Things To Do
in Romny

Romny is a quiet historic town in Ukraine's Sumy Oblast, perched along the Sula River. Its streets reveal a blend of 19th-century architecture and leafy parks, punctuated by modern life and friendly locals. The city serves as a calm base for exploring northern Ukraine’s countryside and nearby nature reserves.

Visitors can enjoy hearty regional fare, bustling markets, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes day trips feels effortless.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Heart of Romny
morning
:

Start your journey with a visit to the central park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll among the lush greenery. The morning air is fresh and invigorating, perfect for sipping on a cup of coffee from a nearby café. Take some time to admire the local flora and maybe catch a glimpse of the vibrant morning life of the city.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the local museum to delve into the rich history and culture of Romny and its surrounding region. The exhibits offer a captivating insight into the town’s past, from its ancient origins to modern developments. Don’t forget to stop by a nearby market to taste some traditional Ukrainian snacks.

evening
:

As the sun sets, gather with locals at a traditional restaurant to savor authentic Ukrainian cuisine. Try dishes like borscht or varenyky while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Finish your day by taking a peaceful walk along the riverside, watching the sunset reflect off the water.

day 2
Nature and Serenity
morning
:

Begin your day with a trip to the nearby nature reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil landscapes. Early morning is ideal for birdwatching, so bring your binoculars to spot the variety of species that inhabit the area. A picnic breakfast amidst nature will add to the charm of the experience.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the reserve's hiking trails, offering stunning views of the local wildlife and flora. You may meet fellow nature enthusiasts who share your passion, turning your hike into a social experience. Engage with the community by asking about local conservation efforts and how you can contribute.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, return to Romny and find a local spot to relax. Enjoy a casual dinner while reflecting on the beauty you’ve witnessed throughout the day. The evening atmosphere is calm, providing the perfect backdrop for personal storytelling or journaling.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
Coffee or tea$1-3
🚌Public transport ticket$0.25-0.50
🛏️Hostel or budget hotel (per night)$8-15
🛒Groceries (basic weekly shop)$15-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Accessible, friendly town with authentic Ukrainian atmosphere
  • Affordability and regional cuisine dynamics
  • Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
  • Public transport outside the city center is modest; plan ahead
  • "Привіт" - Hello
  • "Добрий день" - Good day
  • "Дякую" - Thank you
  • "Будь ласка" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Скільки це коштує?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Де туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ви говорите англійською?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Я не розумію" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Romny

Visit one of these nice places.

Romny Town Hall Square

Historic central square with classic civic architecture, a focal point for street life and seasonal events.

Sula River Embankment

Scenic riverside path with willows and reflections—beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

Churches and Bell Towers of Romny

Traditional Ukrainian church architecture with domes and towers providing striking silhouettes against the skyline.

Old Market Street

Cobblestone lanes framed by pastel houses and market stalls—great for candid daily-life shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Romny

Romny’s cuisine reflects hearty Ukrainian village cooking—simple, filling dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Expect comforting soups, dumplings, and roasted meats, balanced by fresh bread, dairy, and pickles. Coffee and pastries at local cafes pair well with a stroll along the river or through the market. Most eateries welcome travelers and will adapt to dietary needs with some advance notice.

Romny Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Borshch

A hearty beet-based soup often enriched with meat or vegetables and served with sour cream and fresh dill.

Must-Try!

Deruny

Crispy potato pancakes served with sour cream or applesauce.

Varenyky (pierogi)

Boiled or fried dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, mushrooms, or cherries.

Holubtsi

Stuffed cabbage rolls with rice and minced meat simmered in tomato sauce.

Salo with rye bread

Thinly sliced cured pork fat, typically enjoyed with rye bread, pickles, and onions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Romny Central Market

A bustling daytime market selling seasonal produce, dairy, breads, and prepared snacks from local farmers.

Syr Market Square

A compact area known for local cheeses, honey, and pastries, ideal for a quick bite.

Street Food Corners

Casual stalls near the town center offering pirozhki, varenyky, and hot beverages.

