This tour is a unique opportunity to explore Odessa's catacombs. From smuggling and slave trading, to sheltering partisans and acting as a Cold War bunker, the catacombs have had a rich history. Learn about the many roles they have played over the years.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 3 hours
- Starting times 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM
- Skip the line through express security check
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- Spanish, Ukrainian, English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian
Experience
Highlights
- Explore the catacombs in the very center of the city
- Experience a full immersion into underground life
- Visit a real bunker from the Cold War era
Full description
Odessa is known for its stunning architecture and friendly residents, and also for its extensive maze of underground catacombs.
The catacombs are a network of underground tunnels and mazes, and were at one time quarries from which the building stone for the city was mined. At present, the length of the Odessa catacombs is estimated at approximately 2,500-3,000 kilometers.
On this 3.5-hour tour you’ll learn how the catacombs played an important role at different times in Odessa’s history. In the 18th and 19th centuries the catacombs served as a conduit for smugglers, stashes for different gangs, and a prison for women, who were sold into slavery.
During the October Revolution the catacombs were a gathering place for members of underground organizations and the location for the printing of the Bolshevik newspaper. During World War II, partisans and sabotage units took refuge in the catacombs. In the years after the war (the Cold War period), part of the catacomb system was used to build anti-nuclear bunkers.
Itinerary
10:00 AM: Tour begins
10:00 AM -12:30 PM: Journey into the mysterious underground catacombs
Short break to rest, and enjoy a snack and share impressions
1:00 PM: Return
Includes
- Guided tour
- Insurance
- Hard hats, gloves, and lanterns
- Snacks
- Transfers
- Personal expenses
Not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- People with mobility impairments
- People with claustrophobia
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
2-y Rozumovskiy Ln / Rozumovska str.
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
Know before you go
- Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and sports shoes.
