Simferopol: attractions, interesting places

The city of Simferopol was founded relatively recently, but some of its attractions already occupy important positions in the list of interesting places on the Crimean peninsula. At one time it was part of the Scythian state, as evidenced by the main historical monument - Scythian Naples. However, even without this fortification there is something to see here. When visiting Simferopol, be sure to visit its parks and embankment, museums and theaters, squares and pedestrian streets, unique objects in the surrounding area. Below is more information about the best things to do in Simferopol.

Short story

From the 3rd century. BC e. on the site of the current city there was the capital of the Scythian state - Scythian Naples (in Greek Naples - “New City”). In the 3rd century. it was destroyed by the Goths and Huns. The next mention of the Kermenchik settlement in this area dates back to the period of the rule of the Golden Horde. With the formation of the Crimean Khanate, the city of Akmescit or Ak (“White”) - Mosque arose, occupying the territory of the current Old City in Simferopol.

After joining the Russian Empire, Ak-Mosque became the capital of the Tauride region, receiving the name Simferopol. At that time, the new southern territories of the Russian Empire were named in the Greek manner in memory of the ancient Greek settlements that once existed there. 1784 is the official founding date of the city.

With the establishment of Soviet power, Simferopol became the capital of the newly formed Crimean Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic. The city and its inhabitants suffered greatly during the German-Romanian occupation of 1941–44. After the war, Simferopol was the center of the Crimean region of the RSFSR, which in 1954 Khrushchev gave to the Ukrainian Ukrainian SSR. Then in 2014, the memorable “Crimean Spring” took place, as a result of which Crimea returned to Russia.

A little about Simferopol

The city of Simferopol is located on the banks of the Salgir River in the central part of the Crimean Peninsula. This foothill region is a hollow formed by the ridges of the Crimean mountains. The dry steppe climate is characterized by mild and warm winters without frost and hot summers, which are longer than in central Russia. The area of ​​Simferopol is 107.41 km2, more than 300 thousand people live here.

Simferopol is located on the banks of the Salgir River in the foothills of Crimea

It is believed that Simferopol was founded in 1784. After this region became part of the Russian Empire, it was decided to create the center of the Tauride region here. Due to its location, the city has become an important transport hub in Crimea.

Nowadays, modern transport infrastructure is well developed here:

• there is a bus route system;
• trolleybuses and trams operate;
• private minibus taxis complement the main system of transportation in the city and its environs;
• The city has a train station and an airport.

  
  A new airport terminal was built in Simferopol

Simferopol, Yalta and Alushta are connected by the world's longest trolleybus line, 86.5 km long, along which intercity routes run from Simferopol (No. 51, 54 to Alushta and No. 52, 55 to Yalta).

Holy surgeon

Crimeans and Simferopol residents are rightfully proud of their outstanding fellow countryman, known in religious circles as St. Luke. From 1946 until his death in 1961, he headed the city Cathedral with the rank of Archbishop of Crimea. Luke was one of those rare clergy who fully fulfilled the commandments of Christ. All his life he selflessly helped the poorest and most vulnerable people, not differing too much from them in his modest attire. He recognized the authority of Christ alone and was principled and independent in his judgments and actions. In pre-war Soviet times, the future archbishop was repeatedly arrested and spent 11 years in exile. It would seem that this was a fairly common fate of a priest during the Soviet period.

Saint Luke
But this amazing personality also had an extremely interesting secular hypostasis.
Valentin Voino-Yasenetsky is an outstanding Soviet surgeon, one of the founders of Soviet purulent surgery, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Stalin Prize laureate (the only clergyman).

At the beginning of the war, Voino-Yasenetsky from Krasnoyarsk exile sent a telegram addressed to Kalinin offering the Red Army his services as a highly qualified surgeon. The request to temporarily interrupt the exile was granted, and Voino-Yasenetsky, appointed chief surgeon of the Krasnoyarsk evacuation hospital, saved many wounded Soviet soldiers. And in 1942 the church authorities entrusted Bishop Luke with the leadership of the Krasnoyarsk diocese.

After the military hospital moved to Tambov in 1944, Doctor Voino-Yasenetsky continued his active medical work, at the same time heading the local diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church. Under his leadership, about a million rubles were collected and transferred to the needs of the front. In 1946, the archbishop, who had not fully served his exile, became a laureate of the Stalin Prize of the first degree for the development during the war of innovative methods of surgical treatment of purulent wounds. He donated two-thirds of the prize, which was huge at that time, to post-war orphanages that were in dire need of it.

After his death, the archbishop was canonized by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in 1995. And the Russian Orthodox Church canonized its bishop as a new martyr and confessor in 2000. Krasnoyarsk Medical University bears his name. In 2013, a feature film “Cure Fear” was shot about Luka Krymsky. In 2015, the documentary film “Healer Luke” was shown on Channel One. In the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Simferopol, where the bishop served, there is a small museum of his (see below).

Naples Scythian

In 1827, Crimean Tatar antiquities collector Kata Giray drew attention to a cart from the outskirts of the city with slabs on which were images of horsemen and Greek inscriptions. It turned out that they were found in stone and limestone quarries. Excavations began there, quickly revealing to archaeologists the ruins of the almost forgotten ancient city of Scythian Naples.

