Best Things to Do in Ukraine

1. Prymorskyi (Seaside) Boulevard

Known as one of the most beautiful streets in Odessa, take a stroll along this seaside boulevard, line with trees that run parallel to the Black Sea. There is a funicular for those who want to reach the Marine Passenger Terminal. If you’re looking to for a good workout, skip the funicular and climb the Potemkin Stairs (there are 192 steps!!) to reach the water.

2. Ornate Opera House

Listed by Forbes Magazine as one of the 11 Most interesting sights in Eastern Europe, don’t miss out on the Odessa National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet. The Opera House is worth a visit alone for the amazing architecture and history. The acoustics are one of a kind –a low-tone whisper coming from the stage can be heard from any part of the hall. Grab a ticket to a ballet or an opera to experience it yourself!

3. Lviv Clock Tower

For those who are looking for a great birds eye view of Lviv, make a visit to City Hall. Climb the winding stairs of the Clock Tower, and soak in the beautiful views of Lviv. There is not an elevator to the top, so this activity is better suited for those who can climb many stairs, as there are over 300.

4. Lviv Old Town

Soak in the history of Lviv with a stroll through the Old Town. Walk along the cobblestone streets and admire the architecture. Old Town is filled with cafes, chocolate, and bars. Browse the shops and Mentioned above, don’t miss out on the Clock Tower for incredible views of Lviv. Hop aboard the Wonder Train, equipped with multi-language audio systems, that gives visitors a tour of the main attractions of Lviv.

5. Maidan Square

Simply called Maidan, Maidan Nezalezhnosti, translates to Independence Square, is centrally located in Ukraine’s capital city of Kiev. Here, you will find various street food options, including mobile coffee vans. Fountains surround the area, as well as the 200 foot statue of Berehynia, a woman holding a guelder-rose branch.

6. St. Sophia Cathedral 

Located in Kiev, this is the city’s oldest standing church, built in 1037. The Cathedral was the first World Heritage site in Ukraine. Visit the Bell Tower for some of the best views of the city. Admire the paintings that cover the wall, and the gorgeous architecture that fills the interior. There are different ticket options, depending on what parts of the Cathedral you would like to visit.

7. Pechersk Lavra Monastery

Overlooking the Dnipro River, Pechersk Monastery is divided into the Upper Lavra, and the Lower Lavra. The Upper is owned by the government, and contains the Great Bell Tower (Climb it for another great view Of Kiev), numerous churches and two Museums – The Museum of Historical Treasures and the Museum of Micro-Miniatures. The Lower Lavra is filled with narrow passages and caves. While there is no admission cost, visitors must purchase a candle. The Upper Lavra requires an admission fee.

8. The National Museum of the History of Ukraine

Dating back to 1899, this museum is a great place to learn about the history of Ukraine. The museum divides its history by floors, with the earliest history on the bottom floor. As you walk up each floor, the history becomes more modern. Exhibits include archeological items such as paintings, sculptures, early books, and ethnographic material.

9. Chernobyl

For those looking for an interesting side trip, consider Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, located 100 miles north of Kiev. In 1986, an explosion through Reactor 4 at the power plant resulted in the world’s worst nuclear accident. This site is now open to tourism, and allows for visitors to learn about the disaster, seeing first-hand the result of the explosion. Visitors are often intrigued to visit a place that has been abandoned for over three decades, and to see the remnants. Visits are highly regulated, and safe, with multiple check points.

10. Kamyanets-Podolsky

Another great option for a day trip. Located in Western Ukraine, Kamyanets-Podolsky sits on the Smotrych river,  and is a great option for an overnight trip from Lviv. Lviv is about 4-5 hours away. Visit the castle, check out the Smotrysky Canyon, or walk through Stare Misto.