Things To Do
in Makariv
Located in Kyiv Oblast, Makariv is a small town set amid rolling farmland and forested hills. Its compact center preserves a slice of Ukrainian village life, with a few historic churches and a market that reflects rural life. The surrounding countryside offers quiet lanes, riverside viewpoints, and easy day trips to nearby villages.
A short drive from Kyiv makes Makariv a peaceful base for exploring rural Ukraine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Makariv Historical Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and history. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the region's significance during various historical periods. Grab breakfast at a nearby café, try some local delicacies, and engage with the friendly locals.
Spend the afternoon strolling through the picturesque streets of Makariv, enjoying the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by the local market to sample fresh produce and handmade crafts while chatting with the artisans. Wind down your afternoon at a tranquil park, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional Ukrainian restaurant where you can indulge in hearty local dishes accompanied by live folk music. Enjoy a leisurely evening walk through the town square, where you can admire the illuminated scenery and perhaps catch a local performance. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Rise early to hike the scenic trails around Makariv, where sprawling forests and lush greenery await. Enjoy the fresh air and the sounds of nature as you journey through the stunning landscapes surrounding the town. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint, taking in the breathtaking vistas.
After your hike, visit a local eco-farm where you can participate in activities like fruit picking or animal feeding. Experience agritourism firsthand while learning about sustainable farming practices and the importance of local produce. Sample homemade preserves and farm-fresh snacks to refuel for your next adventure.
Return to Makariv for an evening of cultural engagement at a local community center, where traditional crafts and folk dances are showcased. Participate in a workshop to learn an indigenous craft, creating your own souvenir to take home. Conclude your day with a casual dinner at a bistro, sharing stories and laughter with newfound friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-7 |
| 🥖Bread and groceries | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, small-town charm close to Kyiv
- Affordable prices and hearty local cuisine
- Friendly locals and easy day trips
- Pastoral landscapes and quiet trails
- Limited nightlife and few big-city amenities
- Fewer English-speaking services in the town
- Rural transport can be sparse outside peak hours
- Travel to Kyiv needed for certain services
- "Добрий день" - Hello / Good day
- "Будь ласка" - Please
- "Дуже дякую" - Thank you very much
- "Скільки це коштує?" - How much does this cost?
- "Чи ви говорите англійською?" - Do you speak English?
- "Де знаходиться вокзал?" - Where is the train station?
- "Вибачте, я не розумію" - Sorry, I don't understand
- "Допомога" - Help
Places to Visit in Makariv
Visit one of these nice places.
Old stone church with broad steps and a calm square; good for early-morning light and candid street scenes.
Open fields and a river viewpoint offering wide-angle shots of farmland and sky.
Colorful stalls and locals in motion create dynamic portraits and street photography opportunities.
Food in Makariv
Makariv Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic beet soup served hot with garlic bread-puffs known as pampushky, widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Dumplings filled with potato and cheese, commonly found in homes and cafes.
Cabbage rolls filled with rice and either meat or mushrooms, served with sour cream.
Golden fried potato pancakes often served with sour cream or applesauce.
Thinly sliced cured pork fat paired with dark rye bread, a traditional countryside snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small town market where locals buy fresh produce, dairy, bread, and baked sweets.
Portable snacks like pirozhki, fried dumplings, and pastry baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings with a handshake; use appropriate titles and last names in formal settings.
Ask permission before taking photos of people; be discreet in churches and sacred places.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and observe local customs.
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in casual settings.
Safety
Tipping in Makariv
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) in cafes and restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is common; many places also accept bank cards; mobile wallets are increasingly accepted in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with plenty of daylight; occasional showers; carry water and sun protection.
Harvest season brings amber fields and cooler air; great for landscape photography and walks.
Cold, often snowy conditions; shorter days; dress warmly and enjoy cozy cafes.
Mild temperatures, budding trees, and frequent showers; good for outdoor strolls and photography.
Makariv at Night
Hiking in Makariv
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate loop through pine and mixed forests just west of town with gentle elevation and wildlife viewing.
Scenic route along a small river with fields and benches for rest and photos.
Airports
How to reach Makariv by plane.
Main international gateway about 60-90 minutes by car from Makariv, depending on traffic.
Domestic and some international flights; closer to Kyiv city, roughly 60-90 minutes by road from Makariv.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly local families and multi-generational households.
Some residents commute to Kyiv for work or education.
A noticeable portion of residents are older and carry traditional values.
Local farmers and small business owners who serve the town and surrounding villages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local teams and casual games on village greens.
Common in schools and community centers; informal matches in evenings.
Public courts available in municipal facilities; weekend matches among locals.
A popular leisure activity on nearby rivers and ponds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Makariv.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy mushroom dishes, cabbage rolls with vegetables, beets, potatoes, and bread. Ask for dumplings filled with cheese or vegetables and request sauces without meat.