Kaliningrad is one of Russia’s most cosmopolitan cities, boasting superb museums and outstanding natural attractions. The city has been part of Germany, Lithuania and Poland over the centuries, and traces of its cross-national heritage remain in its diverse architecture and European cafe culture.

Things to do

Take a stroll along the Pregolya River, which runs through the center of Kaliningrad. An island in the center of the river is the site of Königsberg Cathedral, built in the 14th century. The upper floor is dedicated to an exhibition of philosopher Immanuel Kant, one of the city’s most-famous inhabitants, and you can see his mausoleum on the grounds.

Kaliningrad is famous for its amber mining, and at the Amber Museum, you can see some of the most exquisite examples of its use in art, including a one-meter vase made of a single piece of amber. Shop for jewelry and ornaments in the museum shop or at the numerous stalls outside.

The city’s biggest outdoor attraction is the Heritage-listed Curonian Spit, a sweeping curve of sand that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic. There are several award-winning beaches, scenic hiking trails and the “Dancing Forest” of strangely shaped trees.

Don’t miss Kaliningrad’s best nightlife at Harry Johnson’s, named after the author of the “Bartender’s Manual”. Other great drinking spots are Kvartira, a cozy bar that also sells books and records, and a glitzy dance club called Platinum.

Getting around

Kaliningrad is served by Khrabrovo Airport, a 40-minute drive north of the city. A network of buses, minibusses and trams allows access to every part of the city, while there are regular buses between Kaliningrad and the villages on the Curonian Spit.