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10 Best Places to Visit in Ukraine

Ukraine is one of the largest countries in Eastern Europe. Despite the millions that call it home, it’s totally underrated by tourists. Often overlooked due to its troubles in the east, the rest of Ukraine is safe to travel through, and there’s so much to see and do. Not to mention, it’s incredibly cheap!

With a distinct culture and crammed full of captivating history, Ukraine is as far from touristy as you can get. Explore glorious cathedrals, Orthodox churches, ancient castles, lush forested hills, and Black Sea beaches. Here are best places to visit in Ukraine.

Situated in central Ukraine, this city on the banks of the Umanka River offers a relaxed layover between the popular cities of Odesa and Kyiv. First mentioned in 1616 when it was under Polish rule, Uman was built as a fortification against Tatar raids and has since undergone many stages of occupation. Most famous for the tragic 1700s Haidamak rebellions, today it serves as a popular pilgrimage site for Hasidic Jews.

Perfectly tourist-friendly, Uman’s attractions are well signposted, and you’ll have no problem finding your way around this laidback town. Visit the tomb of Rabbi Nachman Sofiyivka Park, see the obelisk in the town center, watch the Pearl of Love fountain show, or browse the daily market. For those interested in history, the Basilian Monastery (1764) is the oldest building in the city.

If you love green spaces, you’ll love Uman. It’s a major center for gardening research, and Sofiyivka Park is ideal for a leisurely afternoon stroll. Nature lovers can sign up for a tree tour at the Dendrological Research Center. Uman also boasts some colorful architecture, museums, WWII monuments, and a gorgeous pastel-colored church.

While its self-christened title as the ‘geographical center of Europe’ may not be true, Rakhiv is certainly the highest city in Ukraine. Tucked within the lush Carpathian forests of western Ukraine, this mountain town is the perfect playground for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

Ideal for adventure lovers looking to explore the southern Carpathians, Rakhiv promises stunning scenery – including picturesque slopes and swinging footbridges leading across the rushing Tysa River. There isn’t a whole lot going on here, but that’s the appeal of Rakhiv. Head to the peaceful Dilove village for a quiet escape in the mountains, and swap the hive of the city for the serenity of the outdoors.

For a taste of the local culture, don’t miss the Hutsul Brynza Festival held in September. This fiesta honors the shepherds who return from the Carpathians each winter with cheese, wurda, brynza, folk song, and dance.

8. Chernihiv

Chernihiv is one of the oldest cities in Ukraine. It was first mentioned back in 907 in the Rus’-Byzantine Treaty between Prince Oleh and Byzantium, but the actual date of establishment isn’t known. In this treaty, Chernihiv was ranked the second most important Ukrainian center after Kyiv.

Located on the banks of the Desna River in northern Ukraine, Chernihiv is the administrative center of the Chernihiv Oblast province. It boasts beautiful medieval architecture – particularly Catherine’s Church with its golden cupolas, and the 11th century five-domed Transfiguration Cathedral.

If you love beer, you’ll be in your element in Chernihiv, as it’s home to some famous Ukrainian tipple, known as ‘Cherninihivske.’ Don’t miss the chance to visit the two ancient cave monasteries on the outskirts of the city or take a stroll around the 18th century Kachanivka Palace with its beautiful neoclassical architecture, pretty gardens, and lake.

An idyllic wintertime destination, Bukovel is Ukraine’s big skiing destination. In fact, it’s the largest ski resort in Eastern Europe! Surrounded by three mountains, including the highest peaks of the Carpathians, the views from this luxury alpine ski resort are simply breath-taking.

High up on the slopes of western Ukraine, Bukovel promises bucket loads of fun for all ages. It caters to all skill levels with over 50 kilometers of groomed pistes and playgrounds. When you’re not out testing the powder, hang out at the snow park and bicycle park or learn some new tricks at the ski school. The best time to plan a skiing holiday to Bukovel is from December to April, but January has the deepest snow.

6. Chernivtsi

Chernivtsi can be found at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains in western Ukraine. Lovingly dubbed “Little Vienna,” the city boasts similar architecture to the Austrian city, as it was once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

But the city is not just a pretty face; it has significant historical and cultural importance too. According to archaeological discoveries, Chernivtsi dates back to the Neolithic era. A fortified city once stood on the north-eastern shoreline during the time of the Principality of Halych. It was known as the ‘Black City’ – presumably because of the dark color of the city walls – and was largely destroyed during the Mongol invasion. Some parts of the fortress remain today.

With its cobbled streets filled with laidback cafes, Baroque buildings, bookshops, and parks, it’s the perfect place to chill out and absorb the no-frills, no-fuss atmosphere. Don’t miss a visit to the National University – this impressive palace is one of the largest universities in Ukraine.

5. Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress

Kamianets-Podilskyi in western Ukraine is most famous for the Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress. In fact, it’s one of the main reasons tourists visit this fairy-tale city. Towering over the Smotrych River, the fortress is truly magnificent – it’s easily one of the most picturesque fortresses in Eastern Europe!

But there’s more to the city than just the fortress. Explore the cobbled streets of the well-preserved medieval Old Town lined with its pretty pastel-colored houses and admire the excellent street art that tells the tale of the city.

Head for the skies with a one-of-a-kind hot air balloon ride – one of the city’s highlights – waterfall-watch along the Smotrichsky Canyon, and take up archery on the Castle Bridge. Don’t miss the incredible festival of hot air balloons in the spring!

4. Chernobyl

For those interested in history, Chernobyl promises a dark exploration. It’s the site of the infamous nuclear disaster that led to the premature deaths of thousands of people in 1986. Recently revisited in an HBO documentary, the Chernobyl exclusion zone – which is currently an eerie ghost town in northern Kyiv Oblast – is set to become a major tourist attraction. Make sure you go as soon as possible!

Inside Chernobyl, you’ll be able to witness the destruction for yourself – the demolished buildings and abandoned possessions of those who had to escape for their lives. Guided tours are available, offering the chance to learn about the tragedy first-hand. While filming is currently prohibited in the exclusion zone, the Ukrainian president has promised to lift the ban as part of a significant revamp of the area that will make it safer for tourists.

First held by the Greeks, then by the Ottomans, and finally the Russians, Odesa in southwestern Ukraine has an interesting history – all of which is told through its many excellent museums. Today, Odessa is a modern city with stunning Art Nouveau architecture, pretty people-watching cafes, and gorgeous beaches. Located on the north-western shore of the Black Sea, it’s often nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea.’

Odessa boasts a thriving nightlife scene in Arcadia, with Ibiza-comparable night clubs, enviable shopping, and fantastic wineries. Put that all together, and you get the ultimate summer holiday destination – all without the throngs of international tourists.

There is so much to do in Odessa. Hang out at one of the many beach club pools, watch a theater show, or stroll along the seaside promenade. It’s not only what’s on the ground level that attracts so many people to this vibrant city: Odessa also features a series of intriguing underground catacombs that span thousands of kilometers beneath the city!

Lviv is the largest city in western Ukraine and boasts a historic center that’s well worth exploring. Established in 1240 and named after Leo, the oldest son of the King of Ruthenia, the capital changed hands several times between the Polish and the Russians before finally becoming independent in 1991.

Packed full of monuments, museums, and age-old buildings with archaeological findings dating back to the 5th century, Lviv has plenty for adventurers to uncover. Dubbed one of Ukraine’s most popular cultural hubs, Lviv abounds with art galleries, including the Lviv National Art Gallery, home to over 50,000 works of art. There’s no shortage of activities for a cultural day out, from opera and ballet performances to a charming café culture. You’ll find all sorts of quirky bars and knaipas (local pubs) tucked down narrow side streets.

The number one destination to visit in Ukraine is undoubtedly the capital, located in north-central Ukraine. Filled with striking Soviet architecture, monasteries, golden-domed churches, and handsome streets, this European city really packs a punch. Plus, it’s still totally underrated, so you won’t find many tourist traps here!

Dating back to 482 AD, Kyiv is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe. Having faced both Russian and German occupation, it’s now distinctly Ukrainian. In fact, Kyiv had a considerable part to play in the development of both the medieval East Slavic civilization and the Ukrainian nation as we know it today.

Modern Kyiv is all go-go-go. Head to one of the many city bars, people-watch at a sidewalk café or visit one of the museums to discover some of Eastern Europe’s fascinating history. Visit the Museum of Folk Architecture and Ethnography, one of the largest open-air museums in Europe. The most popular attraction in Kyiv however is undoubtedly Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Ukraine.

Don’t miss the chance to stroll down Andriyivskyy Descent, a steep cobbled street lined with Art Nouveau-style houses with gargoyles. Kyiv is also a popular destination for theater, opera, and musical performances, so bring your cultural A-game!

Map of the best places to visit in Ukraine

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Ukraine

15 Best Places to Visit in Ukraine

Under visited and less touristy than other parts of Europe, Ukraine is a colorful and proud country perched on the Black Sea, full of rugged beaches, wild forest, and craggy mountain plains.

With a history full of folk traditions and diverse cultural influences, Ukraine offers travelers ski resorts, modern cities, and traditional villages, many of which feature UNESCO World Heritage Sites and well preserved historical relics.

So join us as we take you through everything from mummies to mammoths on this whistle stop tour of the best places to visit in Ukraine .

The third largest city in Ukraine, Odesa is a seaport that rest of the shores of the mythical Black Sea. Now an important trade city, visitors gravitate to Odesa for the sandy beaches, clement weather, and sparkling waters, particularly Lanzheron Beach, a perfect place for sun worshippers.

Odesa, also referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’, may be a large city but its construction gives it an intimate feel, with labyrinthine lanes to navigate as well as nooks and crannies to explore, ending in secluded squares and delightful houses painted in mellow pastel shades.

The city’s big claim to fame is the mighty stairway that leads from the centre of town to the beach front, and there are also leafy parks like the City Gardens to enjoy, as well as a bit of culture in the form of the Odesa Opera House and the numerous theatres in the city.

Poltava, which sits of the Vorskala River, is a city steeped in military history due to a legendary battle in the 18th century between the Cossacks and the Russian Tsar Peter I, and with that in mind come to this city to view the military relics that still remain.

These include the Column of Glory, October Park, and the preserved area of the Poltava Battlefield. Poltava is also known for its museums, several of which are dedicated to military history, as well as its main cathedral, the Assumption Cathedral, with its striking belfry.

Once the place of such a pivotal moment in history, Poltava is now a relaxed and serene cultural city, with orchestras, theatres, and museums a plenty.

3. Myrhorod

Found on the Khorol River, Myrhorod is essentially a sleepy spa town that became famous due to the mineral properties found in its underground springs. The slightly salty water can be drunk to improve digestive issues, or there are a number of spots where visitors can bathe.

If you prefer not to swim then you can take a boat or pedalo out of the Khorol River, and there are a number of quirky features for visitors to Myrhorod to seek out, such as a towering illuminated windmill and a musical water fountain.

The woodlands found in the city are also rather famous, and for the full romantic experience you can take a horse drawn carriage ride through the lush landscape.

4. Chernihiv

Sitting neatly on the banks of the Desna River, Chernihiv is often referred to as one of the most ancient cities in all of Ukraine, apparently dating back from the 7th century, making a visit here feel rather like a trip back in time.

It is also home to some of the most beautiful buildings in the country, including Catherine’s Church which instantly recognizable due to its golden cupolas.

Other religious buildings of note are Pyatnytska Church that sits in the city’s Red Square, the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon stroll around the town center.

5. Chernivtsi

The city of Chernivtsi that lies at the base of the Carpathian Mountains is most famous for its designated UNESCO World Heritage Site of the former complex of the high priests that is now home to the National University, and was constructed in the Byzantine and Romanesque styles.

The architecture of Chernivtsi is said to be similar to that of Vienna, leading to the name ‘Little Vienna’ to describe parts of the city, and many locals point to the relaxed nature of the city which has a strong cafe culture, as well as a range of notable bookshops and book stalls that are said to reflect the intellectual and poetic atmosphere found here.

The village of Bakota in the Podillia Region is home to the famous cave monastery built by Orthodox monks headed by Saint Anthony of Kiev. The monastery in the underground caves dates from the 12th century and visitors can view well preserved frescoes and paintings as well as remains of some of the monks who lived in the caves.

In the present day, Bakota is now part of the National Environmental Park due to its rural location, and features craggy hills on the shores of the picturesque Dniester River.

Visitors can ramble in the region and explore the settlement on foot to take in the splendid local flora and fauna on display.

7. Uzhhorod

Uzhhorod, on the border with Slovakia and near the border with Hungary, is a vibrant and diverse town with a sizeable Hungarian and Romanian population that gives it a cosmopolitan feel that has helped to bolster its claim to fame as a premium tourist attraction in Ukraine.

Come here for the stunning Uzhhorod Castle that dates from the 9th century, as well as the Greek-Catholic Cathedral from the 17th century.

If you want to try some of the local staples then you can explore the city’s famous wine cellars, or try the delicacy bogrács, a kind of goulash originating from neighboring Hungary.

8. Kamianets-Podilskyi

Kamianets-Podilskyi, a city in the west of Ukraine, has a long history of immigration and each influence is present in the architecture and culture of the city, including Armenian and Polish markets still found today.

The city is awash with ancient monuments such as its castle, cathedral, and crumbling fortifications and, due to its location on the Smotrych River, there are an abundance of outdoor activities for those wanting to do something a little different.

Among these are balloon trips over the Smotrych Canyon, as well as race car driving. Also located over the Smotrych River is the Stara Fortetsya, an ancient city fortress that invites visitors to marvel at the preserved ruins.

The historic centre of the city of Lviv is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors will be able to understand why due to the wealth of monuments and ancient buildings on show here, many of which date back to the 13th century.

