Best things to do in Vladivostok

Russky Bridge, the longest cable-stayed suspension bridge in the world, crosses the Eastern Bosporus Strait and features cutting-edge design elements capable of withstanding the area's extreme climactic conditions. Regarded as one of the country's most significant engineering feats, the bridge consists of 11 spans, the longest of which is just over 1 km (0.6 mi) long. The massive structure, reportedly one of the most expensive bridges ever built, links mainland Vladivostok with a sparsely populated island set to become one of the country's major tourist resorts. Cross the bridge by car or see it from a different angle by taking a guided boat tour of the strait.

Hop on a bike and cycle around Russian Island, just across the Eastern Bosphorus from Vladivostok. A bridge built in 2012 to connect the island with the mainland now allows for easier access, but the island remains relatively quiet. Locals suggest renting a bike from the Far East Federal University. Ride to the uncrowded beach at Philippovsky Bay and take in the view of the city from across the water.

Jutting dramatically out of the sea, Tokarevskiy mayak provides fascinating year-round views. Built onto a narrow spit of land the extends out into sea, at high tides the lighthouse is sometimes completely surrounded by water; in that case you can only get there by boat. Built in 1910, the 12 m (39 ft) tower is a beacon for ships entering the Port of Vladivostok. From the tower's island you can take in views of Vladivostok and Russky Island. Remember to check the tide times in advance if you are planning to walk across the spit.

View the architecturally renowned Golden Bridge, the cable-stayed bridge spanning the Golden Horn river. Construction began in 2008 and the bridge opened to traffic in 2012. It spans 737 m (2418 ft) and has a total length of 1388 m (4554 ft), making it visible from around the city. It was one of two bridges built in preparation for the 2012 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, held in Russia. Photograph the bridge from around the city, or drive across it to the city center.

Stroll along the wide avenue and public spaces of Tsesarevich Embankment, one of the city's main waterfront promenades. Alongside the city's harbor, the walk affords sweeping views of the skyline on the opposite bank and the famous cable suspension bridge stretching across the waterway. Strap on some roller blades, hop aboard a bike, or just use your own two feet to make your way down the embankment, passing parks, hills, and the occasional playground. Grab a snack from one of the food stands along the way, kick back on one of the stretch's numerous benches, and watch the crowds move past.

Admire the scenic view of downtown and the Golden Horn Bay, with its multitude of ships and imposing bridge, from the top of Eagle's Nest Mount. Rising 199 m (653 ft) above sea level, this extinct volcano is a high point in the center of Vladivostok. On its top you'll find a monument dedicated to Saints Cyril and Methodius, the 9th-century Greek missionaries who introduced Christianity and literacy to the Slavs. However, don't expect to see any eagles here. The mount is actually named after a peak in Bulgaria, where the Russian forces defeated the Turks back in the 19th century. The walk up to the top plateau is not too difficult, and there is also a cable car that will take you there for a small fee.

Board the legendary S-56 Submarine Museum through the hatchways to see how its heroic crew fought storms, survived torpedo attacks, and sank ten Nazi German ships during World War II. The submarine houses a museum devoted to the development of the Pacific Fleet's submarine forces. The last three of the seven sections are unchanged from the times of war. See the control room with the 9 m (30 ft) long periscope, the submarine's original tonnage board, and one opened torpedo. Look out for the "dried seaman," a mannequin, listening to the sound of the sea.

Railroad Terminal marks the end of the Trans-Siberian Railway. The small station here celebrates the railway with a milestone showing the distance traveled from Moscow--9,288 km (5,771 mi). Step inside the station and take a few moments to admire the paintings on its high ceiling.

Explore the shops, restaurants, and historic buildings lining Svetlanskaya Street. Originally called Amerikanskaya Street after the Corvette Amerika (a steam corvette built in New York City in 1857), the street was renamed in 1873 in honor of the frigate that brought Grand Duke Alexei Alexandrovich of Russia to the city for a visit. Most of the wooden buildings erected along the street between the 1860s and the 1880s are no longer standing and have been replaced by modern buildings. Traffic can be heavy, so it's better to get there via public transportation and then explore on foot.

Find yourself right in the middle of the urban bustle at Central Square, a meeting place for locals and the common venue for anything big that's going on in the city. Also known as the Square of the Revolution Fighters, the plaza features the Monument to the Fighters for Soviet Power that commemorates the Red Army victory in the Far East during the Russian civil war. Another of the square's notable features is the White House, a large administrative building of typical Soviet block design. Mingle with the locals, spend time people-watching, and admire the view of the Golden Horn Bay from this site. The city's main street, the Svetlanskaya, with its selection of restaurants, cafes, cultural institutions, and shopping opportunities, runs right next to the square.

Arranged in a network around the city, Vladivostok Fortress served as the primary defenses for one of the most important historical positions in the Russian Far East. Wander the extensive fortifications, passing by the multitude of gun emplacements and artillery platforms that would have been used to defend the surrounding strategic waterways. Though constructed beginning in the 19th century, the hulking concrete bastions didn't see combat until the start of the Russo-Japanese War in 1904. Also littered around the area are numerous armored combat vehicles, anti-aircraft guns, and other examples of weaponry. You can drop by the small museum housed in the fortress, displaying a collection of Soviet artifacts and ammunition along with displays about the facility itself presented in English. Keep in mind that most of the sights here are outdoors, so dress accordingly.