Things To Do
in Novovolynsk

Novovolynsk is a city located in western Ukraine, known for its coal mining industry. It is situated in the Volyn Oblast and has a population of around 50,000 residents. The city has a mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern developments.

Novovolynsk offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities for its residents and visitors.

  • "Dyakuyu" - Thank you
  • "Dobryi den'" - Good day
  • "Bud' laska" - Please
  • "Vybachte" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Yak spravy?" - How are you?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $30
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Novovolynsk
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the local parks, enjoying the fresh air and nature. Grab breakfast at a nearby café to fuel up for a day of exploration.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Novovolynsk. Take a leisurely walk around the city center, checking out shops and local markets.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Ukrainian restaurant, savoring local dishes. End your day with a peaceful walk along the river.

day 2
Nature Day
morning
:

Head out early for a hike in the nearby nature reserves. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and breathe in the fresh, crisp air.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic for lunch amid the scenic views. Take the afternoon to explore various trails and watch for local wildlife.

evening
:

Return to the city for a cozy dinner. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation or visiting a local bar.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage with various monuments and sites.
  • Strategic location near the border with Poland, facilitating trade and cross-border activities.
  • Access to natural resources and picturesque landscapes, including forests and rivers.
  • A close-knit community with a strong local identity and traditions.
  • Potential for tourism development due to historical significance.
  • Economic challenges, including limited job opportunities and infrastructure development.
  • Ongoing effects of regional conflicts may impact safety and stability.
  • Inadequate public services and amenities in some parts of the city.
  • Environmental concerns related to industrial activities in nearby areas.
  • Limited access to higher education institutions and specialized training facilities.

Best Activities in Novovolynsk

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in the Novovolynsk Hills

Explore the beautiful natural landscapes and trails in the Novovolynsk area, offering scenic views and a chance to connect with nature.

Cycling around Novovolynsk

Enjoy cycling through the picturesque countryside around Novovolynsk, with various routes available for cyclists of different skill levels.

Fishing at Lake Pulemetske

Experience peaceful fishing trips at Lake Pulemetske, known for its tranquil surroundings and abundant fish population.

Tours

Uncover the best of Novovolynsk with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Novovolynsk

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Svityaz

Offers stunning views and photo opportunities, especially during sunset and sunrise.

Saint Michael's Church

Provides a picturesque backdrop for photography, particularly with its unique architecture.

Novovolynsk City Park

Boasts attractive greenery and landscapes, ideal for capturing the beauty of the town.

Food in Novovolynsk

Novovolynsk, Ukraine offers a diverse and flavorful cuisine that reflects the region's rich culinary heritage. The local food scene is characterized by hearty and traditional dishes that are a true delight for food enthusiasts.

Novovolynsk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Deruny

Deruny are savory potato pancakes, often served with sour cream or garlic sauce. They can be found at local eateries and street food vendors throughout Novovolynsk.

Must-Try!

Borscht

A hearty beetroot soup often made with meat and served with a dollop of smetana (sour cream); it's a staple dish in the region commonly found in local restaurants and cafes.

Holubtsi

Holubtsi, or cabbage rolls, are a beloved comfort food in Novovolynsk. These are stuffed cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of meat and rice, often served with a tangy tomato sauce.

Varenyky

Varenyky are Ukrainian dumplings typically filled with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, cheese, or berries. They are widely available at local eateries and food stalls.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Novovolynsk better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Central Market

The bustling Central Market in Novovolynsk is a haven for street food enthusiasts. Here, visitors can sample an array of local snacks like pampushky (garlic bread), fried deruny, and grilled meats.

Rynok Square Food Stalls

Rynok Square is filled with food stalls offering an assortment of traditional Ukrainian street food. It's an ideal spot to savor vareniki, borscht, and other regional delights.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as humid continental, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are typically cold and snowy, with average temperatures commonly dropping below freezing, particularly in December through February. Snowfall can accumulate, contributing to a winter landscape. Spring brings a gradual warming, with temperatures rising and the snow melting. This season is marked by increased rainfall as the region transitions toward summer, leading to lush greenery and blooming flora. Summers are warm and can occasionally be hot, with average highs reaching into the mid-20s to low 30s degrees Celsius (70s to 80s degrees Fahrenheit). This period sees the most precipitation, with thunderstorms being relatively common. Autumn experiences a cooling trend, with temperatures gradually decreasing and leaves changing color. Rainfall continues, but the weather generally remains mild until late autumn when it starts to get colder again. Overall, the area experiences a fair amount of precipitation throughout the year, with a marked difference between the warm and cold seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for elders

In Novovolynsk, it is important to show respect to elders, such as addressing them using formal titles and showing deference in conversation and interactions.

