian cinema: directors, producers, actors, writers, and photographers.  
• 43.41 39.969 2 Sochi Autodrom , Triumfalnaya St 26, Adler . This motor-racing circuit in the Adler Olympic complex hosts the Russian Grand Prix as part of the Formula One tournament in autumn. The next F1 race was cancelled and racing in Russia with F1 was suspended indefinitely. ( updated Oct 2021 )

Russian language

There is no sustainable practice of learning Russian as a foreign language in Sochi. Two places can offer such classes potentially:

• Russian University of Peoples' Friendship (RUDN), Sochi Branch ( Department of additional education ), Kuibysheva, 24 - Adler , ☏ +7 8622 40-0895 , [email protected] . This university is among leaders in Russia by number of international students. The Sochi branch is, however, a small one, so your case with Russian study will be probably solved on individual basis.  
• Sphere Travel , 11 Navaginskaya Str. - Central , ☏ +7 8622 64-6305 , [email protected] . This company several years ago offered the following programs of Russian : general, intensive, business, speaking, and academic Russian. Due to lack of students please check the actual situation before planning study.  

Getting a work permit in Russia is not usually an easy process, at least if you are not a former Soviet Union state citizen. Sochi can possibly be an exception, as the preparation of Olympic Games will create many new workplaces. Some of the potential vacancies will require international expertise. Highly qualified international candidates will have simplified visa and work permit procedure.

There are potential vacancies for English tutors, as the demand for English study in the city is constantly growing. It is also possible to find sport instructors' jobs, in both winter (skiing, snowboarding) and summer (diving, yachting, kitesurfing) sports, but knowledge of Russian is essential for those positions.

Mobile operators

Sochi has the traditional set of Russian mobile operators:

GSM 900/1800:

• Beeline ( by Vympelcom ), ☏ +7 861 945-95-95 .  
• Megafon , ☏ +7 800 333 0500 .  
• MTS ( Mobile TeleSystems ), ☏ +7 800 333 0890 .  
• Tele2 . A multinational European provider, operating in 22 countries including Russia . Tele 2 has its network in many regions of the country, excluding Moscow . Comparing to others, it is the cheapest operator, but having the smallest coverage area.  
• Skylink . The all-Russian CDMA operator, having less subscribers, than GSM operators, but popular for faster and cheaper mobile Internet service.  
• Yota , toll-free: +7 800 700 55 00 .  

Check roaming prices before using non-Russian sim-card, especially those for mobile Internet. Some standards of mobile connection are not supported in Russia , e.g. those for Japan and United States .

Staying in Russia for a week or more, it's definitely worth to buy a local sim-card, but be aware, that a passport is needed for that. The easiest way refill a local mobile account is to use an ATM for that. Most ATMs have bilingual interfaces, allowing numerous kinds of payments, including those for mobile services by local operators.

Caucasian Biosphere Reserve

This natural reserve has the second-largest protected area in Europe and the largest one in Caucasus mountains. It occupies the mountain ridges of Krasnodar Krai, Adygea and Karachay-Cherkessia , including part of Greater Sochi metropolitan area (Khosta district and Krasnaya Polyana), bordering Sochi National Park.

Caucasian Biosphere Reserve is the richest biodiversity treasury, having no equivalents in Russia and an international value as a piece of untouched nature with primeval habitats. Reasonably, this unique area is included into the UNESCO World Heritage List . The official site of the reserve is available in Russian only.

Two exclaved parts of the reserve, those are in Greater Sochi, are easy to visit: yew & boxtree wood at Khosta and the wild animals nursery at Krasnaya Polyana . To visit other parts of the reserve, you need to get special permit, requiring the following:

• list of participants,
• passport details and passport copies of each participant,
• name of the group's leader,
• planned route/itinerary,
• period of stay (number of days),
• entrance fee

In Sochi you can get the permit at the reserve's headquarter: Karl Marx street, 8, room 10, Adler district, Sochi.

