Sochi

May–September is best — sunny, beaches and resorts open, milder than Gulf heat. October–April brings rain and mountain snow — good for skiing, not beaches.

• Sochi seaside promenade on the Black Sea, lined with cafés
• Olympic Park: open plazas, gardens, bike paths (2014 Games)
• Riviera Park: big family park with rides and cafés
• Rosa Khutor: mountain resort reached by cable car — photos and hikes
• Krasnaya Polyana: snow and skiing in winter, strolls in summer
• Black Sea yacht tours and beach relaxation

Families: coastal resorts in Adler with privacy and amenities, or spacious aparthotels near the sea. Youth: Sochi Center for transit and activities. Budget: small hotels in Adler or the uplands.

Beaches are mixed and may not suit conservative families, especially in summer. Halal restaurants are limited — cook at your stay or scout Tatar/Middle Eastern spots ahead. English is weak; Russian is essential — always use a voice translation app. Use Yandex Go or pre-arrange drivers for mountain trips. Generally safe, but avoid unplanned night wandering in dark or mountainous areas.

3-4 days

Suggested plan:

1. Day 1: promenade walk + Riviera Park
2. Day 2: Rosa Khutor and the cable car + mountain sitting
3. Day 3: Olympic Park + shopping or cafés
4. Day 4 (optional): beach day or a boat tour