Hospitality

The people of Novovolynsk highly value hospitality, so it's customary to be polite, warm, and welcoming when visiting someone's home or interacting with locals.

Dining etiquette

When dining with others, it is customary to wait for the host to initiate eating, toasting, or starting a conversation. It's also polite to express appreciation for the food and company.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Novovolynsk with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Located in the Volyn region of Ukraine, this city is known for its mining history and industrial background. Safety in the area can vary due to several factors, including social conditions, crime rates, and the broader geopolitical context affecting Ukraine. In general, urban areas in Ukraine, including Novovolynsk, face challenges related to crime, though it is often considered relatively safe compared to major cities. However, like many places, safety can depend on various circumstances, including the time of day and specific neighborhoods. Geopolitical tensions, particularly due to the ongoing conflict involving Russia, can impact safety perceptions. While Novovolynsk is not on the front lines, the situation in Ukraine as a whole can create uncertainties. Therefore, it is advisable for residents and visitors to stay informed about local conditions, follow any safety recommendations from authorities, and take general precautions when traveling or living in the area. Overall, community ties and local initiatives play an essential role in fostering safety and security in the region.

Tipping in Novovolynsk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Novovolynsk, Ukraine, tipping is not a common practice. Most of the time, people do not tip at restaurants, cafes, or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service, leaving a small tip as a token of appreciation is appreciated, but not expected.

Payment

Payment in Novovolynsk, Ukraine is commonly made in cash, especially for smaller transactions. However, many businesses, including restaurants and stores, also accept credit and debit cards. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for places that may not accept cards.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Novovolynsk.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Novovolynsk, Ukraine. The weather begins to warm up, and you can enjoy the beautiful blooming of flowers and trees. The city comes to life with outdoor events and activities. It's also a good time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Summer

Summer is another popular time to visit Novovolynsk. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. There are various cultural festivals and events during this time, and you can enjoy the longer daylight hours for exploration.

Autumn

Autumn brings gorgeous foliage to Novovolynsk, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is cooler, and you can experience the beautiful fall colors. It's also a good time to sample local harvests and traditional Ukrainian cuisine.

Winter

Winter can be cold in Novovolynsk, but it offers a unique charm with snow-covered landscapes and a festive atmosphere. You can enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Carpathian Mountains, and experience traditional Ukrainian winter celebrations and customs.

Novovolynsk at Night

Nightlife in Novovolynsk offers a modest yet cozy experience, reflective of its smaller-town charm. The scene is mostly centered around local bars and cafes, where residents and visitors alike gather to unwind after a day’s work. These venues often feature live music, karaoke nights, and themed events that create a lively atmosphere. For those seeking a more intimate setting, there are several charming coffee shops and lounges where one can enjoy a quiet evening with friends or a late-night snack. Local eateries also stay open late, providing hearty meals and a chance to experience regional cuisine in a relaxed environment. While Novovolynsk may not have the bustling nightlife of a larger city, its community-centric approach provides a warm, inviting experience. Social life here is characterized by familiar faces and a welcoming vibe, ensuring that everyone feels right at home.

Hiking in Novovolynsk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Solytsya Mountain

A popular hiking destination offering scenic views and a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.

Bohorodchany Forest

A tranquil forest area perfect for hiking, featuring diverse flora and fauna, and well-marked trails.

Carpathian National Park

Located a bit further away, this national park boasts stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and numerous hiking routes.

Zolochiv Castle Park

An enriching historical site with walking paths and surrounding nature, making it a nice spot for a leisurely hike.

Olesko Castle Park

A scenic area surrounding the historic Olesko Castle, offering pleasant walking trails through beautiful countryside.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Novovolynsk through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Novovolynsk by plane.

Lviv Danylo Halytskyi International Airport (LWO)

The main international airport serving the city of Lviv, located approximately 98 kilometers from Novovolynsk.

