Sitting along its namesake river with strategic access to five seas, Rostov-on-Don is one of Russia’s major port cities. The river is the centrepiece of the city, making the Don Embankment a popular hangout. You’ll spot golden domes and white facades standing out from the city’s modern architecture, reflecting a unique harmony between the old and new.
Rostov-on-Don has a thriving performing arts scene with several theatres dotted around the city. You can make your way to the grand piano-shaped Rostov State Musical Theatre – one of Southern Russia’s biggest musical theatres – or enjoy a show at the Maxim Gorky Academic Drama Theatre, known to bring works of prominent writers like Chekhov and Shakespeare to life. Also stop by the Rostov State Puppet Theatre, established by a group of puppeteers to introduce children to the creativity behind theatrical performances.
To add a historical and architectural touch to your Rostov-on-Don trip, head to Bolshaya Sadovaya Street. This main street is home to several iconic structures, such as the Rostov City Hall, designed in the Beaux-Arts style and the Margarita Chernova House – a heritage building. A landmark that cannot be missed is the Nativity of the Virgin Cathedral, a five-domed church built in Russian-Byzantine style.