Theaters and museums
Museum and theater lovers will be interested in seeing:
- city theater named after Pushkin;
- local history museum;
- Museum Pirates of the Black Sea.
Pushkin Theater
Theater stage
At the beginning of the last century, a theater building was built in the city, which many associated with the Opera House in Odessa, built a little earlier. Today it is also one of the most beautiful buildings in Evpatoria.
It's not just the architecture that attracts tourists' attention. Everyone will be able to come to theater performances, comedy numbers, ballet and children's performances.
Mostly touring bands perform on stage. Quite often there are musical evenings or exhibitions.
Museum of Local Lore
Exhibits of the museum
It was opened in 1920. Throughout its existence, it has been located in the same building - a luxurious mansion that belongs to a local merchant.
Previously, the house was considered the most interesting building in the city. When they see the museum, tourists immediately appreciate its appearance, reflecting the Arabic style. There are cannons at the entrance. The museum's collection contains more than 100,000 objects that were found throughout the city throughout the entire period.
Museum Pirates of the Black Sea
Unusual exhibits
It is a very bright, interesting and slightly fabulous place.
In 2013, local youth decided to open an unusual museum in the city, which presents famous heroes and characters. The created environment will allow guests to temporarily feel like pirates.
The exhibits on display relate to different centuries and historical events related to piracy in the waters of the Black Sea. There is a separate corner where you can take themed photos. In total, there are more than 500 exhibits, including archaeological finds, pirate guns, coins and even parts of ships.
FAQ
What temples are worth visiting in Evpatoria?
The city has such famous objects as the Church of St. Elijah, St. Nicholas Church, and the Juma-Jami Mosque.
Holidays in Evpatoria with children
In addition to the beaches, children in the city will be interested in:
- aquapark;
- dolphinarium;
- dinopark.
Older children, especially those interested in history, should go on a tour of “Little Jerusalem” and the “Pirates of the Black Sea” museum. Children of any age will enjoy a walk through Frunze Park with the opportunity to try out the rides.
The sea in Evpatoria is shallow and warm, which creates ideal conditions for a children's resort
Religious buildings
There are quite a large number of religious sites in Evpatoria:
- complex of Karaite kenas;
- Dervish monastery;
- Juma-Jami Mosque;
- Yegie-Kapai Synagogue;
- Church of St. Elijah;
- St. Nicholas Cathedral.
Complex of Karaite kenas
Little Jerusalem in Evpatoria
is represented by several houses of worship and religious schools. The territory has utility buildings and courtyards. Previously, it was considered a sacred place for the Karaites.
Kenas are located on the alleys of the old city, surrounded by small houses. The complex simultaneously serves as an ethnographic museum, which appeared in the 19th century. Guests will be able to visit the restaurant, where they will be offered to taste delicious national dishes.
Dervish Monastery
Inside the monastery,
the monastery was built back in the 15th century and was a home for wandering monks. On one territory there is a mosque with a minaret, near which there is an inn. It is considered the oldest religious building in Yevpatoria, which was only returned to believers at the beginning of this century.
In the century before last there were 20 such monasteries on the peninsula, but today only one has survived.
It has simple architecture that reflects the life of the monks. You won't find any decor or elaborate details here. Once here, you can feel the atmosphere and energy of those times.
Juma-Jami Mosque
Juma-Jami
Today is considered a working religious center. The mosque is a reflection of Muslim architecture. The building is very old, as it was built in the mid-16th century. The main building materials were limestone and shell rock.
This is the only multi-domed mosque in Europe.
In the past, khan initiation ceremonies were held here. During the Soviet era, the mosque was closed and only in the early 90s it was repaired and reopened to believers.
Yegie-Kapai Synagogue
Hall in the synagogue
Appeared at the beginning of the last century. The building looks very unusual; it is the only religious Jewish site in Crimea that has managed to survive to this day.
During Soviet times, like most other places of worship, the synagogue was closed. Today it is under the leadership of the Jewish community.
In the early 2000s, restoration work was carried out here, and the temple began to welcome believers again.
Temple of St. Elijah
St. Elias Church
The Greek Orthodox Cathedral is located on the city embankment. It was erected at the beginning of the last century. Construction work took 7 years. Like many other places of worship in Crimea, this church did not work in Soviet times and only today has it been able to pass on to believers.
Today the temple is a cultural heritage under state protection. Services are held in the cathedral.
It is especially beautiful to walk along the embankment in the evening, when the lights turn on next to the church.
St. Nicholas Cathedral
The main cathedral of Evpatoria
It decorates the central part of the city. Construction work began at the end of the last century.
It is not surprising that the decision was made to build it in this city, because St. Nicholas is the patron saint of all travelers and seafarers.