Ruins of Scythian Naples
The most valuable is the reconstructed mausoleum of the Scythian king Skilur, clearly visible in the photograph.
Here the archaeologists had a rare stroke of luck: the burial itself reached them intact. It contained a lot of gold jewelry, most of which are now exhibited in Moscow and St. Petersburg museums. Subsequently, excavations were periodically carried out in this area both in the 19th and 20th centuries. The most productive work was done in 1945–50. under the leadership of archaeologist Schultz. It was then that the above-mentioned mausoleum, fortress gates, and rock crypts were opened. In the post-Soviet years, the ancient settlement was abandoned, and only in 2011 it received the status of a Museum-Reserve.

The historical and archaeological reserve of Naples Scythian is an open-air museum with an ever-growing exhibition. After all, only a small part of the ancient city has been excavated, and every year the reserve expands its borders. In the demonstration design of the discovered artifacts, only stone, clay and straw in tune with the ancient era are used.

Address: st. Archaeological, 1. Opening hours: from 10 to 18 hours daily, except Monday. Ticket price – 200 rubles. Directions: by minibus 4 (from the railway station), 85 (from the center) and 108 (from the market) to the stop “Ulitsa Tarabukina”.

For outdoor recreation

The southern region has plenty of natural beauty.

Among them:

1. Park of Culture and Leisure named after. Yu. Gagarin was organized in the mid-1960s. Its area is the largest among the city parks of Crimea, despite the fact that it has already become two times smaller than planned. Slowly losing territory, the park acquires signs of a touch of civilization:

• Memorial complex with the Eternal Flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (in honor of the 30th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War);

  
  Gagarin Park is a beautiful place in Simferopol with a lot of entertainment for children and adults!

• The Alley of Friendship was established in 1980 as a sign of friendship with socialist Hungary;
• a shopping and entertainment complex including a large ice skating rink (2012);
• Memorial to the victims of the Chernobyl accident (2007);
• Walk of Fame for the 230th anniversary of the founding of Simferopol. Busts of Pushkin, Lermontov, Suvorov, Kutuzov, and Ushakov were installed.

The alley leading to the Eternal Flame is surrounded by huge spruce trees with the length of the lower branches up to 5 m. There are many “old-timer” trees in the park. These are beeches, birches, acacias, chestnuts, poplars and a host of other species. A pine forest grows on the side of the alley. Along the Salgir River with its waterfalls and pleasing banks, an embankment with bridges across the river was built.

2 ponds in the center of the park are connected to each other. Ducks and swans swim in them and nest here. The park has an aviary with green and blue parrots. Tourists and locals love to take pictures near the “Three Graces” sculpture, reminiscent of the achievements of Crimean gymnasts. This is not the only noteworthy work of art here.

The park also has conditions for active activities:

• attractions;
• fitness equipment;
• boats and catamarans;
• tennis tables;
• tennis courts;
• paintball club.

The outdoor summer cinema offers a good selection of new films.

The park is located less than half an hour's walk from the railway station, on the street. Michurin and is open to visitors around the clock.

2. The children's park is located in the center. This fact and the many free events held have made it the most visited green area in the city. The park is open from 11:00. There is enough entertainment here for at least 1.5 hours of complete rest.

You can get into it from opposite sides:

• from Kirov Avenue;
• from st. Schmidt.

This park was also cut in half in 2021 in honor of the anniversary of the Great October Revolution. But among the unique plants, the oak with a crown diameter of 30 m and a trunk circumference of 6 m has been preserved. It is protected by the laws of Ukraine and Russia. Its age is at least 600 years. The oak tree comes with a “Glade of Fairy Tales”. There is an Alley of Pioneers with 10 busts of young heroes of the Great Patriotic War.

Historical episode: on the way to the Yalta Conference on February 3, 1945, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill stopped near the garden.

The park operates:

• zoo corner;
• roller skating rink;
• attractions.

3. The Botanical Garden of Taurida University is located slightly to the south. It covers an area of ​​33 hectares. Here you can see many species and varieties of trees, bushes, herbs and flowers, and learn their biological names. Scientific garden patrons pay the greatest attention to woody shrubs.

But amateur gardeners will also be pleased with the variety of popular crops:

Being a training ground for students majoring in Landscape Architecture, the nursery delights numerous visitors with exquisite plant compositions and amazing forms of living architecture.
Many guests mention in their reviews the labyrinths of topiary bushes and alleys, as if surrounded by walls of trees. Don’t miss the most popular article in the section: Map of the Black Sea coast of Russia with resorts: cities and towns.

Kebir-Jami Mosque

The date of construction of the mosque is the beginning of the 16th century. It is believed that the white lime-covered walls of the facade of the oldest building in the city at one time gave it its name - Ak-Mosque (see above). Kebir-Jami is the main mosque of Crimea, which looks very simple in appearance. After the revolution it continued to function, but was closed in the post-war years. The building housed a bookbinding workshop. After the Crimean Tatars deported during the war returned to the peninsula, the mosque was returned to them. Its restoration began in 1991 and lasted almost two decades.

Kebir-Jami Mosque
The mosque complex houses the spiritual administration of the Muslims of Crimea, the residence of the mufti, a madrasah and a library with literature in the Crimean Tatar language.
Address: st. Kurchatova, 4. Directions: by buses 8, 11, 47, 57 and 78 to the stop “Ul. Lenin". The mosque is open to the public except during prayer times.

