Capital of Belarus, Minsk is a progressive and modern city with a variety of things to see and do. It boasts fascinating architecture, historical monuments, impressive culinary scene and lively nightlife. The city also boasts many lush and green parks around the Svislotch River. Being a contemporary city, Minsk also holds to its traditional sights in its art, culture, and museums.
Top things to see and do in Minsk
- Visit the Church of Saints Simon and Helena, or Red Church. Standing tall as an important centre of religious, cultural and social life of Minsk, this neo-Romanesque church is known for its striking architecture and red brick walls. The church was designed by Polish architect Tomasz Pajzderski and was consecrated in 1910.
- Walk along the central part of Independence Avenue and admire Stalin’s empire style architecture and wide boulevards that are lined with ornate imperial grandeur buildings. You can see some of city’s most famous landmarks, including the Belarusian Government Building, KGB Headquarters, Main Post Office, Victory Square, and the National Library to name a few.
- Take a cultural dip at the grandeur of the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre of Belarus. Opened in 1939, the theatre’s grandiose style was inspired by Roman amphitheatres. If time permits, don’t miss out on an opera or a ballet performance, the Swan Lake Ballet is one of the most famous ones, where tickets need to be booked months in advance.
- Feed squirrels in Kupala Park or click beautiful scenic pictures at the Loshitsa Park. Recognised as a very green city, Minsk has a lot of parks, some of which are located on the banks of the river Svislotch.
- Admire the architecture of the National Library of Belarus. This 23-storey National Library is designed as a gigantic diamond, as a symbol of the precious knowledge stored in the books within.
- One of the most beautiful traditional temples in Minsk, Church of All Saints, located at the intersection of Kalinowski and All Saints streets is the temple monument built in the memory of innocent victims, all the saints of Belarus, and fallen soldiers.
- Check out Kastrychnitskaya street, the cultural hub and creative centre of Minsk, and fall in love with the local street art. Explore art galleries, open-air concerts, markets and contemporary art exhibitions of the unofficial art district of Minsk.
- Shop at the coolest place in Minsk, the impressive GUM store – the main department store. Founded in 1951, this is one of the oldest and largest department stores in the city where across three floors you can find just about everything.
Tips for travellers
Take a day trip out of the city to explore the magnificent Mir Castle Complex and the nearby Niasvizh castle, the two most significant UNESCO world heritage sights of Belarus recognised around the world. Dive into Belarusian history while you explore the five-tower Mir Castle Complex and the National History and Culture Museum-Reserve of Niasvizh castle.