Aside from the historical jewels on offer here, Lviv is famous for being an artistic hub in Ukraine, and there are galleries all over the city as well as the Lviv National Art Gallery that is said to house over 50,000 works including paintings, sculptures, and art installations.

If you enjoy opera or ballet, then Lviv is also famous for its classically trained performers and opulent performances in regular rotation.

10. Zhovkva

Founded in the 16th century, the city of Zhovkva in the west of Ukraine is the place to come if you enjoy marveling at a whole host of historical gems including the Church of Saint Lawrence which is an iconic building in the city due to its domed roof.

Dating from the 17th century is church made of wood, the Holy Trinity Church that was recently named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other memorable ancient sites include the restored Zhovkva Castle, which now houses a cultural centre for those who want to learn more about the history and culture of this area of Ukraine.

Located in one of the regions that forms part of Crimea, Yalta is primarily known for being a laid back resort that faces the Black Sea. There is a long seafront promenade for visitors who want to take in the views over the Crimean Peninsula as well as a zoo and an aquarium that houses dolphins.

For even more stunning vies, ride by cable car to the top of the nearby Darsan Hill, and there is also the breathtaking Froros Church that is nestled atop a sea cliff at an elevation of 400 meters.

Over the years Yalta has attracted a host of famous figures such as Anton Chekhov and visitors to the area can visit his former home that now serves as a museum.

The capital city of Ukraine, Kyiv is most well known for its diverse population, interesting modern architecture, and friendly locals. It also features the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Kyiv Monastery of the Caves and Saint Sophia Cathedral, and although visitors can tour the monastery, it is also still in working order.

There are a range of museums to choose from in Kyiv in order to learn more about the local history or culture, or you can check out the latest theatre listings at one of the smaller theatres like the famous Puppet Theatre.

This may well be the capital of Ukraine, but it is also an extremely green city featuring not one but two botanical gardens that are perfect for strolling around in the afternoons under the iconic horse chestnut trees that line the roads of Kyiv.

13. Slavske

Slavske, to the southwest of Lviv, is best known as a ski resort, so if you love the snow then this is the place to come. There are cable cars and ski lifts as well as primary slopes for skiers to enjoy, and the season usually runs from approximately November to March.

Should you visit in the summer months, there are lots of other activities to enjoy in Slavske such as berry and mushroom picking in the fertile lands, as well as fishing in the surrounding lakes.

If you prefer to keep exploring then there are hiking trails as well as horse riding and mountain biking excursions that provide an alternative perspective from which to take in the views.

14. Zaporizhia

Zaporizhia , on the banks of the Dnieper River, is most well known for its quaint islands including the main island of Khortytsia that sits in the middle of the city. The island is actually a national park and features romantically rugged terrain and has wild ravines and a number of hiking trails that are popular with visitors year round.

As this is an island, there are also water activities like swimming and boating, as well as small sandy beaches to relax on. Also on the island is a military museum featuring weaponry and period reconstructions of famous battles.

Other small islands found around Zaporizhia are the Rock of the Fool and Pillar Island.

15. Vinnytsia

The city of Vinnytsia lies on the banks of the rather comically named Southern Bug, actually the second longest river in Ukraine. The city has a cozy feel to it and lends itself to strolling around the main centre to marvel at the splendid architecture on offer here.

Some highlights include the walls built as fortifications of a Jesuit monastery that still stand proud, and now also house the Museum of Local History for history buffs to learn all about the period features on show here. They even have a mammoth skeleton that is said to be over 30,000 years old!

15 Best Places to Visit in Ukraine:

• Kamianets-Podilskyi

Road is Calling

15 Best Cities in Ukraine You Have to Visit on Your Trip (And 4 to Skip)

Among all cities in Ukraine, there are 187 cities of regional significance, meaning cities that are economically, socially and culturally developed and have a population of over 50 thousand people.

Out of all these cities, some are very young since they were created only 30-50 years ago while others are ancient over a thousand years old. Some are modern and historically rich and some are a bit neglected and unremarkable. 

I am not going to talk about all Ukrainian cities. In today’s post, I’d actually love to talk about Ukraine’s best tourist cities great for visiting. They are pretty, interesting places to discover and spend time in. Some are so lovely and amazing that they are actually great cities where to live too.

But the main idea is not to talk about the best cities to live in Ukraine (I am actually working on a separate post just about that). This post highlights Ukraine’s top cities to visit as a tourist.

Some of them will be more interesting for one group of travelers while others may seem to be boring. It depends on what type of traveler you are and what exactly you are looking to find in each place.

Don’t judge the place and make conclusions after reading captions only. Read what each city has to offer and what it can possibly give you. If you need more travel tips for Ukraine , check my guide. If you have more questions, see all my posts in the Ukraine travel blog section or drop a comment below, I’ll do my best to help! 

Best Cities in Ukraine to Visit on Your Trip 

1. kyiv – one of the oldest ukrainian cities .

Of course, the fact that Kyiv is on this list will not come as a surprise to anyone. A lot of travelers fly there and start their journey around the country from Kyiv. It is one of the top cities in Ukraine to see and explore.

Kyiv is the capital with a thousand-year history. You can find this history in the calm waters of the Dnieper River, in the crowns of trees on the Kyiv slopes, in the bells of lush churches, in the walls of fortresses, on wide boulevards and narrow streets.

One of the 10 most beautiful metro stations and one of the 5 highest monuments in the world are located in Kyiv. In 2019, it was recognized as the greenest metropolis in Europe. No wonder it did! There are more than 70 parks and squares around the city .

Kyiv is home to many sacred places and religious monuments, churches and cathedrals, architectural objects, and statues. If you decide to make a trip here, definitely visit the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra and St. Sophia Cathedral , Vydubitsky and Mikhailovsky Golden-Domed Monasteries , St. Vladimir’s Cathedral, and St. Nicholas Church , St. Alexander’s Church, and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Pirogoshchi .

Also, don’t forget to take a fascinating walk along historic Khreshchatyk street, visit Independence Square, walk through a landscaped alley, go to the Sophia Kyivska national reserve and buy an original souvenir on St. Andrew’s Descent. 

When thinking about where to stay in Kyiv, check Bursa hotel for a unique stay on a budget or Garden Hostel if you are a backpacker. 

Are you visiting Kyiv in winter? Check my guide to things to do . For any time of the year trip, check my Kyiv monthly weather guide and the best breakfast places in Kyiv  post.

Check prices and availability for Bursa Hotel on Booking.com

Check prices and availability for Hostel Garden on Booking.com

2. Chernihiv – Another Ancient City in Ukraine 

Chernihiv is another ancient city in Ukraine. The first mention of it was in 907, although archaeological excavations indicate even earlier human settlements in the area. In 2021, it celebrated 1114 years since its founding. Once a thriving and important center of medieval Kievan Rus and the first East Slavic state.

It has an amazing variety of religious buildings of the X-XIII century and unique examples of medieval Slavic church architecture .

One of the oldest churches in Ukraine – the Transfiguration Cathedral, which was built in the 11th century and contains stunning frescoes and ancient interiors is here. And by the way, a few ancient churches of Chernihiv are mentioned in a few books about Ukraine . 

Chernihiv is the most important city in the East European historical period before the Mongol invasion. It can be easy to visit on a  weekend trip from Kyiv . 

Why it can be interesting for you as a tourist? I give more answers in my very long guide to Chernihiv . Give it a read. 

3. Lviv – the Most European-Like City in Ukraine Famous For Chocolate & Coffee

One of the most famous cities in Ukraine is sooo famous that you definitely heard about it. For many people (and for Mark and I including) Lviv is a favorite city. Everyone who has been to Lviv, remembers its aromas of coffee and chocolate, picturesque cobbled streets, unique architectural work, and quirky breakfast places . 

People come here for the romance, atmosphere of the old city, and historical sights. An incredible number of churches, temples, and castles make it truly medieval and fabulous, especially during the Christmas holidays.

Lviv is also considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Recently, it has turned into the restaurant capital of Ukraine, thanks to a network of unusual restaurants and cafes. 

In Lviv, you need to walk a lot and not be afraid to venture off the main streets looking into every courtyard. Also, you have to devote time to at least one day trip from Lviv to castles or the Carpathian mountains. Throughout the year, there are some unique festivals (like a festival of ice cream for example) and street parties .

One of the must-visit places in Lviv is one of the atmospheric cafes. I have two guides to the best restaurants in Lviv  and the most atmospheric Lviv cafes . You’ll definitely need them for your travels! 

4. Truskavets – Beautiful Neighbor of Lviv, a City With Medicinal Properties

Truskavets has an important advantage over other cities in Ukraine. First of all, it is known for mineral waters and health centers . Second, no more than 15 thousand people visit per year. Therefore, you can enjoy a quiet resort city without too much noise and hustle.

Truskavets is a very small city with a population of a bit more than 30 thousand people but it has a lovely center and modern, cozy streets. With more than 100 hotels, resorts, and health centers, it offers relaxation for all tastes and budgets. And all of the hotels are ridiculously cheap. You can be staying in a refined modern spa hotel for less than $150 per night while having your medical treatments and food included. Or in a nice budget chalet-style hotel that costs less than $50. 

Some people come here for mineral springs while others have fun in numerous cafes and clubs.

Between the healing procedures, you can visit one of the museums in the city, see the ancient architecture, or go on one of the excursions.

Truskavets is located in the area with vast forests, including coniferous trees. So being here is very beneficial for many reasons. This Ukrainian city is great for visits with children, for solo travels, couples, and anyone else who wants to improve his health.

Check how affordable but nice accommodation options are. 

5. Chernivtsi – the Main Rival City of Lviv

The capital of the Bukovina region and the cultural center of western Ukraine, Chernivtsi is as old and beautiful as Lviv. It’s just smaller but has cozy, almost chamber streets with exquisite architecture. In 2012, it was recognized as the most comfortable city in the country.

The hallmark of the city is the UNESCO site  Chernivtsi National University . Why? Because it’s the perfect set for Harry Potter scenes ! The building strikes with its appearance alone and holds many secrets of its history.

Almost all the sights of Chernivtsi are in the center, so walking around them is easy on any day and any season.

Travel guides often call Chernivtsi “small Paris of Ukraine”. The city is really small but it has many interesting sights that can keep you busy for at least two days. I advise you to combine a visit to Chernivtsi with a visit to Kamyanets-Podilskiy (which I also mention on this list). 

By the way, in the Chernivtsi region, you can find a piece of the Netherlands : in the village of Luzhany in the spring, thousands of beautiful tulips bloom.

6. Yaremche – One of the Smaller Most Beautiful Cities in Ukraine Mountains

The low-mountain resort of Yaremche is located at the foot of the Carpathians. It became widely known thanks to the popular mountain route “Dovbush trail” , a hiking trail that winds along the beautiful beech-juniper-fir forest, rising to the top of the mountain.

Technically speaking, Yaremche is not a city, it is more of a town but I am still going to include it on my list of the best cities to visit in Ukraine. Why?

Because Yaremche is a Hutsul town in the Carpathians, the nearest large settlement from Ukraine’s main winter resort – Bukovel . It is famous for its traditional architecture, Hutsul cuisine, ski resorts , and the largest souvenir market in the Carpathians . A lot of travelers who come to ski in winter or hike and camp in summer, go through Yaremche as a connecting point.

Like Brasov in Romania , a gateway city into the mountains, Yaremche plays the same role in Ukraine. It is just way smaller than Brasov.

The city is  surrounded by mountains in the picturesque valley of the Prut river. It has healing mountain air, dense forests, and clear lakes . Through Yaremche, a scenic road is leading to the top of the highest mountain in Ukraine – Hoverla. From there you can also visit Bukovel resort with quirky hotels or go south to Vorokhta and Verkhovyna. 

I definitely do not recommend planning a trip only to Yaremche. Because in the town alone there is not much to do. However, recreational complexes and resorts built around the springs of mineral water with healing properties, nature, and hiking trails around, can keep you busy for many days. 

7. Ivano-Frankivsk – New Trendy City in Ukraine With Rich History

Travelers who have been to Ivano-Frankivsk before, mainly know it as a city where to stop on the way to Carpathians and Transcarpathia. It is there where you come by train and then hop on a bus to the mountains or rent a car and start your road tripping adventure.

But hey, why not take the time to get to know the lovely and incredibly colorful city?

If I had to say in a few words what Ivano-Frankivsk is like, I’d immediately answer that it is a cozy city, rich in art institutions and constant events, beautiful landscapes, cafes and bars. Oh, a restaurant scene there is seriously big.

Ivano-Frankivsk is truly the cultural center in the Western Ukraine . Visiting there at any time of the year is great. In the summer, it becomes surrounded by greenery and flowers. In the winter, it gets covered with snow.

If you decide to visit, make sure to stroll along the famous Independence street , visit the wonderful “City Lake”, and go to one of many cute cafes and restaurants. 

Other places to go to are the architectural monument in the Baroque style with elements of the Renaissance – the Collegiate Church, Town Hall on Rynok Square, and Resurrection Cathedral.  

8. Odesa – the Most Popular City by the Black Sea

Odesa is a very popular city in Ukraine. And it is famous for many things. One of them is the fact that it is a colorful city on the seashore. And it has a beautiful historic area . Another one is that the city is famous for its atmospheric courtyards and old streets .

I don’t know if you’ll enjoy Odesa but I recommend you to visit and decide for yourself. It’s a city of contrast with many attractions, a large number of exhibitions, and historical monuments.

For some people, Odesa can be quite overwhelming, especially if visiting in summer . With kilometers of Black Sea beaches and plenty of entertainment both day and night, in summer it gets busy, overcrowded, hot and service is bad. 

