Best Places to Visit in Ukraine, Top Attractions

Ukraine offers many attractions for tourists, including festivals celebrating its rich culture and a handsome selection of centuries-old architecture. From the rolling countryside to the cobblestone streets of old city centers, Ukraine's people are just as diverse as its landscape, and they are some of the most hospitable folks in Europe. 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! 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. Today, you'll find an undiscovered Eastern European gem in search of its own identity and making a unique mark in the world of tourism. When you visit, make sure to chat with a local at one of the many delectable eateries or markets. Old recipes are being reinterpreted with modern flair. Everyone wants to practice their English, so when conversations happen, use the opportunity to gain a local's perspective on the best Ukraine has to offer. While you are on a whistle-stop tour to the various Ukraine Attractions, do not forget to explore Kiev Attractions as the official tourism website rightly states -‘Everything Starts in Kyiv’. The city is one of the largest and greenest in Europe and is a treasure trove of culture. To list a few, Places to visit in Kiev range from historic churches, magnificent architectural treasures to classically modern attractions, recreational activities, shopping and so much more. Give yourself a break from the monotony and plug in the wings to your dream Ukraine tour.

#1- Slavske
One of the places to visit in Ukraine is Slavske, an urban village and popular ski resort located in the Skole Beskids range of the Carpathian mountains. It is one of the most popular destinations which tourists visit for indulging in winter sports. The resort has 9 trails on slopes of the beautiful Mt Trostian, Mt Pohar, and Politekh mountain, which tourists prefer for skiing. The slopes of  Slavske are suitable only for tourists of intermediate and advanced levels.

#2- Yalta 
Feel attracted to visit Yalta owing to its scenic beauty of architectural monuments surrounded by magnificent mountains. Go for sightseeing to visit places such as Massandra Park, Yalta embankment, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, “Skazka'' Zoo, Emir Bukharsky palace, etc. The city also has several museums for those travelers, with a love for knowing the history of the place. If you prefer some activity, take a trip on the Yalta ropeway to reach the top of the dome-shaped hill Darsan to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

#3- Bakota
Bakota is a submerged village in Podilla, a place near Kamyanets-Podilsky. You will love visiting this place with a silent atmosphere and an amazing landscape surrounding a magnificent lake. You will also be drawn to this amazing place for the presence of the St. Michael’s Monastery, the oldest male monasteries located inside the White Mountains near the lake. Feel mesmerized looking at the white mountain made of limestone and the monastery built within. Bakota has several adventurous sports on offer for its visitors like a wakeboard, parachute, water sports like rafting, etc.

#4- Myrhorod
The city of Myrhorod with the Dnieper river flowing through it has a lot to offer to its guests. The city has water bodies, parks, playgrounds making it an ideal location for activities such as paddling, hiking on off-road trails, canoeing, etc. If you are looking forward to rejuvenating yourself, you may like visiting this city for its spas, wellness centers, and dip in Turkish baths.

#5- Chernobyl
Chernobyl is the site of the infamous nuclear disaster which had caused the deaths of thousands of people in 1986. It is a must inclusion in the list of places to visit in Ukraine. Visit this ghost town in the northern town, with an eerie feeling. Feel devastated while witnessing the demolished buildings and abandoned possessions of the residents who managed to escape with their lives. The accompanying guide makes the place come alive with detailed narrations of the incident.

#6- Kharkiv
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.

#7- Kiev
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.

#8- 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.

#9- Rakhiv
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.

#10- Lutsk
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.