A resort town at the Black Sea coast to the north-west from Sochi, one of the most popular domestic summer destinations of Russia. Gelendzhik has both natural and leisure attractions. Gelendzhik's aquapark is the largest in the country, and its surroundings have very beautiful scenery. The town is home to International Sea Aviation Conference , which is conducted there each two years.

Gelendzhik is a transit point for several buses going from Sochi (4-5 daily). A ride will take 5.5 hours. The Sea Flight fast ferry going from Sochi to Novorossiysk and back also makes stops at Gelendzhik.

Novorossiysk

This Krasnodar Krai 's 3rd largest city is the biggest Russian port at the Black Sea and the main cement industry center in Southern Russia . The majority of the city's tourist attractions are related to the II World War, when Novorossiysk was among Russian key battlefields. The most known memorials are Malaya Zemlya, Defence Line (Rubezh Oborony) and Death Valley (Dolina Smerti).

Novorossiysk's vicinities have beautiful nature of Caucasus foothills. On the top of local natural wonders is the amazing Abrau lake , the biggest one at Northern Caucasus. Just nearby the wine manufacture of Abrau-Dyurso is located, making this place the capital of Russian sparkling wine (tours to Abrau-Dyurso with wine testing are available). There are also several smaller beach resorts around the city.

There are several ways to get from Sochi to Novorossiysk. Buses go daily (8.5 hours). Sea Flight speed ferry connection operates from May to October, 3 times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays). One-way ride will take about 5 hours. It is also possible to get to Novorossiysk by train via Krasnodar .

Another important Russian port at the Black Sea and the closest neighbour town bordering Greater Sochi. This is mostly industrial and transport hub, attracting fewer number of tourists, than other Russian Black Sea coastal locations. But anyway, Tuapse is good for a single-day trip from Sochi. After a look at the downtown, the awesome surroundings should be visited. There are several very scenic cliffs around, the top of those is Kiselev's Rock , a 46-meter upright cliff breaking down into the sea. There are also quite a few ancient cultural remains, such as table-stones, around Tuapse.

Any elektrichka or long-distance train from Sochi stops in Tuapse, the frequent bus/marshrutka connection is also available. Expect 2 - 2.5 hours for one-way trip from Central Sochi.

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The Top 12 Things to Do in Sochi, Russia

The Olympics were only the beginning

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Many non-Russian travelers had never heard of Sochi prior to the city's hosting of the 2014 Winter Olympics. Local tourism authorities, for their part, have struggled to convert the buzz the games generated ( which, let's face it, was largely negative ) into meaningful tourism numbers—let their failure benefit you. Sochi remains one of Europe's best-kept tourism secrets, and these are the top 12 things to do there.

Swim in the Black Sea

Sacha Mordovets/Getty Images

Sochi's popularity among Russians stems mostly from its location on the Black Sea, and the fact that it's warm basically year round. As a result, whether you sun yourself on crowded stretches of shoreline like Sochi City Beach or the aptly-named Sunny Beach, or take excursions to Rosa Beach Esto-Sadok or Solinki, one thing is for sure: A swim in the Black Sea is in your future!

Go Back to the Time of Stalin

Kristian Malham/Getty Images

Although many travelers associate Sochi with the 2014 games, the city is actually quintessentially Soviet. Its prominence in modern times owes itself almost completely to a 1934 general reconstruction ordered by Joseph Stalin, who had a Dacha (aka Summer House) near the Black Sea, one you can visit today. Other Soviet architecture in Sochi includes Sochi Railway Station and the Winter Theatre. The world history that took place in Yalta on the Crimean Peninsula ( which most non-Russians still consider to be part of Ukraine ) is of even greater significance, having seen Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin meet after the end of World War II.

Or Even Further Back in History

Dmitry Naumov/Getty Images

Of course, Sochi has been populated since long before World War II, the Soviet Union or the Russian State in any form. Strucutres like Godlik Fortress and Loo Temple have stood since the Byzantine era, in fact, and are some of the most impressive examples of pre-Russian architecture in the entire federation.

