Kyiv
Kyiv is the capital of Ukraine. Despite a turbulent and difficult history, the city now showcases an intriguing mix of old and new architecture. Increasingly, the culture reflects influences from both Western and European customs, though the residents of Kyiv proudly maintain their traditions. Modern Kyiv is home to approximately three million people, including foreign diplomats and international students, giving the city a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Although many of its significant architectural and artistic treasures were destroyed during the Second World War, the remaining ones have been restored and now proudly enhance the city’s picturesque landscape.
Kyiv offers a variety of activities and sights to keep visitors occupied for days. Dubbed the ‘Green City’ due to its numerous botanical gardens, parks, and beautiful trees, it is particularly stunning in the summer and spring. The nearby river offers opportunities for swimming and boating, while leisurely walks and cycling along its banks are popular pastimes. In winter, the frozen river becomes a haven for ice fishermen and skaters. The city boasts numerous theatres and opera houses for indoor entertainment, and various city squares host craft markets selling traditional Ukrainian goods. Art galleries, historic buildings, and catacombs add to Kyiv’s charm and majesty, making it a city not to be missed.
Kropyvnytskyi
Kropyvnytskyi (former Kirovohrad) is a city located in the center of Ukraine, an industrial and cultural center. The city serves as the administrative center of Kirovohrad Oblast and Kirovohrad Rayon (district). It stands as both an industrial and cultural hub of the region. Situated on the Dnieper Upland along the banks of the Inhul River, the city has made significant strides in improving the quality of life for both residents and visitors. Locals affectionately refer to Kropyvnytskyi as “a little Paris,” reminiscing about its resemblance to Paris before the Soviet era altered its appearance in the 20th century.
Founded in 1754 as Yelisavetgrad (also known as Elisavetgrad or Elizabethgrad in English), Kropyvnytskyi experienced a golden age from the mid-19th to the early 20th century. During this period, industry thrived, and cultural life flourished, marked by the opening of the first professional Ukrainian theater. In 1939, Kropyvnytskyi became the center of Kirovohrad Oblast. Today, the city boasts a well-developed social infrastructure, along with numerous educational and cultural institutions.
In Kropyvnytskyi, international students explore the historic Fortechni Valy, the oldest preserved earthen fortress in Europe, originally an administrative center named after Empress Elizabeth. The city offers several parks like Kovalivs’kyi Park, Dendropark with attractions and a small zoo, and Park Peremohy for outdoor leisure. Cultural venues include Cinema Portal, a modern cinema with 3D screenings in Ukrainian, the State Dramatic and Musical Theatre, restored to its original appearance, and the State Philharmonic Hall for classical and contemporary music performances. Kropyvnytskyi combines historical sites, beautiful parks, and vibrant cultural spots, providing diverse activities for locals and tourists.
Odesa
Odesa is the largest city along the Black Sea, the fifth largest in Ukraine, and a crucial trade hub. It is the largest seaport in Ukraine, a city of regional importance, and the center of the Odesa region. Resembling a Mediterranean city with French and Italian architectural influences, Odesa exudes a spirit of freedom and diversity, shaped by its diverse population, including Ukrainians, Russians, Moldavians, Greeks, Romanians, Bulgarians, Caucasians, Jews, Turks, and Vietnamese.
As a major port and a center for industry, science, and culture, Odesa attracts thousands of tourists year-round with its mild climate, warm waters, and sunlit beaches. Its charming streets, stunning buildings, and inviting squares create a sense of closeness and understanding. The city’s architecture showcases a blend of styles, including Art Nouveau, Renaissance, and Classicist. Home to approximately 1.1 million people, Odesa’s economy thrives on shipbuilding, chemicals, oil refining, food processing, and metalworking. It hosts a naval base and several fishing fleets. Perched on green rolling hills overlooking a picturesque harbor, Odesa is best visited in the summer when the city is in full bloom, perfect for enjoying its tranquil white beaches.
