Ukraine, one of the biggest countries in Europe, with its amazing rivers, mountains, forests, farmlands, beautiful architecture, and beautiful cities dotted with incredible overnight trains, castles, churches and monuments, historic cities, and of course the Black sea, is a storehouse of splendors.
Every year a large number of foreign students enrolled in various universities in Ukraine for higher studies. During their study program, many students set out to explore the country on holidays as they find traveling is the best thing to do in Ukraine. Friendly people, good transports, accommodation options, and moderate cost are some of the factors that encourage foreign students to take up such tours in the largest countries of western Europe. Another big support comes from the Govt. of Ukraine itself in the form of travel concessions – for traveling around the country, the students are given a 50% discount on the train and bus fares.
But a word of caution: some parts on the western border of Ukraine are under the control of pro-Russian separatists While tourists are unlikely to be the intended targets of violence, government services (police, hospitals, firefighters) are not available in these areas.
There are many pretty places spread all over Ukraine with stunning architecture. Here is a list of some of the best places to travel in Ukraine, located in the leading cities.
Kyiv
Or Kyiv as called by the native Ukrainians is the capital of Ukraine and one of the most prominent cities in eastern Europe. Spread over both sides of the river Dnieper, Kyiv offers sights of superb churches with golden domes, eclectic architectures, centuries-old history, and non-stop city life.
Among its many notable tourist spots are the two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Monastery of the Caves) and St. Sophia Cathedral.
But young students, if you prefer the hustle and bustle of the city you should come to Independence Square, the beautiful central square that holds parades, concerts, fairs all day long. Then there is the Bessarabsky Market, an indoor market located in the center of Kiev on the Bessarabska Square
Odessa
The charming port city on the shore of the Black Sea attracts scores of tourists with its sandy beaches, sparkling warm waters, and attractive weather around the year. But if you are the type who would love to wander into the unknown, this historical city will give you an intimate feel with its narrow winding streets and plenty of secluded churches.
Some of the other sites in Odessa are the famous Potemkin Stairs, Deribasivska street, Privoz market. The classic film Battleship Potemkin was produced in Odessa based on the mutiny during the revolution in 1905. Thus Potemkin Stairs, the giant steps coming into the city from the direction of the sea, is considered the best symbol of Odessa.
Lviv
Known as the cultural capital of Ukraine, Lviv has the look and feel of other famous European cities with the most number of western architecture of all the Ukrainian cities. With its vibrant city life and a wide variety of themed restaurants, Lviv attracts a great number of student tourists.
There is a splendid UNESCO – protected heritage site of an old town with relics of magnificent churches, museums, and picturesque narrow streets.
Other top sites in Lviv include Rynok Square, National Art Gallery, National Academic Opera, St. George’s Cathedral, and so on. Lviv is cozy and welcoming, an all-time popular weekend site for those who would love to take in the old town vibes.
Kharkiv
Presently the 2nd city and earlier the capital of Ukraine, Kharkiv has always had the reputation of a major manufacturing and commercial hub. With its many museums, cultural centers, and thriving restaurants Kharkiv is known to be a city of students.
The best places to visit in Kharkiv include Freedom Square, Maxim Gorky park, Annunciation Cathedral, Derzhprom building, Kharkiv Historical Museum, to name a few.
Freedom Square is one of the largest city squares in Europe. During the Soviet era, there was a statue of Lenin in Freedom Square, which was torn down by protesters in 2014. To the west of Freedom Square is the Constructivist Derzhprom complex which is an architectural wonder. With its 45000 windows and 17000 hectares of glazing, this building, built in 1920, remained the largest building in the world for a long time.
If you have any questions regarding the cost of living in Ukraine, fee structure of universities, hostel feel, eligibility criteria, travel health insurance, admissions form, or visa application form for studying in Ukraine, feel free to get in touch with our experienced staff to guide you with any queries you might have regarding study & work in Ukraine.