Make Friends With Adorable Dolphins

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Like Vladivostok in Russia's Far East , Sochi is home to a dedicated place for getting up-close and personal with dolphins. Even better, Riviera Dolphinarium is not only home to its namesake animal, but is a full-service amusement park complete with rides, shows, concessions and more.

Take in a Black Sea Panorama

Staying in Sochi's center makes it easy to see how important the Black Sea is to the city. But if you want to get a sense of the sea's geographical grandeur, getting a higher perspective. Specifically, take a day trip to Mount Akhun, which on clear days afford you a breathtaking panorama of the Black Sea lapping at Sochi, which looks like a toy town from such heights.

Expand Your Mind While You Beat the Heat (or Escape the Cold)

a8764/Getty Images

Sochi is warm for much of the year, as stated above, but whether you need to escape sweltering heat or an unseasonable chill, Sochi's climate-controlled museums are the most fulfilling place to seek shelter. From Sochi Art Museum (another Stalin-era structure), to the illumination Sochi History Museum, to the Sochi Museum of Sports Honor (which opened just in time for the 2014 games, as its name not-so-subtly hints), Sochi makes it easy for you to gain knowledge while you wipe your sweat (or the snow that has fallen on you!) away.

Savor Sochi Seafood

Anna Kurzaeva/Getty Images

It should go without saying that Sochi is a wonderful place to eat fish and other seafood, since it sits on the Black Sea. An interesting quirk, however, is that while dedicated seafood restaurants like high end Sinee More serve up delicious sea creatures, restaurants that specialize in the cuisine of former Soviet republics (Vody Lagidze, for example, serves Georgian dishes) can offer a more interesting take on the impossibly fresh fish you enjoy as you explore Sochi.

Go Chasing Waterfalls

Dmitry Shishov/Getty Images

TLC's timeless 90s advice hasn't aged well for travelers—who among us doesn't love chasing waterfalls? In Sochi, you have plenty of options for camera-ready cascades. While the smaller flows at Agurskoe Canyon are closest to the city, truly adventurous travelers can go by car to the Lazarevskoe District, where as many as 33 waterfalls await you, depending on how much rain fell in advance of your trip.

Discover Russia's Underrated Wine Scene

Vostok/Getty Images

Russia is known among drinkers mostly for its vodka , but the country does produce wine—and 60 per cent of this production occurs in an around Sochi. While a day excursion to sample Abrau Durso sparkling wines is the most popular and scenic option, you can find locally-produced wines in the majority of Sochi's restaurants.

See the Olympics, Even if You Missed Them

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If you missed the Sochi Olympics, there's good news and there's better news. The good news is that much of the Olympic Coastal Cluster, which sits right on the Black Sea, still stands. From purpose-built structures like Bolshoy Ice Dome, to the aforementioned Sochi Railway Station, a walk through the former Olympic site is just like a trip to the actual games, except without defective hotel rooms (that's the better news!).

Taste the Caucasus in Abkhazia

Victoria Koltsova/Getty Images

Though Sochi sits on the Black Sea, it's the de-facto gateway to the Caucasus Mountain region—and not only Russia's portion of it. If you have only a couple of days after finishing in Sochi, for example, you might settle for a trip to the Republic of Abkhazia (which is politically part of Russia ) to see attractions like New Athos Monastery and Cave and Lake Ritsa. If you have longer, however, you could travel to the independent nations of Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, which together make up the regions most travelers think of as "The Caucasus."

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• 9 Exquisite Places To Visit In Sochi For An Enthralling Vacation In 2024!

The ‘Summer Capital’ of Russia, Sochi is a city sitting in the lap of the Black Sea. With the weather being temperate almost year long, Sochi is paradisiacal for all kinds of travelers ranging from adventure seekers to tranquil lovers. With limitless places to visit in Sochi , lush green vegetation, soul-soothing mountains lining the coastline, palm trees covering the city’s land, beautiful contemporary architecture, and warm sunny climate, this city has earned a place in the bucket list of most of the wanderers, especially during summertime. Sochi most definitely does justice to the tag ‘summer beach resort’ given to it.

