The Top Attractions In Kaliningrad

Between Moscow and St. Petersburg, much in Russia goes unnoticed, including Kaliningrad, which truly deserves much more attention. It was once a Teutonic fortress; then a Polish, Prussian and German city; and now it’s an unusual—but inseparable—part of Russia. There are plenty of interesting things to see, and a curious tourist will most certainly not run short of attractions.

Vityaz and Other Vessels

The Museum of the World Ocean is also home to a variety of vessels turned into museums, including research vessel Vityaz, a submarine B-413 and a fishing boat SRT-129 that are open to the public, but entrance to each requires separate tickets. The vessels, once in actual use, look as if their crews have just left and will make you feel that you’re about to embark on a journey on the open sea.

1. Museum of Amber

Museum

The Baltics are famous for their amber. At the Museum of Amber, you’ll find beautiful natural pieces with a variety of fossils trapped inside, amber sculptures and a history of amber processing in the Soviet Union. It’s also a good place to buy inexpensive amber jewellery.

Central Market

Every Russian city has its own central markets where, the locals go to buy fresh produce, meat and inexpensive clothes, and Kaliningrad is no exception. Located between the Upper Pond and Victory Square, the market is a time machine, taking visitors back to the Soviet past. With heaps of fruit and big cuts of meat hanging from hooks in the ceiling, the market seems oddly out of place in the still visibly Prussian city. This patchwork of cultures is, however, the essence of Kaliningrad.