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How to get to Kerch

Getting There: Introduction

This ancient city, situated at the meeting point of the Black and Azov Seas, attracts travellers with its rich history and unique geographical position. You can reach Kerch in various ways: by driving across the famous bridge by car or train, as well as by using convenient bus routes from neighbouring regions.

By Plane

The city does not have its own airport, so air travel is usually planned via neighbouring transport hubs. The geographically closest airport is in the city of Anapa, located approximately 84 km away, though travellers also consider routes via Gelendzhik or Simferopol.

When planning a journey by plane, it is important to check the current operating status of southern airports in advance. Tourists often choose flights to operational aviation hubs (for example, in Sochi or Mineralnye Vody) followed by a transfer to ground transport, which connects the region well with the coast.

The city has no airport. Nearest cities with air connections:

City
IATA code
Distance
Travel time
AAQ
120 km
1 h 46 min
GDZ
195 km
3 h 5 min
SIP
203 km
2 h 10 min

Available plane tickets

By Train

Rail connections to the city have reached a new level thanks to the opening of the Kerch-Yuzhnaya station. Direct "Tavria" trains now arrive here from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other major cities, travelling along a scenic route across the strait.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can travel to the station in the city of Anapa or Simferopol, and cover the remaining distance by suburban express or bus. A train journey allows you to comfortably enjoy coastal views and steppe landscapes.

The city has no major railway stations. Nearest cities with rail connections:

City
IATA code
Distance
Travel time
AAQ
120 km
1 h 46 min
GDZ
195 km
3 h 5 min
SIP
203 km
2 h 10 min

Available train tickets

By Bus

Bus services remain one of the most economical options for travelling to Kerch. Regular trips depart from bus stations in neighbouring cities, for example, from Anapa, from where the journey takes just a couple of hours due to the proximity across the strait.

There is also a developed route network from the city of Simferopol and other settlements on the peninsula. Modern buses ensure comfortable travel, allowing tourists to reach the city centre and begin exploring the sights immediately upon arrival.

By Car

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to drive across the magnificent bridge. The most popular route leads from the city of Anapa: a distance of about 120 km can be covered in approximately 1.8 hours, whilst enjoying sea views.

The journey from the city of Simferopol along a modern highway (about 203 km) will take just over two hours. If you are driving from the resort town of Gelendzhik, the road spanning 195 km will require about 3 hours, but will delight you with picturesque winding roads and coastal landscapes.

City
IATA code
Distance
Travel time
AAQ
120 km
1 h 46 min
GDZ
195 km
3 h 5 min
SIP
203 km
2 h 10 min

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey to the city of two seas goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth preparing for local climate and infrastructure specifics in advance.

  1. Clothing and Climate. Even in summer, it can be breezy here due to the proximity of two seas, so be sure to bring a light windbreaker or cardigan for evening walks.
  2. Transport. It is convenient to move around the city using fixed-route taxis (minibuses), which connect the centre with the main beaches and attractions.
  3. Finances. It is recommended to carry a supply of cash, as card payments may not be available everywhere, and ATMs for certain banks may be absent.
  4. Mobile Connectivity. Check your tariff conditions: roaming often applies here, so purchasing a local SIM card may be a more advantageous solution.
  5. Comfortable Footwear. For visiting Mount Mithridat and ancient ruins, choose comfortable flat-soled shoes — there will be much walking, including on stony paths.
  6. Sun Protection. The steppe sun is very active, so always wear a head covering and use sunscreen even in cloudy weather.

Following these simple recommendations will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the rich history of this amazing region.

Useful links

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