Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Ukraine's vibrant capital and explore the historic heart of the city, getting your first taste of
Kyiv's unique blend of ancient and modern.
Morning
Arrival and city orientation
Arrive in
Kyiv and check into your accommodation. Take a gentle walking tour of the immediate neighborhood to get oriented. Visit a local market to pick up snacks and get a feel for daily life. Exchange currency if needed and grab a local SIM card for connectivity during your travels.
3-4 hours
$20-30
Lunch
A traditional Ukrainian restaurant serving varenyky and borscht
Ukrainian
Budget
Afternoon
Taras Shevchenko Monument and surrounding area
Visit the Taras Shevchenko Monument, dedicated to Ukraine's beloved poet and national hero. The monument sits in a pleasant park setting, perfect for understanding Ukrainian cultural identity. Stroll through the surrounding Shevchenko Park and observe local life. The area offers excellent people-watching and a peaceful introduction to
Kyiv's green spaces.
2 hours
$0
Evening
Evening stroll and dinner
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Kyiv near Khreshchatyk (Mid-range hotel or apartment)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and public transportation for the coming days
Download the
Kyiv Metro app for easy navigation - the metro is efficient, cheap, and an attraction itself with ornate Soviet-era stations
Day 1 Budget: $70-100
Immerse yourself in
Kyiv's spiritual and architectural treasures, exploring ancient monasteries and golden-domed cathedrals that define the city's skyline.
Morning
Kyiv Pechersk Lavra complex exploration
Spend the morning at this UNESCO World Heritage site, one of Eastern Orthodoxy's most important monasteries. Explore the stunning baroque architecture, golden domes, and peaceful monastery grounds. The complex houses several museums and offers panoramic views of the Dnipro River. Allow time to wander the grounds and absorb the spiritual atmosphere.
3-4 hours
$8-12
Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography
Lunch
A cafe near the monastery serving traditional Ukrainian lunch sets
Ukrainian
Budget
Afternoon
National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War
Visit this powerful museum complex featuring the iconic Motherland Monument statue. The extensive exhibitions cover Ukraine's WWII experience with authentic artifacts, military equipment, and moving personal stories. The outdoor display includes tanks, aircraft, and artillery. Climb to the viewing platform inside the monument for spectacular city views.
3 hours
$5-8
Evening
Dinner with Dnipro views
Dine at a restaurant along the Dnipro embankment, watching the sunset over the river
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Kyiv (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Maintaining your base in central Kyiv for efficient exploration
The Motherland Monument is 102 meters tall - wear comfortable shoes if you plan to climb to the viewing platform
Day 2 Budget: $65-85
Dive deeper into Ukrainian history and culture through museums and historic sites that reveal the nation's complex past and artistic heritage.
Morning
Museum-Arsenal exploration
Explore the Museum-Arsenal, housed in a historic building that showcases Ukrainian cultural history and art. The museum features extensive collections of folk art, traditional costumes, ceramics, and historical artifacts. The exhibitions provide excellent context for understanding Ukrainian identity and artistic traditions throughout the centuries. The building itself is architecturally significant.
2-3 hours
$5-7
Lunch
A modern bistro in the Podil neighborhood serving contemporary Ukrainian cuisine
Ukrainian fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Podil district exploration and Taras Shevchenko Museum
Wander through the historic Podil neighborhood,
Kyiv's oldest district with a distinct character. Visit the Taras Shevchenko Museum to learn about Ukraine's national poet through manuscripts, artwork, and personal belongings. The museum provides deep insight into 19th-century Ukrainian cultural renaissance. Afterward, explore Podil's charming streets, art galleries, and cafes.
3 hours
$3-5
Evening
Evening in Podil
Experience Podil's vibrant nightlife with dinner at a trendy restaurant followed by drinks at a local craft beer bar
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Kyiv (Same accommodation)
Final night in your Kyiv base before traveling west
Podil is
Kyiv's hipster neighborhood - it's where locals go for authentic nightlife away from tourist areas
Day 3 Budget: $60-80
Travel west to Lviv, Ukraine's cultural capital, and begin exploring its enchanting Austrian-Hungarian architecture and vibrant cafe culture.
