There are two kinds of people: those who say, “I love history,” and those who go somewhere history can actually fight back. Akkerman Fortress is exactly that kind of place. The stone here is not decorative — it means business. These walls have seen so many eras that every tower deserves its own passport.
This tour is built on a simple and beautiful formula: first fortification, then fermentation.
First comes the fortress in Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi: scale, legends, views over the estuary and the feeling that the Middle Ages are still close by — just without the armour, but with very convincing architecture. Along the way, ancient Tyras will appear too, along with the curious fact that the city changed its name more often than Odesa locals change their minds about the weather. And the common “clue” hidden in all those names is much more fun to unravel on the spot.
Then comes a cultural turn towards flavour: SHABO. Here, it is also all about time — only now, time works inside barrels. The wine cellars are like a machine for changing your mood: you go in as an ordinary person and come out as someone who respects patience, aroma and the phrase, “it really opens up on the second sip.” The tour introduces you to the world of wine in a way that makes one thing clear: wine is not simply “red or white” — it is character, history and a carefully measured kind of joy. The finale is a tasting: no heroics, just the right pause.
The result of the day is simple and beautiful: first, walls that held the defence; then, a drink that keeps the conversation going.
Tour Program
- Start: A location convenient for the customer 9:00 — Departure. A relaxed morning, group meeting and the start of the journey towards southern landscapes and history.
- Transfer to Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi The road passes quickly: steppe, open spaces and the first stories about a region that remembers more than it seems.
- Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi Fortress 11:00–12:30 — guided tour of one of the most impressive fortresses in Eastern Europe. Stone walls, bastions and views over the Dniester Estuary — history can be felt here literally under your feet.
- Free Time at the Fortress A short break for photos, a walk and a chance to take in the scale of the place without rushing.
- SHABO Wine Culture Center 13:00–15:30 — guided tour and tasting at a modern wine complex. Traditions, technology and the flavours of the south — in exactly the right order.
- Return to Odesa 16:00–18:00 — journey back. Your luggage holds the memories, your phone holds the photos, and your mind holds the southern mood.
- Finish: Cathedral Square Arrival at the Transfiguration Cathedral. A beautiful and eventful day comes to an end.
What’s included in the price
- Comfortable bus transportation along the tour route — with no transfers or organisational hassle
- Entrance tickets to all locations included in the program
- Guided tour service and guide assistance throughout the entire trip
What’s not included in the price
- Personal expenses of tour participants
- Souvenirs and additional purchases
- Meals during the trip
- Additional services and activities not included in the program
- Personal requests not covered by the tour program
We recommend bringing
Dress comfortably and for the weather: comfortable shoes are a must, as the day includes not only bus travel but also walking at several stops. Bring water and, if needed, a hat — the sun outside the city tends to be even more direct. Make sure your phone is fully charged: beautiful views will appear far more often than power sockets. And you can leave the good mood at home — it usually shows up on its own along the way.
Guest photos
Photos of our guests and their brightest moments during the tour.
Frequently asked questions about the tour
Is this tour suitable for people who aren’t really into history?
The fortress means stone, steps and plenty of scale. Comfortable shoes are essential, and you should be ready for a bit of walking. But the views and atmosphere make the effort absolutely worthwhile.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children almost always enjoy the fortress — towers, walls and a “real castle”. The tasting part is intended for adults; for children, this section is offered as a guided tour without tasting.
Will there be time for lunch?
The program usually includes a break for a snack or lunch. The exact stop depends on the departure time and the day’s schedule.
Can I visit SHABO without taking part in the tasting?
Yes, when booking you can choose an option without the tasting (subject to availability). The guided tour itself remains fully included.
How can I pay for the tour?
You can pay for the tour:
- online through our website
- by bank card transfer (our managers will send the payment details by SMS)
- in cash at our office,or directly to the guide during the tour
What are the cancellation and refund terms if your plans suddenly take a different turn?
We understand — life can be a bit like an Odesa tram, suddenly changing its route. If you cancel the booking yourself and let us know in advance, the refund will be as follows:
- 7 calendar days before the event — 100% of the full price will be refunded
- 72 hours before the event starts — 50% will be refunded
- 1 day before the event — 25% will be refunded
Where do we meet, and how do I know it’s our bus and guide — not just someone else standing there looking important?
The meeting point is listed on the tour page and in your booking confirmation. Please arrive 10–15 minutes early — that gives you enough time to find the group and still look like you were the first one there.
What should I wear and bring with me, besides a good mood (which is highly recommended too)?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Water is recommended. In summer — bring a hat and sun protection; in cooler seasons — a jacket suitable for the weather. If you’re planning to take lots of photos — charge your phone: Odesa knows how to fill up your memory fast.
