Ukraine 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Travel Itinerary for Ukraine

Day 1: Kyiv (Kiev)

Places to Visit

  1. Saint Sophia Cathedral - A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
  2. Golden Gate - The main historic landmark of Kyiv, originally built in the 11th century as the main entrance to the city.
  3. Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti) - A significant square in the heart of Kyiv, known for its role in several historical events.
  4. Saint Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery - An Orthodox church complex with beautiful golden domes.
  5. Andriyivskyy Descent - A picturesque street filled with art galleries, souvenir shops, and historic buildings.

Activities

  1. Visit the Museum of the Great Patriotic War - Learn about Ukraine’s history during World War II.
  2. Take a boat tour on Dnipro River - Enjoy beautiful views of Kyiv from the water.
  3. Attend a performance at the National Opera of Ukraine - Experience Ukrainian culture through music and dance.

Things to Know

  • The official language is Ukrainian, but Russian is also widely spoken.
  • The currency used is the Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH).
  • Tipping in restaurants is expected, usually around 10%.
  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of many countries need a visa to enter Ukraine. Check the Ukrainian Embassy website or a reliable travel advisory service for the latest information on visa requirements for your nationality.

Transportation

Kyiv has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and the metro. Taxis are also available, but be sure to use reputable companies to avoid scams.

Day 2: Chernihiv

Places to Visit

  1. Chernihiv Historical Museum - Learn about the history of Chernihiv and its role in Ukrainian culture.
  2. Annunciation Cathedral - A beautiful Orthodox cathedral dating back to the 17th century.
  3. St. Elijah’s Church - An impressive example of Baroque architecture with stunning frescoes inside.
  4. Upper City (Verkhovyi Zamk) - Walk through the historic upper city and enjoy panoramic views of Chernihiv.

Activities

  1. Take a guided tour of the old town - Learn about the history and significance of various landmarks in Chernihiv.
  2. Visit local artisan workshops - Buy traditional Ukrainian crafts, such as pysanky (Easter eggs), linen, and pottery.

Things to Know

  • Chernihiv is located approximately 160 km northeast of Kyiv and can be reached by train or bus.
  • Accommodation options in Chernihiv are more limited than in Kyiv, so book ahead if possible.

Day 3: Lviv

Places to Visit

  1. Lviv High Castle - Offers panoramic views of the city and is a great place to learn about Lviv’s history.
  2. Lviv Old Town - A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and unique cafes.
  3. St. George’s Cathedral - An impressive Orthodox church with beautiful frescoes and intricate detailing.
  4. Lviv Opera House - A stunning Baroque-style building that is one of the most beautiful opera houses in Europe.
  5. Lviv Coffee Mining Museum - Learn about the history of coffee in Ukraine and enjoy a cup in an underground mine cafe.

Activities

  1. Take a food tour - Sample traditional Ukrainian dishes like varenyky (dumplings), borsch (beetroot soup), and kovbasa (sausage).
  2. Visit the Lviv National Museum - Explore exhibits on the history, art, and culture of Ukraine.
  3. Walk along Rynok Square - The main square in Lviv, filled with cafes, shops, and historic buildings.

Things to Know

  • Lviv is located approximately 700 km west of Kyiv and can be reached by train or bus.
  • Accommodation options in Lviv are plentiful, catering to all budgets.
  • The city is famous for its coffee houses, so be sure to try some while you’re there!

Day 4: Odesa

Places to Visit

  1. Potemkin Stairs - A grand staircase that leads down to the port and offers beautiful views of the city.
  2. Catherine’s Cathedral - An impressive Neoclassical cathedral named after Catherine II, the Empress of Russia.
  3. Odesa Archaeological Museum - Learn about the history of the region through exhibits on ancient civilizations and artifacts.
  4. Odesa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet - Attend a performance at this beautiful theater.
  5. Museum of Western & Eastern Art - Features an extensive collection of works by European and Ukrainian artists.

Activities

  1. Take a walk along the Odesa Seafront Promenade - Enjoy views of the Black Sea and soak up the sun.
  2. Visit the Dolphinarium - Watch a show featuring dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals.
  3. Take a boat tour to the open sea - Enjoy beautiful views of the coastline and potentially spot some dolphins!

Things to Know

  • Odesa is located approximately 500 km southwest of Kyiv and can be reached by train or bus.
  • Accommodation options in Odesa are plentiful, catering to all budgets.
  • Beaches in Odesa can get very crowded during the summer months.

Day 5: Kamianets-Podilskyi

Places to Visit

  1. Kamianets Castle - A stunning medieval castle perched on a cliff overlooking the Smotrych River.
  2. Old Town (Starodubivska Street) - A charming historic district filled with colorful buildings, cafes, and shops.
  3. Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour - A beautiful Orthodox church with intricate detailing and stunning views of Kamianets Castle.
  4. Kamianets Underground City - Explore a network of underground tunnels and caves beneath the city.

Activities

  1. Take a guided tour of Kamianets-Podilskyi - Learn about the history and significance of various landmarks in the city.
  2. Visit local artisan workshops - Buy traditional Ukrainian crafts, such as pottery, woven textiles, and embroidery.

Things to Know

  • Kamianets-Podilskyi is located approximately 300 km southwest of Lviv and can be reached by train or bus.
  • Accommodation options in Kamianets-Podilskyi are more limited than in other major cities, so book ahead if possible.