This active Black Sea port city has Russia's largest commercial harbor, warm beaches, and several naval museums. The surrounding hills contain hiking trails and orthodox churches.
Novorossiysk sits along Russia's Black Sea coast, with cargo ships and naval vessels moving through its busy port. Walk along Tsemess Bay to see the Mikhail Kutuzov Cruiser museum ship, or head to the underground wine tunnels of Abrau-Dyurso where millions of bottles age in perfect conditions. The city's World War II memorials, including the striking Malaya Zemlya complex, tell stories of the area's military past.
Getting to Novorossiysk
You can fly into three nearby airports: Gelendzhik Airport (33 km away), Anapa Airport (53 km away), or Krasnodar Airport (172 km away). The city's railway station connects directly to Moscow and other major Russian cities via regular train services. A highway network links Novorossiysk to surrounding regions.
Port Operations
The Novorossiysk Sea Port stretches 8.3 kilometers along Tsemess Bay - the longest port berthing line in Russia. Ships move grain, coal, oil, and containers through the port year-round, as the bay's waters never freeze. While newer sections use automated loading systems, you'll still see classic cranes and equipment operating at some of the older quays.
Abrau-Dyurso Wines
The Abrau-Dyurso winery, established in 1870 under Tsar Alexander III, sits just outside the city. You can tour the underground tunnels where sparkling wines age in carefully controlled temperatures. The winery produces both sparkling and still wines using local grape varieties.
Military History Sites
At the Malaya Zemlya Memorial Complex, you can learn about the Soviet forces who held this small piece of land during the Nazi occupation from 1942 to 1943. Step aboard the Mikhail Kutuzov Cruiser, now transformed into a museum, to see naval equipment and learn about Black Sea Fleet operations through detailed exhibits and artifacts.
Climate and Weather
The Black Sea moderates Novorossiysk's temperatures year-round. Winter temperatures typically stay above freezing, while summer days reach 25-30°C (77-86°F). Rain falls throughout the year, creating good conditions for the region's vineyards.
Industrial Areas
The city's industrial zone includes one of southern Russia's largest cement plants, producing over 4 million tons annually. Food processing facilities package local agricultural products, while the metalworking plants manufacture parts for the shipping industry. These facilities operate primarily in the eastern district, separate from residential areas.
