The capital of Belarus is a bit of the blank spot on the European tourism map and it doesn’t seem like many people travel there (or visit Belarus really). . The Nesvizh castle is also a magnificent palace with fortifications. Many of the top attractions and things to do in Minsk are free, as is people watching. The prices are low by international standard, but a little high compared to other spots in Minsk – but the equally tends to be much better as well. Speaking of Kastrychnitskaya street – you should definitely include visiting this area in your Minsk itinerary. Click here to look for the place to stay in Minsk. Other noteworthy spots include the central Botanical Gardens (with paid entrance), Yanka Kupala Park, or the Alexandrovsky Public Garden. Admire The Plethora Of Soviet Art That Still Dominants The Cityscape, #17. If you don't want to miss new posts sign up to my newsletter or follow on Bloglovin! Despite being banned under Communist times, religion has survived in the country and continues to play a part in Belarusian life. , #1. On this day tour, you’ll learn about the fortress’s valiant defense that led to it being conferred the title Hero Fortress and sees the great memorial installed on the ruins of the fortress. I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. But no matter what time of the year Minsk parks are just pleasant to walk around and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Vulica Maksima Bahdanoviča 21, Minsk, Belarus, +375 17 334-49-85. On three floors you can find just about everything: cosmetics, clothes, household items, fabrics, souvenirs (like tractor fridge magnets! Constructed as part of the redevelopment of the railway station in 1952, the gates were used as apartments to house local railway workers during Soviet times. Many of these Soviet sculptures praise poets, musicians, writers, and politicians, but the most intriguing are typically those associated with the Great Patriotic War. It was founded in 1951 and is one of the oldest and largest department stores in the city. Maybe someday they will realize it too should go, but for now, the Lenin Monument at Independence Square in Minsk still stands. Minsk is a safe city! It’s a chain restaurant, two of the most convenient locations are at 49 Independence Avenue, next to the Ploshcha Yakuba Kolasa metro station, and 5 Niamiha str. At the time, Minsk was part of the Minsk Governorate of the Russian Empire, and the request was approved. The exchange rate is similar everywhere, we used the point in Hotel Minsk where we stayed, it’s located a few steps up on the left side when entering the hotel. Kami, I wonderful Blog. In Minsk, our favorite place to do this was Café Zerno, a modern spot not far from the city center with friendly English-speaking staff and indoor and outdoor seating. For the 4 days insurance I paid €4, you can see all the prices here. Along with Chisinau, it is the least touristy city I have been to in Europe, and while seven days might be a bit too long in just the capital, it’s cheap, clean, and has a lot going on if you do your research. and I definitely recommend you doing the same! You should allow two hours at a bare minimum, though for history buffs, you could very easily spend a whole day. I'm working full time and balancing my job with extensive travels all over the world. It’s not very expensive, €25 for Polish citizens, but it requires some paperwork and time so why bother. One of the last traces of what Minsk looked like before communism, the Old Town is a delightful (if small) space to explore on a sunny afternoon. There is a particular focus on the Belarusians in the Red Army, local anti-fascist and partisan activity, and the Nazi death camps – of which there were over 250 in Belarus alone. The Palace of the Republic also houses an art gallery, a small hairdressing salon, a gym, and an Italian restaurant. The All Saints’ Church is instantly recognizable thanks to its gold decorated spires and rooftops built in memory of innocent victims.