Things To Do
in Sumy
Sumy is a historic city located in northeastern Ukraine, known for its charming architecture and picturesque landscapes. The city is situated along the Psel River, offering a tranquil and scenic environment for residents and visitors alike. Sumy is home to several universities and cultural institutions, making it a vibrant hub of education and creativity.
Visitors can explore the city's museums, parks, and traditional Ukrainian restaurants to experience the rich cultural heritage of Sumy.
- "Dyakuyu" - Thank you
- "Dobryi den'" - Good day
- "Bud' laska" - Please
- "Vybachte" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Yak spravy?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk in the beautiful Chekhov Park, enjoying the fresh air and scenery. Grab breakfast at a local cafe nearby, tasting traditional Ukrainian pastries.
Visit the Sumy Regional Art Museum to appreciate local art and culture. Stroll around the city center, shopping for souvenirs and trying street food.
Have dinner at a traditional Ukrainian restaurant, sampling local dishes. End your day with a peaceful walk along the Psel River.
Begin your morning by visiting the St. Michael’s Cathedral, soaking in its stunning architecture. Take a moment to reflect in the tranquil atmosphere.
Explore the Museum of Art and History, learning about Sumy's past. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro that serves local cuisine.
Watch a cultural performance at the Sumy Regional Theater. Savor a late dinner at a cozy cafe that boasts a warm ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical landmarks and museums.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Ukraine.
- Home to several educational institutions, attracting students.
- Access to beautiful natural scenery and parks.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in major cities.
- Public transportation options are limited.
- Potential security concerns depending on the political climate.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
Best Activities in Sumy
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the Sumy Zoo and see a variety of animals in a natural environment.
Visit Alexandrovsky Park for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities.
Enjoy birdwatching and nature walks at the Khadzhibey Estuary, a natural reserve near Sumy.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sumy with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sumy
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular park with beautiful views of the Psel River and surrounding nature, perfect for photo opportunities.
Offers stunning views of the river and the cityscape, great for photography enthusiasts seeking picturesque spots.
A serene park with scenic spots for capturing the beauty of nature and the local landscape.
Food in Sumy
Sumy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These Ukrainian dumplings are typically filled with potatoes, meat, cabbage, or cheese, and are often served with sour cream or fried onions. Try authentic varenyky at Khutir Shchedryk.
Must-Try!
A beloved Ukrainian beet soup, borscht is known for its vibrant color and robust flavors. Sample this iconic dish at Babushkin Sad or Cafe Moncher.
Deruny are potato pancakes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Enjoy them with sour cream at Kozatska Sich or Puzata Hata.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sumy better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Sumy Central Market to discover an array of fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. Indulge in street food like grilled kebabs, piroshky, and Ukrainian pastries.
Take a stroll through Kulchytskyi Park and savor the local street food offerings, from savory crepes to grilled corn on the cob and sweet pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sumy, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles and addressing them with respect.
Greetings are an important part of Ukrainian culture. It is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact.
When dining in Sumy, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. It is also considered respectful to finish all the food on your plate.
Safety
Tipping in Sumy
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sumy, Ukraine, tipping is generally not mandatory but is appreciated. It is customary to leave a small tip, typically around 5-10% of the total bill, for good service at restaurants. Tipping for other services, such as taxis and hotel staff, is less common but may be done as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Sumy, Ukraine. While some establishments may accept credit or debit cards, it is advisable to carry enough cash for daily expenses, as card acceptance may be limited. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawal, and currency exchange services are also accessible in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring, from March to May, is a lovely time to visit Sumy. The weather begins to warm up, flowers bloom, and the city comes to life with outdoor events and festivals.
Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Sumy. The weather is warm and pleasant, and the city offers plenty of outdoor activities and cultural events.
Autumn, from September to November, brings beautiful foliage and mild temperatures to Sumy. It's a great time to enjoy the fall colors and explore the city's parks and gardens.
Winter, from December to February, can be cold and snowy in Sumy. However, if you enjoy winter activities like ice skating and holiday markets, this can be a charming time to visit.
Sumy at Night
Hiking in Sumy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located approximately 100 km from Sumy, this park offers numerous trails for hiking amid diverse flora and fauna, along with picturesque landscapes.
About 80 km from Sumy, this nature reserve features a variety of trails, highlighting the natural beauty of the region with rivers and forest areas.
Located within Sumy itself, this garden provides a serene environment with walking paths, ideal for leisurely hikes and enjoying nature.
A scenic area near Sumy that offers hiking opportunities with moderate trails featuring hills, trees, and open spaces.
The trails along the Desna River, just south of Sumy, offer hiking paths that allow exploration of the riverside scenery and local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Sumy by plane.
The largest international airport in Ukraine, located about 400 km southwest of Sumy, serving as the main hub for international flights.
Located approximately 350 km from Sumy, this airport primarily serves domestic flights and some international routes.
Located about 160 km southeast of Sumy, this airport offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated around 600 km southwest of Sumy, it is one of the major international airports servicing the Black Sea region.
Located about 700 km west of Sumy, serving as a hub for numerous international flights to Europe and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Sumy, making up the majority of the population.
The second largest ethnic group, with a significant presence in the region.
A smaller ethnic minority in Sumy, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A historic community in Sumy, with roots going back many years.
A small but notable group within the demographic landscape of Sumy.
Various other ethnic groups, including Crimean Tatars and Poles, among others.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Sumy, with many local clubs and a strong following among the youth and adults.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity, with several local teams and facilities for both recreational and competitive play.
Volleyball is widely played in Sumy, particularly among schools and universities, and features active clubs and tournaments.
Athletics, including track and field events, is a popular sport in Sumy, with local athletes competing at various levels.
Swimming is a favored sport in Sumy, supported by several swimming pools and community programs promoting water sports.
Handball has a presence in Sumy, with local clubs participating in regional competitions and promoting the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sumy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Ukrainian cuisine often features meat-based dishes, many restaurants in Sumy offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as stuffed bell peppers, grilled vegetables, and mushroom stroganoff.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free options at select eateries, with dishes like grilled fish, fresh salads, and rice-based meals.