The cathedral was closed after the revolution, and in our time it was returned to believers. It is an architectural monument that is under state protection. The building is very spacious and can accommodate up to 2000 people inside.
FAQ
Which lake is pink?
Lake Sasyk-Sivash has pink water.
Natural objects
Many tourists who come to the sea are interested in the natural beauty of the resort. There are several incredibly beautiful places in Evpatoria that everyone should see:
- lake Sasyk-Sivash;
- Moinak Lake.
Lake Sasyk-Sivash
Sasyk-Sivash
is considered the largest lake on the peninsula. It occupies an area of 75 square meters. km. The greatest depth is 130 cm.
The attractiveness and uniqueness of this place lies in the healing mud and the presence of unusual pink salt, which colors the water the same color.
The large presence of mineral elements has a beneficial effect on the human body. This is what arouses the interest of many tourists. The salt has this color due to the presence of bacteria produced by algae.
Moinak Lake
Mud treatments
Evpatoria is considered a famous balneological resort, which is due to the presence of lakes here. Moinak Lake is salty and is also famous for its healing mud, which is used for health procedures. Their deposits are located at the bottom of the lake.
Anyone can come here, but treatment procedures are available only after a medical consultation.
FAQ
Where in Evpatoria can you take a walk in the evenings?
For walks, you can choose Gorky Embankment or Valentina Tereshkeva Embankment, Theater Square.
Tips for staying in Evpatoria
Arriving in Evpatoria, you should:
- take a pedicab to see the city (it will also cost less);
- Be sure to use sunscreen to protect your skin from the scorching sun;
- collect dried herbs for tea or room aromatization;
It is better to buy herbal infusions in the store - purchase Crimean wine as a souvenir;
- buy a jar of Saki mud, salt, brine or cosmetics based on them.
Video: Evpatoria - getting to know the city
Walking parks, squares and streets
Some interesting places where you can take exciting walks include:
- Gorky embankment;
- walking route “Little Jerusalem”;
- park "Crimea in Miniature";
- Valentina Tereshkova embankment;
- theatre square;
- Frunze Park;
- dendopark.
Gorky Embankment
Coastline
The most popular walking place among vacationers.
- The embankment stretches for 1 kilometer and is the main symbol of the resort. Many buildings with interesting architecture dating back to the beginning of the 20th century were built along it.
- There are also cafes, restaurants, souvenir stalls, nightlife and other entertainment for adults and children.
In the early 2000s, the city turned 2,500 years old. By this time, large-scale reconstruction work had been carried out here. The paths were laid out with beautiful tiles, lanterns, wrought iron grilles, sculptures, and observation platforms were installed.
Walking route Little Jerusalem
Tourist route map
Those who like to take long walks around the city should definitely take note of this route. This is an excellent solution for those who come to Evpatoria not only for a beach holiday and evening entertainment. The excursion program includes visiting several places. The path starts from the Gezlev Gate. Along the route, tourists will see the following objects:
- abode of dervishes;
- Turkish baths;
- Armenian church;
- city of masters.
Park "Crimea in miniature"
Territory of the park
This place will be interesting to visit for all tourists who would like to see miniature copies of all the main attractions of Crimea in one day. The park contains more than 100 of these models of different sizes. Their scale depends on the actual size of the object. Coming here, you have the opportunity to learn about the architectural and historical heritage of all the resorts of the peninsula.
As evening approaches, lanterns are switched on throughout the area, creating a warmer atmosphere.
Valentina Tereshkova Embankment
Beaches along the embankment
It stretches along the shore of the bay. Appeared in the 70s, when a female astronaut visited the city. The embankment does not have its own beach, so here you can only walk and admire the sea.
- There are many interesting objects located along it.
- In the evenings, many come here to spend time in cafes, restaurants and nightlife establishments.
- There is a yacht club nearby, where you can rent a boat or boat and arrange a short boat trip.
theatre square
The central square of the city
is the central square of the resort. This place is considered the starting point for tourists who begin to get acquainted with the Crimean city. The name appeared at the beginning of the last century, when the theater was built in the Art Nouveau style.
Today it is the place where all significant city events, holiday programs, folk performances and mass celebrations are held. Every year graduates come here to celebrate their graduation from school, and residents of Yevpatoria open the holiday season.
Frunze Park
Attractions in the park
In the central part of the city there is another popular park. Appeared in the century before last in a deserted area. It became an entertainment place after the revolution. The territory began to be equipped with children's slides, swings, and attractions. Today it appears before tourists in a modern guise. You can have a pleasant time and relax comfortably in the park. The Black Sea coast is just a few meters away.
