Ukraine
Ukraine Country Guide
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia to the east and northeast, Belarus to the north, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the west, and Romania and Moldova to the southwest. It has a coastline along the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov to the south. Ukraine is the second-largest country in Europe after Russia.
Ukraine is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. The Black Sea coast is a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing. Unfortunately, since 2014, the eastern part of the country has been embroiled in conflict. If you are considering traveling to Ukraine, it is important to be aware of the safety situation before you go.
Things To Know Before Visiting Ukraine
- The security situation in Ukraine is complex due to the ongoing conflict with Russia. While many parts of the country are safe for tourists, it’s important to check the latest travel advisories and be prepared for potential disruptions.
- Visas are required for most nationalities to enter Ukraine, except for citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada, and some other countries who can visit visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Travel within Ukraine is mostly done by train or bus, as the airspace remains closed.
- Ukraine boasts a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historical sites waiting to be explored.
Cultural And Local Ukraine Tips
- Ukrainians tend to be more formal at first, but once trust is established, they are very warm and welcoming.
- A firm handshake, direct eye contact, and stating your name is the typical greeting.
- Close friends of the same gender may kiss each other on the cheek three times starting with the left cheek.
- Avoid waving with your finger, which is considered rude.
- Tipping 5-10% is common at restaurants.
- Remove your shoes when entering a Ukrainian home.
- Avid yellow flowers, as they symbolize separation.
Is Ukraine Expensive?
No, Ukraine is not an expensive country and is considered a very budget-friendly destination, especially compared to Western European countries.
Is Visiting Ukraine Worth It?
Ukraine is a relatively affordable and safe travel destination. Ukrainians are known for their friendly hospitality towards tourists. The country offers diverse landscapes, rich culture, and affordable prices, making it a worthwhile destination for adventurous travelers.
Is Ukraine Safe?
Ukraine is not currency considered a safe travel destination due to the ongoing Russian invasion and military conflict. while some regions in western Ukraine are relatively safer, there is no completely safe area as the threat of missile strikes remains nationwide. Ukraine’s airspace is closed and roads may be damaged or exposed to military action.
Best Cities In Ukraine
City Name | Best For | Best Attractions | Average Trip Cost |
Kyiv | History, Culture, Architecture | Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, St. Sophia Cathedral, Independence Square | $50-$100 per day |
Lviv | Charming Old Town, Cafes, Chocolate | Rynok Square, Lviv Opera House, Potocki Palace | $40-$80 per day |
Odesa | Beaches, Nightlife, Cuisine | Potemkin Stairs, Odesa Opera House, Arcadia Beach | $30-$70 per day |
Kamianets-Podilskyi | Medieval Architecture, Castles | Kamianets-Podilskyi Old Town, Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle | $40-$80 per day |
Chernivtsi | Unique Architecture, University Town | Chernivtsi University, Residence of Bukovinian and Dalmatian Metropolitans | $35-$65 per day |
- Average trip cost is a rough estimate and can vary depending on travel style, accommodation choices, and activities.
- Due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, it is currently not recommended to travel there. This table is for informational purposes only.
Best Ukraine Attractions
here are the best attractions and things to do in Ukraine:
Kyiv (Kiev) Attractions:
- St. Sophia's St. Sophia's Cathedral: Impressive 11th-century cathedral with stunning mosaics and frescoes
- Kyiv Pechersk Lavra: Historic Eastern Orthodox monastery complex with catacombs and museums
- Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square): Central square and site of major political events
- St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery: Beautiful 12th-century monastery with golden domes
- Khreschatyk Street: Kyiv's main street with shops, restaurants, and the Kyiv Funicular
Lviv Attractions:
- Lviv Historical Center: Charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Lviv Opera House: Stunning 19th-century opera house
- Rynok Square: Lively central square with cafes and architecture
Other Top Attractions:
- Chornobyl: The site of the infamous 1986 nuclear disaster
- Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle: Impressive medieval castle in western Ukraine
- Odesa Opera House: Elegant 19th-century opera house on the Black Sea
- Tunnel of Love: Enchanting forested railway tunnel in Klevan
- Sunflower Fields: Vast fields of sunflowers, a major crop in Ukraine
The Best Time To Visit Ukraine
The best time to visit Ukraine is from May to September, with the peak tourist season being from June to August.
- Summer (June to August) offers warm weather ideal for beach and outdoor activities.
- Spring (May to June) and Fall (September to October) provide pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with fewer crowds and lower prices.
- Winter ( November to March) brings cold temperatures, often below freezing, but it is a good time for skiing in the Carpathian Mountains.
Where Is Ukraine?
Ukraine is in Eastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. it is bordered by Belarus to the north, Russia to the east, the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov to the south, Moldova and Romania to the southwest, and Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the west.
What Is The Capital Of Ukraine?
Kyiv (Kiev) is the capital and largest city of Ukraine. Kyiv is located in north-central Ukraine on the Dnieper River. It has a population of around 2.8 million. The city is an important industrial, scientific, educational, and cultural center of Eastern Europe.
Languages of Ukraine
The official language of Ukraine is Ukrainian, a Slavic language. Russian is the second most widely spoken language, used by 34% of the population in their personal life.
In the capital city of Kyiv, English is commonly used in business, tourism, and higher education settings. Younger Ukrainians tend to have better English skills compared to older generations.
Ukraine Time Zone
Ukraine is in the Eastern European Time (EET) zone, which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).
Currency Of Ukraine
The official currency of Ukraine is the Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH). The symbol for the hryvnia is ₴.
US dollars and euros are the easiest foreign currencies to exchange in Ukraine. ATMs are widely available in cities and credit cards are commonly accepted. However, cash is still useful to have as a backup.
Ukraine Flag
The national flag of Ukraine consists of equally sized horizontal bands of blue and yellow. The colors are said to represent the blue sky above and the golden wheat fields below.
What Is The Population Of Ukraine?
The population of Ukraine is approximately 37.9 million as of 2024. This represents a decrease from previous years due to factors such as the ongoing refugee crisis, loss of territory, and declining birth rates.
Strange Laws In Ukraine
- Ukraine has banned smoking and drinking alcohol in public places.
- It is illegal to chew gum in public in Ukraine unless it is for medicinal purposes.
- Ukraine has strict laws against public displays of Soviet communist symbols and propaganda.
- Ukraine does allow the purchase and consumption of draft beer in supermarkets.
- Similar to some other countries, wearing camouflage clothing in Ukraine.
- Taking photos inside government buildings, metro stations, and military areas is generally not allowed.