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.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Добрий день" - Good day
- "Дякую" - Thank you
- "Будь ласка" - Please
- "Доброго здоров'я" - Good health
- "До побачення" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Discovering Kiev
morning:Start your day with a visit to the beautiful St. Sophia's Cathedral, followed by a leisurely walk in the scenic Mariinsky Park. Enjoy a traditional Ukrainian breakfast at Pervak 🥞.
afternoon:Explore the fascinating exhibits at the National Museum of Ukrainian History, and then indulge in some retail therapy at the bustling Andriyivskyy Descent. For lunch, savor authentic local cuisine at Kanapa 🍲.
evening:Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Podil district in the evening, and head to the trendy Closer club for a memorable night-out. 🎶
Odessa Coastal Escape
morning:Begin your day with a refreshing stroll along the picturesque Potemkin Stairs, and take in the breathtaking views of the Black Sea. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Kompot 🥐.
afternoon:Discover the history of the city at the Odessa Archaeological Museum, followed by a relaxing time at Lanzheron Beach. Enjoy a seafood lunch at Dacha 🦐.
evening:Savor a romantic evening walk along the Langeron Beach, and then head to Ibiza Beach Club for a lively night-out. 🌅
Lviv Cultural Exploration
morning:Start your day with a visit to the historic Lviv Opera House, and then stroll around the charming Rynok Square, admiring the stunning architecture. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Lviv Coffee Manufacture 🥯.
afternoon:Explore the impressive exhibits at the Lviv Art Gallery, and then wander through the unique Lviv Outdoor Book Market. Indulge in a hearty lunch at Kryivka 🍺.
evening:Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town in the evening, and head to the iconic Pravda Beer Theatre for a fun night-out. 🍻
Chernihiv Nature Retreat
morning:Embark on a scenic hike through the lush landscapes of Kachanivka Estate, taking in the natural beauty and serene surroundings. Relish a wholesome breakfast at Kolyba 🍳.
afternoon:Visit the captivating Savior Transfiguration Cathedral, and then explore the picturesque Chernihiv Historical Museum. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Knyazhna Anna 🍲.
evening:Take a peaceful evening stroll along the Desna River, and later, head to the lively Podillya Nightclub for an exciting night-out. 🌌
Ukraine's Famous Food
Delicacies in Ukraine you must try!
Borscht
A beetroot-based soup often including meat and sour cream. Best enjoyed at traditional Ukrainian restaurants like Puzata Hata in Kyiv.
Must-Try!
Varenyky (Pierogi)
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.
Holubtsi
Cabbage rolls filled with rice and meat, often accompanied by a rich tomato sauce. You can savor this dish at Kanapa in Kyiv.
Attractions in Ukraine
Nice places to capture memories
Sophia Square, Kyiv
A beautiful square in the heart of Kyiv, offers a great view of St. Sophia's Cathedral and the surrounding historic buildings
Lviv High Castle
Provides stunning panoramic views of Lviv and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains
Olehivska Hill, Kharkiv
Offers picturesque views of Kharkiv and is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset
Andriyivskyy Descent, Kyiv
Known for its charming cobblestone street and great views of the Dnipro River and Podil district
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring (March to May)
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 (June to August)
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 (September to November)
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 (December to February)
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.
Outdoor Activities in Ukraine
Fun outdoor pursuits
Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains
Explore the beautiful landscapes and picturesque trails of the Carpathian Mountains, offering a range of hiking opportunities for all levels of experience.
Cycling in Lviv
Enjoy cycling through the charming streets of Lviv, immersing in the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere of this cultural city.
Visiting the Oleshky Sands
Discover the unique desert landscape of Oleshky Sands, perfect for nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike.
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
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
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.
Local Etiquette
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
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.
Dining etiquette
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.
Visiting someone's home
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.
Things to do in Ukraine
Unique local experiences...
Safety
Safety in Ukraine is influenced by a variety of factors, including ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly due to the conflict with Russia that escalated significantly in 2022. The situation has led to heightened concerns regarding personal security, infrastructure safety, and emergency preparedness. In urban areas, particularly in cities far from active conflict zones, daily life may resemble pre-war conditions, but the threat of airstrikes, bombings, or other military actions remains a concern. As of now, many residents have adapted to the conditions, including the use of bomb shelters and adherence to alerts regarding air raids. In rural areas, safety can also be impacted by the proximity to conflict regions, landmine risks, and the availability of emergency services. The presence of unexploded ordnance poses significant risks in areas where combat has occurred. Furthermore, safety is affected by the socio-political climate. Civilian safety has been a priority for many NGOs and government agencies, resulting in increased awareness and training for emergencies. Support and resources for displaced individuals and communities affected by the conflict have grown as well. Overall, while some regions may experience relative safety, the ongoing conflict continues to shape the overall safety landscape, requiring vigilance and preparedness from residents.
Nightlife in Ukraine
Nightlife in Ukraine is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of experiences to suit different tastes and preferences. Cities like Kyiv, Lviv, Kharkiv, and Odesa come alive after dark with an array of entertainment options. Kyiv, the capital, is a hotspot for night owls, featuring an eclectic mix of nightclubs, bars, and live music venues. Popular spots such as SkyBar, Closer, and D.Fleur attract both locals and tourists with top DJs, themed parties, and a pulsating atmosphere. In Lviv, the nightlife has a more relaxed and cultural vibe. The city's unique coffeehouses and beer halls, some dating back centuries, offer a cozy environment to enjoy local brews and traditional snacks. Famous establishments like Kryivka, which mimics a WWII-era bunker, add a distinctive flair to a night out. Odesa, with its seaside charm, combines beach club culture with sophisticated dining and entertainment. Venues along Arcadia Beach, like Ibiza Night Club and Itaka, are well-known for their energetic parties, often featuring international DJs. Kharkiv, known for its student population, boasts a youthful and dynamic nightlife. The city's clubs and bars, such as Misto and Fabrika, are popular for their budget-friendly options and lively crowds. Across Ukraine, there are also numerous underground and niche options, from techno and jazz clubs to hipster bars and speakeasies, catering to a wide array of nightlife enthusiasts.
Costs of Living
The cost of living can vary significantly within different regions of the country. Here are some typical costs in major cities: 1. **Housing**: - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $300 - $600 - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $150 - $300 - Utility bills (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85 m2 apartment: $100 - $150 2. **Food**: - Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $5 - $10 - Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $25 - $50 - Groceries (monthly for one person): $150 - $300 - Milk (1 liter): $0.80 - $1.20 - Bread (500g): $0.30 - $0.50 - Eggs (12): $1 - $2 - Chicken breast (1 kg): $3 - $5 - Apples (1 kg): $1 - $2 3. **Transportation**: - Public transport ticket (one way): $0.30 - $0.50 - Monthly public transport pass: $10 - $15 - Taxi start (normal tariff): $1 - $2 - Taxi (1 km): $0.50 - $1 4. **Internet and Phone**: - Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): $10 - $30 - Mobile prepaid monthly fee: $3 - $10 5. **Entertainment**: - Cinema ticket: $4 - $7 - Fitness club monthly fee: $20 - $40 6. **Healthcare**: - Doctor's consultation (private): $10 - $30 - Basic health insurance: $20 - $50 per month Overall, while urban centers can be more expensive, costs in rural areas or smaller cities tend to be lower. Prices may fluctuate, and it's advisable to check for up-to-date costs if planning to move or travel.
Pet sitters in Ukraine
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!