Once you visit, make sure to walk around one of the ports and the legendary Odesa courtyards . Also, don’t skip a cable car with incredible panoramas of the sea , meet the dawn on the beach and visit one of the oldest markets in Europe Privoz Market and go to the famous Ibiza Beach Club .

9. Dnipro – Unique Eastern-European City Full of Surprises 

What’s interesting, among Ukrainians, a lot of people consider Dnipro to be purely industrial. Which makes sense because there are quite a few factories, metal-working sops, ferrous metallurgy, machine-building companies, and other branches of heavy industry.

In fact, it is one of a few cities in Ukraine that offers excursions to operating industrial facilities or abandoned factories . Of the existing enterprises, for example, Interpipe and the Southern Machine-Building Plant still accept tourists. For details, check this website . 

To me personally, Dnipro is a boring city (sorry). However, I have been hearing from many foreigners that for them it’s rather a unique city in Ukraine. They find this uniqueness in the combination of the industrial type of vibe and modernism. Many international tourists like its Soviet looking architecture and lively and bright atmosphere.

The main attraction Dnipro is famous for is Monastery Island (Monastyrs’kyy Ostriv) with an artificial waterfall at an altitude of seventeen meters. The place is very romantic. You can reach it via a pedestrian bridge or by using the high-speed tram. There is an observation deck from where you get to see a stunningly beautiful panorama of the city and its surroundings. The island looks very magical with Nicholas Church in white color with a gilded dome. 

Besides the island, other popular sights are  Katerynoslavs’kyi Boulevard, Globa Park, European Square, and Shevchenko Park . Also, you can visit the zoo and aquarium, water park, and horse yard . If you come here in the summer, there is a small beach. And of course, during any time of the year, you can eat delicious food in many quirky local cafes and restaurants.

10. Kharkiv – Modern, Clean and Dynamically Developing City of Ukraine

The second-largest city in Ukraine is also the first capital of the country. Kharkiv has a lot of lovely streets and is famous for its monumental Stalinist architecture as well as the symbol of the constructivism style – the building of the State Industry Committee . Additionally, it has a few universities and is considered a student city. 

Let’s be honest. Kharkiv is not for everyone. It surprises with a big amount of monumental concrete buildings and a small number of ancient churches.

The main square, built in the twentieth century and called the Square of Freedom, impresses with its size. It is the sixth-largest in Europe and covers an area of fourteen hectares. In 2008, Queen and Paul Rogers gathered there the largest audience in the history of the group.

The first thing that will definitely amaze you on your arrival is a beautiful train station. Once you arrive, be sure to take a walk along Sumskaya Street and check the city’s cafes, churches, and many modern art objects. From murals on the walls of high-rise buildings to modern art galleries, there is a lot to see. By the way, entry to most of them is free.

NOTE : On August 23, Kharkiv celebrates City Day, and the following day, August 24 Ukraine Independence Day. There will be a lot of celebrations and crowds. For some people, it may be the worst day to visit. 

11. Zaporizhzhya – “Cradle “of the Ukrainian Cossacks

To be honest and objective, Zaporizhzhya city is not really a place that should be on everyone’s Ukraine itinerary. And I will not be recommending you to visit it on the first trip to Ukraine. Still, it’s here on this list. Why? Because I believe this another Soviet looking city will be to the interest of those tourists who want to see vivid examples of architecture of the 1930-1950s.

If you are interested in buildings of constructivism, Soviet art deco, and Stalin’s empire, welcome here. They are all over the city.

Also, Zaporizhzhya is famous for its unique cultural heritage and is the center of the Ukrainian Cossacks .

In the very “heart” of the city, slightly below the thresholds of the Dnieper, is a picturesque island and a national reserve –  river island with a fortress replica Khortitsa . The natural wealth of the island surprises with its beauty. Its area, which is 2500 hectares, has its own coniferous and oak forests, steppes, and meadows. The abundance of sunlight, dry air, fresh water, and other favorable climatic conditions have created a diverse flora here, which contains the rarest species of flowers, herbs, and shrubs.

If you are a camper, you are welcome to come and camp on the island , see the industrial center of the region , learn about Zaporizhs’ka Sich times, and see the Soviet part of the city . 

12. Vinnytsya – Ancient City on the Banks of the Southern Buh River

Vinnytsia is a modern and comfortable city that has the largest multimedia fountain in Europe with lighting and musical accompaniment. It is built on the Southern Buh River, near Kempa island.

In order to feel the atmosphere of the city, take a leisurely, walking tour through the center and streets of the old Jewish quarter, which in the old days was called “Jerusalemka”. Guests of Vinnytsia will see ancient architectural monuments, a defensive structure of the mid-14th century – the Jesuit Monastery or “Mura”.

Vinnytsia is a small city where one day is enough. The best option to travel here is on the way to Lviv or Carpathian Mountains with a quick stop here. You can come in the morning, spend one day and then hop on a train to your next destination.

If you decide to include Vinnytsia on your Ukraine itinerary, once in the city, you can visit the botanical garden , get acquainted with the masterpiece of wooden architecture – the Nicholas Church in the Old Town, visit the Orthodox Transfiguration Monastery and the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Angela . History lovers can visit the Regional Museum of Local Lore to get acquainted with the Podillya region of Ukraine.

Also, Vinnytsia is a great city for medical tourism in Ukraine. 

13. Kam’yanets-Podil’skyi – Small Old City Full of Historical Architectural Sights 

This is one of the most atmospheric cities in Ukraine. Due to the abundance of historical monuments, some people call it an open-air museum.

According to the number of preserved architectural sights, Kam’yanets-Podil’skyi takes 3rd place after Lviv and Kyiv. There are already 200 of them. The most famous – Kamianets fortress is included in the list of 7 wonders of Ukraine . Recently, historical reconstruction was done there, and now it is not just a castle museum, but a place where craftsmen reproduce traditional crafts.

The fortress served as the backdrop for many historical films and the oldest Turkish bridge leads to it.

In addition to architecture, Kam’yanets also impresses with the beauty of nature. Since it’s in the Khmelnytskyi region (famous for natural landmarks), you can easily combine a trip there with a road trip around the region. Khmelnytskyi city is also worth your time.

Speaking of nature in Kam’yanets, there is a canyon right in the city with the walls reaching 50 meters in height, and the Smotrych river seething at the bottom. This canyon divides the city into New and Old cities . The latter retained many attractions, including the Polish Market Square with the oldest town hall in Ukraine.

Another feature of Kamyanets is murals . Since 2011, the festival “Re$public” has been held here annually. And during this time 50 houses are decorated with bright drawings by artists from around the world.

In the summer, Kamyanets sees numerous festivals , some of the most popular ones are the musical RespublicaFEST and the balloon festival .

14. Lutsk – Beautiful, Ancient City on the Picturesque Bank of the Styr River

Over the past decades, Lutsk has become a modern European city which is compact and environmentally friendly. It has good recreational potential, many cultural and historical monuments.

Lutsk is one of the most populated cities and regional centers. Also, it is one of the oldest cities in Ukraine. It existed for about a thousand years but so far no one can say exactly when it came about.

Such an ancient age of Lutsk undoubtedly affected the architectural appearance of the city. Here you can find both very ancient buildings, the oldest of which is Lubart Castle , and more modern such as the  House with Chimeras . 

In general, Lutsk has many places that are worth visiting. First of all, it is the oldest square in the city – Market Square , the pedestrian street of Lesya Ukrainka , where you’ll find numerous cafes, galleries, and shops.

Among other attractions, visit the Peter and Paul Church (XVII – XVIII century), Lutheran Church , House of the Gospel , Dominican Monastery (first built in the XIV century, restored in 1321), Brigidok Monastery (XVII century) with its dungeon leading directly to the Styr River, the Great Synagogue  (XVII century), which once served a defensive function and has a corresponding tower and Holy Trinity Cathedral (XV century), with the bell which offers a beautiful view.

15. Uzhgorod – Another Ancient & Surprising City in Ukraine 

Uzhgorod, the smallest regional center of Ukraine and the capital of Transcarpathian Ukraine, also hides a thousand-year history.

It is known for May sakura blossom , a castle in the very city center, and wine festivals . Between the end of April and mid-May, the Maly Galagov district turns into a blooming garden. The longest Linden Alley in Europe, stretching along two embankments – Student and Independence, is beautiful to see and walk through.

Here you can hardly find tall buildings and the city center is paved with cobblestones. Each tourist must not only see all local attractions but also find all 25 mini-sculptures hidden in the city. Each of them is dedicated to a famous person or event.

Since Uzhgorod is almost on the border with Slovakia, getting here from any city in Ukraine takes some time. The best way to visit would be if you are coming by train from Budapest  or Kosice. Otherwise, if you are in the country only for a week or two, it’s probably better to skip unless you are visiting for the wine festival.  

Cities in Ukraine Where I Don’t Recommend Going 

There are places in Ukraine where, if you visit, you won’t get much. And there are some cities in Ukraine where not many activities exist for a tourist. Getting to them still costs money and takes time but you may be quite disappointed at the end of the day.

So, a few cities  I do not recommend going to  are  Mykolaiv, Kherson, Kryvyi Rih, and Donetsk. 

I remember how cozy and pretty Donetsk used to be. Twelve years ago, when going there to attend a conference, I had a chance to get acquainted with the city. I noticed from the first minutes, how clean, very green, and taken care Donetsk was. At that time it had so many lovely restaurants, cafes and nice hotels to stay in.

Today, Donetsk is one of the war-torn cities in Ukraine that lost its identity. I have a friend whose family is still there and he tells me that until this day shooting happens on the streets on a daily basis. Visiting Donetsk is not safe and smart. 

As for other cities, Mykolaiv and Kherson, for instance, are the most dangerous cities in Ukraine when it comes to crime. They have a low quality of life, poor infrastructure, and nothing interesting for a tourist.

Kryvyi Rih has a very bad ecology. It is one of the most “unhealthy” cities in Ukraine where the air is so dirty that it gives you headaches, causes shortness of breath and irritated nose and eyes from the first minutes you arrive there. 

Did you visit any city on this list? Tell me which one was your favorite! 

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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• Top 12 Places To Visit In Ukraine in 2024 For A Wonderful Trip

23 Mar 2023

Located on the Eastern side of Europe, Ukraine is a large country with a rich history and culture. It is popular for its ancient Orthodox churches, the beautiful coastline of the Black Sea, and densely forested mountainscapes. Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine is the cultural, industrial, scientific and educational center of Eastern Europe. It is known for its 11th-century St. Sophia’s Cathedral that features a golden dome and interiors with mosaics and frescoes. Another major attraction in Kyiv is the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery complex. Overlooking the serene Dnieper River, this Christian pilgrimage site preserves Scythian tomb relics and catacombs that hold mummified Orthodox monks. Apart from these, there are many other highly interesting places to visit in Ukraine .

12 Places To Visit In Ukraine

Make your vacation in Ukraine more exciting by visiting these places to visit in Ukraine:

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The third largest city in Ukraine, Odesa is a seaport that rests on the shores of the mythical Black Sea. Now an important trade city, visitors gravitate to Odessa for the sandy beaches, clement weather, and sparkling waters, particularly Lanzheron Beach, a perfect place for sun worshippers. Odesa also referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’, maybe a large city but its construction gives it an intimate feel, with labyrinthine lanes to navigate as well as nooks and crannies to explore, ending in secluded squares and delightful houses painted in mellow pastel shades. The city’s big claim to fame is the mighty stairway that leads from the centre of town to the beachfront, and there are also leafy parks like the City Gardens to enjoy, as well as a bit of culture in the form of the Odessa Opera House and the numerous theatres in the city.

Must Read: Ukrainian Food: 12 Popular Mouthwatering Dishes You Must Try

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Poltava is a gem for Ukraine tourism and sits of the Vorskala River. It is a city with deep military history due to a legendary battle in the 18th century between the Cossacks and the Russian Tsar Peter I, and with that in mind come to this city to view the military relics that still remain. These include the Column of Glory, October Park, and the preserved area of the Poltava Battlefield. Poltava is also known for its museums, several of which are dedicated to military history, as well as its main cathedral, the Assumption Cathedral, with its striking belfry. Once the place of such a pivotal moment in history, Poltava is now a relaxed and serene cultural city, with orchestras, theatres, and museums plenty.

3. Myrhorod

Found on the Khorol River, Myrhorod is essentially a sleepy spa town that became famous due to the mineral properties found in its underground springs. The slightly salty water can be drunk to improve digestive issues, or there are a number of spots where visitors can bathe. If you prefer not to swim then you can take a boat or pedalo out of the Khorol River, and there are a number of quirky features for visitors to Myrhorod to seek out, such as a towering illuminated windmill and a musical water fountain. The woodlands found in the city are also rather famous, and for the full romantic experience, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the lush landscape. No one must miss this place on their Ukraine holidays .

Suggested Read: 10 Mountains In Europe That Will Put To Test All Adrenaline Junkies

4. Chernihiv

This is one of the most beautiful Ukraine destinations . Sitting neatly on the banks of the Desna River, Chernihiv is often referred to as one of the most ancient cities in all of Ukraine, apparently dating back from the 7th century, making a visit here feel rather like a trip back in time. It is also home to some of the most beautiful buildings in the country, including Catherine’s Church which instantly recognizable due to its golden cupolas. Other religious buildings of note are Pyatnytska Church that sits in the city’s Red Square, the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon stroll around the town center.