Climate Guide

Weather

Romny experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot with average highs in the 20s to low 30s Celsius; winters are cold with temperatures often well below freezing and regular snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild with variable precipitation. Rain and humidity can occur year-round, so layering is practical when exploring outside.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

greetings and address

A handshake is common when meeting someone; address elders with formal 'vy' and use polite language; bring a small gift when visiting a home.

religious and quiet hours

Be respectful at churches and religious sites; keep voices down in public spaces and during meals.

photography norms

Ask permission before photographing people in private settings; in markets, be discreet and siempre offer a small tip if you take close shots of vendors.

Safety Guide

Safety

Romny is generally safe for travelers, with typical urban precautions. Stay aware of your belongings in crowded markets, especially in peak hours. For emergencies, dial 112 (general emergency), 101 (fire), or 103 (ambulance). If traveling during times of regional tension, follow local authorities’ guidance and monitor official travel advisories.

Tipping in Romny

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In cafés and restaurants, it is common to leave a tip of about 5-10% for satisfactory service; higher for exceptional service. In markets and casual street food, tipping is optional.

Payment Methods

Cash (Ukrainian hryvnia) remains widely used, especially in smaller venues. Cards are accepted at many shops and restaurants in town centers; contactless payments are increasingly common. ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with blooming trees; carry a light jacket and expect rain showers. Great for street photography and market scenes.

Summer

Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; occasional afternoon showers. Stay hydrated and enjoy riverbank strolls.

Autumn

Harvest colors along the Sula and in surrounding countrysides; cooler evenings and crisp air.

Winter

Cold, often snowy conditions with potential icy surfaces; dress in layers and plan indoor breaks between activities.

Nightlife Guide

Romny at Night

Romny’s nightlife is subdued compared to larger cities, with a handful of bars, cafes, and cultural centers hosting evenings of music, poetry, or film. Expect relaxed atmospheres, often with local patrons and occasional live performances on weekends. For a livelier scene, head to a larger city nearby and return by night train or bus.

Hiking in Romny

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sula River Loop

A scenic riverside trail with gentle terrain, ideal for day hikes and photography.

Forest Edge Walk

Short forest walks on the outskirts of Romny with seasonal wildlife and shade.

Countryside Greenway

Rural trails connecting villages with fields and small hills for easy day hikes.

Airports

How to reach Romny by plane.

Kharkiv International Airport (HRK)

Major regional gateway with domestic and some international connections; approximately 170–220 km from Romny; best reached by road or rail transfer.

Kyiv Boryspil International Airport (KBP)

Large international hub about 350–400 km away; provides the widest range of international connections; often used for long-haul travel.

Chernihiv (local airstrip / small airport)

Smaller facility offering limited services; useful for regional travel if available; travel by road from Chernihiv or Sumy as alternative.

Getting Around

Walkability

Romny’s compact center is highly walkable, with most top sights reachable within a 20–40 minute stroll from the market area. Pavements are generally well-maintained in the core, but some side streets can be uneven. A pleasant way to explore is on foot, especially in good weather; for longer trips, consider a bike or local buses.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Urban residents

Priori urban families, students, and professionals shaping the local culture and economy.

Rural commuters

People traveling in from surrounding villages for markets, work, and services.

Students and educators

Romny hosts educational facilities and cultural centers attracting young people and researchers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport across Ukraine, with local clubs and casual play on outdoor pitches.

Basketball

Common in schools and community centers; friendly pick-up games optional for visitors.

Volleyball

Played in gymnasiums and outdoor courts during warmer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate in the city center, with typical bus and marshrutka (shared taxi) routes for longer trips. Parking can be limited near the market and historic districts; walking is often easier for sightseeing. Outside the city, roads are variable in quality—plan extra time for rural travel and inform yourself about seasonal conditions in winter.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Romny.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are commonly available in most eateries, especially soups, dumplings with cheese or mushroom fillings, and vegetable-based dishes. Ask for vegetables, grains, legumes, and dairy to be prepared without meat or animal stock; request sour cream on the side if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Romny include local clinics and a city hospital; for more specialized care, residents typically travel to Sumy or Kharkiv. Carry your medical insurance information and a copy of essential prescriptions. In emergencies, call 103 for an ambulance. Pharmacies are available in the town center and larger stores.

Discover Ukraine

Read more in our Ukraine 2025 Travel Guide.

Ukraine Travel Guide