Dendopark
Opportunities for pastime
The appearance of the territory for the arboretum and its arrangement began in the first half of the last century. The government decided to turn the resort into a health resort. To assign this status, it was necessary to open an arboretum.
There are sanatoriums in its vicinity, and the development of the site continues to this day. This is a great place where you can just relax and stroll along the shady alleys. More than 250 species of plants grow on the territory.
Question to the expert
Where will it be interesting to spend time with children?
The whole family can go to the dolphinarium, dino park, water park, or aquarium.
Briefly about Evpatoria
The resort city with an area of 18.2 km², located in the steppe in the west of the Crimean Peninsula, stretches along the low-lying Evpatoria Bay in the northern part of the shallow Kalamitsky Bay. Evpatoria is surrounded on three sides by the sea, the maximum height above sea level is 10 meters. To the east and west of Yevpatoria there are springs with mineral water, estuary lakes with high concentration salt solutions - brine, as well as mud used for medicinal purposes.
During the holiday season there are traditionally many vacationers in Evpatoria
The city has a steppe climate with frequent droughts, mild winters (average temperature is +11º) and hot summers with rare rains.
In Evpatoria there are 2384 sunny hours per year, while even in some settlements on the southern coast of the peninsula there are a hundred and a half less.
The city is home to 106,158 people, of which 74% are Russians, 13% are Ukrainians. Crimean Tatars, Armenians, Belarusians and others also live in Yevpatoria, which, in turn, determines the diversity of religions: Christians, Muslims, Jews.
Evpatoria has no time difference with Moscow.
The monetary unit is the Russian ruble.
Historical reference
The first settlement on the site of the modern Crimean resort was formed 25 centuries ago. In the history of the city, several stages of its development can be distinguished. First there was Greek colonization: in the 5th century BC. e. In Western Crimea, the ancient Greeks founded a settlement, which soon became the state-polis of Kerkinitis. Subsequently it was destroyed by nomads.
The level of economic development of the state-police of Kerkinitida is evidenced by the fact that it had its own monetary system. Some of the coins found from that time are kept in major museums in Russia and Europe.
Kerkinitida was a very economically and culturally developed state that had its own money.
The Middle Ages were marked for the entire Crimean coast by a period of dependence on the Ottoman Empire. In a bay on the western coast of the peninsula, the Turks built a fortress, calling it Gezlev, which the Crimean Tatars dubbed Kezlev, and the Russians - Kozlov. The city built around the outpost quickly became one of the largest trading port cities. After the Russian-Turkish War, Crimea became part of the Russian Empire, in 1784 Kozlov became a district town and changed its name to a more euphonious one - Evpatoria as a sign of respect for the king of Pontus Mithridates VI Eupator, who at one time helped the inhabitants of Kerkinitis fight off the raids of nomads.
In the first decades of the 19th century, a port was built in the city, which became one of the most significant in Crimea. In addition, the residence of Gamakh, the leader of the Crimean Karaites, was located in Yevpatoria.
By the beginning of the next century and right up to the Great Patriotic War, the city was actively developing as a resort, part of the territory was allocated for the construction of dachas, a tram route was opened and a railway connection was established. During the Second World War, major battles took place in Yevpatoria and the surrounding area; between 1941 and 1945, up to 55% of the population was killed.
By the mid-50s, the city had completely recovered, becoming one of the most popular health resorts, which retains this status today.
Table: how to get to Evpatoria
Transport | Route | Approximate travel time |
Airplane (there is no airport in the city, so you can fly to Simferopol, and then from there take a bus to Yevpatoria in 1.5 hours) | Moscow — Simferopol | 2 hours 30 minutes |
St. Petersburg — Simferopol | 3 hours | |
Train (no direct route until 2022, until the railway bridge is completed) |
| |
St. Petersburg - Adler to Krasnodar (30 hours), and then by bus. | ||
Bus | from Moscow | 29 hours |
from St. Petersburg (via Moscow) | 41 hours | |
from Rostov-on-Don | 15 hours | |
from Voronezh | 21 hours 30 minutes | |
Automobile | from Moscow along the M4 Don highway and along the Crimean Bridge | 24 hours |
from Saint-Petersburg | 31 hours |
Entertainment facilities
The city offers many places that will give vivid emotions and impressions to adults and children. These include:
- Evpatoria Aquarium;
- dolphinarium;
- Banana Republic water park;
- dinopark;
- Lost World Park.
Evpatoria Aquarium
Setting up an aquarium
An excellent option for those who want to have fun with the whole family. Here you can see various representatives of the underwater world - more than 150 species of marine life.
You can find an aquarium in Frunze Park, which is decorated in the style of an underground grotto. It occupies a building on two floors.