Karaite kenasa

Crimea is one of the habitats of a small people - the Karaites. In everyday life, being close to the Turks, they, however, profess a special branch of Judaism. Karaite houses of worship are called kenasa (accent on the last syllable). They are found in several Crimean cities, but Simferopol is considered the most beautiful. This kenasa was built at the end of the 19th century, next to the former prayer house, which could no longer accommodate the growing Karaite community. The beautiful building, combining elements of Byzantine, Moorish and Gothic architectural styles, was built with funds raised by the community.

With the establishment of Soviet power, the Karaite community in 1922 signed an agreement with the local branch of the NKVD on the unhindered use of kenasa. Since 1930, the diminished religious community could no longer support the kenasa. At her suggestion, a Karaite club functioned in the building for three years. Since 1936, the building was transferred to the Crimean Television and Radio Center. At the same time, the building was deprived of cult attributes: in particular, the six-pointed star was replaced by a five-pointed one.

Since 1979, the building received the protected status of an architectural monument. In post-Soviet times, the building was returned to the Karaite religious community. After the annexation of Crimea to Russia, a partial restoration of the kenasa was carried out.

Karaite kenasa

Address: st. Karaimskaya, 6. Directions: minibuses No. 57 and 78 to the stop “Ul. Sergeev-Tsensky".

How to get to the city

There are several options for getting to Simferopol:

• During the summer, Simferopol airport receives many flights. This allows tourists to get to the capital of Crimea from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Krasnodar, Yekaterinburg, Kazan and other major Russian cities. You can take trolleybus No. 9 from the airport to the city center. Numerous minibuses also ply along the same route;
• you can get there by car, cross the Kerch Strait by ferry or across the recently built Crimean Bridge;

  
  You can get to Simferopol by car, crossing the Kerch Strait via the newly built Crimean Bridge

• There is a direct train from Moscow to Simferopol, the travel time is approximately 44 hours, including the ferry ride across the strait from the railway station;
• in summer, tourist buses depart from major Russian cities to Crimea (for example, from the Orekhovo and Shchelkovskaya metro stations in Moscow).

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The idea of ​​building a cathedral in honor of Empress Catherine II's visit to Crimea appeared in 1787. However, the subsequent series of unfavorable historical events (the deaths of Potemkin and Catherine, the war with Napoleon) for a long time prevented the start of construction. It began in 1816 according to the design of the architect Charlemagne. Another famous architect, Kolodin, took on the task of clarifying and adjusting the project on site and supervising construction.

After its construction, the cathedral, which became the Cathedral in 1860, was significantly rebuilt several times. At the end of the 19th century. the rebuilt cathedral was even compared to St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg. The walls, painted ocher, harmonized wonderfully with the gilding of the iconostasis and vestments and with the oak parquet. The temple is also notable for the fact that in 1911 Leo Tolstoy was posthumously anathematized there.

In January 1918, the territory of the church became the scene of fierce battles between the white and red naval forces. The bell tower and cathedral were heavily damaged. Since 1922, church utensils from other closed Crimean churches were kept in the closed cathedral. In 1930, the cathedral was blown up, and in its place a square was laid out, in which a tank was installed on a pedestal in 1944.

In 1999, the Crimean secular and ecclesiastical authorities decided to restore the temple in its original location. At first, this decision caused widespread public discontent. Since 2003, the reconstruction of the temple began, which continues to the present day. The restored Cathedral of the Crimean-Simferopol Diocese is significantly different from the original. It is crowned with one large and four small gilded domes. Another small dome is on the bell tower.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
While services are being held in the lower church, interior decoration continues in the upper one.
The lower church houses the main relic of the cathedral - the relics of St. Gury of Tauride. Address: Alexander Nevsky Ave. (Victory Square), 6. Directions: by buses No. 25, 36, 52, 57, 60, 89, 91, 98, 9 and 112 or by trolleybuses No. 5, 6 and 9 to the “Center” stop "

Architectural delights and monuments in Simferopol

The city will simply enchant connoisseurs of elegant architecture and monumental art. Among the things you should definitely see in Simferopol, there are many colorful buildings and interesting monuments.

Vorontsov mansion

• Address: st. Yaltinskaya, 2. Transport stop "Moscow Hotel".

The mansion in the picturesque Vorontsovsky Park, built in 1827, is considered one of the iconic landmarks of Simferopol. The building is an excellent example of classicism in architecture. On the side of the main entrance, two symmetrical portals are separated from the main volume.

Between them is a terrace supported by four magnificent columns. It is reached by a staircase with an elegant parapet, guarded by two stone lions. Members of the imperial families and the autocrats themselves stayed in this small palace more than once.

Monument to Catherine the Great

• Address: Catherine's Garden. Transport stop "House of Cinema".

A monument in honor of Empress Catherine II, who ordered the founding of Simferopol, appeared in the city garden in 1890. After standing for 41 years, the sculpture of the autocrat was removed from the pedestal and destroyed by the Bolsheviks who came to power. Historical justice has triumphed in 2021.

Then the bronze statue of Catherine the Great, holding the royal scepter and a map of Crimea in one hand, and with the other hand pointing to the place where the city should be founded, took its rightful place. At the feet of the queen there are sculptures of princes Potemkin and Dolgorukov, and on the sides of the pedestal there are busts of A. Suvorov and Y. Bulgakov.

Memorial "Concentration camp "Red"

• Address: Mirnoye village, Belova street.

