Alushta, a city on the southern coast of the Crimean Peninsula, boasts a unique history and stunning natural beauty.  The area is characterized by arid, rocky terrain due to its proximity to the Crimean Mountains.  During Byzantine times, the town was known as "Alouston," meaning "Unwashed."  Vestiges of a Byzantine defensive tower and a 15th-century Genoese fortress still stand as testaments to the area's past.

Relax with a stroll along the Alushta Embankment and its adjacent park. Explore the religious site of Kosmo-Damianovskiy Monastery, or immerse yourself in the underwater world at the Alushta Aquarium Nemo.  Visit the historic Church of St. Theodore the Crimean and All Saints.

Hike through the scenic Mountain Kastel range, or learn about local literary history at the Literature-Memorial Museum of Sergeyev-Tsenskiy. Discover miniature replicas of famous landmarks at Crimea in Miniature, or delve into the region's past at the Museum of History and Local Lore.

Admire the beautiful Church of the Holy Royal Martyrs, and explore the ancient ruins with historical significance at the Aluston Fortress.  Foodies can indulge in local cheese and dairy products at the Mountain Cheese Factory, or explore specialty shops for wine and cheese at Wine & Cheese.  For nightlife, Alushta offers the bar and club, Make Smoke.