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Kharkiv

Ukraine, Europe

Kharkiv, the second-largest city in Ukraine, is a vibrant cultural hub known for its stunning architecture, lively parks, and rich historical sites. Highlights include the iconic Freedom Square, the grand Assumption Cathedral, and the sprawling Gorky Central Park, perfect for relaxation and picnics. The city buzzes with a youthful energy, thanks to its long-standing university tradition, making it a hotspot for arts and nightlife. Kharkiv’s blend of the old and the new offers a unique experience for travelers seeking genuine Ukrainian culture and warmth.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Dnipropetrovsk

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Kharkiv

1. Explore Freedom Square

Visit one of Europe's largest squares, filled with history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

2. Visit Gorky Central Park

Relax in this beautiful park with attractions and nature.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Tour the Kharkiv Historical Museum

Discover the rich history of Kharkiv and Ukraine.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

4. Discover the Mirror Stream Fountain

Admire this iconic fountain and its stunning surroundings.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

5. Visit the Assumption Cathedral

Marvel at the architectural beauty of this historic cathedral.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Experience the Kharkiv Zoo

Fun for all ages at this well-maintained zoo.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Walk through Shevchenko Park

Enjoy a peaceful stroll in this scenic city park.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Visit the State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre

Catch a performance in this stunning historical venue.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

9. Check out the local market at Barabashov Market

Shop for local goods and experience vibrant market life.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

10. Explore the Botanical Garden

Enjoy diverse flora in a peaceful garden setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

11. Visit the Museum of Nature

Learn about local ecology and natural history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

12. Take a ride on the city tram

Experience local life by riding the historical tram.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

13. Visit the Taras Shevchenko Monument

Pay respects at this significant cultural monument.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-2 (#64 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Hryvnia

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Ukrainian

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Borsch

Beet soup with vegetables and meat. (National dish)

Varenyky

V

Dumplings filled with potatoes or cheese.

Holubtsi

Stuffed cabbage rolls with rice and meat.

Salo

Cured pork fat, often served with bread.

Deruny

V

Potato pancakes, crispy and golden brown.

Phrases to learn

English

Ukrainian

Hello

Pryvit

(Pree-veet)

Yes/No

Tak / Ni

(Tahk / Nee)

Thank you

Dyakuyu

(Dyah-koo-yoo)

Excuse me

Vybachte

(Vee-bach-teh)

How much?

Skilky?

(Skeehl-kee)