Dedicated to the victims of the fascist occupation of Crimea in 1941-1944. During the Great Patriotic War, not far from Simferopol, on the site of the Krasny state farm, the enemies created a huge concentration camp. People were brought here from all over Russia. Gradually it became a gigantic conveyor belt of death, in which executions took place continuously.

70 years after the terrible events, a memorial complex was erected. In the center is a mass grave with an obelisk and three signs on the wells of death. Around the grave there is an area covered with gray granite chips. It symbolizes the burnt earth. To the side of the alley there is a strict temple-chapel and an eternal flame burns.

Cinema "Simferopol"

• Address: Kirova Avenue, 37. Transport stop “Dom Kino”.

The building of the Simferopol cinema, erected in 1936 and reconstructed 20 years later, is considered one of the architectural pearls of the city. Initially, it was built according to a standard project, similar to the Oktyabr cinemas in Smolensk and Rodina in Moscow .

However, it was not possible to complete the work by the beginning of the war. In addition, during one of the air raids, the structure was seriously damaged. When construction resumed, several changes were made to the project, thanks to which the building acquired an original exterior that is difficult to take your eyes off.

Monument to A.V. Suvorov

• Address: square named after. A. V. Suvorova. Transport stop "Glavpochtamt".

The greatest Russian commander did a lot to ensure that Crimea became part of the Russian Empire. On the site where there was once a military camp commanded by Alexander Vasilyevich, a small monument was erected in 1951.

After 34 years, it was replaced with a new composition. Above the low granite pedestal with a commemorative plaque, rises a bronze statue of the Count of Rymnik and the Prince of Italy. The Generalissimo, dressed in a field uniform, stands in a pose full of pride, resting his hand on the hilt of his saber. His look is full of courage and determination.

Square of the 200th anniversary of Simferopol

• Address: Sovetskaya Square. Transport stop "House of Cinema".

You should definitely visit the wonderful park with a fountain, which is rightly considered one of the city’s iconic attractions. Here you can not only take a walk and have a snack in one of the cafes, but also admire the unique collection of forged sculptures, regularly replenished since 2007 by Simferopol blacksmiths.

The creations of masters who create real masterpieces from metal are impressive. Every self-respecting tourist considers it a duty to take a photo against the backdrop of a knight’s sword, kittens climbing a fence, a steel globe or a motorcycle with angel wings.

Apartment house Krylov

• Address: st. Efremova, 18.

Built in 1894. The façade faces the Old Bazaar. The attraction is part of a complex of buildings that form the appearance of the market square. On the ground floor there are shopping pavilions. On the second floor there are living quarters.

The house is famous for its wooden gates - typical of the late 19th century and unique today. It is planned to restore them: return the lost parts, install pre-revolutionary fittings, and paint them in a suitable color. In short, to restore the façade to its former impressiveness and beauty.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

In the second half of the 19th century. The majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral was built on the site of the Greek Orthodox Church.

Holy Trinity Cathedral
In the 30s of the XX century. the temple's property was confiscated and it was closed. It was planned to house a children's boarding school in the building. However, the local Greek community, part of which had Greek citizenship, managed to achieve the re-opening of their temple in 1934. Moreover, after the destruction of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Holy Trinity Church received the status of Cathedral. In 1946, it was headed by Archbishop Luka of Crimea (see above). In 1996, his relics were transferred to the cathedral and are now his relic, kept in a silver shrine. And the cathedral itself is sometimes called after him.

Relics of Luke of Crimea
Another valuable shrine is the “Sorrowful” icon of the Mother of God.
She is famous for the fact that in 2004, on the feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, her dim, barely visible image was renewed and sparkled with fresh colors. In 2002, the Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church transformed the Holy Trinity Cathedral into a convent of the same name, and temporarily (until the reconstruction of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral) transferred the status of the Cathedral to the Peter and Paul Church.

Address: st. Odesskaya, 12. Opening hours: 9–18. The St. Luke's Museum is open Wednesday - Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ticket price – 70 rubles. Travel: by trolleybuses 4, 9 and 12 or minibuses 48, 54, 62, 63, 68–70, 73, 80, 83, 85, 86, 91, 99, 114, 115 and 118 to the stop “Silpo”, formerly called "Lenin Square".

Cathedral of Peter and Paul

The stone Church of Peter and Paul was built in 1870 on the site of a dilapidated wooden church of the same name. At the very beginning of the 20th century. the dome and walls were covered with paintings. In 1937, the church was closed and the premises were converted into a warehouse. In post-Soviet times, its restoration began, after which the temple became the city’s Cathedral for several years.

The architecture of the cathedral, designed by architect Lazarev, combines classical and ancient Russian styles. The main entrance is decorated with frescoes depicting the face of Christ and the apostles Peter and Paul. The side chapels are consecrated in honor of John of Kronstadt and Seraphim of Sarov.

Cathedral of Peter and Paul
The cathedral is famous for the miracle that took place there in 2004. His face appeared on the glass covering the icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker kept in the temple. In addition to this relic, the cathedral contains another icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker with a particle of relics, two icons of the Mother of God and the relics of St. Houri. The interior is notable for its beautiful paintings and iconostasis.

Interior of the Cathedral of Peter and Paul

Address: st. Proletarskaya, 5. The temple is open to the public from 7:30 to 18 hours. Directions: by bus No. 64 to the stop “Ul. Mokrousova" or by minibus No. 114 to the "Lenin Square" stop.