Odesa is celebrated for its distinguished scientists and globally recognized achievements. The city hosts over 20 higher education institutions, half of which are “national” universities, fostering a robust scientific and technical community. This infrastructure supports the annual training of skilled specialists in various fields. A renowned resort and medical tourism center, Odesa draws visitors from across Ukraine and abroad. The city’s skilled doctors, therapeutic air, sea beaches, and extensive tourist infrastructure make it ideal for treatment and rehabilitation. Key facilities include the Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and the healing Kuyalnik mud resort, offering specialized medical care for all ages.
Vinnitsa
Vinnytsa, founded in 1345, is a city in central Ukraine with a population of 350,000. It enjoys excellent connectivity, with direct train and bus routes to major Eastern European cities like Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa, Moscow, and Bratislava. The city is bilingual, with most residents fluent in both Ukrainian and English. Thanks to Vinnytsa Pedagogical University and a strong local school system, many young people speak English, German, and French. The city has been home to notable figures such as Nikolay Pirogov, a pioneer in anesthesia and modern battlefield medicine; Mykhailo Grushevsky, the first Ukrainian president; Mykhailo Kotsybyns’ky, a celebrated author; and Pyotr Tchaikovsky, the renowned composer.
“Focus” magazine awarded Vinnytsia the title of the best city to live in Ukraine based on its 2013 rating. Additionally, for seven consecutive years from 2015 to 2021, Vinnytsia secured the top position in a similar rating conducted by the “Rating” sociological group. The accolades recognize Vinnytsia’s exceptional quality of life, highlighting its attractive living environment, amenities, and overall satisfaction among residents.
The Southern Bug River flows through the center of Vinnytsa, adding to its scenic charm. The city hosts several respected universities and institutes, including the internationally recognized Pirogov Medical University, contributing to a diverse and vibrant student population. Vinnytsa also serves as the home base for the Ukrainian Air Force. Agriculture is a significant industry in the surrounding Vinnytsa oblast, renowned for its fertile ‘black soil.’ The region produces sugar beets, wheat, corn, and tomatoes on an industrial scale, while local residents grow a wide variety of fruits and vegetables available in the city markets.
Kharkiv
Kharkiv is the second largest city in Ukraine situated in the northeast of the country and serves as one of the main industrial, cultural, and educational centers in the country. The country’s industry and research have been focused on arms production and machinery for many years. Today the city is home to such mega-companies as the Morozov Design Bureau, the Malyshev Tank Factory, Hartron, and Turboatom. The companies specialize in fields such as tank and turbine production, and aerospace and nuclear electronic research.
Kharkiv is situated on the watershed elevation and within the valleys of several rivers including the Kharkiv, Lopan, Udy, and Nemyshlia. These rivers converge within modern Kharkiv and flow into Siversky Dinets through the Udy. Originally, the river valleys in present-day Kharkiv were marshy, with some drying up to small streams like Netecha and Nemyshlya during summer. The city has numerous parks and squares, with a history dating back over a century, as well as a diverse nature reserve.
Kharkiv boasts several attractions for visitors. Freedom Square stands out as Europe’s largest city square, second only to Tiananmen Square globally. Other notable sights include Gosprom, the Mirror Stream, the Militia Museum, the Memorial Complex, the Shevchenko Monument, and the Shevchenko Gardens. The striking Uspensky and Pokrov Cathedrals offer compelling architectural and historical allure. For an additional experience, international students explore the Cable Road. A trip to Kharkiv provides a unique opportunity to delve into Ukraine’s intricate and eventful history.
Lviv
King Danylo Romanovych founded Lviv in the mid-13th century, and by around 1272, it became the capital of the Galicia-Volyn principality. Throughout the Middle Ages, Lviv thrived as a significant trading hub. Under Austrian governance, it emerged as a focal point for Ukrainian and Polish nationalist movements. Following the dissolution of Austria-Hungary, Lviv served as the capital of the West Ukrainian People’s Republic. Before World War II, it was part of Poland and later annexed by the Soviet Union as per the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact.
Lviv stands out as the sole Ukrainian city featured among the world’s top hundred tourist destinations. It boasts the largest concentration of architectural marvels in Ukraine, coupled with a vibrant calendar of events and festivals. Lviv has transformed into a veritable tourist hotspot, witnessing a surge in new culinary establishments and innovative tour offerings. With the burgeoning influx of tourists, competition among service providers has intensified, driving innovation and diversity. The city has experienced a notable uptick in domestic and international visitors, aided by favorable exchange rates and convenient accessibility. Lviv’s appeal as an affordable and easily reachable destination has further fueled its popularity.
