Places to Visit in Ukraine

List of Places to Visit in Ukraine

Boasting a strong culture and heritage, Ukraine is a land yet to be tapped by tourists. Though several tour companies have started providing access to its beauty, the country has a lot more to offer. From lazing on the beach to adventure sports in the mountains, there is something for every type of traveller. Take a look at some of the best places to visit in Ukraine below:

• Kyiv
• Chernihiv
• Lviv
• Odessa
• Kamianets Podilskyi

While you read more about the best places to visit in Ukraine, don’t forget to read up on important requirements such as applying for a visa for Ukraine or overseas travel insurance for Ukraine. This way, you can have fun exploring the country without worrying about any unexpected expenses.

Kyiv

Among the oldest cities in Ukraine is the country's capital, Kyiv. Most visitors enter Ukraine through Kyiv and it's hard to miss this place thanks to its historical importance and stunning attractions. With over a thousand-year history, you can visit the city's lush churches, fortresses and old narrow streets. The city also boasts one of the highest monuments in the world and is also the greenest metropolis in Europe. If you're into religious sites and monuments, don't forget to visit St. Sophia Cathedral, St. Vladimir's Cathedral, St. Nicholas Church, the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Pirogoshchi.

If you want to stroll around the city, visit the historic Khreshchatyk Street and the Sophia Kyivska National Reserve to buy some souvenirs. The city also has more than 60 parks and is a wonderful place to walk through, making it one of the greenest places to visit in Ukraine. If visiting during winters, visit the Volodymyrska Hill, one of the best parks in Kyiv. There are also several winter festivals held in the Expo Center of Ukraine, where you can try ice skating, extreme rides and several other activities. The city also has the Chernobyl National Museum, exhibiting the details of the unfortunate nuclear disaster. Other interesting places worth visiting include Pinchuk Art Center, Kyiv in Miniature Park, and the stunning Gothic-style St. Nicholas Cathedral.

Chernihiv

Among the most ancient places to visit in Ukraine is Chernihiv, a place mentioned as early as 907. It is believed to be one of the most mystical cities in the world with several myths, legends and epics. The city is famous for its incredible variety of religious architecture and buildings from the 10th to 13th centuries as well as stunning medieval Slavic church architecture. The city also has one of Ukraine's oldest churches, the Transfiguration Cathedral. Built in the 11th century, the church has ancient interiors and beautiful frescoes.

The city has three rivers passing through it and some of the most beautiful landscapes. Be it culture lovers, foodies or backpackers, the city is extremely affordable and is packed with more things that can be covered in a single trip. Important things to do here include walking on the main street of this city, the Myru Avenue. The street is lined with neat lawns, flowers, cafes, beautiful fountains and benches for pedestrians. You can also visit the Krasna Square which has a church, a popular cafe and a light and music fountain.

The oldest part of Chernihiv also has its biggest park, the Dotnetspark which used to be a fortress before. Don't forget to visit the Park Boldyna Hora to visit some of the oldest caves, underground churches and relics. Another must-see attraction is St. Anthony Underground Caves which date back to 1069 and are known for their supernatural experiences. If looking for a quiet time, head to the Gold Bank City Beach which is a clean and beautiful place to have a swim or simply rest.

Lviv

One of the most popular cities, Lviv is among the best places to visit in Ukraine. Known for its chocolate, coffee, and pretty cobbled streets, Lviv resembles any European city with a perfect atmosphere. The city also has important historical sites and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During Christmas, the city offers incredible sights thanks to its numerous churches, castles, and temples along with its atmospheric cafes.

Another interesting thing to do in Lviv is visiting their Art-Yards, some hidden courtyards that have a lot of artistic gems tucked away from touristy places. Lviv is also the beer capital of Ukraine with some of the best freshly brewed beer. You should also visit the Pravda Beer Theater which consists of its own brewery, a restaurant and a mini beer museum. Other interesting places you can go to include Stryiskyi Park and the Lychakiv Cemetery which is also a cemetery museum.

The city is also popular for its sweets so don't forget to visit a few of its bakeries and candy shops. IF you're up for some adventure, you can explore some of Lviv's underground dungeons and tunnels. These are the best experienced during a tour with a local guide and you will get to experience some ancient crypts, cellars and secret corridors under the city's foundation. The city also has one of Ukraine's seven open-air museums, the Shevchenkovskiy Hai historic village to learn more about Ukraine's customs. architecture, life and other aspects.

Odesa: City by the Black Sea

Established in the 18th century, Odesa used to be an important port near the Black Sea and has become the favourite holiday destination of Ukrainians thanks to its mild climate, beaches and culture. The city boasts several stunning pieces of architecture including an opera house, palaces, boulevards, stairways and cultured parks making it one of the finest places to visit in Ukraine as well as Europe. It is most popular for being home to Odesa Catacombs, the longest catacombs in the world. Langeron Beach is among the finest beaches in the country and one of the best places to visit in Ukraine for an affordable summer holiday. The city's magnificent Opera House was built in the 1880s and offers brilliant opera and ballet performances at very reasonable prices.

The city also has several ceremonious stairs, Potemkin Stairs being one of the most popular ones thanks to their stunning granite usage. For shoppers and diners, Deribasovskaya Street is one of Odessa's most important areas and is lined with several 20th-century mansions. Nearby is the City Garden, Odessa's oldest park which was landscaped in 1803 and is famous for its paved paths, a beautiful pavilion, Odessa Philharmonic summer theatre and beautiful flowerbeds. The city is ridden with magnificent architecture and sculptures with some of the best views in the Odessa Passage, famous for its metal and glass canopy. Finally, don't forget the Archaeological Museum, the oldest museum in Ukraine with more than 170,000 exhibits.

Kamianets Podilskyi

Among the most ancient places to visit in Ukraine is the Kamianets Podilskyi with centuries-old history and most picturesque landscapes. It is most popular for being the host of Ukraine's annual hot air balloon festival but has several other attractions that will leave visitors spellbound. The city's main attraction is the ancient 14th-century Kamianets Podilskyi Castle, famous for its strength and design. During the hot air balloon festival, you can get one of the best aerial views of this castle as well as other parts of the city.

The city also has a Museum of Miniatures to experience several Ukrainian fortresses and castles in one place. An extremely green and picturesque place, head to the Smotrichsky Canyon by the Smotrych River to witness some of the steepest slopes and beautiful waterfalls. For a taste of the authentic Ukrainian experience, you must visit the Old Town. This place not only has the best souvenirs but also some of the best sightseeing places. You can also spot the 15th-century architectural ensemble of Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral famous for its 40-meter high minaret and a golden sculpture of the Madonna.

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