Things To Do
in Poltava
Poltava is a historical city located in central Ukraine. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and significant role in Ukrainian history. The city is famous for the Battle of Poltava in 1709, where the Russian Empire defeated Sweden.
Today, Poltava is a bustling city with charming architecture, parks, and museums for visitors to explore.
- "Dyakuyu" - Thank you
- "Dobryi den'" - Good day
- "Bud' laska" - Please
- "Vybachte" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Yak spravy?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Poltava Battle Field and Museum to learn about the historic battle. Enjoy a stroll through the picturesque grounds.
Head to the Poltava Regional Museum to discover more about the local culture and history. Grab a light lunch in a nearby cafe, sampling traditional Ukrainian dishes.
Wind down your day at the Vorskla River, taking in the beautiful sunset views. Consider dining at a local restaurant to enjoy hearty local cuisine.
Begin your day at the central Svt. Vassily Church, appreciating its architecture and serene atmosphere. Follow it up with a leisurely walk through the nearby Ivanova Mountain park.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park surrounded by nature's beauty. After lunch, take a hike or bike ride along the scenic Vorskla River trails.
Return to the city center to explore vibrant local markets. Try some street food as you enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including notable landmarks and museums.
- Lively local atmosphere with friendly residents.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Ukrainian cities.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
- Growing educational and research institutions.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, especially for young professionals.
- Challenges with infrastructure and public transportation.
- Political instability in the region may affect quality of life.
- Occasional issues with healthcare services and facilities.
- Less international exposure and fewer expatriate amenities compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Poltava
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic battlefields and learn about the famous Battle of Poltava.
Visit outdoor sites related to the famous writer Nikolai Gogol, including his birthplace and the Gogol's Oak.
Enjoy a relaxing outdoor picnic at the picturesque Round Square in Poltava.
Explore the outdoor zoo and enjoy various animal exhibits and educational programs.
Tours
Uncover the best of Poltava with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Poltava
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Poltava and its surroundings.
Ideal for capturing the historic architecture of the city.
Features picturesque landscapes and memorials.
Food in Poltava
Poltava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These Ukrainian dumplings are a must-try in Poltava. They come in various fillings such as potato, cabbage, cheese, or cherries and are typically served with sour cream or butter. Visit Yarmarok Restaurant for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Deruny are delicious Ukrainian potato pancakes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Sample this local specialty at Cafe Hetman.
This iconic Ukrainian dish consists of cured pork fat, often seasoned with garlic and spices. You can savor the best salo at Podolyany Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Poltava better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to discover an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and traditional snacks like sunflower seeds and dried fruits. Don't miss the opportunity to taste pampushky (Ukrainian donuts) from the market vendors.
Take a stroll along Mazepy Street to find a vibrant selection of street food stalls offering grilled meats, savory crepes, and baked goods. The atmosphere here is lively, making it a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Poltava, it is customary to greet people with a formal handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting.
Showing respect for elders is an important cultural norm in Poltava. It is customary to address older individuals with a title and to show deference in conversations and interactions.
When participating in social gatherings or dining with locals, it is important to observe the etiquette of toasting. It is customary to make eye contact while toasting and to wait until the host initiates the first toast.
Safety
Tipping in Poltava
Ensure a smooth experience
In Poltava, Ukraine, tipping is generally not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. A tip of 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants is customary if the service charge is not included. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also common, but not expected.
Cash is widely used for daily transactions in Poltava, Ukraine. However, credit and debit cards are becoming more accepted, especially in urban areas and larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and in more rural areas, as they may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Poltava, as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. Expect lively parks, outdoor events, and a festive atmosphere.
Summer in Poltava is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Visitors can enjoy festivals, outdoor cafes, and long daylight hours.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Poltava, with colorful foliage and comfortable weather. It's also the harvest season, so visitors can sample fresh local produce.
Winter in Poltava can be cold, but it's also a magical time to visit, especially around the holidays. Visitors can experience festive markets, ice skating, and cozy cafes.
Poltava at Night
Hiking in Poltava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic river offering various hiking trails along its banks, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
A protected area with several trails, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the region, great for hiking and picnicking.
A forested area located near Poltava, featuring well-marked hiking paths that allow for exploration of its natural beauty.
Offers picturesque views and hiking opportunities along the river valley, ideal for both casual walkers and more experienced hikers.
A local park with walking trails, ideal for short hikes and leisurely walks in a serene environment.
Aiports
How to reach Poltava by plane.
The largest and busiest international airport in Ukraine, located approximately 350 km from Poltava in Boryspil, close to Kyiv.
An international airport located around 100 km north-east of Poltava, serving flights to various domestic and international destinations.
An international airport located about 500 km south of Poltava, providing flights to a number of international destinations.
Located approximately 600 km west of Poltava, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located around 220 km south of Poltava, this airport connects the region with various international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, comprising about 80-90% of the population.
A significant minority, representing around 5-10% of the population.
A small minority, with a presence of less than 1%.
A small minority group, whose population has been traditionally small in Poltava.
Includes various smaller groups such as Poles, Jews, and Romani, generally totaling less than 1%.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of the most popular sports in Poltava, with a strong local league and a rich history of clubs.
Widely played at both amateur and professional levels, with local teams competing in various tournaments.
A popular sport in schools and universities, with events ranging from track and field to cross-country running.
Commonly played in schools and recreational centers, with both men's and women's teams representing the city.
Has a dedicated following and is played in clubs and schools, with competitive local leagues.
Gaining popularity, particularly among the youth, with local ice rinks and teams developing the sport.
A traditionally strong sport in Ukraine, with many local gyms and competitions held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Poltava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Ukrainian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Poltava offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of classic dishes, such as mushroom varenyky and vegetable deruny. Cafe Kredens is a great choice for vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find options like buckwheat-based dishes, fresh salads, and grilled fish at restaurants like Zolotoy Petushok. The staff is accommodating and willing to cater to specific dietary needs.