Best hotels of Simferopol

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Interesting city objects

The Dolgorukovsky obelisk was erected in 1842 opposite the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in honor of the victory of Russian troops over the Turks and Tatars, which resulted in the annexation of Crimea to Russia. The commander of the Russian troops, Chief General Vasily Dolgorukov, was awarded the title "Crimean", the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called and a sword inlaid with diamonds. The Dolgorukov obelisk was erected on the initiative and at the expense of the grandson of the Russian commander - actual privy councilor Vasily Dolgorukov.

In addition to the obelisk itself, the composition of the monument includes four hexagonal lamps and four cast-iron cannons from the 18th century. and a massive metal chain. The side medallions at the bottom of the tetrahedral obelisk depict fragments of the battle for Crimea, the delivery of Russian laws to local peoples, the coat of arms of the Dolgoruky princes and the commander crowned with a laurel wreath.

Dolgorukovsky Obelisk
During the years of revolutionary hard times, the medallions were torn off.
The lanterns were destroyed and one of the cannons disappeared. Fragments of two medallions were moved to the Crimean Museum of Local Lore. Partial restoration of the obelisk was carried out in 1952. Instead of the original marble medallions, cement medallions were installed, two of them with edited scenes according to the time. Exact marble copies of the original bas-reliefs returned to their place during the restoration in 2011. Address: st. Zhukovsky.

House of Prince Vorontsov

The mansion, built in 1826, has been reconstructed many times, but it embodies the spirit of the Russian aristocracy. The imperial family always stayed with the prince during their holidays in Crimea; many poetic lines were written in this house by the poet Konstantin Zhukovsky.

The house looks strictly, according to all the canons of classical architecture, the staircase with columns is guarded by marble lions.

Around the princely house there is a park, which Simferopol residents call Salgirka. A botanical garden has been organized at its base. You can admire the bright Crimean flowers and relax under the shade of the cedar-sakura alley.

Chocolate Museum

The “History of Chocolate from Chocolate” museum is located in Simferopol, in the Salon du chocolat cafe.

Entrance to the Salon du chocolat cafe
The museum, as the name suggests, is interesting because almost all of its exhibits are made of chocolate.
We had to spend one and a half tons of this delicacy on the museum’s collection. Here you can see the gnomes' house with miniature chocolate furniture, the chocolate Eiffel and Leaning Towers of Pisa. When making the Eiffel Tower weighing 150 kg, consultation with a mathematician was required. The Swallow's Nest made of white chocolate on a cliff made of dark chocolate looks very impressive.

Chocolate “Swallow's Nest”
The museum also has spectacular multi-colored chocolate paintings, in the production of which artist-chocolatiers use natural food dyes.

Chocolate painting
The lifespan of chocolate exhibits is approximately five years.
Naturally, touching and, especially, eating the exhibits is strictly prohibited. Volnitsa is coming to the cafe at the museum, where everything can be bought and eaten. Including a bouquet of chocolate roses, a chocolate “Faberge egg” or a box of chocolate jewelry. Address: st. Kirova, 66. The confectionery is open from 9 to 22 hours. Tours, which require pre-registration, run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The ticket price is 200 rubles, and at the end of it the ticket (chocolate one, of course!) can be eaten. Children under six years old are admitted free, but without a chocolate ticket. Directions to the stop “Ploshchad Kuibysheva”:

• buses 3, 6, 7, 30, 49 and 70;
• trolleybuses 4, 7, 10 and 22;
• minibuses 1, 2, 8, 10, 13, 15, 41, 48, 54, 60, 63, 68, 69, 80, 81, 83, 85, 86, 105, 114 and 118.

Sights of Simferopol for children

When traveling to Crimea with a child, it is important to take into account those places where adults and children will be interested. There are many such attractions in Simferopol:

• Denisovskaya Ostrich Farm is an amusement park for families, located 6 km from the city. Excursions, horseback riding and fishing are organized here. Children can learn a lot of new things and see ostriches, peacocks, geese, ducks, Vietnamese piglets and other animals. In the restaurant you can try dishes made from ostrich meat. The farm is located in the village of Denisovo, on Solnechnaya Street, 15;

  
  The Denisovo ostrich farm near Simferopol is popular for excursions for tourists with children

• Not far from the Red Caves in the Simferopol region there is the Viking cinema park. It was opened based on the scenery from the set of the Russian film "Viking". The area is a reconstruction of a Viking settlement from the 8th–11th centuries. The houses have craft workshops; theatrical fights are held for visitors, as well as master classes and games;

  
  The Viking Cinema Park in Simferopol is known as the filming location for the Russian film of the same name.

• The Salon du Chocolat chocolate museum will be of interest to adults and children, because it displays the skillful creations of modern confectioners made from different types of chocolate. The exhibition includes confectionery products in the form of famous architectural objects, portraits, bouquets and other figures. There is also a cafe where you can try a variety of cakes and pastries. This place is located on Kirova Avenue, 66;

  
  The Salon du Chocolat chocolate museum in Simferopol allows you not only to look at original sweet products, but also to try different creations of confectioners

• The Crimean Academic Puppet Theater is one of the oldest puppet theaters in Crimea, since it was opened in 1939. The building is unremarkable from the outside, but the performances are popular among locals. Performances in a variety of genres are held here. You can visit this place on Gorky Street, 9;

  
  The Crimean Academic Puppet Theater in Simferopol is often visited by local residents

• The Children's Park is famous as one of the most visited places in the city, because it hosts entertainment and cultural events. It was opened in 1958 and covers an area of ​​17 hectares. There are attractions, well-groomed alleys, and cafes. The park is located in the Kievsky district.