5. Chernivtsi

The city of Chernivtsi that lies at the base of the Carpathian Mountains is most famous for its designated UNESCO World Heritage Site of the former complex of the high priests that is now home to the National University and was constructed in the Byzantine and Romanesque styles. The architecture of Chernivtsi is said to be similar to that of Vienna, leading to the name ‘Little Vienna’ to describe parts of the city, and many locals point to the relaxed nature of the city which has a strong cafe culture, as well as a range of notable bookshops and bookstalls that are said to reflect the intellectual and poetic atmosphere found here, which makes it one of the most amazing places to visit in Ukraine .

Suggested Read: 14 Essential Europe Travel Tips For The First-Timers Taking A Euro-cation!

The village of Bakota in the Podillia Region is home to the famous cave monastery built by Orthodox monks headed by Saint Anthony of Kyiv. The monastery in the underground caves dates from the 12th century and visitors can view well-preserved frescoes and paintings as well as remains of some of the monks who lived in the caves. In the present day, Bakota is now part of the National Environmental Park due to its rural location and features craggy hills on the shores of the picturesque Dniester River. Visitors can ramble in the region and explore the settlement on foot to take in the splendid local flora and fauna on display.

7. Uzhhorod

Uzhhorod, on the border with Slovakia and near the border with Hungary, is a vibrant and diverse town with a sizeable Hungarian and Romanian population that gives it a cosmopolitan feel that has helped to bolster its claim to fame as a premium tourist attraction in Ukraine. Come here for the stunning Uzhhorod Castle that dates from the 9th century, as well as the Greek-Catholic Cathedral from the 17th century. If you want to try some of the local staples then you can explore the city’s famous wine cellars, or try the delicacy bogrács, a kind of goulash originating from neighboring Hungary.

Suggested Read: 20 Best National Parks In Europe For A Rich Biodiversity And Mesmerising Views

Lviv, the largest city in western Ukraine, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The centre of the city is wealth of monuments and historic architecture which dates back to the 13th century. Besides being a historical hub, the city is famous for being a favourite place for art lovers. There is this famous Lviv National Art Gallery that houses more than 50,000 works includes sculptures, paintings and art installations. The civilized streets also hosts performing art venues wherein classically trained performers showcase their talent.

Slavske, popularly known as a ski resort, is one of the best places to visit in Ukraine. Slavske has something to offer for all kinds of visitors. If you love the snow, head to this place between November to March as there are a lot of activities for skiers to enjoy such as ski lifts or slopes. If you are planning to visit in the summer months, fret not as there are lots of other activities to enjoy in Slavske. You can choose berry and mushroom picking in the fertile lands or go for fishing in the surrounding lakes. If you are an experience seeker, there is horse riding and mountain biking excursions for you to explore.

Suggested Read: 12 Things Not To Do In Europe To Spend Your Vacay The Right Way

Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine and the most populous is among the interesting places to visit in Ukraine. There are numerous reasons for tourists to visit Kyiv, from the amazing architecture to the local history and culture. There are a range of museums and smaller theatres like the famous Puppet Theatre which attracts crowd all year around. The city also features perfect places for strolling around and beautiful street art by talented artists.

11. Zaporizhia

Located on the banks of the Dnieper River, Zaporizhia has a captivating history. The city is famous for its charming islands including the prominent island of Khortytsia. The island offers a number of water activities like swimming and boating. You can relax as well on the small sandy beaches. The island is also home to a military museum featuring weaponry and period reconstructions of famous battles. It is actually a natural park attracting visitors year round.

Suggested Read: 6 Restaurants In Lviv For A Traditional Ukranian Meal With A Modern Twist

12. Kamianets

Kamianets is well-known for its cosy old town vibes. This small town in the western part of the country is worth exploring as it provides the most splendid fortresses in eastern Europe. Podolsky castle, Smotrych river Canyon, Museum of miniatures are some of the top attractions in the town. Apart from this, the famous festival of hot-air balloons which is held in April attracts tourists from all over the globe.

Further Read: 15 Offbeat Destinations In Europe That Are Straight Out Of Fairy Tales

Are you excited to visit all the above-listed places to visit in Ukraine? If yes, plan a trip to Europe and head to Ukraine right away and head out on an adventure exploration of the intriguing history of the country. Also, enjoy some of the most enchanting views.

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Places to Visit in Ukraine

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places In Ukraine

Here are some of the best places to visit in ukraine:.

The beautiful and cozy city of Vinnytsia is located beside the Southern Bug River, in west-central Ukraine. The city has gained its importance owing to its unique attraction, the large Multimedia Fountain Roshen. Tourists include this destination in their list of places to visit in Ukraine to watch this unique fountain show and to explore the various historical places. The beauty of the city lies in its location beside the Southern Bug River which has been enhanced by the presence of the colorful fountain.  The star attraction of Vinnytsia is the enchanting Multimedia Fountain Roshen, set in the river. Feel charmed looking at the beautiful fountain emitting sound and colorful lights. Other places of interest include Adolf Hitler’s military headquarters, National Pirogov’s Estate Museum, Gorky Park, and so on. If you are not satisfied with only sightseeing, you may love to watch a theatrical play at Vinnytsia State Academic Music and Drama Theater. Children and adults would love to go for a tour of Roshen, Ukraine’s leading confectionery factory. Feel relaxed spending some time at Martynov having a cup of fragrant coffee and light snacks from the well-known Artynor Bus. You may also love to taste some traditional food at the Biblioteka Cafe. Vinnytsia enjoys pleasant weather with limited rainfall in the summer months of May to September. The Winter months in the city are freezing and windy. January has the lowest temperature of -3°C.

The third-largest city of Ukraine, Odessa, is located on the north-western shore of the Black Sea and has been nicknamed as ‘Pearl of the Black Sea.’ The city has an interesting history to share with tourists with Greeks, Ottomans, and Russians invading the city at different eras.  The city is well known as a tourist attraction owing to its gorgeous sandy beaches with sparkling warm waters. The beautiful Art Nouveau architecture of the city buildings makes it more eye-catching for the tourists. The topmost attraction of Odessa is the mighty stairways of the city, the Potemkin Stairs. You should also visit the Odessa Opera House, known to be the second-largest theater in the world. The city also has several interesting museums frequented by tourists with interests in the history of the place. A must inclusion in Ukraine places to visit is the Odessa Catacombs, the largest catacomb system in the world. Odessa has lots of activities to offer for you. You can go to gorgeous beach club pools to hang out, Opera Houses to watch a theater, and beaches to take a relaxing stroll. During nights, there are enjoyable nightclubs, excellent wineries, and delightful places to do shopping. Odessa has enjoyable weather in June and September with temperatures ranging between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. This makes it the best time for a visit.

Kamianets Podilskyi

The fairy-tale city of Kamianets Podilskyi nestles in the western Ukrainian countryside and has gained its fame with tourists owing to the Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress.  The beauty of this place lies in its cobbled streets lined with beautiful pastel-colored houses and street murals depicting the history of the city.  The picturesque Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress, towering over river Smotrycz, is the main reason for you to include this city in the list of Ukraine places to visit. You will also love exploring this idyllic town on foot - taking a walk through the cobbled streets of this medieval old town.  You will feel thrilled going for a hot air balloon ride to watch the Smotrichsky Canyon. You may also feel excited to take up archery on the Castle Bridge. Tourists visiting during spring enjoy the amazing festival of hot air balloons.  The weather in Kamianets-Podolski is best in the summer months. During this time, the weather is warm and the city becomes beautiful with blooming flowers. Most tourists prefer visiting in July and August.

The city of Uman is centrally located in Ukraine on the banks of the Umanka River. You must  include this city in their list of tourist places in Ukraine due to the beautiful Sofiyivka Park. You will also feel interested to know more about the history of the city,  built-in 1616, as a fortification against Tatar raids.   Uman is one of the beautiful places in Ukraine with its lush landscape. The place becomes breathtakingly beautiful in autumn when the leaves change color and the warm fall hues approach the landscapes. The presence of the calm and soothing Umanka river adds a fairy tale effect to the place. The star attraction of the city is Sofiyivka Park, a botanical garden and a scientific research center. The tomb of Rabbi Nachman in the park is also visited by most tourists. Some of the other places you will feel delighted in visiting include the Basilian Monastery, the oldest building in the city, various museums, WWII monuments, and a marvelous pastel-colored church. While visiting Uman, you will love to watch the Pearl of Love fountain show. You may  also sign up for a tree tour at the Dendrological Research Center. A popular activity all tourists indulge in is a stroll in the fairy tale Sofiyivka Park.  Uman has a warm and partly cloudy summer making it the best time of the year to visit the city. Winters in this city are snowy, windy, and freezing making it unsuitable for a pleasant vacation.

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Chernivtsi is located at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains in western Ukraine. The city is known for its striking architecture which resembles Australian cities for which it has been named "Little Vienna". The city also attracts tourists with its multicultural history and central European vibes.  The city has a medieval look with ruins of the Black city fort, cobbled streets, and Baroque buildings. The natural beauty of the lush greenery around adds to its beauty.   Chernivtsi National University, which has found a place in UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautiful buildings, is the star attraction of this city. The impressive palace-like structure is also one of the largest universities in Ukraine. Other places you will find interesting and worth a visit are the Cathedral of Holy Spirit, Armenian Church, Chernivtsi Town Hall, etc.  Enjoy a walk along Kobylyanskoi Street and indulge in tasting local cuisines in restaurants and shopping from local shops. The evening is best for spending some relaxing time at Teatralna Square.   Chernivtsi has enjoyable summer months between May to September, making it ideal for tourists to visit.

Best of Switzerland

The city of Mukachevo is located in the western Ukrainian province of Zakarpattia. The city is known for the Palanok Castle, which is one of the must-visit tourist places in Ukraine.  The city has a photogenic beauty with lush green slopes of mountains and ancient monuments.   The highlight of this town is the 10th-century Palanok Castle with its historical museum and art gallery. The castle is located on a hilltop allowing the tourists to get a panoramic view of Mukachevo city. Other places of attraction include the chimney Sweeper statue, St. Martin of Tours Cathedral, Orthodox church, Ratusha Mista Mukacheve, and so on. Travelers in Mukachevo mostly indulge in sightseeing and love roaming around Rakoczi Schonborn Palace. You will love mingling with locals at the Chimney Sweep Monument and spend some good time appreciating mother nature at Komsomol’skyi Park.  The summer months of Mukachevo between May to August are warm and pleasant, making it an ideal time for visiting this place. During this time, there is limited rainfall. Winter months are cold with snowfalls. This makes it ideal for tourists who prefer to indulge in winter activities.

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Bukovel is an ultramodern ski resort located at an altitude of 920 meters in the Ukrainian Carpathians mountains. The resort is one of the biggest ski resorts in the eastern part of Europe. The recreational Haven is also known for its breath-taking beauty. Surrounded by three mountains, the idyllic destination has lush greenery in summer and turns into a winter wonderland in the winters with snow covering the mountains.  The main attraction of this place is winter activities. Feel excited skiing or snowboarding down the slopes ranging from 650 meters to 2000 meters. Also enjoy hanging out in the snow park or the bicycle park. Visit this place to improve your health by taking a bath in the mineral springs. There are also several spas and sanatoriums present in Bukovel.  While winter tourists feel thrilled in the skiing and snowboarding activities, those visiting in summer or spring are also not disappointed. The resort has several options of mountain climbing, river exploring, and mountain biking for summer tourists. If you are interested in skiing, you would love to visit Bukovel in the winter months between December to April when the mountains are covered by snow. You may also prefer the summer months of June, July, and August to indulge in the summer activities or to enjoy a rejuvenation of heath.

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The ancient city of Poltava is located on the banks of the Vorskla river. Visit Poltava to explore the city’s well-known field of the Great Poltava Battle. The main beauty of the city lies in its main city square, Kruhla Square. The city square is actually a ring-shaped park that looks breathtakingly beautiful when viewed from the top.  Although the main attraction of this city is the battlefield of the Great Poltava Battle, the city also has other attractions. Some of these places are  Saint Sampon’s Church with its minty green towers, the National Museum of Pottery with its more than 40,000 exhibits, etc. You will love to climb up to reach Ivanova Gora, a historical landmark and viewpoint. Reaching the top, feel mesmerized looking at the panoramic view of the city. A must thing to do while visiting this city is to taste its delicious traditional Ukrainian halushky (dumplings).  Poltava can be best enjoyed during hot weather seasons from the middle of July to the middle of August or early September. During this time, the weather is warm and partly cloudy. The winter days are freezing, dry, cloudy, and windy making it unsuitable for sightseeing.

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Chernihiv, one of the oldest cities of Ukraine, is located in the north-central part of the country on the banks of the Desna River. The city is known for its beautiful churches and cathedrals, especially Catherine’s Church with its golden cupolas and the five-domed Transfiguration Cathedral.  The beauty of the city lies in its medieval architecture that can be witnessed in all its churches, cathedrals, and monasteries.  The ancient city has several places of attractions which tourists include in their sightseeing. On the top of the list is Dytynets(Citadel in old Russia) with its historical churches and cathedrals. The Antoniy caves and Illinska monastery, one of the largest cave monasteries in Ukraine, are another tourist hotspot. Other places worth a visit include Trinity Monastery, Tarnovsky History Museum, Kachanivka Palace, etc.    Sightseeing is the top activity for tourists visiting Chernihiv. The evening sees many visitors taking a stroll in the pedestrian walkway on Myru Avenue. You will also love taking a stroll in the gardens of the Kachanivka Palace. Those with a love for beer would not want to miss out on tasting the famous tipple known as ‘Cherninihivske.’ Chernihiv enjoys warm but pleasant weather in the summer months of the middle of June to the end of August. The long winter season in this city is freezing, dry, and windy making it uncomfortable for sightseeing activities.