International students exploring Lviv are drawn to its historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Highlights include the Ploscha Rynok Market Square featuring the iconic Black House, along with landmarks like the Armenian Cathedral, Greek Cathedral, Latin Cathedral, Dominican Abbey, and Boim Chapel. For panoramic views, ascending Vysoky Zamok hill, home to the Union of Lublin mound, offers a spectacular vantage point. Cultural enthusiasts can indulge in performances at the Philharmonic Orchestra Lviv Opera and Ballet Theatre. For a more somber experience, the expansive and picturesque Lychakiv Cemetery offers insight into the region’s history and heritage.
Ivano-Frankivsk
Ivano-Frankivsk, situated in western Ukraine, serves as both the administrative center of Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast and Ivano-Frankivsk Raion within the oblast. Its population is estimated at 238,196 as of 2022. In Ivano-Frankivsk, visitors encounter a blend of diverse cultural influences evident in its architecture, such as the Polish city hall, the Austro-Hungarian city’s commercial hub, and the Soviet-era prefabricated apartment complexes located on the outskirts of the urban area. Additionally, the city holds significance as one of the key urban centers within the Carpathian Euroregion.
Established in the mid-17th century as a fortress by the Polish Potocki family, Stanisławów joined the Habsburg Empire in 1772 after the First Partition of Poland. It burgeoned into a prominent city at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains. Following World War I, it briefly served as the capital of the West Ukrainian People’s Republic before becoming part of the Second Polish Republic in 1921. The city underwent further upheavals, including Soviet annexation after the invasion of Poland and Nazi occupation during World War II. Renamed Ivano-Frankivsk in 1962, it became part of independent Ukraine after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Ivano-Frankivsk is a key city within the Carpathian Euroregion, boasting a diverse architectural landscape that reflects its complex history. The rich tapestry includes the Polish city hall, which exemplifies its early influences, and the Austro-Hungarian business center, showcasing its period under Austrian rule. Soviet-era prefabricated apartment blocks are prominently found on the city’s outskirts, marking the time it spent as part of the Soviet Union. The blend of architectural styles highlights the various cultural influences that have shaped Ivano-Frankivsk over the centuries, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and architecture.
Chernihiv
Chernihiv is a picturesque city in the north of Ukraine with a rich history, stunning architecture, and influential individuals who have significantly impacted world history. Natives of the area have made notable contributions to space technology, filmmaking, and even Beethoven’s music. Today, Chernihiv continues to nurture remarkable talents. The resilient residents played a crucial role in preventing enemy forces from conquering their strategically located homeland, standing firm in the face of invasions. The legacy of Chernihiv’s people is one of resilience, innovation, and cultural significance.
Chernihiv is one of Ukraine’s oldest cities, first mentioned in 907 AD, and is known as the City of Legends for its rich history and local tales of ghosts and mysterious idols. Nestled by the Desna River and lush forests, it rivaled Kyiv in prominence and flourished during the Cossack era. It became a cultural hub in the late Russian Empire and continued to develop after Ukraine’s independence. In 2022, Chernihiv halted the Russian advance toward Kyiv, enduring severe bombardment and destruction. For their resilience, President Zelenskyy named Chernihiv a Hero City on March 6, 2022.
Contemporary Chernihiv is a charming provincial city with several notable attractions, including a museum, parks, and green spaces. The rose-colored train station is a must-see, as is the central park featuring a monument to Afghan war casualties. Just south of the city center, a short walk takes you to the theater and Red Square, the “Alley of Heroes” and Saint Catherine’s Church. Nearby lies the famous ‘Val,’ home to Chernihiv’s oldest churches. The city has two active monasteries and ancient Orthodox churches around 1,000 years old. A unique site is the Anthony Caves, housing numerous saintly relics and the miraculous icons of Our Lady. These historic sites make Chernihiv a sacred center of Orthodoxy.
