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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Brest.
Brest, like a bright and alluring gemstone, shines with an array of activities, each granting a unique facet to its brilliance.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Brest:
1. Brest Fortress
A 19th-century fortress located in Brest, Belarus, famous for a heroic defense against Nazi invasion during World War II.
What to see or do: Walk along the preserved fortifications, visit the museum which tells the history of the fortress, and attend the daily ceremonial changing of the guard.
Don’t miss: The stunning Monument “Thirst” in the center of the fortress, which depicts the suffering of the defenders for lack of water, and the eternal flame commemorating the fallen heroes.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer to witness the spectacular sound and light show that takes place in the fortress at night.
Plan your trip in advance and consider hiring a local guide to enrich your experience, as the history of the fortress is still a very sensitive matter for Belarusians.
2. Museum of the Defense of Brest
The Museum of the Defense of Brest is a historic site that commemorates the heroic defense of the city’s fortress during World War II.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the underground tunnels and bunkers used by the defending soldiers, observe panoramic views from the top of the fortress, and browse exhibits and artifacts from the war.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the “Last Soldier” exhibit which features the story of a lone Soviet soldier who remained hidden in the fortress for 3 years after the end of the war.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as much of the museum is located underground and involves uneven terrain. It is also recommended to book a guided tour in advance to fully appreciate the historical significance of the site.
3. Berestye Archeological Museum
Berestye Archeological Museum is an open-air museum located in Brest, Belarus, which was built over the remains of a 13th-century wooden city.
What to see or do: Explore the fascinating displays showcasing the ancient Slavic lifestyle including handicrafts, pottery, and household items. Marvel at the intricate architecture of the reconstructed medieval wooden settlement.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is a fully reconstructed wooden house, which provides a glimpse into the daily life of early Slavs.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the summer to see the full beauty and lush greenery of the museum’s surroundings.
4. Sovetskaya Street
A vibrant street in the heart of Brest, Belarus, known for its historical and cultural significance.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the street and soak in the atmosphere of the city. Admire the stunning architecture of the buildings, which includes the famous Brest Fortress.
Stop by the numerous shops, cafes, and bars that line the street, where you can sample delicious local cuisine and buy unique souvenirs.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to visit the Brest Fortress, which played a pivotal role in World War II. The fortress is home to several museums and exhibitions that showcase the history of the region and its people.
Insider travel tips: If you’re traveling to Brest, be sure to visit Sovetskaya Street on a weekday when it’s bustling with activity.
For an even more authentic experience, visit during one of the many street festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year.
Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this historic street.
5. Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park
Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park is an ancient forest located on the border between Belarus and Poland, famous for its diverse flora and fauna.
What to see or do: Explore the vast forest and observe the numerous species of rare animals, including bison, deer, wild boar, and lynx.
Take a guided tour of the park and visit the museum of nature and wildlife to learn more about the history of the ancient forest.
Don’t miss: The Bison Show Reserve, where you can observe the largest population of European bison in the world. Also, visit the Tsar’s Oak, an enormous tree that is said to be more than 500 years old.
Insider travel tips: Book your tour in advance to avoid long queues. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for trekking.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the forest, and don’t forget to try local delicacies at the nearby food stalls.
6. Pripyatskiy National Park
Pripyatskiy National Park is a vast protected area situated in southern Belarus, around 280 km from the capital city of Minsk.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning wilderness of the park, which encompasses forests, swamps, rivers, and lakes. The park is a bird-watcher’s paradise, with more than 200 species of birds, including eagles, ospreys, and black storks.
There are also several hiking trails that offer stunning views and a chance to spot wildlife.
Don’t miss: The highlight of a visit to the park is the Pripyat River, which flows through the center of the park.
This mighty river offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the country, with plenty of pike, catfish, and carp to be caught.
Insider travel tips: To make the most of your visit, hire a local guide who can help you navigate the park’s trails and show you the best spots for wildlife viewing and fishing.
Also, be sure to pack plenty of mosquito repellent, as the park is known for its thriving insect population.
7. Rowing Channel
The Rowing Channel in Brest is a 6km long man-made canal that was created to provide a calm and sheltered waterway for rowing and other water sports.
What to see or do: The Rowing Channel is a popular spot for rowing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and dragon boating. Visitors can bring their own equipment or rent from local businesses.
There are also several lakeside parks along the canal, perfect for picnicking or taking a scenic stroll.
Don’t miss: If you’re in Brest during the summer, don’t miss the annual Rowing Festival, where rowers from all over Europe come together for a weekend of races, food, and live music.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the Rowing Channel is early in the morning or in the evening when the water is calm and the crowds are smaller.