Kyiv Boryspil International Airport (KBP)

The largest international airport in Ukraine, located approximately 370 kilometers from Novovolynsk, serving the capital city of Kyiv.

Lutsk Airport (UKWL)

A smaller airport located in Lutsk, approximately 65 kilometers from Novovolynsk, primarily serving domestic flights but with some international connections.

Rovno International Airport (RVA)

An airport located in Rivne, approximately 108 kilometers from Novovolynsk, mainly handling regional flights but open for some international traffic.

Ivano-Frankivsk International Airport (IFO)

An airport in Ivano-Frankivsk, located about 143 kilometers from Novovolynsk, serving both domestic and international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in this small city is characterized by its compact layout, which allows residents to access various amenities within walking distance. The infrastructure includes pedestrian pathways, though the quality can vary in different areas. Sidewalks are present, but in some parts, they might be narrow or uneven, making navigation less comfortable. The city's central areas typically feature shops, cafes, and essential services close together, encouraging walking as a viable mode of transportation. However, outskirts may lack sufficient pedestrian infrastructure, which can discourage walking in those regions. Public transport options are available, which can complement walking for longer distances, while the local landscape offers a mix of urban and natural elements, providing a pleasant environment for pedestrians. Safety is generally acceptable, but like any city, it can vary based on specific neighborhoods and times of day. Overall, walkability in the area supports a degree of pedestrian mobility, though improvements could enhance the experience further.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ukrainians

The predominant ethnic group in Novovolynsk, making up the majority of the population.

Russians

A significant minority group, reflecting historical ties and migration patterns in the region.

Poles

A smaller ethnic community with historical roots in the area, particularly from pre-war populations.

Others

Includes various smaller groups and nationalities present in the city, such as Belarusians, Jews, and Romanians.

The Soul of Novovolynsk

Discover the essence of Novovolynsk through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Novovolynsk, with local teams participating in regional leagues and attracting significant community support.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a strong following in Novovolynsk, with local schools and clubs fostering youth participation and competitions.

Volleyball

Volleyball is widely played in Novovolynsk, both recreationally and competitively, with many local teams participating in regional championships.

Athletics

Track and field events are popular among youth in Novovolynsk, with a focus on developing skills in running, jumping, and throwing disciplines.

Handball

Handball has gained popularity in Novovolynsk, with local clubs training teams for competition in regional leagues.

Traffic

The traffic in this small city is characterized by a mix of private vehicles, public transportation, and pedestrian activity. Due to the city's size, the streets are generally manageable, but congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly near commercial areas and schools. Public transportation is primarily served by buses, which provide a connection to nearby areas and towns. The availability of taxis and rideshare services adds to the mobility options for residents. Pedestrian traffic is common, especially in the city center, where shops and services are concentrated. Overall, while the traffic is typically not overwhelming, it can become busy during specific times of the day. Road conditions and maintenance can also affect traffic flow.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Novovolynsk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Ukrainian cuisine often includes meat, many restaurants and cafes in Novovolynsk offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for options like stuffed peppers, vegetable stews, and bean-based soups.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find an increasing number of gluten-free options in Novovolynsk. Restaurants and cafes often provide gluten-free versions of traditional dishes, as well as salads and rice-based meals.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Novovolynsk with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the region features a mix of public and private services, predominantly governed by the national healthcare system of Ukraine. The city has several medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies that provide essential health services to residents. Public healthcare institutions offer a range of services, but they often face challenges such as limited funding, shortages of medical supplies, and staffing issues. Patients typically rely on state-funded facilities for primary care, emergency services, and specialized treatment. However, many residents opt for private healthcare providers for better access to services, shorter wait times, and improved quality of care. Local government initiatives and community health programs aim to address specific health concerns, including chronic diseases and preventive care. Efforts are being made to improve healthcare infrastructure and access, especially in the wake of reforms aimed at enhancing the efficiency and quality of the national healthcare system. Despite these challenges, healthcare professionals in the area are dedicated to improving the health outcomes of the population, often working under difficult circumstances. Public health campaigns and education programs are also crucial in promoting healthy lifestyles and disease prevention among the residents.

Discover Ukraine

Read more in our Ukraine 2024 Travel Guide.

Ukraine Travel Guide