As compared to other parts of Europe, Ukraine has been under-visited for the most part, but it is a proud and colorful country, which is situated on the Black Sea and is full of craggy mountain plans, wild forest and rugged beaches. With a history that’s filled with diverse cultural influences and folk traditions, Ukraine offers tourists and travelers traditional villages, modern cities and ski resorts. There are many areas that boast UNESCO World Heritage Sites and you can also see some historical relics that are quite well preserved. If you are planning a visit to Ukraine, listed below are the top places that should be on your must-see list:
- Odesa
Resting on the shores of the majestic Black Sea, Odesa is the third-largest city in Ukraine and a seaport. It has become a trade city and it attracts visitors from all over the world because of its clement weather, sandy beaches and its sparkling waters. The Lanzheron Beach, in particular, draws a lot of attention and is regarded as the ideal spot for sun worshippers.
Also called the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’, Odesa is a large city, yet it provides an intimate feel with lots of nooks and crannies for exploring, delightful houses that are painted in pastel shades and labyrinthine lanes. The mighty stairway that takes you from the center of town to the beachfront is Odesa’s big claim to fame. You can enjoy some culture at the Odesa Opera House or visit leafy parks, such as City Gardens.
- Poltava
The city of Poltava is known for its military relics because this is where a legendary battle took place between the Russian Tsar Peter I and the Cossacks in the 18th century. These include October Park, the Column of Glory, along with the area of the Poltava Battlefield that has been preserved. The city also has some museums to offer, a number of which are dedicated to highlighting Poltava’s military history, along with its main cathedral called the Assumption Cathedral that has a striking belfry. There was a time when it played a pivotal role in history, but now Poltava is a serene and relaxed cultural city that has plenty of museums, theatres and orchestras.
- Myrhorod
Perched on the Khorol River, Myrhorod is mostly a spa town that gained popularity because of the mineral properties that were discovered in its underground springs. The water is slightly salty and can come in handy for improving digestive issues and there are various spots where you can also bathe. If you don’t want to swim, you are free to take a boat and there are various quirky features that you can enjoy. These include a musical water fountain and a towering illuminated windmill. The city also has woodlands that are quite famous and you can take a carriage ride for a romantic experience through the lush landscape.
- Chernihiv
Dating back to the 7th century, one of the most ancient cities of Ukraine is Chernihiv that sits on the banks of the Desna River. If you want to take a trip back in time, this is the city you visit, which boasts some of the most beautiful buildings in all of Ukraine. This includes Catherine’s Church that you can recognize instantly because of its golden cupolas. The Pyatnytska Church is another religious building that you will find in the Red Square of the city and it is the perfect place to take a lazy afternoon stroll.
- Chernivtsi
Situated at the base of the Carpathian Mountains, the city of Chernivtsi is renowned for its designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. This was the former complex of the high priests that was constructed in Romanesque and Byzantine styles and is now the National University. The architecture of the city is said to be quite similar to that of Vienna due to which some parts of Chernivtsi are referred to as ‘Little Vienna’.
- Uzhhorod
Located near the border of Hungary and on the border of Slovakia, Uzhhorod is a diverse and vibrant town that boasts a sizeable Romanian and Hungarian population. You can enjoy a cosmopolitan feel that has helped Uzhhorod in becoming a premium tourist attraction. A lot of people visit this Ukrainian city for checking out the Greek-Catholic Cathedral that dates back to the 17th century and the Uzhhorod Castle that was built in the 9th century. You can also explore the famous wine cellars in the city, or you can try out delicacy bogracs, a type of goulash that originated in Hungary.
- Lviv
Known as Ukraine’s artistic hub, Lviv has a wealth of ancient buildings and monuments that prompted UNESCO to declare its historic center as a World Heritage Site. A lot of these can be traced as far back as the 13th century and other than these historic jewels, you can also check out the numerous galleries. This includes the famous Lviv National Art Gallery, which has more than 50,000 works including sculptures, paintings, along art installations. If you enjoy ballet or opera, then Lviv is definitely the place to visit because it offers opulent performances and classically trained performers on a regular basis.
- Zhovkva
In the West of Ukraine is the city of Zhovkva, which was founded back in the 16th century and it is the place to see if you love checking out a horde of historical gems. These include the Church of Saint Lawrence, which is considered an iconic building because of its domed roof. There is also the Holy Trinity Church, which dates as far back as the 17th century and is made of wood. It was recently declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from that, you will find a number of other memorable ancients sites in the city, including the restored Zhovkva Castle that now boasts a cultural center for anyone who wants to learn more about the culture and history of this part of Ukraine.
Add these places to your list of places to visit in Ukraine and you will have a learning and fun experience.