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The lovely city Lutsk is located in western Ukraine. The city is known for its historical and spiritual monuments. The city has been nicknamed Little Rome, owing to its large number of cathedrals, churches, and monasteries.  The charming city has lush greenery all over enhancing the beauty of the place. Visit Lutsk to explore its star attraction, the Lubart’s Castle, which is one of the greatest castles in the country. Feel delighted visiting the numerous museums on Art, Bells, Books, and Weapons housed in the Castle complex. Other places you may feel delighted in visiting include Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, the house with Chimeras, Lutheran Church, etc. An interesting activity that might thrill you is a descent into the Lutsk Dungeon with a tour guide. The dungeons are full of mystery and legends loved by visitors of all ages. Children feel excited visiting the Lutsk Zoo and spotting rare species of Ukrainian animals. They love to touch and feed the animals at the small contact zoo.  Lutsk enjoys a warm summer from June to September. The city gets very cold in the winter months from October to March.

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Lviv, the largest city in western Ukraine, is mostly visited by tourists with an interest in the history and culture of a place. Feel yourself to be taken back in the bygone era while listening to the history of the city established in 1240. The city was named after Leo, the oldest son of the King of Ruthenia.  The beauty of the city lies in its medieval Renaissance-era buildings with western-influenced architectures giving it an old charm.  Gravitate to this city to visit the UNESCO protected old town with several museums and monuments. Delight in watching the tall mellow-hued buildings in the area of Rynok Square. A must-visit place in Lviv is the National Art Gallery, which is the home to over 50,000 works of art.  While visiting Ukraine, spend an enjoyable time visiting cultural hubs with art galleries, watching opera and ballet performances, and spending some time in the cafe culture. For nighttime, there are local pubs and quirky bars.  In Lviv the winter months are very cold and harsh, making it difficult to enjoy sightseeing. The autumn and spring months are very pleasant making it the best time for a visit to this city.

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One of the places to visit in Ukraine is Rakhiv, the highest city in the country, located at Zakarpattia Oblast in western Ukraine. This mountain town is preferred by hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers for being the starting point for hiking expeditions. Being located amidst the lush greenery of Carpathian forests, the town has a picture-perfect view of green slopes, dense forests, the gushing river Tysa, and swinging footbridges leading across it.  While visiting Rakhiv, you will love spending a few days in the peaceful Dilove village. Enjoy the serene beauty and the welcoming silence of the surrounding mountains. If you want a taste of local culture, you can visit in September to attend the Hutsul Brynza festival.  Hiking is the popular activity of this town. Hikers love going on a hike on mountains such as Hoverla, Brebeneskul, or Pip Ivan.  The weather of Rakhiv is most pleasant in the summer months of June to September with the highest average temperature of 25°C in august. The winter months are chilly with snowfall making it ideal for winter sports.

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Ivano Frankivsk

The city of Ivano-Frankivsk, located in western Ukraine, had several names. It was known as Frankivsk, Stanislav or Franek. The uniqueness of the city is that it can be explored on foot without the use of any public transports. The city has a mesmerizing view of the Carpathian peaks rising in a distance. The view is even more mesmerizing on sunny days.  The city has several major attractions. While the massive City Hall, standing proudly in the heart of the city is the star attraction, the Potocki Castle, The Armenian Church, The Greek Catholic Cathedral of God’s Ascension, all are worth visiting.  You will love to take a stroll across Shevchenko City Park while admiring its beautiful surroundings. You may also like to take a stroll around the Town Lake. Adventurous tourists may prefer to go rafting on a catamaran along the Dniester Canyon. Children would love to spend some time in the Tsunami Aquapark.  The city enjoys good weather in the months between May to September. During this time, the temperature falls between 20 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius. Winter months are freezing with January being the coldest month with 0°C temperature.

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Uzhhorod is located in the south-west corner of Ukraine. The city has the prominence of sharing a common border with Slovakia, with the border crossing points of Romania, Poland, and Hungary nearby.  The city is surrounded by lush green mountains giving it a beautiful scenic view. The city has several interesting buildings with magnificent 20th-century architecture adding to its glory. Include this city in their list of places to visit in Ukraine to explore its star attraction, the Uzhgorod Castle where the Transcarpathian Regional History Museum is housed now. Feel mesmerized watching the beautiful interior of the castle with a lovely view of the surrounding places. Other places of interest which you will love to explore are the Museum of Folk Architecture and Life, Philharmonic Orchestra Hall, Holy Cross Cathedral, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, etc.  While sightseeing is the main activity tourists indulge in this city, some love to take a stroll around the longest linden-tree alley of Europe on the embankment. Others want to partake in the cafe culture, well known in Ukraine by visiting numerous traditional and modern cafes. Uzhhorod enjoys a warm and cloudy summer during the months of early July to late August. The Winter months are freezing and windy. The city gains additional beauty in late April when the streets get covered with cherry blossoms.

Also known as Kharkov in Russian, Kharkiv is the second-largest city in Ukraine. The city attracts tourists with a craving for off the beat locations in Ukraine. The city is known for stunning churches, delightful parks, and many more attractions.  The city’s beauty lies in the architectural glory of its churches and other monuments. The presence of the parks added to the beauty of the place. While on a visit to the city you will delight in  visiting the beautiful churches such as Holy Virgin Church, Annunciation Cathedral. Feel excited exploring the massive Derzhprom Complex with Soviet-era architecture.  A ride on an underground metro rail is a must. Feel excited during the ride delighting in the beauty of all the eight metro stations the metro passes through. Follow up the ride with a leisure stroll across Gorky Park.  Kharkiv enjoys a warm and pleasant summer from June to September. The city gets very cold in the winter months from October to March. 

Kiev, the capital city of Ukraine, is located in the north-central part of the country on the Dnieper River. It is also the largest city in the country and is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe. Kiev is the most popular tourist destination in the country.  The city will attract you with its magnificent Soviet architecture buildings, ancient monasteries, golden-domed churches, and excellent streets.  Two of the best places to visit in Ukraine, the Kiev Pechersk Lavra monastery, and St. Sophia's Cathedral, are located in Kiev. Both of these places have been listed under UNESCO World Heritage sites and are flocked by tourists. Other places you may opt to visit include the Museum of Folk Architecture and Ethnography. While visiting this beautiful medieval city, you will love taking a walk down Andriyivskyy Descent, a steep cobbled street lined on both sides with Art Nouveau-style houses with gargoyles. You will  also enjoy the cultural life of the city which can be glimpsed through various opera, musical performances, and theaters that are held in Kiev. Kiev enjoys summer in the months between May to August, with July as the hottest month. The winter months in the city start in October and continue till March. The coldest month in Winter is in January.

Other Attractions

Carpathian mountains.

Tunnel Of Love

Dzharylhach Island

The Pink Lake

Hoverla Mountain

Kherson Cliffs

People Also Ask About Ukraine

Which are the famous beaches to visit in ukraine.

1. Dzharylhach Beach: Famed for its sparkling white sand and crystal clear waters, this beach is a one stop destination for your postcard perfect pictures. The shores here are known for being the perfect site for dolphin spotting, hence making it one of the top places in Ukraine for nature lovers and marine life enthusiasts.  2. Lanzheron Beach: One of the best Ukraine tourist places, the Lanzheron Beach is known for offering a luxurious beach vacay to the ones looking for some fun, sun and sea. From chic cafes to beachside adventures, this beach is loaded with numerous facilities and activities to make your vacation even more delightful and memorable.  3. Arcadia Beach: If you are a lover of sunbathing with scenic views then Arcadia Beach is the best place for you to plan a visit. A day spent here will add a lot of memories to your trip in the form of food tours, family fun and a plethora of adventurous activities. Being one of the top Ukraine tourist places, the Arcadia Beach remains crowder at all times.  4. Otrada Beach: Only accessible by foot or via a cable car, the Otrada Beach is more of a hidden gem located far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The beach remains deserted most of the time, hence can make a great place to visit when looking for some solace.

Which are the best places to visit in Ukraine with your family?

1. Rakhiv: Known to be the highest city of the country, Rakhiv is truly one of the best Ukraine places to visit. If you are looking for some family adventure then this place will offer you numerous hiking trails which will take you to some pretty picnic spots. The nature and greenery here will further make your trip even more scenic.  2. The Pink Lake: Staying true to its name, the Pink Lake is actually pink in colour and has been fascinating people with its totally random colour. You will find several pink lakes at different parts of the country and all of these are known for their healing properties. 3. Slavske: Located in the Skole Beskids range of the Carpathian mountains, Slavske is a Ski Resort and will surely add the much required fun to your vacation. Being one of the most famous places to visit in Ukraine, this ski destination is flocked by locals as well as foreigners equally.

Which are the famous historical places to visit in Ukraine?

1. Chernobyl: Falling in the list of top 10 places to visit in Ukraine, Chernobyl is the infamous destination known for its nuclear blast. The effects of the blast were so bad that they made this place inhabitable for the coming 100 to 300 years. As for now, the city is open for people to explore and once you reach here, you can see the deserted schools, houses, cars and buildings the way they were at the time of explosion. 2. Lviv’s Historic Centre: If you are a history buff and want to gather more info about the history of Ukraine then make sure to visit this one of the oldest places to visit in Ukraine. Being an UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic centre will let you get an insight into the local culture through various relics and artefacts.  3. St. Sophia’s Cathedral: The richly decorated interior of the St. Sophia’s Cathedral has been attracting flocks of tourists towards its architecture and the nature around it. Being the oldest church of Kiev, this cathedral is believed to be built back in 1037 and is truly one of the best places to visit in Ukraine.

What are the best areas to stay in Ukraine?

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14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Kiev, Ukraine

Written by Alison Abbott Dec 30, 2019

Kiev is having a moment. Regularly the subject of the nightly news, the city is just waiting to be discovered by tourists. You may know it as the capital of Ukraine and a manufacturing powerhouse, but what you may not know is that this lesser known European city also makes a dream destination for visitors.

Walk through the streets and visit the many small shops, restaurants, museums, and landmarks. The city has a population of three million, but in most neighborhoods, it retains its small-town vibe.

As the hub of science, industry, and culture in Ukraine, there isn't much you won't find in this undiscovered Eastern European gem. Whether you are looking for romance, history, or just a getaway to somewhere unique, Kiev offers a little something for everyone within the city limits.

Although there are many places to visit in the city, find the best spots for sightseeing with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Kiev.

1. St. Sophia's Cathedral

2. st. andrew's church, 3. national art museum of ukraine, 4. kiev pechersk lavra monastery, 5. mariyinsky palace, 6. independence square, 7. mezhyhirya: former presidential palace, 8. national opera and ballet of ukraine, 9. museum of the history of ukraine in the second world war, 10. st. volodymyr's cathedral, 11. the golden gates, 12. feofaniya park, 13. the motherland monument, 14. m.m. gryshko national botanical garden.

St. Sophia's Cathedral (also called Saint Sophia Cathedral) is one of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ukraine and was awarded the important status in the 1980s. It was constructed in 1037 and is named for Hagia Sophia. Since it's a favorite of tourists, visiting earlier in the day is recommended.

It's one of the oldest and most jaw-dropping of Kiev's impressive churches. Beautiful murals, ancient mosaics, and frescoes adorn the interior. Additional structures have been added over the years; one entrance fee is good for all.

Enjoy the views over the city form the bell tower. Tours are available.

Address: Volodymyrska St, 24, Kyiv

Another of Kiev's important landmarks is found in Podil, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. It was built by the Russian architect, Bartolomeo Rastrelli, during the time of Catherine the Great.

Churches were often built high on a hill for all to see, and St. Andrew's is a prime example. While the church is no longer religious in nature, it does house an important collection of paintings and sculptures . St. Andrew was a patron saint of Kiev, and the impressive Baroque architecture reflects his importance.

Address: Andriivs'kyi descent, 23, Kyiv

One of the most visited museums in Ukraine is the National Art Museum. It was established in 1897 by a successful patron of the arts, Bohdan Khanenko, who was determined to build the first museum in the country. Succeed he did—the historically important building contains a collection of important sculptures, artwork, and icons.

Represented are Ukrainian artists, both local and those who have moved to other countries and continued their career in the arts. The museum also shows the work of contemporary artists and is recognized around the world as an important representation of art from Eastern Europe.

Address: 6 Mykhaila Hrushevskoho Street, Kyiv

This monastery complex was founded by two monks of the caves: St. Anthony and St. Theodosius. Constructed over a series of caves excavated by the monks, it is remarkable to think they date to the 11 th century.

The Baroque style of Ukraine is again at work in the series of additional buildings in the complex. You might hear the attraction referred to as both the Near and Far Caves. Make sure to visit both areas, as you will find hundreds of artifacts.

Do not miss the underground crypts, where monks are buried under glass. Here, you'll find a fairly creepy and somewhat claustrophobic look into the past, and one of the most unique sights of the city.

This Baroque palace is the official ceremonial home for the President of Ukraine. After a fire destroyed the first structure, Alexander II had the palace reconstructed in 1870, following the model of the old drawings. The pale blue exterior lends a dreamy quality to the magnificent architecture.

Inside, visitors will find a collection of artwork by Ukrainian masters, as well as cultural and historic treasures. The surrounding landscaped gardens are a nice place for contemplation.

Address: 5A, Mykhaila Hrushevskoho St, Kyiv

Independence Square had its international debut in 2004 as the scene of the Orange Revolution, when the power of the people changed Ukrainian history and the future of the country.

As the central square in the city, many festivals, concerts, and parades take place in the area. The attraction contains six fountains, a waterfall, and a large column representing Ukrainian independence. In the evening, it makes for a great people-watching spot, and there is often a light show and music with the fountains on colorful display.

Visitors will find this area a convenient location for their stay in the city as it is close to many shops, restaurants, and popular areas.

