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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Kharkiv

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Freedom Square

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

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Gorky Central Park

Relax in this beautiful park with attractions and nature.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Kharkiv Historical Museum

Discover the rich history of Kharkiv and Ukraine.

No booking required
4

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Mirror Stream Fountain

Admire this iconic fountain and its stunning surroundings.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Assumption Cathedral

Marvel at the architectural beauty of this historic cathedral.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Kharkiv Zoo

Fun for all ages at this well-maintained zoo.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk through Shevchenko Park

Enjoy a peaceful stroll in this scenic city park.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre

Catch a performance in this stunning historical venue.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Check out the local market at Barabashov Market

Shop for local goods and experience vibrant market life.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Botanical Garden

Enjoy diverse flora in a peaceful garden setting.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museum of Nature

Learn about local ecology and natural history.

No booking required
12

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a ride on the city tram

Experience local life by riding the historical tram.

No booking required
13

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Taras Shevchenko Monument

Pay respects at this significant cultural monument.

No booking required

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)