Crimea is experiencing a tourist boom this summer, with millions seeking its beaches despite travel complexities. The influx has strained transportation routes, particularly the Crimean Bridge, leading to significant congestion. Travelers are exploring alternative routes, including those through newly accessible territories, trains, and buses, each presenting its own set of challenges and considerations.
The Crimean Bridge remains a popular but often congested option for reaching Crimea by car. Sunday is notoriously the worst day for traffic, with potential delays of 3-4 hours for inspection. Safety measures, including vehicle inspections and temporary closures during air raid alerts, contribute to the delays. While waiting times haven’t exceeded 3 hours this season, the possibility of long queues remains a concern. Manual inspections are generally faster than scanner checks, and tourists are advised to pack efficiently to expedite the process. Some drivers attempt to bypass queues using the right lane, causing further congestion and resentment. Adequate public restrooms and volunteer water distribution are available to those waiting in line.
Traveling through the new territories offers an alternative route to Crimea, but comes with its own set of considerations. While some find the route emotionally challenging due to the recent conflict, others find the main roads well-maintained and the checkpoints relatively quick. The absence of a curfew for transit traffic on the main route through Mariupol is a significant advantage. However, travelers should be aware of potential delays due to road repairs and the varying quality of roads in certain sections. Document checks at checkpoints are generally straightforward, but inspectors may scrutinize first-aid kits.
Train travel to Crimea is experiencing high demand and potential disruptions. While it offers a comfortable alternative to driving, train tickets are expensive and difficult to obtain. Passengers have faced significant delays due to infrastructure damage. Overcrowding and malfunctioning air conditioners have led to extremely uncomfortable conditions in some carriages, with passengers reporting health issues and breakdowns. Despite complaints, the issue of faulty air conditioning persists, prompting passengers to take matters into their own hands to cope with the heat.
Bus travel to Crimea is an option, but may not be suitable for everyone. Buses can be faster than trains, especially when departing from major cities in southern Russia, as they travel in a dedicated lane and pass the scanner check out of turn. However, long journeys, such as those from Moscow or St. Petersburg, can be tiring. Some travelers find sitting for extended periods uncomfortable, while others sleep peacefully and appreciate the cost-effectiveness compared to train tickets.