Travelling to Zelenogradsk in the Kaliningrad Oblast Province.

Zelenogradsk, formerly known as Kranz, was one of the cities that we visited while in Russia. Situated just outside Kaliningrad and close to Svetlogorsk, it is easily accessible by bus. In the times of Prussia, it was well known as a fishing village and holiday resort. Unfortunately during the Cold War era tourism in Zelenogradsk was neglected and many people chose to go to Svetlogorsk.

This pretty town has become more popular in recent years and it is very popular for its mineral water, beaches, sanatoriums and cultural heritage. Many rich Russians now own holiday homes in Zelenogradsk, that is now more than 7 1/2 centuries old.

What to do and see in Zelenogradsk?

There is lots to see and do in Zelenogradsk. If you do not speak Russian then it is difficult to find the tourist attractions. This guide will help to find these places.

German Architecture.

Many of the architectural sights have been preserved and the German influence is unmistakable. Take a walk through town and admire the old buildings. Some have been neglected but many are being restored.

Zelenogradsk, Cranz, Kranz, Zelenogradsk Travel Guide, Things to do in Zelenogradsk, How to get to Zelenogradsk, — German architecture in Kranz or Zelenogradsk as it is now called.

Church of St. Andrew.

Constructed in 1904-1905 in a neo-gothic style by a woodworker called Laufer. The chapel served as a storehouse during the times of the Soviet Union. In 1998 this building was converted into the city’s first Orthodox Church. It is now called the Church of Saint Andrew.

Address: 13A Moskovskaya street

Promenade.

The first promenade was constructed after World War I. It was made from wood and was 900m long. It was reconstructed many times over the years. Today it has been replaced by a more secure concrete structure. To my surprise it was very wide and I have heard people complaining that most of the beach was taken away. However it is lovely to walk there and you have a beautiful view of the Baltic sea.

© Photographer: Nelieta Mishchenko | Agency: Dreamstime.com

Library.

Close to the Railway station you will see a lovely red-brick building. This is the local library.

Water Tower.

The water tower in Zelenogradsk was once broken and rusty. It was recently restored and many cannot believe that it is the same old water tower. An observation deck on the top floor was built and an elevator installed. From here you can overlook the sea. Inside the tower is an impressive art collection: Murarium Collection of Cats. Yes, thousands of toys, statues, paintings, handcrafts and fun items can be seen here. A great place to visit with children.

Address: 2A Saratovskaya street, crossing with Tkachenko street.

The Beach.

I have mentioned before that the beach is not very wide but you do you have plenty of sand to sit on. The Baltic Sea is very cold but in summer the beach is packed. Go early to get a nice place to sit.

Restaurants.

There are plenty of restaurants along the promenade where you can eat delicious Russian food and fish.

Recommended restaurants:

Vstrecha.
U Neptuna.
Sambia.

Free mineral water.

There are places in town where you can get free mineral water. I am including a photo. If you see one of these places, go in and fill up your water bottle for free.