10 most beautiful cities of the CIS

Moscow, September 21 - “News. Economy". The TurStat analytical agency compiled a rating of CIS cities popular with Russian tourists for travel in the fall of 2017. 1. Minsk (Belarus)

According to TourStat, tourists visit Minsk in the fall for an average of 2.5 days and spend $ 70 a day on accommodation. Minsk is the capital of Belarus. There are more than 20 museums in Minsk (including departmental ones - 150). They include both permanent exhibits and periodically operating exhibitions. Minsk experienced the epoch of prosperity and decline, was both the rich capital of the principality and the provincial provincial city. Hurricanes swept through it, changing everything beyond recognition, from architecture to the national composition of the inhabitants. Today's Minsk is the largest city in Belarus, which is visited annually by tens of thousands of tourists. Despite the youth of architecture, there is something to see. 2. Astana (Kazakhstan)

People come to Astana on average for 2 days and spend $ 85 per day. Astana is the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Every year, the number of tourists coming to the Kazakh capital for educational and entertainment purposes is increasing. Guests from Russia are doubly comfortable here: the locals are fluent in Russian, all tourist sites have excursions in Russian. 3. Baku (Azerbaijan)

They come to Baku on average for 3 days and spend $ 78 per day. Baku is the capital of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the largest industrial, economic, scientific and technical center of Transcaucasia, as well as the largest port on the Caspian Sea and the largest city in the Caucasus. The city in its antiquity, the size of the territory and population is one of the oldest and largest cities in the East. 4. Yerevan (Armenia)

They come to Yerevan on average for 3 days and spend $ 67 per day. Yerevan is the capital and largest city in Armenia in terms of population and area, one of the oldest cities in the world. In recent years, favorable conditions for tourists have been created in Armenia. Many tourist infrastructure facilities have been built, many interesting tourist routes have been created and both local travel companies and world giants of this industry operate. Armenia has huge potential in the field of tourism, and more specifically in the fields of ecotourism, ski tourism, mountaineering, etc. 5. Almaty (Kazakhstan)

They arrive in Almaty for 3.5 days and spend $ 65 per day. Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan. Almaty is called the "" Southern Capital Situated at the foot of the mountains of Zailiysky Alatau, the city attracts tourists with the extraordinary beauty of landscapes, mild climate, pristine purity of nature and historical heritage. A variety of flora and fauna, blooming orchards, as well as the uniqueness of nature reserves make a huge contribution to the formation and development of tourism in Almaty. 6. Tashkent (Uzbekistan)

They come to Tashkent for 2 days and spend $ 43 per day. Tashkent is the capital and largest city of Uzbekistan, a city of republican subordination. The largest city in the population of Uzbekistan and Central Asia, the center of the Tashkent city agglomeration, the most important political, economic, cultural and scientific center of the country, as well as the aviation, railway and automobile hub. In Tashkent there are numerous organizations of scientific, pedagogical and cultural profile, 12 theaters, 22 museums. The city has architectural historical monuments, for example: the Sheikhantaur mausoleum (XV century) and Kaffal Shashi, the Barakhan and Kukeldash madrasahs (both XVI centuries). 7. Ashgabat (Turkmenistan)

They come to Ashgabat on average for 3 days and spend $ 40 per day. Ashgabat is the capital of Turkmenistan, the largest administrative-political, industrial, scientific and cultural center of the state. In Ashgabat, it is worth visiting the Nisa historical and cultural reserve, the Turkmenbashi Rukhi mosque, the Turkmen carpet museum, the Alley of Inspiration art park complex, the Oguzhan and Sons fountain complex. The city has a large number of hotels of various categories. 8. Kiev (Ukraine)

People come to Kiev on average for 2 days and spend $ 56 per day. Kiev is the capital and largest city of Ukraine, Hero City. In its history, Kiev has been the capital of the glades, Kievan Rus, the Principality of Kiev, the Ukrainian People’s Republic, the Ukrainian People’s Republic of Soviets, the Ukrainian State, the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, and since 1991 - independent Ukraine. Due to its significance as the historical center of Russia, the city is called the “mother of Russian cities”. 9. Chisinau (Moldova)

