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Picture the scene : you’re in a new city, eager to see everything, you’ve had your breakfast, you’re raring to go, you step outside … and it’s raining. Which of us has not experienced that sinking feeling of disappointment? You’re caught in two minds, unable to decide between kicking your heels indoors, in the dry, or loading up your favourite search engine on your electronic device to find something to do and somewhere to go.

If the former, you spend the whole day in a mood, waiting for the rain to stop and thinking about how your plans for a day outdoors at the Stalin Line or the Mount of Glory have been cruelly crushed. If the latter, you soon find yourself drowning in a tsunami of information, data and consumer reviews.

Yep, I’ve been there. And I’m sure you have too.

But don’t despair, help is at hand. Here are some hot tips for indoor things to enjoy in Minsk when it’s raining outside, because it doesn’t have to be raining in your heart!

Visit Galeria Y (Галерия У), the modern art centre located on colourful Oktyabrskaya Street, where you’ll find a broad range of exhibitions presented in a cosy and welcoming environment. Many works of art are displayed here, for visitors to browse at their leisure. And don’t forget to take a pit stop at the Y Bar, offering an enticing wine list in a relaxed ambience.

Or head to the Church of Sts Simeon and Helena (Minsk’s famous ‘Red Church’) to meander the interior of this impressive building.

Maybe dip in to Strana Mini Museum (Страна Мини), where you will be greeted by the sight of charming exhibits in miniature representing all the main sites of interest in Belarus in one room. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to help and to give you an audio guide to accompany you around the exhibits with stories and interesting facts. Who could fail to be entranced by the prospect of seeing a whole country in miniature on a single afternoon?!

Or perhaps the National Art Museum on Lenin Street to admire the eclectic mix of works of art by renowned Belarusian and international artists.

If you’re in the mood for a spending spree, head out to the retail centre Green City and while there enjoy the Park of Virtual Reality, where with friends or family a range of varied activities await adrenaline junkies of all ages!

Then for rest and relaxation after an adventure high, pay Kommunarka Café a visit for a warming, restorative homemade hot chocolate.

For those in search of something instructive and away from the norm, the Museum of the Second World War awaits. Professional guides are on hand to tell all you need to know about this momentous conflict, and to explain the heroic role of the Soviet Red Army in resisting the forces of fascism. More than 800 objects, artefacts and exhibits will transport you back in time to the dark days of war and conflict.

And finally, to wrap up your day of vibrant and fascinating experiences, unwind with a sumptuous and colourful performance at the National Bolshoi Theatre of Opera and Ballet. It’s the perfect end to a perfect day.

Rain stops play in Minsk? Don’t you believe it! You won’t even notice it’s raining!