10 must-visit places in Sochi & beyond (PHOTOS)
1. Sochi Seaport
Sochi is a resort city, so you’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing holiday atmosphere, stroll along the many beaches and embankments, as well as go shopping for souvenirs and trinkets. But, the conceptual center of the main promenade is the seaport with its impressive Soviet architecture and a vibe reminiscent of the French Riviera!
2. Sochi Arboretum
This huge garden and park complex is astounding with its hundreds of species of subtropical plants and rare birds – you might even encounter some persistent pelicans! We recommend starting your walk through the arboretum by taking the cable car to the top station, admiring the mountains and the sea and then gradually descending by foot to the Lower Park.
3. Stalin's Dacha
The Soviet leader loved to relax at this green dacha surrounded by pine trees and admire the sea. And he would treat his rheumatism in a special seawater pool he had specially installed. Now, it's a museum with the original interiors from the famous owner's lifetime still intact.
4. Olympic Park
Catching a soccer game and a hockey match just five minutes apart in one evening? That's only possible in Sochi! For the 2014 Winter Olympics, several stadiums were specially built by the seaside and are still actively used for various sporting events today. And you can also watch an impressive “singing” fountain show in the main square of the Olympic Park.
5. Imeretinsky Beaches
Not taking a dip while by the sea is a crime. Be prepared that the entire coast is covered in large pebbles, so walking on them is not for everyone! That said, it's good for your health. And, in the Imeretinsky District, you can also find new beaches with soft, white sand. Sun loungers, umbrellas and numerous cafes are all also available.
6. White Rocks Canyon
Not far from Sochi, the Bolshaya Khosta River has carved the picturesque Navalishenskoye Gorge with a snow-white canyon that is reflected in the turquoise water. It’s part of the Sochi National Park, so all the conditions for comfortable tourism are available. Be sure to check out the yew-boxwood grove of relict plants located nearby.
7. Skypark
Thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies should definitely visit the ‘Skypark’ above the Akhshtyr Gorge. You can enjoy mind-blowing views of the Caucasus, walk across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Russia, get your nerves tingling in the rope park and, of course, take a bungee jump from a height of 210 meters. A zipline, giant swings over the abyss and other attractions are also available.
8. Rosa Khutor
This is, quite possibly, Russia's most glamorous ski resort. Even if you're not into winter sports, you can find entertainment for every taste there all year round – scenic views, restaurants along the Mzymta River embankment, fresh mountain air and much more. Be sure to take the cable car to Rosa Peak (2,320 meters; 7,612 feet) and take a walk through the mountain Olympic park.
9. Krasnaya Polyana Casino
‘Krasnaya Polyana’ is one of only four legal gambling zones in Russia. In the luxurious ‘Krasnaya Polyana’ casino, you can feel like you're in Las Vegas for a moment. There are no windows or clocks, so gamble responsibly and don't lose track of time!
10. Tea Plantations
One of the most popular souvenirs from Sochi, strangely enough, is tea. Besides ‘Krasnaya Polyana’ and Caucasian herbal teas, the area around Sochi's Matsesta is home to the northernmost tea plantation in the world. Tours are offered there and you can take photos among the neat tea rows on the foothill slopes. And, of course, sample some freshly picked tea!