People come to Chisinau on average for 1 day and spend $ 35 per day. Chisinau is the capital and largest city of Moldova. An economic and cultural center located in the center of the country on the Byk River. The oldest buildings in Chisinau: Mazarakiev Church (1752), Church of Constantine and Helena (1777), Armenian Church (1803), Annunciation Church (1807-1810), Harlambia Church (1812). Every year in Chisinau, the international festival of opera and ballet art “Invites Maria Biesu” takes place. The festival was first held in 1990 and its organizer is the famous Moldavian opera singer - Maria Biesu. Every year, the best opera singers, ballet soloists, conductors, from Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Italy, France, Austria, the USA and other countries come to Chisinau to participate in this festival. 10. Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)

People come to Bishkek on average for 1 day and spend $ 32 per day. Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan and the largest city in the country. Large hotels are located in Bishkek: “Zhannat”, “Hyatt”, “Ak-Keme”, “Dostuk”, “Damas”, “Sayakat”, “Issyk-Kel”, “Semetey”, “Bishkek”, “Ala-Too” ”,“ Eldorado ”and others. The city of Bishkek is a regional center of trade, being a hub between China, Kazakhstan and Russia. The largest wholesale and retail market Dordoi, the largest car market Azamat, and a number of other markets operate in Bishkek.

The international rating company NYC Partnership Consulting two years ago published in the world media a sensational list of the dirtiest cities in the world. Comparing the 245 largest megacities and capitals of the planet, specialists from NYC Partnership Consulting compiled a rating of 30 cities, which were considered the most dirty by several summary indicators.

The following indicators were analyzed: the level of air pollution, the degree of suitability of drinking water, the degree of utilization and processing of waste, the level of accessibility of hospital services and medical supplies, the degree of presence of infectious diseases. In 2008, the capital of Azerbaijan, Baku, was recognized as the dirtiest city in the world.

Baku and all-all-all ...

At the beginning of this year, updating the indicator data, the rating company compiled another “dirty” list. By first chance, by a strange coincidence, I got again Baku. The result in a point proportion for the Azerbaijani capital was 4.2 points lower (worse) than two years earlier (23.4 points in 2010 against 27.6 in 2008). Recall that the standard of the exponential measurement was chosen New York, which at the very beginning of the study received 100 points from the organizers.

The list of the 30 most dirty cities in the world in 2010 consists of African cities and metropolitan areas, as well as several Asian capitals. The only European city that was included in the shameful rating was Moscowlocated in 12th place. In addition, two more CIS cities received their rating positions in the list: Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) and Alma-ata (Kazakhstan).

In the updated rating of 2010, compared with 2008, there were also Buenos Aires (immediately with the 4th position), Pretoria, Caracas, Marrakesh, Jakarta, Havana, Cairo, Nairobi, Tehran and Bogota. The debutant of the unpleasant rating was also the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek. Alma-Ata after the biennium has become “cleaner” by 13 positions, and Moscow - only 2 points.

TOP 30 most dirty cities on the planet:

Baku, Azerbaijan
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Mexico City, Mexico
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Antananarivo, Madagascar
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Kathmandu, Nepal
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Bangui, Central African Republic (CAR)
Lome Togo
Point Noir, Congo
Moscow, Russia
Pretoria, South Africa (South Africa)
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Bamako, Mali
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Caracas, Venezuela
Luanda, Angola
Marrakech, Morocco
Baghdad, Iraq
New Delhi, India
Jakarta, Indonesia
N'Djamena, Chad
Brazzaville, Congo
Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan
Havana, Cuba
Cairo, Egypt
Nairobi, Kenya
Tehran, Iran
Bogota, Colombia

By the way according to the results of 2009, the cleanest cities in the world are:

Calgary Canada
Helsinki, Finland
Copenhagen, Denmark
Honolulu, USA
Zurich, Switzerland
Oslo, Norway
Stockholm, Sweden
Ottawa, Canada
Geneva, Switzerland
Osaka, Japan

So, the TOP-10 of the cleanest megacities of the planet were six European cities, four of which are the capitals of the big "northern" four; three North American cities and just one Japanese. Neither Asian, nor African, nor South American capitals are on the list of net megacities.

