Sevastopol
Nestled between the sea and green valleys, Sevastopol sits on a group of hills forming a natural amphitheater that overlooks the magnificent Bakhtiarsky Bay. Translated from Greek, Sevastopol means "majestic city," a name well earned. This second largest of the Crimea’s cities will greet you with bays of astonishing beauty, impressive architectural ensembles, unique museums, charming gardens and attractive squares and boulevards.
At the Malakhov Kurgan, the command post of the first defense of Sevastopol, you will see the remains of the bastions that protected the city twice during its 200-year-old history, in the Crimean War and World War II. An eternal flame burns here in honor of Crimean and Soviet naval heroes. The city has a great military and naval history. Its citizens are justly proud to have been recognized for their valiant stand against the Nazis during World War II.
Attractions
Two miles from Sevastopol, the State Historical and Archaeological Museum houses the heritage of a 2,500-year-old civilization with an interesting display of relics from the city's past. Among other attractions Balaklava is worth mentioning; it was the scene of long and bitter clashes in the Crimean War.
Activities
Visit the 19th century cathedral modeled on the Temple of Thesus in Athens.
Take an excursion to the ancient Greek city-state of Khersonessos.
The Sevastopol Aquarium displays a vast array of fish and marine life from the waters of the Black Sea.
Shopping
Some of the most popular items include amber, Palekh lacquer boxes, Matryoshka dolls, woodcarvings, embroideries and sparkling wine of the Crimea. The main shopping areas are next to the Panorama Building, a 20-minute taxi drive away, and at Admiralty Harbor, which can be reached on foot in 15 minutes. Be aware that many shops still only accept local currency, except for private vendors and some souvenir shops.
Food
Almost any restaurant downtown offers Crimean and Russian dishes. It usually is a mixture of Turkish, Tartar, Georgian, Armenian, Russian and Ukrainian cuisine. Borscht and pelmeny (dumplings) are often served as a main course.
Currency
The local currency is the hryvnia.
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