  
  Children's Park of Simferopol is a comfortable place for relaxation for children and adults

There are many places in the Crimean city where children will be interested. Museums, parks, a farm, theaters and much more make for an exciting holiday in any season. If the excursions are long, then you can easily have lunch with your child in restaurants or cafes. It is worth trying traditional cuisine and buying souvenirs.

Botanical phenomena

In the courtyard of a five-story building at st. Frunze, 30 you can see a botanical phenomenon - a five-trunked chestnut tree, whose age is approaching two hundred years. In 1829, the famous doctor and scientist Fyodor Milgausen, who lived nearby, planted seven chestnut fruits in one hole - according to the number of members of his family. Five of them were accepted, which eventually grew together, forming a common trunk with a diameter of more than five meters. At a height of two meters the trees disperse.

Five-trunk chestnut
Another unique tree can be seen in the Simferopol Children's Park. The age of the giant oak, whose trunk diameter exceeds six meters, is estimated at 6–7 centuries. The oak has its own name - “Hero of Taurida”. According to some researchers, this particular oak is the prototype of Pushkin’s “oak near Lukomorye”. In development of this version, a “Glade of Fairy Tales” with characters from Pushkin’s fairy tales was created in the Children’s Park.

Oak "Bogatyr of Taurida"

Where to go with children

If children like to get acquainted with history, then Simferopol museums will not leave them indifferent. You can visit several, taking into account your own interests.

After wandering through museums, children want to have fun in the fresh air. Then there is no better place than the Children's Park. It works daily. There is no need to pay for entry. However, rides on the attractions are paid for through the ticket office.

There is a small zoo on the territory of the Children's Park. You can see 80 species of animals in the cages. Among them are many birds, monkeys, bears, camels, llamas, and lynxes.

Botanical Garden named after. Bagrova

The botanical garden belonging to the Crimean Federal University is often called Salgirka. It was created in 2003 on the basis of the garden art park of the same name that previously existed here. On an area of ​​30 hectares you can see the entire flora of the peninsula - maples, birches, spruces, Crimean pines, Lebanese cedars, chestnuts. Of particular value are the patriarchal trees - oaks, plane trees, yew and pine trees, preserved from the end of the 18th century.

Botanical Garden named after.
Bagrova The garden has a Rosary, Siringary (lilac nursery), Iridarium, Coniveretum (coniferous nursery), Labyrinth, and Cascade of reservoirs.

Former Vorontsov's mansion
One of the university's scientific buildings is the former Vorontsov's mansion, the entrance to which is guarded by stone lions (as in his famous Alupka palace).
Address: Academician Vernadsky Ave., 2. The Botanical Garden is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Upon prior request, you can book an excursion. Travel to the Tavria Tourist Base stop by buses 49 and 65 or trolleybuses 4, 6, 15 and 16.

Features of culture and traditions

In the capital of Crimea, there are certain rules and traditions that are important for tourists to take into account. The main features of staying here are as follows:

• from May to September there are many tourists in the city, so it is best to book hotel rooms in advance;
• You should follow safety rules and be careful. For example, you cannot purchase tickets or anything else from private individuals, and it is also important to keep valuables and documents under supervision;
• The historical district of Simferopol is best explored during the day and as part of a tourist group, and you can walk around the central district until late in the evening, but it is noisy and there are many nightclubs.

Chokurcha

The cave was named after the nearby Tatar village, now called Lugovoe. The cave has the status of the oldest human site in Europe. The tools, bones of Neanderthals and animals, and rock paintings discovered in it in 1927 have a mind-boggling age of 40–45 thousand years. Unfortunately, the ancient cave did not receive the treatment corresponding to its scientific value. Apart from a short-term study carried out by Crimean expert Ernst, no attention was paid to the monument at all. Most of the artifacts found were stolen. Only those that were kept in the local history museums of Simferopol and Odessa survived.

The cave continued to be abandoned after the war. Moreover, the former site of the Neanderthals became the residence of local homeless people and alcoholics, and respectable citizens used the area as a dump. Local authorities only realized it in 2009. The cleaning of the cave was led by deputies of the local council. The barrier at the entrance has been restored.

The current grotto measures 5 m wide and 7 m deep. Scientists believe that previously it was significantly larger.

Entrance to Chokurcha cave

Address: Lugovaya Street, 77. The cave is located on the left bank of the Maly Sapgir River. From the bus station you can get to the cave area by minibus No. 88. Get off at the stop “Ul. Lugovaya", after passing the bridge and the territory of the Simferopol regional hospital, you can go to the entrance to the cave grotto.

For traveling by car

Having a car significantly expands the possibilities of gaining new experiences. An hour after leaving Simferopol, you can stand in the miniature park in Bakhchisarai, choosing objects that you would like to see in life size.

Beautiful places in Simferopol are also modeled in this park. Having learned them, it is interesting to understand in what order it is better to view the nature: before studying its layout, or after.

Bakhchisarai attractions:

1. Chufut-Kale is a medieval cave city of the Karaites, founded by the Greeks.

Many buildings have been preserved:

• mausoleum of the khan's daughter;
• 2 kenassas;
• destroyed mosque;
• outbuildings;
• dwellings carved into the rock;
• road;
• mint ruins;
• basements.