Mezhyhirya is situated in a lovely location on the banks of the scenic Dnieper River. The comples is the former residence of ex-president of Ukraine, Viktor Yonukovych. If you are lucky, your tour guide might be a caped member of the former resistance. Charged with protecting this example of political greed and corruption, he makes for quite an interesting hour of commentary.

Visitors will be overwhelmed by the extravagance on display. Today, in all its glory, the building is a symbol and reminder of overindulgence and institutional greed and corruption. Within its gated walls, there are tennis courts, a shooting range, an equestrian club, helicopter pad, ostrich farm, dog kennel, golf course, and hunting grounds—all built while the population of the country struggled to feed itself.

The surrounding gardens are beautifully maintained and a nice place to have a picnic while trying to process all that you have just taken in on the tour.

Address: Novi Petrivtsi, Kyiv Oblast

From its humble beginnings in 1867, the National Opera of Ukraine has been a cultural mainstay in Kiev. The impressive structure that houses the cultural institution is filled with unique architecture and has modern amenities after it was rebuilt following a devastating fire in the 1980s.

It's one of the most popular cultural attractions in the city—millions of people over the last century have graced its halls and viewed classics like Swan Lake or the Nutcracker .

The National Opera isn't just a great place to view a performance. Outside is the perfect spot to people watch or grab a bite to eat. There is a waterfall sculpture outside, and across the street are a few excellent restaurants from which to choose.

Address: Chaikovs'koho Ln, 1, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast

Opened in 1981, the Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War is located on the banks of the Dnieper River. Within the complex, you will find everything related to the role that Ukraine played in the Second World War commemorated in statues and relics, like uniforms, letters, and larger pieces of history like airplanes and artillery.

Although most of the exhibits aren't in English, you will still get a sense of what it was like to be a soldier during that time, and walking around outside, you can see some impressive views of the city below.

As one of Kiev's key landmarks, St. Volodymyr's Cathedral is probably one of the city's most significant churches. Surely it is one of the most impressive. Many would consider it a key component of the Ukrainian Orthodox structure.

From the moment you walk in the door, you are greeted by the amazing Byzantine-style architecture and art that most visitors find breathtaking. The craftsmanship is exquisite and one-of-a-kind, complete with gilded murals , paintings , and hand-carved accents all nested into this holy space. The grounds are equally beautiful, on a tree-lined street near Shevchenko University.

When you visit, take note that both men and women will need to be appropriately dressed, and women will need a headscarf. Be mindful of the time as well. Regular services are hosted daily.

Address: Tarasa Shevchenko Blvd, 20, Kyiv

Although the original "golden gate" was dismantled in the Middle Ages, the gates that are here today pay honor to the main gate in the 11th century that helped fortify Kiev.

Modeled after the Golden Gate of Constantinople, the structure that stands today was built in 1982 amid controversy. There were no photos to compare it to, just oral tradition as to what the gates would have looked like, so there are many who feel as if this isn't an accurate representation.

At the gates, you will also find a branch of the Sophia of Kiev museum , and several vendors in traditional dress sell local wildflowers around the monument.

Getting here is easy—there is a station of the Metro with easy access.

Feofaniya Park is a beautiful respite in the bustling city of Kiev. Located near the southern outskirts, this park became part of the Soviet state farm system and home to the main observatory for the Institute of Botany of the Ukrainian Academy of Science . This school is well known in Ukraine and Europe in its studies of biodiversity.

Take a stroll in the park and explore the lush greenery and unique plants that call this park home. It's a great way to spend a lunch break or just get away from the city to recharge in a welcome sea of green.

This statue, located in Victory Park , commemorates the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany and is a focal point in Kiev. Take a walk around the grounds and admire the views overlooking the Dnieper river.

Inside, visitors will find the Museum of the Great Patriotic War , opened in 1995 at the base of the statue. Thousands of visitors have flocked here to observe and view World War II memorabilia, from weapons to battle dioramas.

This giant titanium statue is taller than the Statue of Liberty. There is a viewing platform that can be reached by elevator, but only with a guide. When you are here, be sure to check out the Hall of Glory and the Hall of Remembrance and Sorrow , a sober reminder of those who lost their lives.

Named after the famed botanist Mykola Gryshko, this beautiful nature preserve is filled with local flora and fauna, as well as plants from all over the world.

Take a walk through the hothouses, greenhouses, or conservatories, where you can check out the exotic plants, as well as a plethora of flowers, from peonies to magnolias. If you are lucky enough to visit here during the spring, you can revel in the gorgeous lilacs in the central gardens, which are a favorite of visitors.

There is a small entry fee charged, but visitors could easily spend several hours here if they are looking for a green space to walk and enjoy the outdoors.

Address: 1 Timiryazevskaya Street, Kiev

Official site: http://www.nbg.kiev.ua/en/

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Ukraine Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 4, 2023

In recent years, Ukraine has evolved into a popular budget travel destination. While it might not have the polish and attractions you find in Western Europe, it more than makes up for that with cheap prices, beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and sparse crowds.

Ukraine gained independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 and is actually Europe’s second-largest country, after Russia. Its history includes domination by various countries other than USSR including Poland, Lithuania, Romania, Czechoslovakia, and Russia.

Ukraine is home to the deepest metro station in the world, one of the world’s most visited McDonald’s, and some of Europe’s oldest coffee houses. There are seven places here that have been recognized by UNESCO, it has tons of ghost towns here and you can also find the famous Tunnel of Love. While the recent annexation of Crimea by Russia means you’ll want to be careful around the borders with Russia, the country itself is still safe to travel.

Personally, I didn’t have many expectations for when I arrived — but I absolutely loved my time here. It’s affordable, fun, and has a lot to offer if you step off the beaten path. The people are really welcoming, the country is inexpensive, and there’s a real sense of stepping back in time as you explore the cities and countryside. I can’t praise it enough.

This travel guide to Ukraine can help you plan your trip there while helping you stay on budget.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Ukraine

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in ukraine.

1. Visit the Tunnel of Love in Klevan

Just outside of Klevan, an old railway line has been turned into a natural tunnel lined it with trees. The tunnel is at its lushest during the spring and summer when the green leaves form a seemingly impenetrable barrier. It’s very beautiful and romantic (and Insta-worthy). Plus, it’s free!

2. Go skiing

Ukraine has cold, snowy winters that make it the perfect destination for budget-friendly winter sports. There are several resorts dotting the Carpathians with lift tickets starting at just 350 UAH. It’s one of the cheapest places to ski in Europe!

3. Explore Chernobyl

This nuclear plant had a critical meltdown in 1986. It was one of the worst nuclear disaster in human history. The radiation is weak enough now that people to visit the complex and the abandoned, ghost-like town nearby. Tours cost about 2,900 UAH and last a full day.

4. Visit Kyiv

The capital of Ukraine is home to an odd mix of Soviet-area communist housing, Baroque buildings, and cobblestone streets. For theater lovers, the Kyiv Opera House is host to world-class operas and ballets and the Ivan Franko Theater hosts dramas, comedies, and musicals.

5. Hike the Carpathian Mountains

One of the most popular destinations in the country, this 1,500-kilometer (932-mile) chain of mountains are a magical collection of forests, meadows, and villages. There are lakes for swimming and plenty of trails for hiking. For a full-day hike, climb to the peak of Hoverla.

Other Things to See and Do in Ukraine

1. visit chernivtsi university.

Founded in 1875, this university is the most fascinating piece of architecture in Chernivtsi, a city in western Ukraine. It’s constructed from beautifully-laid red bricks and decorated with thousands of colored tiles. The design of the building was influenced by a pseudo-Byzantine-Hanseatic-Moorish style. You can book guided tours from the university for 80 UAH.

2. Relax at Arcadia Beach

This is the country’s most famous beach. Located in Odessa, it was created to be the country’s main summer getaway spot so there’s a multitude of bars, clubs, resorts, and cafes here, making it a popular place to visit during the warmer summer months (May-September). The main beach has a waterslide and plenty of space to swim and lounge. Just be sure to arrive early to get a good spot as it does get crowded in the summer.

3. Wander the Odessa catacombs

This is the largest catacomb system in the world. There are over 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles) of catacombs under the city, created in the 17th century and expanded when the city mined for limestone in the early 19th century (the limestone was used to build the city). The catacombs were used by Soviet rebels during World War II after the Germans forced them to retreat. While dangerous to explore alone (people still get lost and die down here), you can join a 2-4-hour tour to show you around. Prices start at 350 UAH. For Star Wars fans, be sure to check out the nearby statue that was originally a tribute to Lenin and which has been transformed into a replica of Darth Vader! The Odessa Opera and Ballet is worth a visit too as it is super cheap and in a beautiful historic building.

4. See the Bohdan & Varvara Khanenko Arts Museum

Located in Kyiv, this museum hosts an impressive collection of European art. The interior is decadently coated in frescoes, intricately-carved woodwork, priceless antique furniture, and boasts an array of masterful art. Expect to see paintings from Western Europe (including works by Peter Paul Rubens, Gentile Bellini, Jacob Jordaens, and Luis de Morales), artifacts, and works from Egyptian and Greek antiquity, Persian Ceramics, Chinese paintings, and much more! Admission is 120 UAH and free on the first Wednesday of the month.

5. Hang out in Ploshcha Svobody

Located in Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine, this massive city square is one of the largest in the world. At the western end stands the first Soviet skyscraper, complete with geometrically-set concrete and glass blocks and bridges. Renamed Freedom Square after Ukrainian independence, it spans a massive 30 acres. Don’t miss the empty pedestal where the statue of Lenin used to be (it was toppled during protests in 2014).

6. Spot wildlife at Askania-Nova Reserve

Established in 1898, this vast reserve spans over 333 square kilometers (128 sq mi)and is home to a plethora of animal life like buffalo, deer, antelope, horses, zebras, camels, gnus, the rare Central Asian Saiga antelope, and a huge array of birds. Within the reserve, there are a few small villages and one town which you can reach by bus. From April to November you can take a safari for around 150 UAH.

7. See Lutsk Castle

This fortress is located in Lutsk’s old quarter and dates back to the 14th century. The castle walls stand 13 meters (42 feet) high and are between 1-3 meters (3-10 feet) thick. It’s topped with three broad towers that have repelled several sieges, including attacks by Casimir the Great (1349), Jogaila (1431), and Sigismund K stutaitis (1436). During the Nazi occupation, over 1,000 Jews were murdered here (though there sadly is no monument or marker to commemorate the tragedy). Today, there are archeological remains dating back to the 12th century preserved and on display. The castle is featured on the 200 UAH bill and you can walk the ramparts and tour the three towers that make up the main defensive fortifications. Admission is 10 UAH.

8. Visit the National Chernobyl Museum

Located in Kyiv, this small museum is a good prelude to a trip to Chernobyl. There are three exhibits on display that highlight the accident, the aftermath, and the lessons we need to learn to avoid this happening again. It’s equally sobering and educational. Admission is 10 UAH or 60 UAH with an audio guide.

9. Visit the Museum of the Great Patriotic War

This is one of the largest museums in Ukraine and highlights the story of the German-Soviet conflict during World War II. Located in Kyiv, the museum contains over 300,000 exhibits as well as several monuments and memorials spanning over 25 acres overlooking the Dnieper River (including the 62-meter-tall Motherland statue). This museum offers a sobering and unique look at the war’s Eastern conflict. Admission is 50 UAH.

10. Tour St. Sophia’s Cathedral

Built in the 11th century in Kyiv, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has an elaborate Baroque exterior with 13 golden domes. Inside the cathedral, there are beautiful murals, mosaics, and centuries-old frescoes. The cathedral was used as a burial place for Kyivan rulers during the Middle Ages. Named after Hagia Sophia in Turkey, the cathedral offers some stunning views over Kyiv from the bell tower. Admission to see the cathedral’s museum is 20 UAH while access to the bell tower is 60 UAH.

11. Visit Lviv

Lviv is the cultural capital of Ukraine. Located 540 kilometers (335 miles) west of Kyiv, it has a Central European vibe and is full of history and incredible architecture. Don’t miss wandering the Old Town (another place that has made UNESCO’s World Heritage List), visiting the Lviv Historical Museum, and enjoying the view from High Castle. For a glimpse at the city’s past, visit the Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life (it’s an outdoor museum with all kinds of traditional wooden buildings). As a university town, it’s a youthful city and hosts many of the country’s foreign students from around Europe!

12. Take a walking tour

One of my favorite things to do when I arrive anywhere new is to take a walking tour. It’s the best way to get your bearings and you might even meet and make some new friends. Kyiv Walking Tours, Guru Walk, and Free Tour all offer free walking tours in Kyiv covering most of the main points of interest. If you do take a free tour, be sure to tip your guide at the end! Get Your Guide also has a ton of tours around the country, including museum tours and trips to Chernobyl!

13. Go to a unique museum

Ukraine has to be home to some of the most interesting museums in the world. There’s a museum dedicated to the Ukrainian Easter egg in Kolomyya, a Museum of Unnecessary Things in Kyiv, a Micro Miniature Museum in Kyiv, and a Toilet History Museum in Kyiv. While we’re looking at random places and things, check out the giant crossword in Lviv, the brass Beer Belly of Ukraine (also in Lviv), and the statues of Peeing Colors in Kyiv.

14. Check out the sunflower fields

Sunflower oil is one of Ukraine’s largest exports. Reportedly with enough fields of sunflowers to cover Slovenia, it isn’t too hard to find one. Go in late July for the best views (the season lasts from July to mid-August).

Ukraine Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels start at 130-250 UAH for a bed in a 6-10-bed dorm. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have a kitchen. For a private room, prices start at 260 UAH.

Budget hotels start at 560 UAH per night. You can find cheaper options but they tend to be pretty gross places. Most budget hotels are a little outdated when it comes to decor. Don’t expect many amenities either.

