Jewish Odessa walking tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Uncover the story of Odessa's Jewry since the city's founding till the end of the 19th century on this 3-hour Jewish Odessa walking tour. Explore the sights related to the Golden Age of Odessa's Jewry.
From the first Jewish settlers to the establishment of the Jewish merchant community to the Haskalah to the first pogroms and the appearance of the Odessa's Palestine committee we tell the exciting story of the Golden Age of Odessa's Jewry. We immerse in the Jewish past through the city landmarks and the Jewish sights. We visit the Great Choral synagogue and the Brodsky temple. A walk through the area of the pogroms lets us uncover one of the darkest periods of Odessa's history. How did Odessa become the cultural center for the Jews? After all, the first Jewish newspapers - in Russian, Yiddish and Hebrew were published here. On top of that, we explore the places described by Jabotinsky in his novel The Five and in the famous The Hare with Amber Eyes.
Available options
Jewish Odessa walking tour
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
Detailed itinerary
1
We'll talk of Odessa's early Jewish settlers. What attracted them to Odessa? Who were they? Where did they come from? Small craftsmen and traders. Some of them later became affluent merchants and bankers. Like the famous Ephrussi.
2
We'll see the two temples - the Brodsky synagogue and the Main Choral synagogue. We'll share with you the story of the temples and talk about the two communities: the German Jews and the Orthodox community.
3
The story of Isaac Babel and Odessa's Tales. And who put the monument and why does it look like this?
4
Stop 4
Described by Ze'ev Jabotinsky in his novel The Five, this Odessa's iconic sight (as well as its predecessor) had a huge impact upon Odessa's Jewry. We'll uncover this during our tour.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Dress code to go inside the synagogue applies. Entrance to the synagogue is restricted during the Jewish holidays and shabbat.
Meeting point
Alternatively, we can pick up from your address if it's in the historical quarter
Important notes
• Dress code is smart casual
About Odessa
Odessa is a vibrant port city on the Black Sea known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and lively cultural scene. Its unique blend of Ukrainian, Russian, and Mediterranean influences makes it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Potemkin Stairs
The iconic Potemkin Stairs are a famous landmark in Odessa. They lead down to the harbor and offer stunning views of the Black Sea.
Historical
30-60 minutes
Free
Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater
This beautiful theater is one of the most famous in Ukraine. It hosts world-class performances and is a must-visit for culture lovers.
Cultural
2-3 hours for a performance
100-500 UAH
Odessa Cathedral
This stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Ukrainian architecture. It's a peaceful place to visit and offers beautiful views of the city.
Religious
30-60 minutes
Free
Odessa Archeological Museum
This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Black Sea region, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's history.
Museum
1-2 hours
30-50 UAH
Odessa Beach
Odessa's beaches are a major attraction, offering a relaxing escape with beautiful sea views and a lively atmosphere.
Beach
Half day or full day
Free (sunbeds and umbrellas for rent)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Borscht
A traditional Ukrainian beetroot soup, often served with sour cream and garlic bread.
Soup
Vegetarian (without meat)
Foroshok
A traditional Odessa street food, similar to a hot dog but with local flavors.
Street food
Contains meat
Paska
A traditional Ukrainian Easter bread, often served with sweet toppings.
Bread
Vegetarian
Plov
A Central Asian rice dish with meat, vegetables, and spices, popular in Odessa.
Main course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Boat trips on the Black Sea
Hiking in nearby nature reserves
Sunbathing on Odessa Beach
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Attending performances at the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater
Exploring historic sites and museums
Swimming
Boat trips
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The beaches are crowded, and the city is bustling with activity.
22°C to 30°C
72°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Ukrainian
- Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)
Time Zone
EET (GMT+2)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Odessa is generally safe for tourists, but as with any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or app-based services
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services, especially at train stations and airports
Getting there
By air
- Odessa International Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Odessa Central Station
By bus
Odessa Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The tram system is a historic and scenic way to get around Odessa. It's affordable and covers many major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uklon, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Arcadia
Moldovanka
Day trips
Bilhorod-Dnistrovsky
80 km • Full day
A historic town with a medieval fortress and beautiful views of the Dniester River.
Vylkove
200 km • Full day or overnight
A small town on the Danube Delta, known for its unique delta landscape and birdwatching opportunities.
Chornomorsk
15 km • Half day
A small coastal town with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Festivals
Odessa International Film Festival • July
Odessa Jazz Festival • September
Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater Season • September to June
Pro tips
- Visit the Potemkin Stairs at sunset for the best views
- Explore the underground catacombs for a unique and fascinating experience
- Try local street food like foroshok and chebureki
- Attend a performance at the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater for a cultural experience
- Relax on the beaches of Arcadia for a peaceful escape
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
