Minsk is a very unusual world capital. On the one hand, the age of the city is quite large: the first mention of it was found in the annals of 1067. On the other hand, due to the devastation of World War II, the capital was practically rebuilt, so now the “Soviet trace” is clearly visible in the city’s architecture, which remained even after the collapse of the union.
However, despite this, today’s Minsk is a modern, dynamic capital and the largest city in Belarus, where hundreds of thousands of tourists come annually. It is pleasant and safe to walk along city streets and parks, spend time with friends and family. Read more about the city in our travel guide.
How to get to Minsk?
The easiest and fastest way to get to Minsk is by plane. Minsk Airport has an international status and daily serves hundreds of flights from cities in Europe and Asia. The distance from the city to the airport is about 40 km. You can get to the city by taxi, bus (their final stop is the bus station) or by train (runs only 5 times a day).
Alternatively, you can get to Minsk by bus. But this option is relevant only if you are leaving from nearby countries (Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Ukraine or Russia). Otherwise, the road will take a lot of time and such a trip seems inappropriate.
Things to do in Minsk
Despite the wars and destruction that Minsk suffered in the last hundred years, a small part of the historical center still remains in the city. This area is called Upper Town. The most important sights here are located: the Town Hall and Freedom Square, the guest house, the Europa Hotel, the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the complex of Basilian monasteries, the Holy Spirit Cathedral.
A special place in the city and the hearts of its inhabitants is occupied by Independence Avenue. His main architectural style is the soviet empire style. Here, each house is different from the other and you will not find two twin buildings, however, they all form one whole, a complete ensemble.
If you want to get acquainted with the history of the country, be sure to visit the Museum of the History of the Great Patriotic War. A wide exhibition is presented here, in which there are even real aircraft and tanks. This exhibition will tell you the tragic history of Belarus, where every third inhabitant died during the Second World War.
Hotels in Minsk
In Minsk you can find a hotel for every budget. Most hotels are located in the city center. There are both luxurious hotels of the world chain (Hilton, Marriott, Novotel and others), as well as mid-priced hotels. Not a few hostels in Minsk also offer accommodation in shared and individual rooms. However, rental apartments are still very popular and in demand. Tourists are happy to choose this option, because it is much convenient, especially if you come with a family or a large group of friends.