The Black Sea Pearl allows you to experience a perfect blend of a thrilling and relaxing vacation. Once a host of the biggest event in soccer in 2018- Fifa World Cup, Sochi experiences at least a double population with tourists in summer! The nightclubs boom out on the coastline and the city becomes lively and vibrant. Tourists get to encounter happy, friendly, and helpful faces when visiting the summer capital of Russia. The unparalleled hospitality by the locals makes one feel like they are at home. Take a visit to these places below when traveling to Russia and you will certainly not regret any second of it!

9 Places To Visit In Sochi

Satiate your thirst for an adrenaline rush by visiting the mesmerizing mountains, achieve peacefulness and calmness in the various parks, and get in touch with the culture through numerous museums on your trip to the fierce land of Sochi.

• Akhun Mountain
• ‘Riviera’ Park
• Sochi Arboretum
• Sochinsky Natsional’nyy Park
• Tiso- Samshitovaya Roshcha
• Sochi Art Museum
• Roza Khutor
• Marine Station

1. Akhun Mountain

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The highest point in Sochi, Mount Akhun allows you to witness the panorama view of the beautiful city. Mount Akhun houses a small Romanesque-like view tower at the top of the mountain. While ascending the tower, visitors get to encounter various scenic views of the lush greens, never-ending breathtaking mountain ranges, and the concrete jungle of the city. Whether time you choose between beautiful early sunrise or picturesque sunset, this tower gives you a chance to lose yourself in the mesmerizing views of the landscape.

Must Read: 12 Best Things To Do In Sochi For A Frolicsome Getaway To Russia This Year!

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2. ‘Riviera’ Park

For travelers seeking to be closer to nature and yet get a chance to partake in various exciting activities, Park ‘Riviera’ will give you a perfect opportunity to spend your time in tranquility. The park is full of various common and a few rare species of flora along with other exciting sights including dolphin beach, recreational area, fountains, Oceanarium, and many more. ‘Riviera’ Park is nothing but one of the most peaceful and tranquil places to visit in Sochi.

Suggested Read: 8 Reasons Why Visiting Russia In December Is A Great Idea!

3. Sochi Arboretum

Home to numerous unique flora and fauna, Arboretum is an epitome of surreal landscape architecture. Along with trees and shrubs from all over the world, Arboretum also blankets Australian, Mediterranean, North American, Chinese, and Caucasian flora. Ponds, fountains, pavilions, and sculptures on the path add to the appeal and vibe of the park. To get a perfect view from the top, one can make use of the cable-way that connects to the highest point of the park and walk back down, enjoying the serene surroundings and wonders of mother nature. Arboretum is one of the most amazing places to visit in Sochi, giving you an insight into the flora and fauna from countries in varied continents.

Suggested Read: Summer In Russia: For Soaking In The Country’s Most Splendid Vibes On Your Next Trip!

4. Sochinsky Natsional’nyy Park

Russia’s first national park was founded with only one purpose- to preserve the dreamlike natural biodiversity of the country. This national park envelops that domain where the forest-clad foothills of the Great Caucasus Mountain Range submerge with the Black Sea. Distinguished and numerous species of contrasting flora and fauna can be found in this pristine jungle. Visitors also get to witness rare animals such as golden eagle, bearded vulture, Caucasus wood grouse, and many more on their thrilling escapade to this national park.

Suggested Read: 12 Day Trips From Moscow To Explore The Beautiful Capital City Of Russia!

5. Tiso- Samshitovaya Roshcha

Nothing less than a paradise for adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike, these backwoods are thousands of years old. These forests give you an opportunity to dive into a waterbed surrounded by mighty mountains, walk around and in between ancient yet majestic trees, and witness unique and interesting trunks of varied species of bushes. The picturesque scenery of these forests takes away the breath of the spectators, making one feel calm and excited at the same time.

Suggested Read: Russia In March: An All Inclusive Guide When The Snow-Clogged Wheels Turn Again!

