Travel Blog about Minsk | Pyala Travel

For the third time I arrive in Minsk, the capital of Belarus. The first time was in the dark final years of the Soviet Union, the last time a few years ago in the middle of winter, now it is the middle of summer.

Minsk is definitely in development, from a gray Soviet city it has now become a very pleasant city. Due to the political situation in Belarus, where as one of the few countries, most Soviet elements have not been removed, but are still being restored, you can look here for the old Soviet past. Lenin still stands on its pedestal, the streets are still named after Lenin, Marx and Engels, the hammer and sickle are visible in many buildings. Along the Praspect Niezaleznasci (Independence Avenue) a huge collection of Stalinist architecture can be seen. And many monuments that recall the Great Patriotic War (the Second World War) are still standing. Some of the most important battles were fought in Belarus. The main museum in Minsk is therefore devoted to this war, complete with the private aircraft of Stalin in the back yard. The museum appears to be a beautiful example of Soviet architecture, but was only recently built, entirely in accordance with the old Soviet standards.

Just outside Minsk one can visit the Stalin line, an old Defense line of build in Stalin times throughout Western Russia. Here you will find old trench bunkers, and a huge collection of Soviet military equipment, from old tanks to modern cruise missiles. Enthusiasts can shoot and even ride a tank! (the latter is not cheap by the way)

Minsk nowadays is much more than a city for enthusiasts looking for the Soviet past. It is a bustling, young vibrant city full of trendy cafes, galleries, restaurants, street art. Like someone said; "Minsk is like Berlin in the 90s".
The historic district of Niamiha, located on the Svislach River, is a good place to stay in the center. Most sights are within walking distance from here. The small streets are filled with cafes, coffee bars and restaurants. On warm summerdays you see many street musicians here. For trendy Minsk you have to go to Oktiabrskaja street. A neighborhood with old abandoned factories, now filled with breweries, trendy cafes, mobile restaurants and art galleries. You will also find a lot of street art here, many walls are painted with beautiful murals.

You can explore Minsk in many ways. Of course on foot, but mind you, the city is known for its endless boulevards, huge squares and extensive parks. The center is reasonably accessible, but if you want to explore the city a little further, take the fast metro. But it is more fun to actively explore Minsk. In recent years, cycle paths have been laid along the Svislach River, which means that you can cycle through the city.
We opted for a canoe trip. Belarus, with its many rivers, lakes, streams, is a great country for canoeing (and other outdoor activities). And you don't even have to leave the city for that. We started our canoe trip on the outskirts of Minsk on a large lake, and finally arrived 4 hours later, after a beautiful trip, right in the center of Minsk.