Ukraine Car Hire

Guide to Ukraine

Geography

Located east and northeast of Russia, Ukraine is the continent's second-largest nation. It is bordered on the north by Belarus, on the west by Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary, and on the south by Romania and Moldova. It has a total territory of 603,628 square kilometres (233,062 square miles) and a population of 41.3 million people, making it Europe's ninth most populated nation. Kyiv is the country's capital and biggest city.

From the peaks to the lowlands, Ukraine's numerous regions offer a diversified landscape. Many of Ukraine's rivers flow south, into the Black Sea or into the smaller Sea of Azov. The topography is dominated by rich plains and plateaus that are crisscrossed by rivers like the Dnieper (Dnipro), Seversky Donets, Dniester, and the Southern Bug as they flow south. The Danube Delta, which defines the country's border with Romania to the southwest, borders Hungary.

Climate in Ukraine

Except for Crimea's southern shore, where the climate is subtropical, Ukraine has a moderate climate. Temperatures are fairly warm and humid due to the Atlantic Ocean's impact. Average yearly temperatures vary from 5.5–7°C in the north to 11–13°C in the south.

Summer in May-June and September are the finest times to visit Ukraine. In between these two times is the shoulder season. The weather is pleasant and the Black Sea beach resorts near Odessa are less crowded.

Culture

Ukrainian culture relies heavily on traditional folk art, needlework, and vernacular architecture, all of which have been shaped by the resources available at the time. Ukrainian needlework is generally regarded as an art form in and of itself, owing to the country's long legacy of folk art and embroidery.

The Eastern Orthodox Church and Slavic mythology have had a significant impact on Ukrainian customs. For many unconnected countries, Soviet-era unification with a common language allowed for the adoption of their cultures as well as their identities. Geographically located between Europe and Asia, the country's culture has been affected by both.

Skiing in Ukraine

Bukovel, Ukraine's top skiing resort, is a picturesque winter wonderland. It's Eastern Europe's biggest ski resort! Located in the Carpathians, this luxurious alpine ski resort offers breathtaking views of the three mountains that surround it. It is a popular destination for visitors of all ages. With more than 50 kilometres of groomed pistes and playgrounds, it can accommodate skiers of all ability levels. Visit the snow park, cycling park, or ski school while you're not out in the backcountry exploring for fresh tracks in the powder. From December through April is the greatest season to visit Bukovel for skiing, although the snow is the thickest in January.

Chernobyl disaster

While it’s a gloomy place, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, the 1986 disaster's epicentre, is a must-see for anybody travelling to Ukraine because it’s important to understand the significance it has to the country and its people. The 1986 explosion occurred in the northern Ukrainian town of Pripyat. The only way to enter is via a licenced tour operator. To help guests prepare for what they will see once they get to Chernobyl, the trip will often feature narrative and genuine videos from the tragedy. A really affecting event, one that will linger with you long after.

Things to do in Ukraine

Amaze at the art and architecture of St. Sophia Cathedral

St. Sophia's Cathedral is a popular tourist destination since it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 1980s. In honour of Hagia Sophia, Kiev's St. Sophia's Cathedral was built in 1037. The bell tower offers spectacular views over Kiev, and the climb to the top is well worth it. This cathedral distinguishes itself from the others because of its ornate Baroque facade, which has 13 golden domes. But its exterior aesthetic appeal is just the beginning, because once you're drawn into a mind-blowing interior, it’ll be a surreal sight. Beautiful paintings, historic mosaics, and centuries-old frescoes adorn the inside. To fully appreciate a place, attend a tour or a service.

Relax on the beach at Odessa

Odessa is one of Ukraine’s most popular beachside getaways! Before Soviet Russia, the city was a cultural and intellectual hotbed, and many of the city's most impressive structures date from that era. There is a distinct Mediterranean or French influence in the city's architecture. Take a stroll around and enjoy the shady, cobblestone pathways. Finally, make it to the crown jewel of Odessa: the spectacular beaches! The beaches are large and sandy, with a variety of food and drink options available from local sellers that cruise the beach. Don’t miss the dolphinarium near Bali Beach. If you’re looking to party afterwards, here are several clubs and discos in the area, the wildest times promised at Arcadia!

Explore the stunning city of Chernivtsi

It is located in western Ukraine, at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains, Chernivtsi was originally a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city is affectionately known as "Little Vienna" because of its comparable architecture to that of the Austrian capital. Chernivtsi dates back to the Neolithic period, based on archaeological findings. During the reign of the Principality of Halych, a fortified city existed on the north-eastern seashore. During the Mongol invasion, it was dubbed the “Black City,” likely due to the black hue of the city walls. Today, just a few ruins of the stronghold may be found. You can relax and take in the laid-back ambience on its cobblestone streets, which are lined with relaxed cafés, Baroque buildings, booksellers, and parks. Visit the National University, one of Ukraine's major institutions, which is housed in an amazing palace.

