Things To Do
in Ukraine
Ukraine is a country of vast plains, rolling hills, and a deep historical heritage. Its cities fuse medieval churches with grand squares, Soviet-era avenues, and modern creative energy. From Kyiv's golden domes to Odesa's seaside promenades and the Carpathian mountains, the landscape is dramatic and varied.
Warm hospitality, hearty cuisine, and a resilient spirit welcome travelers seeking culture, nature, and unforgettable experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Kiev with a visit to the iconic St. Sophia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic Podil district, where you can grab a traditional Ukrainian breakfast at a local café. As the sun rises higher, take in the stunning views of the Dnipro River from the scenic Volodymyr Hill.
Head to the vibrant Maidan Nezalezhnosti, where the heart of Ukraine's political life pulses with energy. Explore the rich history of the city at the National Museum of the History of Ukraine, learning about Ukraine’s past struggles and triumphs. Wind down with a leisurely lunch at a nearby bistro, savoring local dishes such as borscht and varenyky.
As evening descends, dive into Kiev’s nightlife with a visit to one of the trendy bars or clubs in the Podil district. Enjoy live music and local brews, or opt for a Ukrainian wine tasting experience. Wrap up your night with a peaceful walk along the Dnipro waterfront, where the city lights reflect beautifully on the water.
Travel to Lviv, a city known for its charming cobblestone streets and rich cultural heritage. Your morning can begin with a visit to the Lviv Opera House, an architectural gem, followed by a coffee at the historic Cafe Kryva Lypa. Stroll through Rynok Square, absorbing the lively atmosphere and inspecting the market stalls.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Lviv's artistic scene by visiting the Lviv National Art Gallery. Take a relaxing break at one of the city’s many parks, perhaps Stryiskyi Park, perfect for enjoying a picnic. Indulge in some authentic Lviv chocolate at a local chocolaterie before continuing your explorations.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Ukrainian dinner in one of Lviv’s atmospheric restaurants, where folk music often accompanies your meal. Explore the city’s nightlife in the form of local pubs or brew houses known for their unique craft beers. End the night at the High Castle Hill for a panoramic view of the illuminated city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧀Milk and dairy products (monthly) | $6-15 |
| 🚌Local transit pass (monthly) | $15-30 |
| 🧰Utility bill (monthly) | $60-120 |
| 🏛️Museum entry (average) | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture
- Stunning architecture and diverse landscapes
- Vibrant cities and hospitality
- Delicious cuisine
- Expansive nature and outdoor options
- Ongoing geopolitical tensions in some areas
- Weather can be extreme in winter and summer
- Some rural areas have limited English speakers
- Long-distance travel can be time-consuming
- "Добрий день" - Good day/Hello (Ukrainian)
- "Дякую" - Thank you
- "Будь ласка" - Please/You're welcome
- "Вибачте" - Sorry/Excuse me
- "Скільки це коштує?" - How much does this cost?
- "Говорите англійською?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ukraine
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic golden domes and detailed facades, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
A grand neoclassical building on a lively square—golden hour and evening illumination create dramatic photos.
A sweeping staircase that creates a strong perspective toward the harbor; iconic for wide-angle shots.
Guided tours offer eerie, surreal photography of abandoned buildings with strict safety rules.
A romantic, tree-lined railway passage perfect for nature-lit portraits.
Ukraine’s highest point; breathtaking mountain panoramas on clear days.
Food in Ukraine
Ukraine Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beet-based soup often served with sour cream and rye bread; variations appear across regions.
Must-Try!
Dumplings stuffed with potatoes, cheese, mushrooms, or cherries; a staple in many homes and eateries.
Stuffed cabbage rolls usually filled with rice and meat or mushrooms, served in tomato or sour cream sauce.
Breaded chicken breast pounded and rolled around butter, typically served with potatoes and vegetables.
Cured pork fat often enjoyed on rye with garlic or fresh bread; a rustic regional specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A sprawling market with fresh produce, cheeses, smoked fish, honey, and baked goods.
A historic harbor-side market known for seafood, fruit, nuts, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with direct eye contact; address people with formal titles (Pan/Pani) until invited to use first names.
Dress modestly for churches; ask before taking portraits in sacred spaces; be mindful of rules in museums and galleries.
Safety
Tipping in Ukraine
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5–10% is common if service is not included; rounding up is appreciated. Taxis typically don’t expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is polite.
Cash (UAH) is widely accepted, especially in markets and rural areas; credit/debit cards are common in cities and tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August can be hot with long days and festivals; stay hydrated and seek shade in the city heat; coastal areas offer cooler breezes.
September–November brings cooler, pleasant weather and colorful foliage; ideal for city strolls and countryside trips.
December–February brings cold to all regions; expect snow in the interior and milder coastal winters; Christmas markets in Lviv and Kyiv are festive.
March–May offers milder temperatures with rain; parks come alive with flowers and outdoor cafés reopen.
Ukraine at Night
Hiking in Ukraine
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ukraine’s highest summit; demands a solid day of hiking with panoramic views.
A scenic circuit around a beloved lake with options for easy to moderate hikes.
Forest hikes near Lviv with varied terrain and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Ukraine by plane.
Major international hub with broad connections; rail and taxi links to Kyiv city center.
Second international airport serving shorter and regional flights; closer to central Kyiv.
Gateway to Western Ukraine with connections to Europe and domestic routes.
Key gateway for the Black Sea coast with frequent European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority group with deep linguistic and cultural roots.
Historical presence in various regions; language use varies by area.
Communities in western Ukraine with distinct cultural traditions.
Romani, Jews, and other groups contribute to urban diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with strong club culture across cities.
Solid domestic leagues and notable Ukrainian players internationally.
A strong tradition with many gyms and competitions in major cities.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in cities; ask for bez m'iasa (without meat) or bez syra (without cheese); many meals can be adapted with vegetables, potatoes, dumplings, or mushroom dishes.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ukraine.