Things To Do
in Ukraine
Ukraine is the largest country entirely within Europe, known for its rich cultural heritage, vast agricultural lands, and significant historical events that have shaped its modern identity. It is situated in Eastern Europe, bordered by Belarus to the north, Russia to the east, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the west, Romania, and Moldova to the southwest, and has a strategic coastline along the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
In recent years, Ukraine has been at the forefront of international headlines due to political unrest, territorial disputes, and efforts towards economic and political integration with the West amidst ongoing conflict with Russia.
- "Dyakuyu" - Thank you
- "Dobryi den'" - Good day
- "Bud' laska" - Please
- "Vybachte" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Yak spravy?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and the serene atmosphere of the caves and churches.
Explore the vibrant streets of Andriyivskyy Descent, filled with art galleries and shops. Stop for lunch at a cozy café and try traditional Ukrainian dishes.
Relax at the beautiful Hydropark beach, watching the sunset over the Dnipro River. Dine at a local restaurant and experience the nightlife in the heart of Kyiv.
Discover the charm of Lviv by visiting the historic Market Square. Enjoy the stunning architecture and grab a coffee at one of the local patisseries.
Tour the beautiful Lviv National Opera, followed by a visit to the Museum of Ethnography. Don't miss a leisurely stroll in Stryiskyi Park or a stop at a local chocolate shop.
Experience Lviv's vibrant café culture by dining at a traditional Ukrainian restaurant. End your night with a concert or local performance at a nearby venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions
- Diverse natural landscapes including mountains, forests, and rivers
- Strategic location in Europe, serving as a bridge between East and West
- Growing tech and IT sectors, showcasing innovation and talent
- Strong agricultural sector, producing significant amounts of grain and other products
- Ongoing political instability and conflict, particularly in Eastern regions
- Economic challenges and reliance on external assistance
- Corruption and bureaucracy can hinder business and governance
- Infrastructure issues, including road and public transport deficits
- Environmental concerns, including pollution and industrial decline
Best Activities in Ukraine
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and picturesque trails of the Carpathian Mountains, offering a range of hiking opportunities for all levels of experience.
Enjoy cycling through the charming streets of Lviv, immersing in the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere of this cultural city.
Discover the unique desert landscape of Oleshky Sands, perfect for nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ukraine with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ukraine
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful square in the heart of Kyiv, offers a great view of St. Sophia's Cathedral and the surrounding historic buildings
Provides stunning panoramic views of Lviv and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains
Offers picturesque views of Kharkiv and is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset
Known for its charming cobblestone street and great views of the Dnipro River and Podil district
Food in Ukraine
Ukraine Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beetroot-based soup often including meat and sour cream. Best enjoyed at traditional Ukrainian restaurants like Puzata Hata in Kyiv.
Must-Try!
Dumplings typically filled with potatoes, cheese, cabbage, or meat, and served with fried onions. Try them at Lviv's Staroyevreyska Karczma for an authentic experience.
Cabbage rolls filled with rice and meat, often accompanied by a rich tomato sauce. You can savor this dish at Kanapa in Kyiv.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ukraine better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Offering a wide array of local street food such as grilled meats, traditional pastries, and pickled vegetables. A must-visit for food enthusiasts in Kyiv.
Located in Odessa, it's a bustling market where you can find freshly caught seafood, local fruits, and an assortment of street food stalls serving grilled fish, kebabs, and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ukraine, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. It is respectful to address people using their title and last name, especially in formal settings.
When dining in Ukraine, it is polite to wait for the oldest person or the host to start eating before you begin. It is also customary to toast and make eye contact when clinking glasses.
When visiting a Ukrainian home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or chocolates, for the host. It is also customary to take off your shoes when entering the house unless otherwise indicated by the host.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ukraine with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ukraine
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ukraine, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides. A tip of 10-15% of the total bill is customary.