The courtyard with two houses untouched by time now serves as a museum. Since all this is located on the top of an almost half-kilometer mountain, the area is an excellent viewing platform.

According to tourists, there is an unusual energy and a breathtaking panorama of the gorge and its surroundings. Part of the ascent has to be done on foot, but the trail is relatively flat and an untrained, healthy person can climb it. Located 2.5 km east of the city.

2. The Holy Dormition Monastery is located at the foot of Mount Chufut-Kale. Climbing wide stone steps leads to an elegant small church with a bell tower on the second tier. The bright iconography of the walls and the white decoration against the backdrop of the rock make a powerful impression. Entry is open to everyone. Men are not allowed to wear shorts.

Shawls and skirts for women can be purchased nearby. Icons and monastery food are sold nearby. After passing through the outer temple, the visitor enters the cave premises. All cells are carved into the rock. The exterior of the church and the landscaping of the area nearby allow you to take beautiful pictures. Photography is prohibited inside.

3. The beaded temple or monastery of Anastasia the Pattern Maker is built in the rocks south of Bakhchisarai. The road is 10 km away. You need to leave the car near the village of Preduschelnoye and then climb up the well-trodden path to the original Orthodox church.

What is revealed to the eye cannot be said in a fairy tale or described with a pen. You can guess that this is a temple only by the faces of the saints. The small room, both outside and inside, has an unusual, unique handmade decor.

Most of the jewelry is made of beads and beads:

• icon frames;
• patterns;
• chandelier;
• lamps;
• panel;
• Garlands.

The decoration surpasses the brilliance of the hall for the New Year's ball. It is impossible to imagine this in absentia. Keeping all the details in your memory after one visit is the same. Therefore, visitors want to come back here again, not even for religious reasons.

4. The Khan's Palace is located a 20-minute drive from Chufut-Kale on the banks of the Churuk-Su River. This is the calling card of the capital of the Crimean Tatar Khanate.

Among:

• garden terraces;
• Big and Small Mosques;
• fountain courtyard;
• summer gazebo;
• interior decoration.

everyone will find the most attractive corners for themselves and will be satisfied with the photographs.

There are also beautiful places in the southeast of the regional center:

1. Having left Simferopol on the road towards Alushta, the traveler discovers a vast reservoir. The depth of 38 m requires you to swim well or not move away from the shore. Intended for irrigation, the operation of state district power stations and the supply of water to the city, the Simferopol Reservoir enlivens the surrounding area, like any body of water.
2. After half an hour of leisurely driving, a new opportunity presents itself to freshen up and admire the scenery - the Ayan Reservoir. While sunbathing and swimming in these gentle waters, it is worth mentally thanking the partisans who prevented the Germans from blowing up the dam during the Great Patriotic War. Fishing is recommended.
3. Another 45 minutes of road will lead to the open-air museum. The medieval fortress of Funa, built at the foot of the mountain, once protected the peaceful Greek population from nomads. The now restored fortress and church will delight the modern visitor, who has escaped the typical housing of cities and villages.

The sea is 20 minutes away. It is unlikely that anyone will turn to the side or back.

Alushta will offer beaches where under your feet you will find:

• sand;
• gravel (small pebbles);
• pebbles (larger stones);
• blocks and boulders.

1. The central beach is the most popular and is very crowded from May to early October. Therefore, it is better to take places from 8 to 9 am (rescuers work from 8:00 to 20:00). Close to shore it gets deep quickly. Entrance to the beach is free.

However, it's all there:

• sunbeds and sun loungers;
• umbrellas and awnings;
• catamarans and boats;
• boats and bananas;
• attractions (shooting gallery, inflatable slides);
• food and drinks;
• kiosks with beach supplies.

By taking a photo at the rotunda, a tourist becomes part of the city’s brand.

2. For lovers of snorkeling, the wild beach near Mount Kastel is more suitable . Here small fish and crabs will allow you to observe their “private life” completely free of charge.

Having enjoyed the pleasures that only the sea element can give, you should again turn to the Alushta miniature park (45 models of objects from 9 cities). By comparing the layouts with beautiful places in Simferopol that have previously been examined, it is possible to come to a decision to continue the journey, choosing specific goals for your route.

Article design: Vladimir the Great

Marble Cave

On the plateau of the Chatyr Dag mountain range, located between Simferopol and Alushta, there are two caves equipped for tourist visits. One of them, formed in rocks of marble-like limestone, was called Marble. Discovered in 1987, it is considered the most beautiful in Crimea and one of the most beautiful on the planet.

Marble Cave

Its largest Collapse Hall is 100 m long and 28 m high. Travelers from Simferopol can choose from several routes through the cave of varying durations/prices:

• “Gallery of Fairy Tales” – 30 minutes/350 rubles;
• “Gallery of Fairy Tales” + “Pearl Lakes” – 50 minutes/400 rubles;
• “Gallery of Fairy Tales” + “Tiger Move” – 1 hour/450 rubles;
• All routes – 1 hour 20 minutes/500 rubles;
• “Melodies of Chatyr-Dag” with musical accompaniment – ​​2 hours/1200 rub.

The last two complete routes include visiting, in addition to those mentioned, other halls - the Palace, Rose, Balcony, Chandelier and the Hall of Hope.

The cave is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visiting her independently is not practiced. Excursion groups for visiting are formed not only in Simferopol, but also in other Crimean cities. The constant temperature in the cave is 90C, which should be taken into account when visiting.

