Going abroad without leaving Russia means going to Kaliningrad. This is a city where history and modernity intertwine, offering travelers a unique combination of cultural attractions and outdoor recreation. Two and a half hours by plane from Moscow – and you are at Khrabrovo airport, where from the first minutes you are enveloped by the refreshing breeze of the Baltic region.
Kaliningrad (formerly Königsberg) was founded in 1255 by the Teutonic Order. For centuries it was part of the Prussian and then German states. After World War II, in 1945 the city was transferred to the Soviet Union and the German population was expelled. Since then, Kaliningrad has become a Russian enclave and serves as Russia’s cultural and economic centre in the Baltic.
In this material, we will tell you how to embrace boundlessness and enjoy being alone with nature in four days. Register your participation and passwords!
Radisson Blu Kaliningrad
The key to a good trip is choosing the right hotel. I agree, the location, the magnificent view from the window and delicious breakfasts play a special role here. This is exactly what attracted us to the Radisson Blu Kaliningrad. Located in the city center, on the main square, the hotel is within walking distance of famous cultural attractions. In the stylish lobby bar you can buy a delicious signature cocktail.
Scandinavian SPA
Even if you only have a few days and want to do everything, you should not rush to the pool – you should start your vacation with a rest. To recover after the flight, we went to the village of Yantarny, where the Nordic SPA complex is located on the shores of the raging Baltic Sea. Hot saunas and invigorating plunge pools combine elements of traditional Scandinavian thermal spa treatments with a coastal atmosphere. During water procedures from the panoramic window you can enjoy the sea view. Now the body and soul are ready to conquer the sights of Kaliningrad.
After a nice breakfast at the hotel, we go on a walking tour of Kaliningrad. It is best to do this under the guidance of a guide who will explain why one district is dominated by buildings from the USSR period, and the other by European “gingerbread” houses. We recommend that you start your acquaintance with the city by getting immersed in the life of the 19th and early 20th centuries in the Altes House museum-apartment. Here you can touch the antique furniture and household items of ancient Prussia.
You should continue your Kaliningrad exploration with a boat tour with views of the World Ocean Museum and the Ship Bay. After cooling off in the vastness of the Baltic Sea, we head towards the Fishing Village and Kant Island. The final item on the program will be an organ concert in the Cathedral, the main historical site of the city.
You should not focus only on the historical center. To absorb the cultural DNA of the European part of our country, you should pay attention to the surroundings. Just an hour by car, you will find yourself in Svetlogorsk. This is a small town with dollhouses and green streets that literally float on the Baltic Sea. Spoiler: gingerbread houses and cozy lawns will be the ideal place for your photoshoot.
Our next destination is Zelenogradsk. After a 20-minute drive, we find ourselves in a small, charming settlement on the banks of the Curonian Spit. The miniature resort town is known not only for its old German buildings and clean beach, but also for its love of cats. The local government has created the original (and one-of-a-kind) position of cat chief, who is responsible for all the cats in the city. Upon arrival, we head to the Königsberg Museum and from there to the 50-meter Ferris wheel “Eye of the Baltic”. Enjoy the beauty of the region from a bird’s eye view; what could be better?
Gastrobar “UGODNIKI”
Kaliningrad’s gastronomic calling card is the original culinary restaurant “UGODNIKI”. The chef’s bold imagination deserves special attention: here traditional French cuisine and sauces are combined with a unique Asian flavor. The geographical location contributes to the freshness of the products. Salmon ceviche, grilled crayfish and scallop tartare come straight from the sea.
Restaurant “Balt”
Locals call the Baltic the northern Mediterranean. The Balt restaurant in Zelenogradsk confirms the theory in practice. Natural materials and natural textures of the interior and haute cuisine of this place will not leave indifferent even the most severe critic. If you are lucky, the waiter will tell you a brief history of the Baltic region and the Kurhaus building where the restaurant is located.
Central market of Kaliningrad
The best way to learn about the culture of a place you don’t know is to communicate with the locals. For this purpose, we went to the city’s famous Central Market. Here you can find fresh vegetables and fruits, dairy products, meat, fish and farmer’s delicacies, as well as handicrafts and souvenirs. As gifts from Kaliningrad, you can bring seafood, marzipan and natural Baltic amber.
Cheese factory Schaaken Dorf
On the way to the airport we decided to enjoy the rural atmosphere of Kaliningrad residents and stopped at the family cheese factory Schaaken Dorf. The word Dorf is translated from German as “village”. Local production is housed in ancient stone buildings; it is a beautiful miniature town with smooth roads and farms. We tasted cheeses and chocolates, then went on an edible shopping spree at the cheese factory.
Source: People Talk
Errol Villanueva is an author and lifestyle journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a passion for exploring the latest trends in fashion, food, travel, and wellness, Errol’s articles are a must-read for anyone interested in living a stylish and fulfilling life.