The tourist analytical agency TourStat regularly presents readers with an analysis of tourist flows - or, if simpler, who goes where most often. This fall, the agency published a rating of the most popular cities for residents of the CIS countries for autumn tourism. The summer heat, which makes cities unpleasant for long walks, subsides, and you can enjoy the sights with comfort.

10. Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)

One of the most ancient cities in the post-Soviet space. It was founded in the 7th century! So there is something to see.

Even if you are not a fan of going to museums, then an ordinary walk in Bishkek can be a great pleasure. It is a very beautiful city with stunning views, and 41 km from it is Ala Archa Natural Park with special landscapes, glaciers and Ak-Sai Waterfall.

The capital of Kyrgyzstan is one of the cheapest cities of the former USSR for tourists. A day in Bishkek will cost $ 32. This is the best city for budget tourism in the fall of 2017.

9. Chisinau (Moldova)

If autumn has already firmly entered its positions in Bishkek, then having arrived in Chisinau, you can still enjoy the last reflections of summer, and wine.

One of the most famous places in Chisinau is Moldavian cellars, where you can see with your own eyes how wine is made. And, of course, try it. Chisinau also has many beautiful places (this is one of the greenest cities in Europe), museums (including the Pushkin Museum) and restaurants.

As in Bishkek, living in the capital of Moldova will cost inexpensively - an average of $ 35 per day.

8. Kiev (Ukraine)

Once, Mikhail Bulgakov called Kiev "the best city in the world." And indeed, this is one of the most beautiful and interesting years in the post-Soviet space. A picturesque relief, many historical and architectural monuments, museums (including the original museum of the history of the toilet) - if you want to explore everything, everything will have to linger here for a long time.

Accommodation in a Kiev three-star hotel will cost, on average, $ 45 per day.

7. Ashgabat (Turkmenistan)

Ashgabat received the status of a city relatively recently - in the 19th century, so there is not much ancient history in its squares. But nearby are the ruins of the ancient Central Asian city of Nisa, the history of which goes back centuries, to the ancient Parthian kingdom, which existed before our era.

Accommodation at a local hotel will cost about $ 50 per day.

6. Tashkent (Uzbekistan)

Although the terrible earthquake of 1966 almost wiped the city from the face of the earth, the inhabitants did not give up and rebuilt their city. So do not forget, admiring the monuments of architecture, that most of them are restored.

There are many museums in Tashkent, one of the most interesting is the library of oriental manuscripts, where the famous Koran of Caliph Usman is located. This is the only original manuscript of the Koran that has survived to our times. And we recommend visiting the famous oriental bazaars of Tashkent, where you can find almost everything - from oriental sweets to gold products.

A day in Tashkent will cost, on average, $ 43.

5. Almaty (Kazakhstan)

One of the most picturesque cities of the former USSR is located near the snow-covered mountain range of Zailiysky Alatau. From the top of one of its mountains, Kok-Tobe, there is a beautiful view of the capital of Kazakhstan (a comfortable cable car leads there, there is an amusement park). History lovers should visit the Central State Museum, which details the history of Kazakhstan in more than two thousand cultural monuments. And Almaty is famous for its fountains.

The price of living in Almaty is $ 65 per day.

4. Yerevan (Armenia)

In fourth place in the list of the best cities of the CIS for travel in the fall of 2017, there is a place with a rich cultural and historical heritage.

On the territory of Yerevan there are many architectural monuments, ranging from the Erebuni fortress with almost three thousand years of history, ancient rock monasteries to the repositories of manuscripts. And also very close to the city, in its southwestern part, is Lake Yerevan, which was once a favorite bathing place for citizens. Now they mostly prefer Lake Sevan, which is only 60 km away from the city. In many restaurants you can taste the original dishes of Armenian cuisine, washed down with them - no, not only with cognac, but with local wines or original vodka made from a variety of fruits, from pears to mulberries.

A day in a hotel in Yerevan will cost $ 67.