Morning
Train journey to Lviv
Take the morning train from
Kyiv to Lviv, a scenic journey through the Ukrainian countryside. The train ride offers a comfortable way to see rural Ukraine and covers approximately 540 kilometers. Use this time to relax, read about Lviv's history, or chat with fellow travelers. Trains are comfortable with dining cars available for snacks and drinks.
5-6 hours
$15-25
Book train tickets 1-2 weeks in advance for best prices and seat selection
Lunch
Dining car on the train or pack a picnic from
Kyiv
Snacks and light meals
Budget
Afternoon
Arrival and Old Town orientation
Check into your Lviv accommodation and take an initial walk through the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Get oriented in Rynok Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by colorful townhouses and architectural gems. Visit a traditional coffee house to experience Lviv's famous cafe culture. Browse artisan shops and get a feel for the city's unique atmosphere.
3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Welcome to Lviv dinner
Dine at a traditional Galician restaurant in a historic cellar, trying local specialties like banosh and Lviv cheesecake
Where to Stay Tonight
Lviv Old Town (Boutique hotel or guesthouse)
Staying in the Old Town puts you within walking distance of all major attractions
Lviv has over 1,500 cafes - coffee culture here is serious business and locals take pride in their brewing traditions
Day 4 Budget: $70-90
Explore Lviv's rich literary heritage and architectural wonders, discovering why this city is considered Ukraine's cultural heart.
Morning
Lviv literary-memorial museum of Ivan Franko
Begin at the Lviv literary-memorial museum of Ivan Franko, dedicated to one of Ukraine's greatest writers and intellectuals. The museum occupies the house where Franko lived and worked, preserving his study, personal library, and manuscripts. Learn about his contributions to Ukrainian literature, philosophy, and national identity. The exhibits provide context for understanding Lviv's role as a cultural center.
2 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A courtyard cafe near the Armenian Quarter serving European-Ukrainian fusion
European-Ukrainian
Mid-range
Afternoon
Львівський історичний музей and Old Town exploration
Visit the Львівський історичний музей (Lviv Historical Museum), which occupies several historic buildings in the Old Town. The collections span Lviv's diverse history under different empires, featuring archaeology, medieval art, weapons, and decorative arts. After the museum, wander through the atmospheric streets, discovering hidden courtyards, churches, and architectural details that make Lviv magical.
3-4 hours
$5-8
Evening
Opera and dinner
Attend a performance at the stunning Lviv Opera House, then enjoy a late dinner at a nearby restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Lviv Old Town (Same accommodation as Day 4)
Continuing to enjoy the convenience of Old Town location
The Lviv Opera House offers world-class performances at incredibly affordable prices - tickets often cost just $5-15
Day 5 Budget: $65-85
Discover Lviv's lesser-known attractions and enjoy the city's vibrant street life, art scene, and culinary traditions.
Morning
Market visit and neighborhood exploration
Start with a visit to a local market to see fresh produce, traditional foods, and daily life. Explore neighborhoods beyond the tourist center, visiting local bakeries and craft workshops. Walk through residential areas to see how Lviv lives beyond its historic facade. Stop at neighborhood cafes where locals gather for morning coffee and conversation.
3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
A family-run restaurant in a residential neighborhood serving home-style Ukrainian cooking
Ukrainian home cooking
Budget
Afternoon
Art galleries and craft workshops
Spend the afternoon visiting Lviv's contemporary art galleries and artisan workshops. The city has a thriving creative scene with painters, sculptors, and craftspeople working in traditional and modern styles. Visit studios where you can watch artists at work and purchase unique souvenirs. Explore the city's street art scene and creative spaces housed in converted industrial buildings.
