Even though Ukraine is one of the largest countries in Europe, it is also quite underrated.
The former Soviet nation has struggled to attract visitors in the past due to territorial, political and economic difficulties. Nonetheless, it is known to be the home of some of the most amazing places that offer an excellent range of tourist activities.
Ancient castles, vibrant cities, diversity of landscapes, stunning countryside and a welcoming and warm atmosphere make Ukraine a special destination.
In fact, the lack of tourism has lent authenticity and charm to this country that you may not find elsewhere.
Some of the best places that you will definitely fall in love with when visiting this eastern European country are:
Lviv
Often referred to as Ukraine’s cultural capital, this city boasts the most western architecture than any other in the country.
When you visit Lviv, you can see the UNESCO protected Old Town, which is famous for its magnificent churches, beautiful narrow streets, charming atmosphere, and fascinating museums.
Lviv is welcoming and cozy, offering you great nightlife, cool bars, and an excellent range of themed restaurants. Regardless of the season, you can visit this city for a weekend to experience the Old Town vibes.
In fact, there are so many things to do in Lviv you may want to extend your trip longer than originally planned.
Kiev
A rich and long history, beautiful churches with golden domes, nonstop city life, and eclectic architecture are the definition of Ukraine’s capital city of Kiev.
It is one of the most notable cities in Eastern Europe and it boasts two of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, which are St. Sophia Cathedral and Kiev Pechersk Lavra (Monastery of the Caves).
You can also check out the gargoyle smothered and awe-inspiring Art Nouveau-style House or a historic and steep street called Andriyivskyy Descent. For more information about traveling to Kiev, visit Kiev tours and travel packages website.
Pereiaslav-Khmelnytskyi
Also known as the City of Museums, this city can be found about 50 miles south of Kiev. Pereiaslav-Khmelnytskyi has approximately 24 venues that host a wide variety of artifacts.
Some of these include the Museum of Space, the Museum of Bread, the Museum of Ukrainian National Dress, and the Museum of Rushnyk (traditional Ukrainian ritual cloth).
However, the most impressive venue of all is the open-air and vast Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life that exhibits objects from the past, some of which can be traced to the beginning of the 20th century.
Kharkiv
There was a time when Kharkiv was the capital of Ukraine. Now, it is the country’s second city and is recognized as the city of students because they drive the thriving bar and restaurant scene. There is a lot of culture and a horde of museums that have made Kharkiv an interesting destination in Eastern Ukraine. One of the largest squares in Europe is Freedom Square, which can be found in this city.
Similarly, one of the greatest examples of constructivist architecture is the Derzhprom building.
It was fully built in 1928 and at the time it was regarded as the most spacious single structure worldwide.
Chernihiv
One of the oldest cities in Ukraine is Chernihiv. There was a time when it was an important and prospering center of medieval Kievan Rus, which was the first East Slavic State.
One of the oldest churches in Ukraine can be found here i.e. the Transfiguration Cathedral. Its construction was finished in the 11th century and you will find ancient interiors and stunning frescoes here.
Moreover, the city also comprises of several breathtaking examples of Slavic ecclesiastical architecture.
As a matter of fact, the city of Chernihiv houses one-third of all of the historic landmarks of Eastern Europe before the Mongol invasion.
Odessa
There are plenty of treasures that are just waiting to be discovered in Odessa, which has the largest seaports in Ukraine and the trading hub of the country boasting a spectacular historic district.
The central area of the city has tons of sites to offer to visitors whereas those who are interested in architecture can also find numerous places that are a unique blend of different building styles.
Odessa is also an excellent city to visit for sea enthusiasts because it offers kilometers of Black Sea sandy beaches and there is plenty of entertainment to be found during the day and at night as well.
It should also be noted that this city is home to one of the most beautiful theatres in Europe; the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater that was built by an Austrian architectural studio in the 19th century.
Find out more on the Odessa Ukraine vacation packages website.
Uzhhorod
This little country can be found right on the border of Slovakia and in the last 100 years, it has been claimed by five different countries.
When you visit Uzhhorod’s central district, you will be able to get a firsthand look at its historical affiliations because there are classical Hungarian mansions standing right next to Czech functional buildings.
You will also come across Catholic, Russian-Orthodox or Greek-Orthodox churches very close to each other. Uzhhorod remains a vibrant part of the Zakarpattia province in Ukraine and is considered the gateway to the beautiful Carpathian Mountains.
Khotyn
One of the oldest towns in Ukraine, Khotyn has transformed quite rapidly into a relevant trade and defense center of the region. The first time the town’s name appeared was in a historical text that can be traced all the way back to 1001. One of the must-visit places in this town is the Khotyn Fortress.
The building of this fortification complex first began in 1325. However, modifications were later made to it in the 1380s and then the 1460s. Eight meter-thick walls encircle the palace and the five commanding towers only strengthen it further.
Ornamental geometric motifs adorn the walls’ external surfaces, which are quite similar to Podolia art. You will also be interested to know that there are many legends that have been associated with Khotyn Fortress and it can be fun discovering them.
Your visit to Ukraine will not be complete until you visit all these places and experience them firsthand to fully understand what this country has to offer.