The most interesting places in the vicinity of Simferopol

The outskirts of Simferopol - Simferopol district - are literally overflowing with various attractions unique to Crimea. Stunningly beautiful caves, unique reservoirs, and picturesque waterfalls await you here.

Simferopol reservoir

• GPS coordinates: 44.922849, 34.154818.

An artificially created reservoir. It amazes with its size. Created in 1955 by creating a bulk dam on the Salgir River. At the bottom of the reservoir are the foundations of flooded houses and petrified trees.

Local residents have picnics and fish on the coast. However, boating is not allowed here. Swimming is also prohibited. Carp, perch, pike and bream are well fished from the shore. Good winter fishing. There are individuals weighing 2-3 kilograms.

Marble Cave

• Address: Mramornoe village, Simferopol district.

Located at the foot of Mount Chatyr-Dag. The entrance is located at an altitude of 918 m above sea level. Created by eroding limestone rocks with groundwater. Opened in 1987. Has three tiers. The length is two kilometers.

Now paths have been laid in the cave and fences have been installed. Travelers can admire fabulous figures: openwork baths, powerful stalactites, stone pillars, and strange growths on the rocks. Well-organized lighting enhances the effect. This is one of the most beautiful underground labyrinths in the world.

Kizil-Koba Cave

• Address: Simferopol district, Dobrovskoye rural settlement.

Red cave. Age - more than 2.5 million years. Length - 27 km. Area - 65,000 m2. Consists of six levels. It is the largest in Europe. The cave enchants with its incredible grottoes and halls.

There are underground lakes, picturesque waterfalls, sinter formations, stalactites and stalagmites. The main attraction is an 8-meter stalactite. Tourists are allowed to a depth of 500 meters. Paid entrance. Excursions with children are possible.

Stone mushrooms in Ivanova Balka

• Coordinates on the map: 44.891035, 34.318984.

An unusual natural phenomenon. A stone in the shape of a huge mushroom four meters high. Experts say that this is a fragment of a rock ridge. Ivanova Balka's business card. An object of curiosity for many tourists.

Su-Uchkhan Subotkhan Waterfall

• GPS coordinates: 44.869633, 34.343962.

The source of strength and youth in Crimea. The best time to visit this natural attraction of Simferopol is April and May. At this time, the river is full and the waterfall looks most impressive. Su-Uchkhan is considered a place of power. It welcomes pilgrims and nature lovers all year round. Shrouded in rumors and legends. To find the waterfall, it is better to use the services of a guide.

Also get to know the sights of Yalta, Feodosia, Kerch and Sevastopol.

The beautiful city is the capital of the resort region and is extremely attractive to tourists. All the necessary infrastructure is available here, and the various attractions of Simferopol will satisfy the discerning taste of the most spoiled traveler.

Mammoth Cave (Emine-Bair-Khosar)

A kilometer from the Marble Cave is Mammoth Cave, which received its name from the mammoth skeletons found inside.

Mammoth Cave

A visit to the Mammoth Cave is possible as part of one of three excursion routes:

• “Northern Gallery” – 30 minutes/350 rubles;
• “Northern Gallery” – 1 hour 15 minutes/450 rubles;
• Full route – 1 hour 28 minutes / 500 rubles.

The opening hours of the Mammoth Cave are no different from the Marble Cave - from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. In Crimean cities you can purchase not only separate, but also combined tickets to these two nearby caves. In the Mammoth Cave it is even colder than in the Mramornaya Cave - only 50C. For frivolous tourists, there is a rental of warm jackets (10–15 rubles).

The Tatar name of the cave Emine-Bair-Khosar is sometimes confused with another cave with a similar name Emine-Bair-Koba, which, as a rule, is visited only by suitably equipped speleologists.

Short trip

Simferopol is a big city with many attractions. Therefore, you should devote at least 3–5 days to excursions and stay here. To do this, you should book a hotel room in advance and place your luggage. Before traveling, it is best to familiarize yourself with the excursion options offered by local guides. This will allow you to quickly find your way around the city, find out basic information about Simferopol and determine your future vacation plan.

If your stay in the city lasts 1 day, then you don’t have to check into a hotel. Considering your departure time, you can take a walk around the city and be sure to visit one of the famous parks.

Short-term trips from Simferopol to nearby resort areas, which can be reached by electric train, are popular among tourists. For example, you can get to Bakhchisarai in 30 minutes, and it takes about 2 hours to get to Evpatoria.

Red Cave (Kizil Koba)

The name of this cave comes from the red limestone rock. It would be more correct to talk about a whole cave complex of several caves. The length of its already studied part is 21 km, containing numerous halls, galleries, passages and wells. The Su-Uchkhan stream runs along the bottom, forming a series of lakes and waterfalls, including the outer one, a few hundred meters from the entrance. The cave is available to ordinary travelers for 400 rubles. An extreme route along an underground river in special equipment is much more expensive.

Red Cave
Red Cave is also located in the Alushta direction from Simferopol, near the village of Perevalnoye. Excursions are also organized here.

Photo gallery: maps of different areas

The airport is located in the village of Aeroflotsky (12 km northwest of the center of Simferopol)

The botanical garden is located near the center of Simferopol

The Kievsky district of Simferopol has quiet streets and a provincial atmosphere

On the outskirts of Simferopol there is a park and stadium

There is a highway near the reservoir in Simferopol

The center of Simferopol is the busiest