Payment in Ukraine is commonly made in cash, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller transactions and in rural areas where card payment facilities may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ukraine.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ukraine as the weather starts to warm up, nature comes to life and the cities are less crowded. It's a perfect time to explore the beautiful countryside and see the blooming flowers and trees.
Summer is peak tourist season in Ukraine with warm weather, long days, and numerous festivals and events. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities, visiting the beaches along the Black Sea coast, and experiencing the vibrant street life in cities like Kyiv and Lviv.
Autumn is a lovely time to visit Ukraine, especially in September and October when the weather is still pleasant and the landscape is adorned with golden foliage. It's a great time for hiking, exploring historic sites, and enjoying local harvest festivals.
Winter in Ukraine can be cold, but it also offers a unique charm with snow-covered landscapes, traditional winter activities like ice skating and sledding, and festive Christmas markets. It's a great time to experience Ukrainian winter traditions and cozy up with warm local cuisine.
Ukraine at Night
Hiking in Ukraine
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A breathtaking range in western Ukraine, offering numerous hiking trails through dense forests, alpine meadows, and along stunning peaks.
Located along the Donets River, this park features beautiful landscapes and well-marked hiking trails among unique geological formations and lush forests.
Offering diverse hiking opportunities, including routes leading to panoramic views and the famous Ai-Petri mountain, these trails range from easy to challenging.
Known for its wetlands, this park offers scenic trails through unique ecosystems, perfect for leisurely hikes and observing wildlife.
This mountainous area boasts various trails, including routes through charming villages and alongside picturesque rivers, making it ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
A popular year-round resort with hiking paths that connect various mountain peaks, creating opportunities for both easy walks and challenging climbs.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ukraine through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Ukraine by plane.
The largest airport in Ukraine, located near Kyiv.
Providing international flights, located in Lviv, western Ukraine.
An important hub for international travel, located in Odessa.
Located in Kharkiv, serving a number of international destinations.
Serves both domestic and international flights in western Ukraine.
A smaller airport with some international connections, located in Vinnytsia.
The largest airport in Poland, located in Warsaw, and a key hub for flights to Ukraine.
Located in Hungary, it serves as a significant hub for international flights to Ukraine.
Located in Slovakia, offering some flights to and from Ukraine.
The main airport in the Czech Republic, serving various destinations including Ukraine.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Ukraine, comprising about 77.8% of the population.
The second largest ethnic group, making up approximately 17.3% of the population, primarily found in the eastern and southern regions.
A smaller group making up around 0.6%, primarily residing in western regions.
An indigenous group primarily located in Crimea, representing about 0.5% of the population.
A minority group primarily found in the Zakarpattia region, making up about 0.3% of the population.
Another minority group in Ukraine, particularly in the Chernivtsi and Zakarpattia regions, comprising around 0.3%.
A minority group found mainly in western Ukraine, accounting for about 0.1%.
Includes Armenians, Jews, Bulgarians, and others, collectively making up less than 1.0% of the population.
The Soul of Ukraine
Discover the essence of Ukraine through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ukraine, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. The Ukrainian Premier League features top clubs like Dynamo Kyiv and FC Shakhtar Donetsk.
Basketball has gained popularity in Ukraine, with the country producing talented players and competing at various European levels. The Ukrainian Basketball SuperLeague showcases local talent.
Boxing has a prominent place in Ukrainian sports, with several world-class champions such as Vitali Klitschko and Wladimir Klitschko contributing to its popularity.
Tennis is a growing sport in Ukraine, with several successful players on the international circuit, including Elina Svitolina and Alexandr Dolgopolov.
Athletics enjoy significant recognition in Ukraine, with many athletes excelling in various track and field events, contributing to the country's achievements in international competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in urban areas like Kyiv and Lviv offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for dishes like potato pancakes, eggplant caviar, and vegetable stews.
While traditional Ukrainian cuisine prominently features bread and wheat-based items, some establishments in major cities are starting to accommodate gluten-free diets. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the staff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ukraine with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ukraine.