6. Lake Ritsa

Nestled in the green forest clad mountains, and few kilometers away from Sochi, Lake Ritsa is one of the deepest lakes in Abkhazia. The clear blue waters with a tint of turquoise, lush green mountains in the background, and serenity in the surroundings make this lake one of the most popular attractions of the city. The soul-soothing and charming landscapes has definitely added Lake Ritsa to the list of best places to visit near Sochi.

Suggested Read: 8 Compelling Reasons To Go Witness Snowfall In Russia In Winter

7. Sochi Art Museum

Housing centuries old gold and silver weapons in the present day, Sochi Art Museum was initially the administrative center of the Authority of the All Russian Central Executive Committee of the Soviet Union. This art museum envelops masterpieces by local and international artists, paintings, graphics, and art from the 19th century through the 21st century. Master paintings by Aivazovsky, Polenov, Serov, and many more can be seen on the display.

Suggested Read: Visiting Russia In April? Here Are All The Places You Can Visit To Enjoy The Chilly Weather

8. Roza Khutor

Once a host of 2014 Winter Olympics, Roza Khutor is a world-class ski resort located a few kilometers from Sochi. Roza Khutor is one of the focal locales for the inhabitants of Sochi and other neighboring cities. Cable-car allows visitors traveling in the offseason or who is not a fan of skiing to experience stunning views of the snow-clad mountains. One can also indulge in scrumptious meals at one of the cafes established on the location with a dreamlike mountain range as their view. Roza Khutor is one of the best places to visit near Sochi to escape the sunny days of Sochi and cozy up in the snow-clad mountains.

9. Marine Station

An engineering landmark of the Russian government, Marine Station is the main Port of Sochi. This architectural monument reflects four seasons and four cardinal points via the magnificent sculptural pieces established over the three-tiered tower. A fountain with a statue representing goddess navigation, polished stainless steel tower in the center of the building, and the surreal view of the endless sea from the station has landed Marine Station to be one of the best places to visit in Sochi.

Further Read: 8 Hostels In Russia To Enjoy An Affordable, Fascinating And Comfortable Vacation

With so many beautiful and mesmerizing places to visit in Sochi, the summer beach capital is emerging as a focal point not only for the travelers from its neighboring cities but also for the tourists worldwide. Pleasant weather, warm and swimmable Black Sea almost throughout the year, forest-clad fierce mountains, and unparalleled hospitality makes Sochi one of the adventure-packed destinations in the world. Plan your escapade to Russia and experience a perfect blend of peaceful and thrilling vacation.

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A pastry-chef turned writer, Srishti has a knack for traveling to various corners of the country and penning them down in the most justifiable manner possible. When she’s not writing you can find her petting mountain dogs and not eating cottage cheese!

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Sochi travel guide

Sochi tourism | sochi guide, you're going to love sochi.

Sochi is one of Russia's most southern cities, located on the Black Sea coast almost 1,000 miles south of Moscow. It's Russia's busiest seaside resort, attracting more than 4 million visitors every year to its mountains and sweeping beaches. It is perhaps most famous for hosting the Winter Olympics in 2014.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Sochi

1. the history.

Sochi has a host of historical sights, including Stalin's Summer Residence, Loo Temple, Godlik Fortress and the city's Empire Style Stalin Era grand buildings.

2. Monuments

The city has a number of monuments of artistic merit, including the Anchor and Cannon, statue of Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin, Golden Fleece and the Singing Fountains.

There are lots of good museums in Sochi to explore, such as the Sochi Art Museum, History Museum and Museum of Sport Honor.

4. Sochi Olympic Park

The Olympic Park facilities offer great winter sports opportunities and are worth a visit in themselves.

5. Sochi National Park

Sochi National Park contains some splendid natural sights, such as Mount Akhun - with its views all the way to Turkey - and Agurskoe Canyon.

What to do in Sochi

1. sochi arboretum: a green haven in the middle of sochi.

The Sochi Arboretum is a great way to start your tour of this picturesque city. Many have called it "Italy in Sochi", and that's all thanks to its spectacular views of the Black Sea, the lush green gardens, winding cobblestone walkways and exotic roaming birds such as peacocks and ostriches. Besides this natural beauty, decorative statues and cooling fountains are peppered around the wide territory of old trees. When you're ready for a breath of fresh air, journey up the hill to the Arboretum.