Airbnb is available in larger cities throughout the country. Private rooms start at 520 UAH per night while an entire home/apartment costs at 1,000 UAH.

Wild camping is allowed in Ukraine, as long as you aren’t in nature preserves or near highways. There are also plenty of campgrounds around the country with a basic plot (without electricity) costing from 60-600 UAH per night.

Food – Food in Ukraine is similar to that in neighboring Eastern Europe and Russia. Borscht (beetroot soup), varenyky (pierogies), holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls), kovbasa (sausage), and deruny (potato pancakes) are some of the most popular and most common dishes.

For a meal of traditional cuisine, expect to pay 145 UAH or less. Portions are filling and hearty too. Fast food (like McDonald’s) can be found in the larger cities around the country and costs around 120 UAH for a combo meal. For Thai or Indian food, main dishes cost around 200 UAH. Expect to pay around 180 UAH for a large pizza.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal of traditional cuisine costs around 300 UAH. Beer can be found for just 30 UAH while a latte or cappuccino costs around 35 UAH.

For a week of groceries that includes pasta, vegetables, chicken, and seasonal produce, expect to pay around 750 UAH.

Backpacking Ukraine Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Ukraine, my suggested budget is 885 UAH per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, doing free activities like walking tours and hiking, limiting your drinking, visiting some cheap attractions like museums or galleries, and using local transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 2,425 UAH per day, you can stay in a budget hotel or Airbnb, eat out for all your meals at cheap restaurants serving traditional cuisine, go out for some drinks, take some guided tours, take the occasional taxi to get around and take the bus between cities, and tour of Chernobyl.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,950 UAH or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out at any restaurant you want, rent a car or take taxis everywhere, take higher-end guided tours, drink as much as you want, go skiing, take domestic flights to get around the country, and see as many castles and museums as you can handle. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in UAH.

Ukraine Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Ukraine is an affordable country to visit. You’re going to be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money unless you go out of your way to do so. That said, it’s always good to make sure you get the best deals so here are some money-saving tips for Ukraine:

• Eat local – By eating at restaurants serving traditional cuisine, you keep your food expenses low. Skip the western food.
• Buy beer at the supermarkets – If you plan on drinking, buy your beer at the supermarket. Beer at the bar is cheap, but this is even cheaper!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to meet awesome people, get a local perspective, and get a place to stay for free. I used it while I was in the country and met a lot of great people through it. The community here is pretty small so be sure to make your requests in advance.
• Book overnight trains – Take advantage of the slow and cheap trains in Ukraine by taking overnight trains. You save one night’s accommodation by doing this.
• Save money on rideshares – Uber is way cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi. Currently, Uber is available in Kyiv, Odessa, Lviv, Kharkiv, Vinnytsia, Zaporizhia, and Dnipro.
• Get the Kyiv PASS – If you’re planning on being in Kyiv for a few days, the Kyiv PASS gets you free admissions to certain attractions, discounts to partner restaurants, free Metro trips (offline cards only), and an audio guide. It’s available for 24, 48, and 72 hours and costs 447 UAH, 746 UAH, and 1,045 UAH respectively.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Ukraine is not safe to drink. Avoid single-use plastic by bringing a reusable water bottle with a filter with you. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles that also filter your water so it’s safe and clean to drink — no matter where you are in the world!
• Take a free walking tour – Kyiv Walking Tours offers a free tour around the city. It’s the best way to see the main sights on a budget. Just be sure to tip your guide!

Where to Stay in Ukraine

Ukraine has a growing hostel scene and you can now find hostels in most of the larger cities. Here are my favorite places to stay around the country:

• Gar’is Hostel (Kyiv)
• DREAM Hostel (Kyiv)
• Mama Hostel (Odessa)
• Park Plus Hostel (Lviv)
• Yard Hostel & Coffee (Chernivtsi)

How to Get Around Ukraine

Bus – Ukraine has a mix of small, crowded, and outdated buses as well as larger, more modern coaches. FlixBus is your best choice here, as their buses are clean, reliable, and cheap.

You can take a bus pretty much anywhere in the country for under 700 UAH although if you’re prepared to change busses mid-way, the price can be half that.

Trains – Trains are perfect for longer journeys around the country. Many of the trains have an old, Soviet feel to them but they are safe, reliable, and cheap. And, because there are lots of overnight options, you can usually take an overnight train to save yourself a night of accommodation.

First-class couchettes, private and shared sleepers, and regular seats are all available. Most clerks do not speak English so buy your ticket online or have your hostel/hotel write down what you need/where you’re going.

The 9-hour trip from Kyiv to Odessa can cost as little as 300 UAH. The 7-hour trip from Kyiv to Lviv costs about the same while the 13-hour journey from Kyiv to Loskutivka (near Luhansk) costs 340 UAH.

Air – Ukraine International Airlines is the main domestic carrier here. Flights are relatively affordable, with most domestic flights costing as little as 1,000 UAH.

Car Rental – Car rentals in Ukraine can be found for as little as 575 UAH per day for a multi-day rental. The roads here are in rough shape, however, so drive carefully. Additionally, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle here.

When to Go to Ukraine

The summer is the most popular time to visit Ukraine. June-August offers plenty of warm, sunny days with temperatures ranging from 18-24°C (64-75°F). This is also the busiest time of year as well. However, the country only sees around 14 million tourists each year (that’s a fraction of the 90 million visitors a popular destination like France receives) so don’t expect massive crowds.

If you want to avoid the peak summer season, consider visiting in May or September/October. It won’t be as warm, but you can see the flowers blossom in the Carpathians or watch the leaves change in the autumn. It’s chilly at night, but the days are still perfect for sightseeing and hiking.

The winters in Ukraine are cold, with temperatures well below 0°C (32°F). Unless you’re here to ski or do winter sports, I’d avoid visiting in the winter.

How to Stay Safe in Ukraine

Crime and petty theft in Ukraine are on par with much of Europe. Most crimes are crimes of opportunity so as long as you keep your valuables out of reach when in crowded areas and on public transportation, you can avoid the most common issues. Don’t flash your valuables when out and about and avoid walking alone at night in the larger cities just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though they should take the standard precautions (not leaving their drink unattended at the bar, not walking home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Credit card fraud is a concern in Ukraine so stick to using ATMs inside of banks (and not random ATMs on the street).

The roads here are pretty terrible, so be extra careful if renting a car. Follow all the rules of the road, obey the speed limits, and wear a seatbelt. Drivers here are aggressive so be prepared. Also, don’t leave your valuables in your vehicle overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

With the rise of the far-right and Russian interference, attacks against people of color have been on the rise. Travelers of color need to take extra precautions and avoid traveling alone at night.

The war with Russia in Crimea is localized to the region (for now) so as long as you avoid visiting Crimea (which you need a special permit for) you won’t have to worry. While it is possible to visit Crimea (and there is a lot to see there), most governments have issued warnings and don’t provide assistance should an issue arise. In short, avoid visiting Crimea for now.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 102 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ukraine Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Ukraine Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

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Ukrainians Wait, Nervously, to See if U.S. Will Provide Critical Aid

From the battlefield to battered cities, soldiers and civilians are counting on Congress to approve $60 billion in military support. Without it, Ukrainian officials say, prospects in the war are grim.

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By Marc Santora ,  Maria Varenikova and Michael Crowley

From the bloody trenches of the battlefield to crowded cities battered by Russian bombardments, millions of Ukrainians waited in nervous anticipation as the United States Congress prepared, after months of delay, to decide if America will resume providing their country with critical military support.

Private Pavlo Kaliuk, who has been fighting to slow the Russian advance after the fall of the city of Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine earlier this year, was on his way to the funeral for a fallen soldier when reached by phone on Friday.

“I am walking and thinking that maybe it’s my friend who died at war, who is up in the sky now, who will help the world and United States to support Ukraine,” he said.

Ukraine cannot rely on divine intervention; instead it is counting on the House of Representatives to approve a $60 billion aid package on Saturday.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has made the stakes clear, saying this week that without American support his country could not win the war. William J. Burns, the C.I.A. director, was even more blunt when asked what happens if American military assistance does not resume.

“I think there is a very real risk that the Ukrainians could lose on the battlefield by the end of 2024, or at least put Putin in a position where he could essentially dictate the terms of a political settlement,” he said on Thursday in remarks at the Bush Center Forum on Leadership in Dallas.

Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine’s foreign minister, said there was “no plan B” if the aid measure fails.

“There has been so much controversy and debate around this bill — and there still will be — so let’s just wait for the result,” he told reporters.

At a gathering in Capri on Friday, representatives to the G7, comprising the world’s wealthiest democracies, vowed to find a way to support Ukraine and, in particular, to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities to save civilian lives and protect the country’s infrastructure.

Jens Stoltenberg, the NATO secretary general, said the military alliance has compiled data about the air defense systems available and is working to redeploy some to Ukraine.

“There is a need now to ensure that we have a more robust and institutionalized framework around the support for Ukraine,” he told reporters in Italy.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, also speaking in Italy, said “Putin thinks that he can outwait Ukraine, and outwait Ukraine’s support.”

“The message coming out of Capri is: He can’t,” the secretary said.

Congress has not approved a new military support package for Ukraine since October. While the Senate overwhelmingly approved a bill that bundled $60 billion for Ukraine together with assistance for Israel and Taiwan, it stalled in the GOP-controlled House. The Republican speaker, Mike Johnson, has broken the package into a series of bills in an attempt to maneuver around members of his own party staunchly opposed to helping Ukraine.

If the tactic works and the measure is approved, Pentagon officials have said military supplies can begin flowing into Ukraine immediately.

While the debate in Washington has played out over the past six months, the momentum in the war has shifted decidedly in Moscow’s favor. The civilian death toll is also growing as Ukraine runs out of air defense interceptor missiles to defend against daily Russian aerial assaults on critical infrastructure in densely populated cities.

On Friday, at least seven civilians, including two children, were killed in missile strikes in the Dnipro region, including one that hit near the main railroad station in the city Dnipro. Another four civilians were killed in shelling of villages near the front line in eastern Ukraine, officials said.

Mr. Kuleba, the foreign minister, called U.S. aid “a matter of life and death” adding, “And in a broader sense, it’s a matter of Ukraine’s survival.”

In interviews with soldiers and civilians across the country over two years of war, Ukrainians often assert, with deep conviction, that their fight is part of a broader global struggle. Failure to confront and defeat Russia now, they say, will mean more bloodshed later, and American assistance is not charity but in the strategic and financial interests of the United States.

“Our planet is very small, and we all depend on each other,” Private Kaliuk said. “Those who thought that this war is not theirs are mistaken.”

Pavlo Velychko, an officer with a Territorial Defense brigade fighting near the Russian border, said renewed American support would do more than provide critically needed ammunition and advanced weapons systems.

It would boost morale at a moment when Ukrainian forces are struggling and exhausted.

“The positive result of the vote will be felt by everyone in the armed forces,” he said. “From the soldiers to the officers.”

In the meantime, Ukrainians have made it clear they would continue to fight.

The Ukrainian military on Friday said it destroyed a Russian Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber involved in Friday’s attacks, which would be the first successful destruction of a strategic bomber in the air during a combat mission.

While the claim could not be independently confirmed, the Russian governor of the Stavropol Territory confirmed that a bomber crashed in a field about 185 miles from Ukraine.

It was not clear what weapon Ukraine might have used to shoot down the bomber; Kyiv has been working to expand its own arsenal of long-range weapons and bolster its own domestic arms industry.

Marc Santora has been reporting from Ukraine since the beginning of the war with Russia. He was previously based in London as an international news editor focused on breaking news events and earlier the bureau chief for East and Central Europe, based in Warsaw. He has also reported extensively from Iraq and Africa. More about Marc Santora

Maria Varenikova covers Ukraine and its war with Russia. More about Maria Varenikova

Michael Crowley covers the State Department and U.S. foreign policy for The Times. He has reported from nearly three dozen countries and often travels with the secretary of state. More about Michael Crowley

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

For residents of Ukraine’s second-largest city, daily Russian attacks have escalated fears  but have not brought life to a standstill. Here’s how a battered city  carries on.

The authorities in Poland and Germany have arrested at least five of their citizens  and accused them of spying for Russia or of offering to help Moscow commit violence on European soil, including a “possible attack” on the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky.

The drone combat in Ukraine that is transforming modern warfare has begun taking a deadly toll on one of the most powerful symbols  of American military might — the tank — and threatening to rewrite how it will be used in future conflicts.

Resuming U.S. Military Aid: Weapons from the support package, considered “a lifeline” for Ukraine’s military , could be arriving on the battlefield within days . But experts say it could take weeks before there is a direct impact on the war . What would $60 billion buy ?

World Military Spending: The world spent more on military costs and weapons in 2023  than it had in 35 years, driven in part by the war in Ukraine and the threat of an expanded Russian invasion, according to an independent analysis.

New American Technology: Project Maven was meant to revolutionize modern warfare. But the conflict in Ukraine has underscored  how difficult it is to get 21st-century data into 19th-century trenches.

How We Verify Our Reporting

Our team of visual journalists analyzes satellite images, photographs , videos and radio transmissions  to independently confirm troop movements and other details.

We monitor and authenticate reports on social media, corroborating these with eyewitness accounts and interviews. Read more about our reporting efforts .

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THE 10 BEST Ukraine Sights & Historical Landmarks

Ukraine landmarks.

