Mariupol

Donetska oblast, Ukraine

Why visit Mariupol?

: Мариу́поль) is a city in southeastern Ukraine on the north coast of the Sea of Azov, and at the mouth of the Kalmius. With a population of 432,000 in 2021, it was the tenth largest city in The city history starting in the 16th century, the Cossack fortress called Kalmius was built at the mouth of Kalmius river for the purpose of protecting their hunting grounds, fisheries and salt-works against devastating raids of Crimean Tatars. After the Russo-Turkish War (1768–1774), the great influx of orthodox Greeks from Crimea to the area caused the local population growth. In 1782 it was the capital of Uyezd in Azov Governorate of Russian Empire. After construction of the railway line from Yuzovka in 1882 made this city to a local trading centre. At the end of the 19th century, a subsidiary of the Belgian company SA Providence Russe opened a steelworks in Sartana near Mariupol. In 1933 a new steelworks (Azovstal) were built along the Kalmius River. The city was heavily damaged by Russian bombardment in the spring of 2022. Ilyichivsky Raion is the northern part of the city, the largest and most industrialized neighborhood in the city. Commonly known as: Zavod (“Factory”) of Ilyich. Ordzhonikidzivsky Raion (after Sergo Ordzhonikidze) is at the east part of the city, on the left coast of Kalmius river. Common name: the Left Coast.

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How do you get there?

By Plane

The nearest major airport serves the wider railway station(s), notable connections, booking tips.

By Train

Rail connections may be available to nearby larger towns. From there, local buses or taxis can reach Mariupol. Check the Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) website for current schedules.

By Car / Road

Driving to Mariupol is possible via regional roads. Road conditions vary, and it is advisable to check current conditions before travelling. Fuel stations are available in larger towns along the route.

Local transport in Mariupol consists primarily of buses and minibuses (marshrutkas). Walking is practical in the town centre. Taxis are affordable and can be arranged through local dispatch or ride-hailing apps where available.

What are the things to do?

  • The city history starting in the 16th century, the Cossack fortress called Kalmius was built at the mouth of Kalmius river for the purpose of protecting their hunting grounds, fisheries and salt-works against devastating raids of Crimean Tatars. After the Russo-Turkish War (1768–1774), the great influx of orthodox Greeks from Crimea to the area caused the local population growth. In 1782 it was the capital of Uyezd in Azov Governorate of Russian Empire. After construction of the railway line from Yuzovka in 1882 made this city to a local trading centre. At the end of the 19th century, a subsidiary of the Belgian company SA Providence Russe opened a steelworks in Sartana near Mariupol. In 1933 a new steelworks (Azovstal) were built along the Kalmius River.
  • Sviato-Nikolskyi Russian Orthodox Cathedral
  • St. Nicholas has long been considered the patron saint of sailors, and it is true in the coastal city. The temple has two large sanctuary - in the first is a copy of the miraculous icon of the Mother of God "Mariupol" and in the second is relics of Saint Ignatius of Mariupol.
  • Svyato-Nikolaevskiy Portovskiy temple
  • Sviato-Preobrazhens'kyi Temple
  • Sviato-Amvrosievskyi Temple

Visitors to Mariupol can explore the local market, walk through the town centre, and visit nearby natural attractions. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking and cycling during the warmer months.

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Where to eat?

The city history starting in the 16th century, the Cossack fortress called Kalmius was built at the mouth of Kalmius river for the purpose of protecting their hunting grounds, fisheries and salt-works against devastating raids of Crimean Tatars. After the Russo-Turkish War (1768–1774), the great influx of orthodox Greeks from Crimea to the area caused the local population growth. In 1782 it was the capital of Uyezd in Azov Governorate of Russian Empire. After construction of the railway line from Yuzovka in 1882 made this city to a local trading centre. At the end of the 19th century, a subsidiary of the Belgian company SA Providence Russe opened a steelworks in Sartana near Mariupol. In 1933 a new steelworks (Azovstal) were built along the Kalmius River. Zhovtnevy Raion (Russian: Oktyabrsky – after the Great October Revolution, 1917) is the central city raion. The everyday name of the raion is simply "the Centre", or "the City". Built at the end of the 19th century as a club for the engineers of factory of Il'icha. Reconstructed in 2003. There are creative exhibitions, collections. Sq. Teatralnaya

Where to drink?

Local cafés serve coffee, tea, and soft drinks. Ukrainian beer and kvas (a traditional fermented beverage) are widely available. Water from the tap is generally not recommended for visitors; bottled water is inexpensive and readily available.

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Where to stay?

The museum exposition (six rooms on two floors) is very rich in exhibits related to the culture and daily life of the Greeks. Tell about history of Greek's migration from the Crimean Khanate to the Sea of Azov. The museum staff also pays much attention to the cuisine of the Greeks of Azov regularly publishing the collections of receipts.

What should you buy?

Local markets in Mariupol offer fresh produce, honey, handmade crafts, and household goods. Regional specialties may include embroidered textiles, pottery, and preserves.

Where to go next?

Nearby destinations within railway station(s), notable connections, booking tips.

Nearby in Donetska oblast

More places to explore around Mariupol.

Guide content as of July 2026.

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