Things To Do
in Khoyniki

Khoyniki is a charming town located in the Gomel Region of Belarus, known for its rich history and serene landscapes. The town is surrounded by lush forests and rivers, offering a tranquil escape from urban life. Khoyniki has a vibrant local culture, which is reflected in its architecture and community events.

Visitors can enjoy the friendly atmosphere while exploring the town's historical sites and natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Khoyniki's Heritage
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Khoyniki Museum of Local Lore to learn about the region's history and traditions.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the picturesque streets to admire the local architecture, then enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe that serves traditional Belarusian dishes.

evening
:

End the day with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, followed by dinner at a local restaurant featuring live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in the nearby forests, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and observe local wildlife.

afternoon
:

After hiking, visit a local food market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods. Enjoy a picnic in one of the town's parks.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a cozy pub for drinks and to mingle with locals, experiencing the town's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$6
Coffee$2
🚍Public transportation ticket$0.50
🏨Night in a budget hotel$30
🍺Local beer$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • English is not widely spoken, which may pose communication challenges.
  • Fewer modern amenities and attractions.
  • "Добры дзень" - Good day
  • "Дзякуй" - Thank you
  • "Калі ласка" - Please
  • "Скiлькi гэта каштуе?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Вы гаворыце па-англійску?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Khoyniki

Visit one of these nice places.

Khoyniki Riverbank

A scenic spot perfect for capturing sunset views and reflections in the water.

Local Parks

Beautiful green spaces with flowerbeds and walking paths, ideal for nature photography.

Historical Buildings

The architectural styles of local churches and homes provide great backdrops for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Khoyniki

Khoyniki offers a delightful culinary experience with its focus on traditional Belarusian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Must-try items include hearty stews, potato pancakes, and fresh river fish, which are staples of the local cuisine. The town also features vibrant food markets and street vendors that showcase a variety of snacks and homemade products. For dining options, local restaurants provide an authentic taste of Belarusian hospitality, while also accommodating dietary restrictions like vegetarian and gluten-free diets upon request.

Khoyniki Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Draniki

Belarusian potato pancakes, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Borscht

A rich beet soup that is a staple in Belarusian cuisine.

Kolduny

Traditional Belarusian dumplings filled with meat or mushrooms.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Khoyniki Central Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and homemade goods.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors offering quick bites like pirozhki (stuffed pastries) and grilled meats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Khoyniki experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in winter can drop to -5°C (23°F), while summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically in summer and early autumn. Visitors should prepare for varying weather conditions depending on the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before eating.

Dress Code

Smart casual is generally acceptable, but dress modestly for religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Khoyniki is generally considered a safe town for visitors. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing local numbers, and it's advisable to have travel insurance for unexpected situations.

Tipping in Khoyniki

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically around 10% of the bill, although it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in larger establishments; ATMs are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for hiking and enjoying the riverbanks, though be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage make it an ideal time for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall create a picturesque winter landscape, suitable for winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Khoyniki at Night

Khoyniki's nightlife is relatively laid-back, with a few bars and pubs where locals gather to socialize. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with live music often featured on weekends. While not as vibrant as larger cities, visitors can enjoy a relaxed evening out, mingling with locals and experiencing traditional Belarusian drinks.

Hiking in Khoyniki

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Krasny Bor Trail

A scenic hiking trail that winds through dense forests, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Belovezhskaya Pushcha Trail

Part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, this trail features ancient forests and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Khoyniki by plane.

Gomel Airport

Located approximately 100 km from Khoyniki, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest option for international travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Khoyniki is quite walkable, with many of its attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town's layout allows for pleasant strolls through parks and along the river, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly areas are common.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Belarusian Ethnic Group

The majority of Khoyniki's population is ethnic Belarusian, contributing to the town's cultural and linguistic identity.

Russian Ethnic Minority

There is a small Russian-speaking community in Khoyniki, adding to the town's diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Khoyniki, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is another favorite, especially during the winter months, with local clubs and community support.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Khoyniki is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis that connect various parts of the town and nearby areas. Visitors can expect a relaxed pace of travel without the congestion found in larger cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Khoyniki.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes and can customize meals upon request.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some cafes provide gluten-free options, though it's advisable to confirm with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Khoyniki is adequate, with local clinics providing basic medical services. For more serious conditions, residents typically travel to larger cities like Gomel. It is advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and to know the location of the nearest medical facility.

Discover Belarus

Read more in our Belarus 2025 Travel Guide.

Belarus Travel Guide