• Churches & Cathedrals
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Monuments & Statues
• Sacred & Religious Sites
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Holy Dormition Kyiv Caves Lavra

2. Rynok Square

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (320)

3. Saint Sophia Cathedral

4. Old Town

5. The Motherland Monument

6. Khreshchatyk

7. Andriivskyi Descent

8. Lychakiv Cemetery

9. Deribasovskaya Street

10. St Michael's Golden Domed Monastery

11. Primorsky Boulevard

12. Maidan Nezalezhnosti

13. Svyatogo Yura Cathedral

14. Residence of Bukovynian Metropolitans - Chernivtsi National University

15. Reactor No 4

16. Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle

17. St. Volodymyr's Cathedral

18. Lviv City Hall

19. Insomnia - The Haunted House

20. Potemkin Stairs

21. Armenian Virgin Mary's Dormition Church

22. Lviv High Castle

23. Donbass Arena

24. Olgi Kobylyanskoi Street

25. Belaya Besedka (Belaya Al'tanka)

26. Palanok Castle

27. Mirror Stream fountain

28. Multimedia Fountain Roshen

29. Khotyn Fortress

30. Armenian street

What travelers are saying.

Ukraine-Russia war latest: Ukraine hit Russian troops with long-range missiles 'US sent secretly'

Ukraine fired a US-supplied, long-range ballistic missile at a Russian target last week and overnight, according to reports. It comes as Joe Biden said much-needed weapons would be sent to Ukraine today after he signed a multibillion-dollar aid package into law.

Wednesday 24 April 2024 22:09, UK

• US 'secretly sent long-range missiles' to Ukraine  
• Biden signs law sending almost £50bn in aid to Ukraine - with weapons on way 'in hours'
• James Matthews analysis: Biden and Ukraine will need to demonstrate value for money - more negotiations are ahead
• Explained : Why has Ukraine aid bill passed now, after months of delay?
• Russia warns Finland it is risking 'military incident'
• Your questions answered: How long will it take for any aid to turn the tide militarily?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

We're pausing our live coverage for the evening, but we'll be back tomorrow morning with more updates and analysis.

Russia has vetoed a US-drafted resolution at the UN calling on countries to prevent an arms race in outer space.

Following the vote at the Security Council, the US suggested Russia "must be hiding something", having already accused Moscow of developing a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon.

Russia has denied the allegations, with its ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, saying:  "It's a joke of a resolution."

US administration officials declined to share details of intelligence to back the allegation.

The UN resolution called on states "to contribute actively to the objective of the peaceful use of outer space and of the prevention of an arms race in outer space".

The final vote tallies were 13 in favour and one abstention (China) before Russia's veto.

Vladimir Putin said earlier this year: "Our position is clear and transparent: We have always been categorically against and are now against the deployment of nuclear weapons in space."

The Ukrainian government has approved rules under which passports for military-age men can be issued only inside the country.

It represents a further tightening of regulations on mobilisation, after foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba criticised those abroad for failing to serve.

The new rules stipulated did not apply to nationals now permitted to cross state borders while martial law is in force, including those with disabilities.

Hundreds of thousands of military-age Ukrainian men are living abroad and the country faces a shortage of troops in the campaign against Russia.

"Staying abroad does not relieve a citizen of his or her duties to the homeland," said Mr Kuleba.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan has confirmed our earlier reports that the US sent long-range missiles to Ukraine.

He also confirmed America will send more of the missiles.

Ukraine has lost territory over the last six months due to the need to ration ammunition, he said.

Ukrainian troops were under severe pressure on the battlefield and Russia could make further tactical gains, he warned.

The US can continue to supply Ukraine with aid throughout the year, Mr Sullivan added.

Kyiv will need much more than the $61bn approved by the US today for a fight that could last years, a military expert has said.

The funding will help triage Ukrainian forces, but success is not guaranteed, according to Bradley Bowman, a defence strategy and policy analyst at the Foundation for the Defence of Democracies.

Realistic goals for the months ahead include avoiding the loss of major cities, slowing Russia's momentum and getting additional weaponry to Kyiv that could help them go on the offensive in 2025.

 "In our microwave culture, we tend to want immediate results," Mr Bowman said.

"Sometimes things are just hard and you can't get immediate results. I think Ukrainian success is not guaranteed, but Russian success is if we stop supporting Ukraine." 

Ukrainian drones struck and damaged a major Russian steel factory overnight, a Kyiv intelligence source has told Reuters.

The source said the attack had partially destroyed an "oxygen station" at the Novolipetsk Metallurgical Plant in the Lipetsk region.

This would have a long-term impact on the company's work, the source said.

The news comes after Reuters reported Ukraine had struck two Rosneft-owned oil depots containing 26,000 cubic metres of fuel in the Smolensk region in the same night.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thanked the US for recognising "we must cut the ground from under Putin's feet".

Welcoming the new $61bn in aid, the Ukrainian president said: "Regardless of what anyone says, we are gaining the support we need to continue protecting lives from Russian attacks."

He said the $1bn in military assistance approved to be sent today "include the exact types of weapons that our warriors require".

"I am grateful to president Biden, congress, and all Americans who recognise that we must cut the ground under Putin's feet rather than obeying him, as this is the only way to truly reduce threats to freedom. Together, we can ensure this."

Ukraine fired a US-supplied, long-range ballistic missile at a Russian target last week and overnight, the Associated Press reports.

They cited US officials as saying America secretly sent Army Tactical Missile System missiles in an aid package last month.

They were used to hit a Russian military airfield in Crimea last week and Russian troops in another occupied area overnight.

One of the officials said the US is providing more of these missiles in a new military aid package signed by Joe Biden today.

They give Ukraine nearly double the striking distance - up to 190 miles.

For months, the US resisted sending long-range missiles out of concern that Kyiv could use them to hit deep into Russian territory, escalating the conflict.

Separately, the vice chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff has said "the time is right" to provide long-range missiles to Ukraine.

They will help Ukraine take out Russian logistics nodes and troop concentrations that are not on the front lines, he said.

"I think it was a very well considered decision, and we really wrung it out — but again, any time you introduce a new system, any change — into a battlefield, you have to think through the escalatory nature of it."

After signing a bill worth $61bn to Ukraine, Joe Biden has immediately approved sending $1bn in military assistance.

The package includes air defence capabilities, artillery rounds and armoured vehicles.

 "It's not going in the Ukrainians' favour in the Donbas, certainly not elsewhere in the country," said White House national security spokesman John Kirby.

"Mr Putin thinks he can play for time. So we've got to try to make up some of that time."

Joe Biden is enjoying a "hard-earned victory lap" after signing a bill sending tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine, says  US correspondent James Matthews .

This has been a political triumph in terms of pushing the legislation through congress in the face of "hard-right opposition", he says.

The president positioned himself as the "leader of the indispensable nation, leading a fight for democracy against tyranny".

Matthews adds: "Biden knows that this isn't the end of the story for Ukraine and American aid to Ukraine: there will be other negotiations further down the line.

"He and Ukraine will need to demonstrate there is value in American funds being channelled to that particular fight."

With an eye on the election, Mr Biden is trying to present himself to the public as the deal-maker who gets results.

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Western Ukraine

More quintessentially Ukrainian than the rest of the country, and distinctly more European, the west is all about its largest city, the Galician capital of Lviv. An emerging tourist magnet, the city is a truly captivating place, rich in historic architecture and with an indulgent coffee-house culture. Once off the beaten track, Lviv now welcomes tens of thousands of foreign tourists who fill the main square night and day. Away from the city centre piecemeal gentrification has made only small dents in its shabby authenticity.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Lychakivsky Cemetery

Don't leave town until you've seen this amazing 42-hectare cemetery, only a short ride on tram 7 from the centre. This is the Père Lachaise of Eastern…

National Museum and Memorial to the Victims of Occupation

This infamous building on vul Bryullova was used as a prison by the Poles, Nazis and communists in turn, but the small and very moving exhibition over two…

Museum of Political Prisoners

A block back from bul Shevchenka, this former KGB prison is where several prominent members of UPA and OUN were held, tortured and shot in the years of…

Ploshcha Rynok

Lviv was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1998, and this old market square lies at its heart. The square was progressively rebuilt after a major…

Revamped in 2017, the museum belonging to Lviv's brewery is an impressive, modern experience, a world away for the rickety post-Soviet repositories of the…

High Castle Hill

Around a 2km walk from pl Rynok, visiting the High Castle (Vysoky Zamok) on Castle Hill (Zamkova Hora) is a quintessential Lviv experience. There’s little…

Lviv History Museum – Rynok 24

This branch of the Lviv History Museum expounds on the city's very early days starting with early cultures that inhabited Galicia and ending with the…

The city fathers have occupied this location since the 14th century, but the present-day Italianate look dates to 1835. In a sign of openness and…

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Lviv is rightly proud of its beautiful architecture and its role as a hub of Ukrainian culture. Just over a century ago, however, it lay within the…

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Ukraine to receive largest-ever military aid package from UK: Zelensky

Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Ukraine would soon get the largest-ever military aid package from Britain worth 500 million pounds ($619 million). The package will contain Storm Shadow and other types of missiles, hundreds of armoured vehicles and watercraft, and ammunition, he said on Tuesday on Telegram after a phone conversation with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Zelensky said they also discussed bilateral defence cooperation, focusing on maritime and long-range capabilities, Xinhua news agency reported. One of the leading donors to Ukraine, the UK has pledged almost 12 billion pounds in support to Ukraine since February 2022, of which 7.1 billion is for military assistance, according to the British Parliament.

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Japanese PM Fumio Kishida addresses U.S. 'self-doubt' about world role in remarks to Congress

WASHINGTON — Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida asserted in an address to a joint meeting of Congress on Thursday that his country stands with the U.S. at a time when history is at a turning point.

Kishida said the U.S. held a certain reputation decades ago that "shaped the international order" and "championed freedom and democracy."

"You believed that freedom is the oxygen of humanity," he said. "The world needs the United States to continue playing this pivotal role in the affairs of nations. And yet, as we meet here today, I detect an undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be."

Kishida said that is happening when the world is "at history's turning point" as "freedom and democracy are currently under threat around the globe," climate change is causing natural disasters, and technology such as artificial intelligence is advancing.

Japan faces "an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge" from China," he said. He also spoke about the threats from North Korea and from Russia in Ukraine.

"Ladies and gentlemen, as the United States’ closest friend, tomodachi, the people of Japan are with you, side by side, to assure the survival of liberty," he said. "Not just for our people, but for all people."

He continued: "I am here to say that Japan is already standing shoulder to shoulder with the United States. You are not alone. We are with you."

Kishida shared that he has felt a special connection to the U.S. since he attended his first three years of elementary school in Queens.

"We arrived in the fall of 1963, and for several years my family lived like Americans," he said. "My father would take the subway to Manhattan, where he worked as a trade official. We rooted for the Mets and the Yankees and ate hot dogs at Coney Island. On vacation, we would go to Niagara Falls or here to Washington, D.C."

It was only the second time a Japanese prime minister has formally delivered remarks to Congress. The first time in 2015, when Shinzo Abe spoke with Kishida in attendance as a foreign minister. Abe was assassinated in 2022. The last foreign leader to address lawmakers was Israeli President Isaac Herzog, in July.

Thursday's address also marked the first joint meeting with a foreign leader since Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., took the gavel. Vice President Kamala Harris also presided over the chamber during the speech.

Congressional leaders had invited Kishida to speak to both chambers in early March, with Johnson saying in a statement that it was part of an effort to lay "the foundation for collaboration in the years to come."

Before the address, Kishida met in a room just off the House chamber floor with the Big Four congressional leaders: Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. They didn't take any questions; Johnson joked to Kishida that he had brought along a large media corps from Japan.

"Japan is a close ally — critical to both our national and economic security," Schumer said. "This visit will continue to deepen the diplomatic and security relationship between our two countries and build on the strength of decades of cooperation.”

The visit is notable as Republicans, especially those in the House, resist providing foreign aid to Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan and other places; countering China has been a big focus of Kishida's visit to the U.S.

"China's current external stance and military actions present an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge, not only to the peace and security of Japan, but to the peace and stability of the international community at large," Kishida said.

He added: "Russia's unprovoked, unjust and brutal war of aggression against Ukraine has entered its third year. As I often say, Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow."

Before Kishida was invited, the Republican and Democratic leaders on the House Foreign Affairs Committee urged Johnson to formally ask him to speak to Congress, saying in a letter that it would "signal congressional support for this critical alliance and help Members of Congress understand [Japan's] importance to the economic and strategic interests of the United States."

After the address, Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken hosted a luncheon with Kishida at the State Department.

In the late afternoon, Kishida participated in the inaugural U.S.-Japan-Philippines trilateral summit at the White House, meeting with President Joe Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

During that meeting, Biden said the U.S. defense commitments to Japan and the Philippines are “ironclad.”

“Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty,” he said.

Biden also highlighted technology and clean energy as areas for the “deepening ties” among the three countries.

“We’re securing our semiconductor supply chain,” he said, adding that the U.S. is expanding telecommunications in the Philippines.

In a joint statement after the meeting, the three leaders voiced concerns over what they called China’s “dangerous and aggressive behavior.”

“We steadfastly oppose the dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea, as well as efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore resource exploitation,” their statement said.

They also expressed opposition to efforts that “seek to undermine Japan’s longstanding and peaceful administration of the Senkaku Islands” in the East China Sea.

On Wednesday, Biden and Kishida announced plans to improve the U.S. military command structure in Japan, which hosts about 54,000 U.S. personnel. The two countries will also form a military-industrial council to explore the kinds of weapons they can produce jointly.

The White House hosted a state dinner for Kishida in the evening. Guests included former President Bill Clinton and former first lady Hillary Clinton, as well as Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Apple CEO Tim Cook.

Rebecca Shabad is a politics reporter for NBC News based in Washington.

Scott Wong is a senior congressional reporter for NBC News.