Rivne
Rivne, located in northwestern Ukraine, boasts a variety of attractions during peaceful times, including one of the world’s most romantic locations, ancient sacred manuscripts, historic fortresses, and distinctive regional cuisine. The area offers a rich cultural experience for visitors. During the full-scale war, the Rivne region has been vital in guarding Ukraine’s northern borders, playing a significant role in the defense efforts. Its contribution has been instrumental in the collective victory of Ukraine and the entire civilized world, showcasing the resilience and determination of its people.
In the spring of 1919, Rivne served as a temporary seat of the Ukrainian government during the war with Soviet Russia. Between World War I and World War II, the city was part of Poland and served as a district-level seat in Wolyn Voivodeship. At the onset of World War II in 1939, Rivne was occupied by the Soviet Red Army and became the administrative center of the newly created Rivne Oblast, formed from the eastern part of the voivodeship. During the German occupation from 1941 to 1944, Rivne was designated the capital of German-occupied Ukraine (Reichskommissariat Ukraine).
The Rivne region is abundant in natural treasures, with its beauty dating back at least 40 million years when modern Ukraine was part of a large island in what is now Europe. During this period, numerous trees thrived, and their fossilized resin eventually formed the renowned Rivne amber deposits. Today, people excavate the organic minerals, polish them, and transform them into stunning jewelry, marveling at their beauty. The ancient “investment” by nature has proven to be extraordinarily beneficial.
Dnipro
Dnipro, Ukraine’s fourth-largest city with around one million residents, is situated 391 km southeast of Kyiv on the Dnipro River. It serves as the administrative center of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and hosts the Dnipro urban hromada. The population in 2022 is estimated at 968,502. Settled by Cossacks since at least 1524, the city was officially founded in 1787 by Empress Catherine the Great as Yekaterinoslav. By the late 19th century, it became a hub for foreign investment and a diverse workforce due to its iron ore and coal industries.
Renamed Dnipropetrovsk in 1926 after Communist leader Grigory Petrovsky, it grew into a major industrial center, especially in nuclear, arms, and space industries, becoming a closed city during the Cold War. After the 2014 Euromaidan events, the city shifted politically towards the EU and was renamed Dnipro in 2016 as part of decommunization efforts. Following the Russian invasion in 2022, Dnipro emerged as a key logistical hub for humanitarian aid and a refuge for those fleeing the conflict.
For centuries, the middle stretch of the Dnipro River instilled fear in travelers due to its hazardous rapids, whirlpools, and towering waterfalls. Only the most courageous dared to navigate these perilous waters, while others were forced to transport their ships overland. Named by Herodotus and later by Byzantine Emperor Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus, the rapids, like Ne Spy (“Do Not Sleep”) and Nenasytets (“The Roaring Rapid”), posed formidable challenges. It wasn’t until the construction of the Dniprohes hydroelectric station a century ago that these rapids were finally tamed. Prior to this, specialized Dnipro river pilots guided ships through, but with Dniprohes’ completion, the dangerous rapids disappeared, reshaping the river’s landscape indefinitely.
Chernivtsi
Nestled in the western part of Ukraine, Chernivtsi boasts a unique blend of historical significance, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. From the ancient times of the Trypillia culture to the present day, this region has been a melting pot of various civilizations, each leaving its mark on the landscape and heritage. Amidst the tranquil surroundings, the spirit of our forefathers resonates alongside the vibrant energy of the university community. Hidden military remnants and the majestic Carpathian Mountains further enrich the region’s allure, captivating visitors with their secrets and splendor.
Chernivtsi is most known for the Metropolitan Residence of Bukovyna and Dalmatia. Designed by Czech architect Yosef Hlavka, renowned for his work at the Vienna Opera, the meticulous planning and craftsmanship of this architectural marvel earned it a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. The project enlisted the expertise of the finest artisans from across Austria-Hungary, with two brick factories and a tile factory established in the city specifically for the undertaking. Today, the buildings of the residency are part of the Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University.