Appreciate the charming city of L’viv

L'viv is one of Ukraine's most attractive and well-preserved cities. You will enjoy strolling through the cobblestone alleyways of the old centre, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient city, often referred to as Ukraine's "the Paris of Ukraine," retains much of its European heritage while offering contemporary amenities and world-class dining. For coffee connoisseurs, it's hard to top the café scene. Here, caffeine in all its manifestations is taken extremely seriously. Climb the bell tower's more than 1,000 steps for sweeping views of the city. It's impossible to take your eyes off the scenery while looking in any direction.

Discover Kamianets Podilskyi Castle

For more than a century, the castle has served as both a Ruthenian-Lithuanian residence as well as a three-part Polish fortification in Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine's mediaeval western city in the historic region of Podolia. Its name derives from the Slavic word for stone, kamin, which is the source of the term. The stronghold, which dates back to the 13th or 14th century, is a great location for exploring and taking photos in the canyon. It has a fairy-tale feel about it. Explore the building's interior corridors and the gardens, which are well kept. You are sure to have a great time at this historic castle, despite the fact that it is centuries old. When lit at night, the castle is exceptionally stunning.

Stroll through the quaint town of Uman

Between Odesa and Kyiv, this city on the Umanka River in central Ukraine is a worthwhile stopover. Originally erected in 1616 as a fortress against Tatar assaults while under Polish control, Uman has had various occupations since then. It is now a prominent Hasidic Jewish pilgrimage place for Hasidic Jews, thanks in part to the terrible 1700s Haydamak rebellions. Uman is a great destination for tourists since the sites are well marked and it's easy to get around this laid-back town. Take a trip to Rabbi Nachman Sofiyivka Park to view his grave, the obelisk in the town centre, the Pearl of Love fountain display, or just shop the market on the weekends. You can also take a walk through Sofiyivka Park or visit one of the many colourful mosques, churches, museums, and WWII memorials.

Go hiking at Rakhiv

Rakhiv, Ukraine's tallest city, claims to be the "geographical centre of Europe," which may or may not be accurate. This mountain hamlet in western Ukraine's lush Carpathian region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Incredibly scenic slopes and hanging footbridges over the raging Tysa River await adventure seekers visiting Rakhiv in the southern Carpathians. Although Rakhiv doesn't have a lot going on, that's part of the charm. Visit the calm mountain town of Dilove for a relaxing respite from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. The Hutsul Brynza Festival, held in September, is a great opportunity to experience some of the local culture.

Eating out in Ukraine

Ukrainian cuisine is a result of generations of Ukrainian culinary traditions. The ingredients' thick black soil impacts the food tremendously. Borscht is the unquestioned national dish of Ukraine. But varenyky and holubtsi are classic Ukrainian foods you must try while there. Ukrainian cuisine reflects the Ukrainian people's relationship with wheat and grain. The majority of Ukrainian meals consist of rye and basic vegetables including potatoes, cabbage, mushrooms, and beets.

That being said, here are some of our top favourites in Ukraine when it comes to eating out-

In Kyiv, Spotykach serves delectable borscht popsicles and varenyky (a typical Ukrainian dessert), both inventively prepared. Kanapa's specialities include Ukrainian mussels, caviar, and pâté. At Baczewski in Lviv, start with Turkish espresso, then ease into it with Ukrainian nalyvky (digestifs) and Hungarian fish soup. For the first time in Odessa, foodies can indulge in dishes from all over the world at City Food Market, like Vietnamese pho soup, Greek pita gyros, or grilled ribs and oysters. At Kotelok, Black Sea mussels are served with dips such as paprika and brynza goat's cheese, all absolutely sublime.

Ukraine Transport

Airport

Boryspil International Airport is Ukraine’s primary airport and serves as the gateway to Kyiv, the country's capital. It is 29 kilometres from the city centre of Kyiv, near the city of Boryspil. It has 3 major passenger terminals and is home to Ukraine International Airlines, the country's flag carrier. Other major airports in Ukraine include Kharkiv, Lviv, Dnipro and Odessa.

Getting around Ukraine

To begin with, Ukraine's geographic location allows for easy travel to much of Europe. Ukraine is widely accessible through aircraft, trains, buses, and boats, making it a convenient travel destination for everybody. Ukraine has nearly 170,000 km of paved highways, which link all major Ukrainian cities and offer cross-border routes to the country's neighbours. Ukraine also has a decent rail network that links the country's main cities, ports, and industrial hubs. Ukraine's state-owned railway operator, Ukrzaliznytsia, currently has a monopoly on providing passenger rail transportation.

Most visitors passing through opt to hire a car for at least some part of their trip as it allows them to explore the countryside and harder-to-reach attractions more easily. The most popular and reliable car hire agencies in Ukraine include Avis, Budget, and Europcar.