10 Interesting Things to do in Minsk

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Recently, Belarus has opened its doors to visa-free travel. Of course this meant that I had to go and check it out now that there were less restrictions. I braced myself for an overwhelming experience and expected to go back into communism. Instead I was surprised. The city was safe and clean, there were plenty of malls and American stores everywhere, and there quite a few things to see and do in the city. While I couldn't forget many of the human rights violations, nor the fact that the president is considered the last dictator of Europe, as a tourist, I had a lovely time. So if you want to get a taste of Minsk, here are some things to do.

10. The National Art Museum: if you want to learn more about Belorussian history, why not check out the art museum. With plenty of Belorussian masterpieces, this art museum proudly displays its history. There are plenty of hidden treasures to discover inside.

9. Gorky Park: this park is perfect if you are looking for some activities to do. With a small amusement park within the park, there's fun to be had for everyone. You can walk along the paths, sit on a bench and enjoy the day, or admire the statue of Gorky. But in the summer, you can even enjoy the small amusement park. 

8. Minsk Gates: these impressive buildings stand at the edge of the city center. They are beautiful within the context of Soviet architecture, and they are quite large, almost intimidating intruders. Known as the gateway to Minsk, if you're looking for an architectural tour, this are not to be missed. 

7. National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Belarus: normally known as the Bolshoi, this Belorussian version of the famous theatre in Moscow is worth the visit. Hidden within a beautiful park, this pretty building is a great way to see the ballet that people dream about in Moscow but at a more affordable price in Belarus. 

6. Holy Spirit Cathedral: overlooking the river is a beautiful cathedral in the center of the city. Within the city center, there are a few churches and cathedrals, but this one seems to be loved by locals as they were always gathering around the cathedral. And inside is quite beautiful and worth the stop. 

5. Victory Park: this beautiful park near the city center is perfect for a stroll. Right next to the Great Patriotic War Museum, this part is lovely for a stroll in the summer time and a winter wonderland in the winter. With plenty of places to walk or sit, it is a great place to sit back and relax and enjoy the day. 

4. Upper City: the upper city is located in the city center on a small hill overlooking the river. Although there are plenty of communist structures around the city, the upper city has more traditional building and winding streets. Here is a great place to wander if you are looking for some old Belorussian culture. 

3. Island of Tears: this interesting monument in the city center is a different kind of war memorial. It appears to humanize war on all sides by representing the families of the fallen soldiers. It is a monument to all the wars and those that died fighting them. Whether or not you are interested in visiting war memorials, the view from the island is worth the stop. 

2. Changing of the guard: at Victory Square, guards are constantly watching over the tomb of the unknown soldier. Although this square is at a major intersection and constantly busy, it is great to stop and watch the changing of the guard. From their unique march to making sure everything is in order, the Belorussians take it very seriously. 

1. Great Patriotic War Museum: this museum that praises the Red Army is a very interesting museum to visit. Essentially, it is a propaganda museum, however, it is very interesting to see what narrative they chose to display. With a grand collection of WWII memorabilia, this museum is for the history buffs, or anyone looking to learn about Belarus during WWII.