Monument
Potemkin Stairs
Odesa, Ukraine
A monumental stairway of white steps leading from Primorskyi Boulevard to the port.
City · Ukraine · Odesa
Odesa
A Black Sea port city, known for its grand opera house, the Potemkin Stairs and a distinctive local humour.
about 5 h
For storytellers
Why Odesa matters
Odesa was founded in the late 18th century and grew into one of the Russian Empire's most cosmopolitan ports, with Greek, Jewish, Italian, Ukrainian and many other communities. That mix gave the city its own character: elegant streets in a southern European style, an opera house, a tree-lined boulevard above the sea and a reputation for wit. It is known for the Potemkin Stairs, made famous by a classic film. Please check current travel advice, as the city has been affected by the war.
Talking points
- Its historic centre was added to the World Heritage in Danger list in 2023.
- Odesa grew as a cosmopolitan port with many communities.
- The Potemkin Stairs are one of its best-known sights.
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What to see in Odesa
Entertainment
Odesa Opera and Ballet Theatre
Odesa, Ukraine
A lavish opera house from the late 19th century, among the most beautiful theatres in Europe.
Shopping
Deribasivska Street
Odesa, Ukraine
A pedestrian street in the centre of Odesa, lined with cafés, restaurants and historic buildings.
Also nearby
Within about 40 km, closest first.