2. Museum of History of the Resort City of Soch: A Blast from the Past

Sochi City is well-known amongst nationals for being the "resort city", a place you go to unwind and enjoy cool breezes and the waters of the Black Sea. But to get a real sense of the history of the area and the culture of the country, a visit to the Museum of History is in order. In its architecture, the majestic building is a nod to the neoclassical gilded styles of the 1930s. With its 14 rooms and 4,000 unique exhibits, visitors can trace the history and ethnography of the peoples of the coast of the Caucasus to Sochi.

3. Winter Theatre: An Orchestra of Nostalgia

The Winter Theatre is both an event and a space, a cultural institution and an experience -- one that will be forever memorable. Hearkening back to the grandeur of old mid-century Russia and to the opulence of well-known spaces like the Vienna Opera House, the Winter Theatre puts on extravagant ballet, opera and theatre performances. Enjoy an evening of classical Russian-style opera or theatrical performance. On the outside, the colonnaded building exudes majesty while, on the inside, visitors are regaled with performances that bring back nostalgia for a bygone era.

4. Sochi Art Museum: Refine Your Cultural Palate

Don't be fooled by Sochi's label of "resort town" because the extensive art collections and exhibits at the Sochi Art Museum are a testament to its cultural gravitas. The beautiful architecture of the building itself makes it the perfect place to house such piece of fine art. Like the entire Pompidou in Paris, the Social Art Museum grounds also have incredible outdoor sculptures. Art-lovers and enthusiasts can begin in the world of classical paintings and move on to modern day exhibitions featuring contemporary and local artists. There is also a wing dedicated to computerized installations and 3D displays of art.

5. Sochi National Park: Natural Beauty Beyond Mere Words

The winding, powerful waterfalls, the lush greenery and the roaming creatures like European bison and Persian leopards are just some of the draws of the Social National Park. Whether you're coming to back-country camp, head to a campsite with friends or simply spend the day by a fast-flowing stream with the mountains as your backdrop, the Sochi National Park feels like an entirely untouched and pristine landscape. Pack the trunk of a van and get ready to explore!

Where to Eat in Sochi

Lighthouse on Morskoy Pereulok offers interesting Uzbek dishes from ₽500, while Sinee More on Chernomorskaya Street is renowned as the finest restaurant in the city, with Mediterranean food from ₽2,500.

When to visit Sochi

Sochi has a sub-tropical climate and can be visited year-round. The resort does come to life in summer, however, with July and August being the peak months.

How to Get to Sochi

Sochi International Airport has a number of international connections to cities such as Vienna, Istanbul and to Central Asia and Eastern Europe. There are many domestic services. The bus into town costs from ₽50 depending on destination and a taxi costs ₽1,300

Sochi has good rail connections from Russia, Central Asia and Eastern Europe. The fare from Moscow is from around ₽2,000.

Sochi is connected to Moscow by the M4 and by the E97 along the Black Sea coast.

The city has numerous bus services from other Russian cities and international destinations. The 27 hour service from Astrakhan cost ₽1,300.

Airports near Sochi

Airlines serving sochi, where to stay in sochi.

The Olympic Hotel Sochi on Leningradskaya offers sea views from spacious rooms for ₽2,800 per night. The Rodina Grand Hotel & Spa on Vinogradnaya Street is the city's only five-star hotel, with luxury rooms from ₽12,500.

Popular Neighborhoods in Sochi

Central Sochi - has most of the big hotels, shopping and some of the major city attractions. It can get very busy in summer.

Lazarevskoye District - has most of the best coastal resort areas and is less built up than Central Sochi.

Adler District - is closest to the airport and train station and is the site of the Olympic Park.

Where to stay in popular areas of Sochi

Most booked hotels in sochi, how to get around sochi, public transportation.

Sochi has a good bus service covering the whole city. Bus numbers from 1-99 offer a fixed fare of just ₽9 regardless of distance.