8. Millennium Monument
The Millennium Monument is a landmark situated in the city of Brest, Belarus. It was built in 2002 to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of the city.
What to see or do: The monument features a towering column with a statue of Saint Sophia, the patron saint of Brest, at the top. Visitors can climb the stairs inside the column to reach the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Don’t miss: The monument is particularly impressive at night when it is illuminated by colorful lights, making for a beautiful photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of a climb if you want to reach the observation deck.
There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby if you want to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the views.
9. Cathedral of St Simeon and St Helena
The Cathedral of St Simeon and St Helena in Brest is a stunning 19th-century neo-Gothic structure.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ornate interior of the cathedral, which features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate sculptures, and intricate frescoes.
Don’t miss: The cathedral houses the relics of St. Simeon, a revered Orthodox saint, and is an important pilgrimage site for believers.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during one of the many church services held throughout the day to experience the traditional Orthodox worship rituals.
Additionally, don’t forget to admire the cathedral’s striking exterior, which dominates the surrounding skyline.
10. Victory Square
Victory Square is a memorial complex dedicated to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War in Brest, Belarus.
What to see or do: The square has several monuments and sculptures depicting the Soviet soldiers and the Belarusian partisan fighters who bravely fought against the Nazis.
There are several tanks and other military equipment on display which were used during the war. The complex also has an eternal flame which burns in memory of those who lost their lives during the war.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the Victory Square is the Brest Fortress, which was one of the most heroic military resistance during WWII.
It is a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in military architecture. The fortress has a museum which displays various artifacts and memorabilia from the war.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the place during the evening to witness the changing of the guard ceremony.
11. Museum of Railway Equipment
The Museum of Railway Equipment is a fascinating outdoor exhibition displaying a variety of historic locomotives, wagons, and other equipment used on Belarusian railways.
What to see or do: Explore the impressive collection of vintage trains and learn about the history of railway transportation in Belarus. Admire the well-preserved steam locomotives, electric engines, and diesel trains, as well as various types of cargo and passenger wagons.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the famous Soviet steam locomotive P36-0227, nicknamed the “Swan.” This magnificent locomotive was built in 1954 and is the largest operational steam engine preserved in Belarus.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the exhibition covers a large area.
12. Belovezhskaya Pushcha Zoo
Belovezhskaya Pushcha Zoo is a popular tourist attraction located in the city of Brest, Belarus.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the zoo’s extensive collection of animals, including rare and endangered species such as European bison, lynx, wolves, and brown bears.
The zoo offers guided tours and educational programs, as well as opportunities for hands-on interactions with some of the animals.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the European bison, the largest mammal in Europe and a symbol of the Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park.
Visitors can also observe brown bears in their natural habitat, and watch wolves and lynx being fed.
Insider travel tips: Plan ahead and book your guided tour in advance, especially during high season.
Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as the zoo is located in a forested area and weather conditions can change quickly.
13. Park-museum of Interactive History Sula
Park-museum of Interactive History Sula is a unique open-air museum in Brest, Belarus.
What to see or do: – Take a journey through the historical events of Belarus from the Stone Age to modern times.
Don’t miss: – The reconstructed medieval castle with its medieval weaponry and costumes.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the park is vast and requires a lot of walking.
14. State Museum of Railway Transport of the Republic of Belarus
The State Museum of Railway Transport of the Republic of Belarus is located in Brest and is one of the largest railway museums in Europe.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the indoor and outdoor exhibits, including steam locomotives, diesel and electric locomotives, passenger and freight cars, and rare prototypes.
There is also a collection of vintage railway equipment, including telegraphs, uniforms, and other accessories.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the “Odyssey of Technology” exhibit, which displays the development of railway technology over the years.
Also, don’t miss the “History of the Belarusian Railway” exhibit, which highlights the important role that railways played in the country’s industrial and social development.
Insider travel tips: – It is recommended to visit the museum on weekdays to avoid crowds.
15. Museum of the History of Brest
A museum dedicated to the history of the city of Brest, located in western Belarus.
What to see or do: Explore the permanent exhibitions that cover different periods in Brest’s history, including the prehistoric, medieval, and modern eras. View artifacts such as ancient tools, old photographs, and military equipment.
Watch multimedia presentations that bring the city’s past to life.
Don’t miss: The model of the Brest Fortress, which tells the story of the heroic defense of the fortress by Soviet soldiers during World War II.
Also, check out the exhibition dedicated to the Brest railway station and its role in the transfer of people and goods between East and West.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least a couple of hours in the museum to fully appreciate all it has to offer. Be sure to buy a guidebook or take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.
The museum is closed on Mondays.