This humid, damp city has precipitation on most days of the
year, with wet summers and snowy winters. The climate in Minsk is,
however, moderate with an average January temperature of 21°F
(-6°C) and an average July temperature of 64°F (18°C).
Winters (December to February) are mild, with snow likely, while
summers (June to August) are warm and usually damp; two thirds of
the annual precipitation falls during the summer months. May to
September is the warmest time of year, while fog is common during
the autumn and spring.
Minsk National Airport
Location: The airport is situated about 25 miles (40km) east of the
Belarussian capital city of Minsk.
Time: Local time is GMT +3.
Getting to the city:
Buses and taxis are available for the hour-long journey to the
city. The airport bus, which connects to the central train station
on a hourly basis, is a far cheaper option.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include a restaurant, shops, baggage wrapping
services, an information desk, ATMs, currency exchange services,
and a VIP lounge.
Parking
Guarded parking at the airport is available in two parking lots,
for a fee.
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The best way to get around Minsk is on the fast and efficient
Metro system. However, it does tend to be very crowded. To access
places not served by the Metro there is a good system of trams,
buses, and trolley buses, which run from about 5.30am to after
midnight every day. It is wise to avoid peak hours.
Taxis tend to be expensive, and should be booked by telephone
from reliable, official operators. Taxis flagged in the street tend
to be private and may rip off unsuspecting visitors. State taxis
are yellow and metered. Ensure meters are turned on when departing.
Drivers prefer to negotiate fares before you board.
Minsk is not exactly a sightseeing city, but it makes
up in interest for what it lacks in traditional tourist
attractions. A Stalinist city, Minsk has a unique atmosphere which
is appealing to those seeking a novel destination.
Worthwhile tourist attractions in Minsk include the
imposing Cathedral of the Holy Ghost, dating back to 1642, one of
only a handful of historic buildings surviving in the city; the
Chelyuskinites Park, a very old-fashioned amusement park providing
some outdoor fun and a pretty botanical garden; the Museum of the
Great Patriotic War, which showcases the horrors of World War II,
including a model recreation of a Nazi concentration camp; the
National Museum of Culture and History, which chronicles the long
and turbulent history of Belarus; the National Opera and Ballet
Theatre of Belarus, a striking white landmark; and Victory Square,
which includes a moving war memorial.
Minsk is a comparatively safe city and getting around
is easy while sightseeing: many of the main attractions can be
visited on foot, and reasonably priced public transport fills in
the gaps for travellers.
