Things To Do
in Homyel’
Gomel (Homyel) sits along the Sozh River in southeastern Belarus, blending broad avenues with tree-lined parks and a historic Soviet-era architectural vibe. The city is famous for the grand Palace and Park Ensemble, as well as riverside promenades that come alive in summer. It offers a relaxed pace, affordable prices, and easy access to nature parks such as Pripyatsky National Park.
As a gateway to southern Belarus, Gomel combines culture, history, and scenic greenery for first-time visitors and return travelers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing walk through Central Park, enjoying the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. Stop by the small lakes and watch local birds as the city wakes up around you. Capture photos of the ornate park benches and charming pathways that weave through the park’s heart.
Head to the City Square to explore Homyel’s vibrant urban life. Visit the nearby shops and cafes to sample Belarusian pastries and coffee. Take time to admire the Soviet-era architecture mixed with modern elements, reflecting the city's dynamic character.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant nearby to enjoy traditional Belarusian dishes like draniki and borscht. After dinner, stroll along the illuminated streets, soaking in the lively ambiance and perhaps enjoying live street music. End your evening with a quiet moment by the fountain in the square.
Start your morning exploring the Gomel Palace, an exquisite example of 18th-century Baroque architecture. Wander through the beautifully restored rooms, imagining the lives of the nobles who once inhabited the palace. Don’t miss the intricate frescoes and ornate furniture that tell rich stories of the past.
Spend your afternoon roaming the expansive palace park, with its manicured gardens, sculptures, and serene ponds. Enjoy a picnic by the lake or rent a paddleboat to explore the water from a different perspective. Stop by the on-site museum to learn more about the palace’s fascinating history and the region’s heritage.
As dusk falls, attend a classical music concert or cultural performance often held in the palace grounds during warmer months. Alternatively, savor a quiet dinner at a nearby cafe that offers views of the illuminated palace facade. Reflect on the day’s historical immersion while enjoying the tranquil evening air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕️Coffee/tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🧴Monthly gym membership | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordability and good value for money
- Access to nature and parks nearby
- Rich parks and cultural heritage
- Limited nightlife compared to Western Europe
- Weather can be challenging in winter
- Some services may be cash-based in smaller venues
- "Добры дзень" - Hello / Good day
- "Калі ласка" - Please
- "Дзякуй" - Thank you
- "Дзе туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ці гаворыце па-англійску?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Homyel’
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand baroque–empire complex with manicured lawns, a large pond, and ornate architecture suitable for wide-angle and detail shots.
Scenic river views, boat silhouettes at sunset, and reflections along the water.
Elegant church with distinctive domes and a quiet interior for interior photography.
Historic streets with a mix of Soviet-era and modern buildings for street photography.
Food in Homyel’
Homyel’ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato pancakes, typically served with sour cream.
Must-Try!
Pork stew or gravy served with pancakes or potatoes.
Beet soup topped with sour cream, often served with rye bread.
Sweet cottage cheese pancakes, enjoyed with jam or sour cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering fresh produce, dairy, bread, and snacks from local farmers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; address people by formal titles until invited to use first names.
Ask permission in religious sites; avoid taking photos in sensitive government areas.
Safety
Tipping in Homyel’
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated if not included; cash is common for tips.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many city venues; BYN cash is still used; some places may accept USD or EUR; ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; showers are common; bring a light jacket.
Warm to hot days; long daylight; ideal for outdoor photography and river walks; stay hydrated.
Colorful foliage; cooler air; comfortable for daily exploration with a light jacket.
Cold and possibly snowy; indoor attractions become focal points; dress warmly and watch for icy sidewalks.
Homyel’ at Night
Hiking in Homyel’
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetland and forest hiking with birdwatching and canoeing opportunities.
Scenic riverside trails ideal for easy hikes and sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Homyel’ by plane.
Regional airport serving domestic and limited international flights; easy taxi ride from the city center.
Main international gateway located about 340 km from Gomel; connected by rail, bus, and road transfer options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing share of residents between 18-35; university students and commuters.
Many families live in the city with steady local economy and schools.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and spectator sport in Belarus; local clubs and matches can be attended.
Belarus has a strong hockey culture; expect seasonal games at local arenas.
Common in schools and community leagues; often played in city gyms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Homyel’.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for mushroom-based dishes, potato dishes, borscht with no meat, and salads. In many cafes you can request dairy or egg-based options; ask for no meat or fish if needed.