There are lots of unofficial taxis in Sochi and even official ones rarely use the meter. Getting help from your hotel is a good idea. Initial fares are usually around ₽90 and then ₽35 per mile.

Sochi has very limited parking and traffic jams are common. Car rental is from around ₽1,800 per day.

The Cost of Living in Sochi

Shopping streets.

Shopping in Sochi tends to be focused on western-style malls. Alexandria on Moskovskaya Street is very central with a good selection of clothing and electronics stores, while Trade Gallery on Navaginskaya Street is good for local crafts and souvenirs.

Groceries and Other

A quart of milk in Sochi will cost ₽50, while a dozen eggs is priced at ₽66.

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Trip.Best: Sochi

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Things to do in sochi.

Sochi National Park

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Festival Concert Hall

Sochi State Circus

What to eat.

Pekarny dom Bulange

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Sochi Moments: Through Travelers' Eyes

Best of Sochi

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Sochi Park Tourism

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Sochi Travel Essentials

Ideal duration: 2 days

Best Time: May to October Read More

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

"The Most Quaint & Charming City Of The Country"

Sochi tourism.

Sochi is an idyllic seaside retreat that attracts hundreds of people to it each year, including celebrities and renowned politicians. In 2014, Sochi hosted the Winter Olympics, making it even more popular amongst tourists across the globe. The city is also called the Black Sea Pearl.

Think picturesque mountains, pretty shingle beaches and a nightlife to die for! Sochi is a popular spot among tourists, attracting a whopping total of more than 4 million visitors each year. It also has something on offer for everyone _ parks for nature lovers, museums and other sites for history lovers and beautiful beaches for some true R&R.

Things To Do In Sochi

Rosa Khutor Ski Resort

Park 'Riviera'

Park Arboretum

Frunze Park

33 Waterfalls

More on Sochi Travel

Currency in sochi, shopping in sochi, nightlife in sochi, history of sochi, language of sochi, sochi customs, religion of sochi, daily budget for sochi, exchanging money in sochi, best time to visit sochi, nearby places.

How to Reach Sochi

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Avoid these 10 top destinations at thanksgiving unless you love crowds — wait a week and you’ll have the place all to yourself.

Whatever happened to “over the river and through the woods?”

Seems like a whole lot of us are planning to venture a lot further afield than Grandmother’s house this Thanksgiving, according to the travel trackers at Google Flights — that is, unless Nana and Pop Pop happen to live at Disney World .

Orlando was ranked No. 1 on a list that claims to have revealed our innermost desires — and our travel plans — for the upcoming national day of gratefulness and gorging.

And the home of the House of Mouse wasn’t the only city on Google’s list that sounded a little bit too fun to be everyone heading off to spend a few restless nights on sofabeds with family .

For example, there’s the beach resort of Cancun, known for its all-inclusive resorts and sandy beaches , coming in right at No. 2 — though it is possible that everyone could be headed there to sample the turkey dishes the Yucatan Peninsula is known for.

The Mayans are said said to have revered the festively-attired Ocellated Turkey, unique to the region, according to the American Bird Conservancy. The bird winds up on local tables year-round, in various forms.

Google Flights said that the list was compiled based on frequency of queries for travel between Nov. 24 and Dec. 1 — here’s the complete list of the ten most-searched.

The Top 10 Destinations for Thanksgiving 2024

• #3 New York City
• #8 Los Angeles
• #9 Las Vegas
• #10 Honolulu

Thanksgiving week can be notoriously tough for travelers — and this year, the hordes are likely to be even horde-ier, as passenger numbers at U.S. airports have broken numerous records already in 2024.

The Sunday after Thanksgiving is expected to once again be the busiest day in any airport of the entire year, according to Nerdwallet , which said that the number of travelers that day is expected to set a new record once again.

On the flip side, the Thanksgiving crush typically gives way to one of the most affordable times of the year to venture out — the first half of December.

The quiet time between the two major American holidays is sometimes talked up as one of the best travel periods to any place that isn’t a holiday shopping hotspot, at least — thanks to lower airfares, better hotel rates and plenty of elbow room.

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