Odessa, just on the Black Sea in the south of Ukraine, makes itself known as a major port and industrial city in Ukraine. Nonetheless, port city or not, there is a charm about the place that draws a tourist into this city of jokesters, as it is known around the country.

At first sight, it might be difficult for one to distinguish whether you are in an old section of a European town or if you are in the post-Soviet Ukraine. Being just on the Black Sea, there is a freshness that cuts through the air, putting the people that live in this city in a laid-back mood (except for when they're driving).

Travel to Odessa

A backpacker will most likely arrive by taking an overnight train or an long-distance bus. If on an overnight train from Kiev, the ride will take around 8 hours, letting you arrive in the morning sunshine.

Hostel in Odessa, Ukraine

A great hostel for a backpacker to check into once in the city is the TIU Front Page Hostel run by an American and a Polish guy. The hostel is a quality place to meet other backpackers and learn about the city because the owners take an active part in making sure your needs are met.

• Book a night in this hostel through hostelworld.
  

The Seventh-Kilometer Market in Odessa, Ukraine

The Seventh-Kilometer Market is said to be the biggest outdoor market in Europe, so it deserves a stop off by backpackers and locals alike. Taste test local cuisine, fruits and vegetables, or shop for clothing.

If you stop by during prime shopping hours, be prepared to feel overwhelmed just a bit as it will be packed to the bursting point of people. Even in the cold winter months, the market is bustling.

The Black Sea Port in Odessa

The Black Sea Port provides an industrial side to Odessa, but there are still plenty of beaches to be had in this Ukrainian jewel. Nearly 150,000 tourists arrive in Odessa each year, and it is also a popular vacation destination for Ukrainians, as well, since it has beaches and an overall warmer climate.

Restaurants in Odessa, Ukraine

Restaurants in Odessa, Ukraine vary to please even the most demanding palettes. Choose from Ukrainian, Georgian, Italian, Russian, Indian and more. Gelato shops and french bakeries are not uncommon, and there's even a few Western fast food chains for those craving a little taste of home.

Filling Up Time in Odessa

If these aren't enough to fill your 36 hours in Odessa, there is plenty more where that came from. Just walking along the streets to view the sights will keep you in awe, so be sure to bring your camera. There might be ponies, street markets, decadent buildings, colossal statues, old man chess tournaments, and colorful churches to keep you gawking.

And, when its all said and done, hop on another overnight train in Ukraine to comfortably get to your next travel destination.