Chernivtsi National University, esteemed as one of Ukraine’s oldest and most distinguished institutions of higher learning, currently resides in this area. Initially, the university featured three faculties— theological, law, and philosophical— with a four-year study program and associated tuition fees. Throughout its history, the university has attracted notable figures such as Ivan Franko, Mykhailo Drahomanov, Lesia Ukrainka, and Volodymyr Vynnychenko. Today, the university and its surroundings have evolved into a vibrant hub for education, research, and a prominent tourist destination in Bukovyna, offering visitors enriching excursions and experiences.
Poltava
Poltava, situated in the heart of Ukraine, exudes charm with its scenic landscapes and rich history spanning centuries. Poltava city holds significance as one of the easternmost points in Europe where the Magdeburg self-governing tradition was established. The region boasts a roster of notable figures, including Ukrainian cultural icons and pioneering scientists involved in space exploration. Today, Poltava region continues to nurture remarkable individuals, many of whom are actively defending their homeland and democratic values amidst current conflicts. The region, like the rest of Ukraine, holds treasures worth safeguarding, inviting visitors to witness its cultural and natural wonders firsthand.
Poltava region was renowned for hosting numerous fairs, with one of the most famous being held in the village of Velyki Sorochyntsi, near Poltava. Notably, the renowned Ukrainian writer Mykola Gogol, born in Sorochyntsi in 1809, immortalized this local fair in his works. With industrialization led to the decline of fairs as trade hubs, the Sorochynskyi fair revived this tradition in 1966, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon and a social gathering. Today, approximately a million visitors, along with businesses and craftsmen from around the world, flock to Poltava region annually to experience the ancient trade traditions firsthand.
Zaporizhzhia
Zaporizhzhia, situated at the crossroads of Ukraine, has been a cradle of resilience and courage throughout history. Its storied past is marked by the bravery of its inhabitants who defended freedom and made indelible marks on the world stage. Despite facing ongoing threats from the Russian army and enduring occupation in certain areas, the region remains steadfast in its determination to uphold its values and protect its people. In the face of adversity, the spirit of Zaporizhzhia continues to shine brightly, inspiring hope for a brighter future.
Zaporizhzhia, steeped in Cossack heritage, embodies a spirit of ingenuity and freedom. Legends abound of Cossacks transforming their boats into makeshift submarines to outmaneuver their adversaries. Today, this legacy lives on in the city’s modern residents. Zaporizhzhia is a hub of cultural activity, hosting events like the Khortytsia Freedom music festival and fostering local initiatives in venues such as the coworking space Edison, Youth Center, and various cafes. Stand-up comedy thrived, and young people spearheaded their own media outlets and forums.
Zaporizhzhia is renowned for its historic Khortytsia Island. The region boasts multiple power stations and serves as a key center for heavy industry. Its diverse manufacturing sector encompasses steel, aluminum, aircraft engines, automobiles, transformers for substations, and other heavy industrial products. This industrial prowess underscores Zaporizhzhia’s economic significance and contributes to its status as a major player in Ukraine’s industrial landscape. The region’s rich history and cultural heritage further enhance its appeal to visitors and residents alike.
Sumy
Sumy is located in northeastern Ukraine and serves as the administrative center of Sumy Oblast. It boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1655. Renowned for its robust scientific and human capital, the city is home to a network of modern higher education and vocational institutions, attracting over 30,000 students from 50 countries annually. The influx of young professionals contributes to various industries, including industry, construction, finance, agribusiness, commerce, education, and IT.
With approximately 200 cultural heritage structures, including 97 architectural and urban planning monuments, Sumy offers a vibrant cultural scene. The city features two theaters, a philharmonic society, a municipal gallery, nine cultural centers, and three museums, catering to the cultural interests of residents and visitors alike. Sumy hosts more than five international festivals annually, including the renowned International Festival of Brass Music “Surmy of Ukraine.”
Sumy is renowned for its industrial prowess, particularly in machine-building and chemicals, which contribute over 50% to the region’s sales. The city hosts modern enterprises with local and foreign investment, known for their competitive products. Sumy’s appeal lies in its strong industrial and scientific base, ensuring the production of high-quality goods. With a transparent administration, Sumy consistently ranks high in investment attractiveness and credit stability. The city is eager to collaborate for mutual benefit, inviting investment to drive its economic development further.