3. Baku (Azerbaijan)

The third place in the ranking of CIS cities popular with tourists is the capital of Azerbaijan, which successfully combines the charm of noble antiquity, oil luxury and modern amenities. Therefore, having arrived in Baku, get ready to fork out - a day in a hotel in the city will cost you an average of 78 dollars. But a visit to the city will pay back this money with interest, there is something to see.

One of the most interesting objects from a tourist point of view is a whole archaeological reserve where you can touch the rock paintings that have come down to us from the depths of centuries. Also in the city there is a paleontological museum, a national natural park, many ancient monuments of architecture. There are also original modern buildings, such as the Flame Towers, the construction of which was completed only five years ago.

2. Astana (Kazakhstan)

Astana became the capital recently - only ten years ago, but its appearance has changed dramatically during this time. Now it is a beautiful modern city, with wide avenues and futuristic architecture, the symbol of which is the Bayterek tower and the Palace of Peace and Concord.

Like Baku, Astana is one of the most expensive cities for tourists. A day in the capital of Kazakhstan will cost $ 85.

1. Minsk (Belarus)

The capital of Belarus became the most popular CIS city for travel in the fall of 2017. Minsk successfully combines antiquity, modernity, hospitality and some nostalgic “Sovietism”.

In the city center you can admire the ancient Trinity suburb, visit the buildings of the former Basilian monastery, the town hall and the oldest church in the city, built in the early 17th century. Also in the city there are enough monuments of the past not so distant - a building in the style of "Stalin's Empire". It is also worth visiting the restaurants of national cuisine, looking at the local handicrafts made of clay and linen, as well as going to the Botanical Garden, the zoo and the children's amusement park.

You will have to spend about $ 70 a day on accommodation.

A guide to the most beautiful and unusual cities.

They are close, they are beautiful there and speak Russian: 10 best cities for tourism in the countries of the former CIS:

Astana and Almaty, Kazakhstan
Jurmala, Latvia

However, it is worth going to Jurmala not for a beach vacation, but rather for walks in Jomas, coastal forests and "canary sand ground in wheat". And half an hour drive is Riga, where you can spend hours walking around the Old Town and eating sprats and sanctioned cheese.
Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan

The “Kyrgyz coast” Lake Issyk-Kul is visited mainly for sanatorium purposes. But call it a retro spa and enjoy. In addition to a beach holiday, there are salt caves, mineral springs and mountains.
Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Bukhara is the capital of Central Asian shopping. There are more and more tourists there every year, so visit the country until it has lost its authenticity. In 4 hours you can drive to Samarkand.
Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku has been incredibly rebuilt in recent years, and it is also very clean. But there is also a beautiful old city where they shot the “Diamond Arm”. 20 minutes from Baku there are beaches with all the entertainment. We recommend taking a funicular to the Nagorny Park and visiting the Baku Venice.
"Belovezhskaya Pushcha", Belarus

For lovers of forests and ecotourism, the best option is to live in a real reserve. 1.5 hours drive - Brest with its famous fortress
Kazbegi, Georgia

It is divinely beautiful there, but if this is not enough for you, you can ride horses, go mountain climbing, rafting or hang gliding, and visit ancient churches. Well, or just drink wine and enjoy the views. If you get tired - Tbilisi is just 160 km away.
Kishinev, Moldova

Another place for wine lovers. You can even go to sommelier courses. And also eat mamalygu. If you are a connoisseur of gypsy culture, you will also like it in Moldova - there is the city of Soroki, famous for its unusual gypsies.
Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius is one of the most beautiful Baltic cities. Be sure to visit the Old Town and the Uzhupis district, where free artists live, proclaiming themselves a separate state. By the way, there is a secret life hack how to get to Vilnius cheaply.
Yerevan, Armenia

Hospitality and delicious food. In Yerevan, you can climb the Grand Cascade, go around the halls of the Parajanov Museum, go to the Geghardavank Monastery and see Ararat from the observation deck of Khor Virap.

Moscow, September 21 - “News. Economy". The TurStat analytical agency compiled a rating of CIS cities popular with Russian tourists for travel in the fall of 2017. 1. Minsk (Belarus)