The Tatar settlement Khadibei, first mentioned in 1415, was located on the present site of Odessa. During the Russian -Turkish War 1787-1791 the Ukrainian Black Sea Cossacks were the first to conquer the Turkish fortress En-Dunai and the settlement of Khadibei. In 1794 construction has begun on the military port and a city was founded. In 1795 Khadibei was renamed Odessa.

The history of Odessa is a history of an international city with strong influence of Greek, Italian and especially French cultures. Duc de Richelieu (later Prime Minister of France) was the first governor of Odessa. The heart of the city is its seaport always full of people. The Crimea, ports of Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey and the Mediterranean Sea are very near. That is why Odessa is included in many international tourist cruises.

The urban development of Odessa proceeded under a carefully elaborated master plan. Its wide and straight streets, spacious squares, magnificent architectural ensembles, numerous parks and boulevards plus an abundance of greenery make Odessa one of the finest cities in Ukraine.

Odessa has a flourishing theater life: there are 9 theaters, a Philharmonic orchestra, circus and Opera and Ballet Theater. Local Opera and Ballet Theater is among the world`s best theatrical buildings in terms of architecture and acoustic qualities. Odessa`s monuments leave no visitor indifferent. Prymorskyy Boulevard, famous Potemkin Staircase, former Vorontsov Palace, Derybasivska Street, St. Trinity Church are among most admirable sites.

Odessa museums are well known for unique and interesting collections of Ukrainian, Russian and European artworks. The Fine Arts Museum, the Marine Museum and the Museum of Western and Oriental Art enjoy the highest fame.

A mild climate, plenty of beaches and the Black Sea attract thousands of tourists to Odessa throughout the year, earning it the title of “Southern Palmira”. A visit to Odessa is sure to become experience to remember.

You can explore Odessa in the marks of Lviv-Inturtrans tours:
The city is included in most of our Classic Group Itineraries: “Grand Tour of Ukraine”, “Star Cities of Ukraine”, “Ukraine`s Best”, “Southern Delight”, Dnipro River Cruises.
For more sightseeing itineraries and options see also Lviv-Inturtrans Sightseeing & Excursions in/from Odessa.