- On the ground floor there are panoramic aquariums, which are equipped with bright and colored lighting. Fish, turtles, shrimp, and inhabitants of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans swim behind its walls.
- The second floor is dedicated to a terrarium, where you can observe the life of crocodiles and iguanas.
Dolphinarium
Performance by artists
There is a huge dolphinarium on the resort embankment. It appeared in the mid-90s, and in 2012 a new building was allocated for it near Frunze Park.
- During the performance, there can be 800 spectators in the hall.
- The show takes place with the participation of trained marine inhabitants, which include dolphins, sea lions and seals.
The program delights not only children, but also adults. Animals amaze with their complex tricks, rhythmic movements, and jumps. After the show you can buy a painting of a dolphin. In addition to the performances, everyone can attend a dolphin therapy session.
Waterpark Banana Republic
Banana Republic
A fun place for couples and youth groups awaits in the western part of the peninsula, 15 kilometers from the city. This is one of the largest water parks in Crimea.
- It occupies an area of 4 hectares, which houses 8 swimming pools, more than 20 water slides and attractions for visitors of different ages.
- During the tourist season, 1-3 thousand people relax here every day. The water park is popular not only among tourists, but also among the local population.
- Guests can have fun at an affordable price. If you get tired of swimming in the pool and riding the slides, you can simply sunbathe on the sun loungers or visit the cafe.
Dinopark
Visiting the Dinopark
The dinosaur park opened in 2008. From the very first days of its opening it became very popular. Tourists and locals flocked here, and it was especially interesting for children. The main place is devoted to the exhibition presented by sculptures of ancient lizards.
- All dinosaurs that existed during the Jurassic period are presented very realistically and are made in life size.
- All modern technologies are used to create a believable atmosphere of that time. Dinosaurs make sounds and can even move a little.
- There is a café on site serving delicious fish and seafood dishes, and a restaurant with an 80s atmosphere.
Lost World Park
Park exhibit
Another amusement park where visitors can see life-size dinosaur figures. There are more than 20 of these exhibits, which make realistic growls and can move. Families with children of different ages and youth groups come here. There are many picturesque places in the park.
Other attractions
No less interesting places in the resort fall into this category:
- the old port town of Gezlev;
- Victoria Beach;
- Turkish baths;
- house of wine;
- the ancient town of Kerkinitida;
- Gezlev Gate.
Old port city Gezlev
Old arch
On the territory of Crimea, at all times of its existence, archaeological excavations have not been completed. Here are ancient temple complexes belonging to different religious communities, fortresses, and Greek settlements.
In the 13th-15th centuries, this port town was located on the site of the resort. This place is definitely worth a visit for those interested in history.
Previously, there was a massive fortress from the Middle Ages, but today only the Tower gate remains. Everyone will be able to take a walk around this place and temporarily travel back in time.
Victoria Coast
Glamping Beach
When entering the resort, you can immediately find yourself on the Victoria Glamping Beach.
- It has a length of just over 1 kilometer and a width of more than 150 meters.
- The coast has a small pebble surface.
- The sea air is healing, and the water is one of the cleanest on the entire coast of Crimea.
- The descent into the sea is smooth, the depth increases gradually, so you can relax here with your child.
There is a separate area called glamping. It offers a luxury holiday. Guests are accommodated in comfortable houses with all the necessary amenities. There are no night or noisy entertainment nearby, which allows you to enjoy a peaceful environment and relax as much as possible.
Turkish baths
Ruins of a bathhouse
When the Crimean city of Evpatoria was still called Gezlev, on its territory there were about 2 thousand residential buildings, 25 temples, 11 hotels. Local residents and visiting vacationers loved to spend time in the baths.
Noble individuals had their own private baths, while others had to use public ones. At that time there were 7 of them. One of them was located on Krasnoarmeyskaya Street, but it was recently closed. This is a complex of buildings that are not in the best shape. The baths have undergone cosmetic renovations. You can visit them as part of a tour group.
House of Wine
The wine collection
is a new attraction that has already been included in the list of the most significant and interesting places in the city. A furnished basement in the center of the resort has been allocated for the establishment.
Several zones are presented to tourists: a wine shop, a tasting room, a museum, and a souvenir shop. Visitors will be able to learn a lot of useful and interesting things about wine culture, drinking habits and production technologies.
The ancient town of Kerkinitida
Ruins of an ancient city
This settlement was formed by the Greeks back in the 5th century BC in the west of the peninsula. It is in its place that Evpatoria is now built.
For a long time, the local population did not even suspect that they lived on the site of an ancient Greek town. Today you can see some ruins that are of interest to historians and archaeologists.
The remains of the city can be seen near the Udarnik sanatorium and near the local history museum under the glass pyramid.