3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Farewell to Lviv
Enjoy a final evening at a rooftop bar with Old Town views, followed by dinner at a restaurant specializing in regional Galician cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Lviv Old Town (Same accommodation)
Final night in Lviv before heading to rural attractions
Many Lviv restaurants have themed concepts - from communist-era satire to medieval dungeons - offering entertainment with your meal
Day 6 Budget: $60-80
Journey to the impressive Khotyn Fortress, one of Ukraine's most spectacular medieval fortifications overlooking the Dnister River.
Morning
Travel to Khotyn
Take a morning bus or arranged transport to Khotyn in the Chernivtsi region. The journey takes you through scenic countryside and smaller towns, offering glimpses of rural Ukrainian life. The trip provides a change of pace from city exploration and builds anticipation for one of Ukraine's most impressive historical sites. Pack snacks and water for the journey.
4-5 hours travel
$15-25
Arrange transport through your accommodation or book a small group tour
Lunch
A local eatery in Khotyn town serving regional specialties
Ukrainian regional
Budget
Afternoon
State Historical and Architectural Reserve Khotyn fortress
Explore the magnificent State Historical and Architectural Reserve Khotyn fortress, a medieval stronghold dating to the 10th century. The massive stone walls rise dramatically above the Dnister River, offering spectacular views. Walk the ramparts, explore towers and dungeons, and imagine centuries of battles and sieges. The fortress has appeared in numerous films and is one of Ukraine's most photogenic historical sites.
3-4 hours
$5-8
Evening
Evening in Khotyn or return to Chernivtsi
Either stay overnight in Khotyn for a peaceful evening or return to Chernivtsi for more dining and accommodation options
Where to Stay Tonight
Khotyn or Chernivtsi (Small hotel or guesthouse)
Khotyn offers authentic small-town experience; Chernivtsi provides more amenities
Visit the fortress in late afternoon for the best photography light and fewer crowds - the golden hour here is magical
Day 7 Budget: $55-75
Experience traditional Ukrainian village life at one of the country's finest open-air museums, showcasing authentic architecture and folk culture.
Morning
Travel and Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life
Return toward
Kyiv and visit the Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life, an expansive open-air museum preserving traditional Ukrainian village life. Wander through authentic wooden churches, farmhouses, windmills, and workshops relocated from various regions. The museum showcases different architectural styles from across Ukraine, offering insight into rural traditions, crafts, and daily life from past centuries.
4 hours
$5-8
Lunch
The museum's traditional restaurant serving authentic village-style Ukrainian dishes
Traditional Ukrainian village cooking
Budget
Afternoon
Craft demonstrations and grounds exploration
Participate in or observe traditional craft demonstrations often held at the museum, including pottery, weaving, and blacksmithing. Explore the extensive grounds at a leisurely pace, visiting different regional sections. The museum often hosts folk festivals and cultural events. Take time to photograph the beautiful wooden architecture and peaceful rural setting.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Return to
Kyiv for the evening, settling into accommodation and enjoying a relaxed dinner in a familiar neighborhood
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Kyiv (Mid-range hotel or apartment)
Back in Kyiv as a base for exploring central Ukraine attractions
Visit on weekends when the museum often has folk music performances, craft workshops, and costumed interpreters
Day 8 Budget: $60-80
Journey to the historic Hetman capital to explore Ukraine's Cossack heritage and the seat of Ukrainian autonomy during the 17th-18th centuries.
Morning
Travel to Baturyn
Take a morning trip to Baturyn in the Chernihiv region, once the capital of the Cossack Hetmanate. The journey through the Ukrainian countryside offers scenic views and a chance to see smaller towns. Baturyn represents a crucial period in Ukrainian history when the country enjoyed significant autonomy. The town sits peacefully along the Seym River.
3 hours travel
$20-30
Arrange private transport or join a guided tour for easier access
Lunch
A local restaurant in Baturyn serving Cossack-inspired dishes
Ukrainian Cossack-style
Budget
Afternoon
Natsionalʹnyy Istoryko-Kulʹturnyy Zapovidnyk 'Hetʹmansʹka Stolytsya'
Explore the Natsionalʹnyy Istoryko-Kulʹturnyy Zapovidnyk 'Hetʹmansʹka Stolytsya' (National Historical-Cultural Reserve 'Hetman's Capital'), a complex preserving the legacy of Cossack Ukraine. Visit the reconstructed Hetman's palace, fortress walls, and museums displaying Cossack artifacts, weapons, and documents. Learn about Hetman Ivan Mazepa and the period of Ukrainian autonomy. The grounds offer peaceful walking paths along the river.
