The Best Places to Visit in Ukraine
Note: All Governments around the world have issued a DO NOT TRAVEL warning towards Ukraine, due to the ongoing Russian invasion.
Ukraine is one of Europe’s largest countries, known for its historic cities and vast rolling wheat fields. Located in Eastern Europe along the Black Sea, it is home to more than 40 million people. The country is currently living through an ongoing war with Russia, a reality that affects daily life across its cities and regions. Despite this, the resilience of the Ukrainian people is striking, and deep-rooted traditions continue to shape everyday life. Travelers who come to Ukraine are drawn in by the authentic, vibrant culture, and are often met with warmth by locals who are deeply proud and passionate of their country.
Capital: Kyiv
Currency: Ukrainian Hryvnia
Language: Ukrainian
When to visit: April to November
1) Lviv
Lviv feels different from almost anywhere else in Ukraine. Sitting in the far west of the country, close to the borders with Poland and Slovakia, Lviv has a distinctly Central European atmosphere that sets it apart from the other Ukrainian cities immediately. Around 700,000 people live here, and it is probably the safest big city to visit during this time of hardship within Ukraine.
Things to do:
The historic center of Lviv, just known as Lviv Old Town, is the top attraction of the city and just feels beautifully European. Inside you have Rynok Square, the fascinating lively main square, and the place where Lviv Town Hall sits (you can go up to the lookout for views). Out on the edge of the old town is Lviv National Opera House, which has been open since 1900 and stands out with its ornate interior and exterior design. The two main cathedrals in the old town are the Armenian Cathedral and the Latin Cathedral, but really you should see all the old town sights just from walking around, it’s the best area in the city. Outside of the old town, you can see Castle Hill, where on top of it sits ruins of the Lviv High Castle, and it makes for the best viewpoint of Lviv city and old town. Make sure you head up there to see Lviv from above, and enjoy your exploration of the city.
How to get there:
Air travel is currently suspended, so take a bus or train from a neighboring country like Poland, Slovakia or Hungary, or inside Ukraine.
2) Kyiv
Ukraine’s capital and largest city, home to ~3 million people, plus big views and striking architecture. Many tourists come to Kyiv for the architecture - you can see golden-domed churches all over the city as well as more architecture which dates back centuries. It’s definitely the cultural capital of the country, and locals are for the most part really happy to see people take an interest in their beautiful cities, especially Kyiv.
Things to do:
Kyiv is very large and separated by the Dnieper River, so let’s start with Sophia Square and the St Sophia Cathedral. The cathedral is found in Old Kiev, and one is one of the main attractions of the city, being built in 1037 and complete with the iconic golden dome tops. Inside you’ll find ancient mosaics and frescoes that connect directly to the city’s earliest history. Walk a couple streets down to Independence Square, the symbolic heart of modern Ukraine. It’s a major transport hub and meeting place, but also a site of historic protests and national moments. Now back to the churches, closer to the river bank we have St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery AND St. Andrew's Church just one more street over as well. Both of these buildings are iconic for their classic Ukrainian architectural style and are just two more to add on the never ending list of stunning cathedrals in Kyiv. St. Volodymyr's Cathedral also sits west of the St Sophia Cathedral, just off Khreshchatyk Street which is one of the main streets of the city you’ll probably end up walking down. Now, one of the coolest things I have seen in the city is the statue which goes by the name of Mother Ukraine. It’s far away from all of the main sights and overlooks the city in such an eerie and incredible way, you just have to see it. Lastly, I of course have to talk about Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, one of the most important religious complexes in all of Eastern Europe. This massive monastery sits on a hill overlooking the city and river, and has churches, bell towers, and underground catacombs making it just such an unmissable spot.
How to get there:
You can take trains and buses from many neighboring countries like Poland, Romania, Slovakia, etc. It’s the most efficient way.
3) Odesa
Odesa (or Odessa) is the first coastal city on this list, sitting on the northern part of the Black Sea. This gives it the more breezy and lighter feel, which you can feel as you step onto the many streets which line up with sea views and are surrounded by grand 19th century architecture. It’s got beaches and unique vibes which is what attracts many travelers touring around Ukraine.
Things to do:
A lot of the cool stuff is indeed by the water, but if you start in Odesa Centre then you’ll be able to explore the lively area which is filled with art stuff and beautiful buildings. The most notable is probably Odessa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet, one of the most beautiful opera houses in Eastern Europe, with such a grand interior. One of the cities most iconic landmarks in general though, is Potemkin Stairs which were built in the 19th century as a ceremonial entrance from the harbor into the city. There is a lot more to see in Odesa Centre, so wander the streets and you can spot all the museums, galleries and historic buildings. Over to the waterfront, Odesa Port, Lanzherone Beach and Arcadia Beach are some of the three best spots, however you are by no means limited to those two beaches. Arcadia is the best for nightlife, and locals refer to it as the ‘city’s Ibiza.’
How to get there:
There are trains mainly from Kyiv, as well as buses from other international and domestic cities.
4) Kamianets-Podilskyi
Kamianets-Podilskyi is a small city in Western Ukraine, best defined by the incredible castle which dates back to the 1300’s. It’s a compact and easily walkable city, filled with history which you can imagine as you walk through the old stone streets where the Ottomans, Russians, and more used to walk through. Many pass through here just to visit the big fortress and surrounding sights.
Things to do:
Of course, the castle I’m talking about is Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle, the city’s defining landmark and one of the most impressive fortresses in Ukraine. Sitting at the edge of the canyon, it once controlled the only entrance into the old town. You can really see how strategic the site was for centuries as you explore the fortifications which still stand. Once you’ve spent some time exploring the castle, walk through the Old Town streets to see the historic courtyards and alleys, and head to the Observation Point of the Old Town to see it from a different perspective. If you really want to make your visit worthwhile, take a day trip to Vodospad Burbun which is a beautiful waterfall with a swimming area which feels straight out of Thailand.
How to get there:
Regular trains and buses run from Kyiv and Lviv.