3-4 hours
$5-8
Evening
Return to
Kyiv or Chernihiv
Return to either
Kyiv for familiar comforts or stay in nearby Chernihiv to explore another historic city
Where to Stay Tonight
Kyiv or Chernihiv (Hotel or guesthouse)
Flexibility to either return to Kyiv base or explore Chernihiv's historic attractions
The site is less touristy than major cities - you might have parts of the complex to yourself for peaceful exploration
Day 9 Budget: $65-85
Discover the historic city of Poltava, site of a decisive 18th-century battle, and enjoy its unique monuments and local culture.
Morning
Travel to Poltava and city orientation
Journey to Poltava, a city famous for the 1709 battle that changed European history. Arrive and explore the city center with its distinctive white-columned rotunda and pleasant parks. Poltava has a relaxed provincial charm with tree-lined streets and classical architecture. Visit the local market to experience daily life and perhaps sample local produce.
4 hours including travel
$15-25
Lunch
A restaurant serving Poltava's famous galushka dumplings
Poltava regional specialties
Budget
Afternoon
Memorial Sign to the Poltava Galushka and city exploration
Visit the quirky Memorial Sign to the Poltava Galushka, a monument dedicated to the city's beloved dumpling dish, showcasing Ukrainian humor and regional pride. Explore the historic battlefield area and monuments commemorating the 1709 Battle of Poltava. Walk through the city's parks and visit local museums. The city offers a genuine provincial Ukrainian experience away from major tourist routes.
3-4 hours
$5-10
Evening
Poltava evening
Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, then take an evening stroll through the illuminated city center
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Poltava (Mid-range hotel)
Poltava offers affordable accommodation and a chance to experience a mid-sized Ukrainian city
Try authentic Poltava galushka - the dumplings here are considered the best in Ukraine and come in both savory and sweet varieties
Day 10 Budget: $50-70
Explore another significant historical site and the picturesque town named after Ukraine's national poet.
Morning
Travel to Korsun-Shevchenkivskyi
Journey to Korsun-Shevchenkivskyi in the Cherkasy region, a town with deep historical roots and connections to Taras Shevchenko. The route takes you through central Ukraine's agricultural heartland. The town sits in a pleasant area with parks and historical significance dating back centuries. Arrive and get oriented in this smaller, authentic Ukrainian town.
3 hours travel
$15-20
Lunch
A local cafe serving Ukrainian comfort food
Ukrainian home-style
Budget
Afternoon
Korsun-Shevchenkivskyi State Historical-Cultural Reserve
Visit the Korsun-Shevchenkivskyi State Historical-Cultural Reserve, which preserves the town's historical legacy including its role in various conflicts and its connection to Ukrainian cultural figures. Explore the museum collections, historic buildings, and peaceful grounds. The reserve offers insight into regional history and the development of Ukrainian national consciousness. Walk through the town's parks and along its waterways.
3 hours
$3-5
Evening
Evening in town or return toward
KyivEither spend a quiet evening in this provincial town or begin the return journey to
Kyiv
Where to Stay Tonight
Korsun-Shevchenkivskyi or en route to Kyiv (Small hotel or guesthouse)
Experience authentic small-town Ukraine or position yourself for easy return to Kyiv
This area is off the typical tourist path - it's a chance to see genuine Ukrainian town life without international visitors
Day 11 Budget: $45-65
Travel to Ukraine's legendary port city on the Black Sea, famous for its cosmopolitan culture, architecture, and seaside charm.
Morning
Travel to Odesa
Take a morning train or flight to Odesa, Ukraine's maritime jewel on the Black Sea coast. The city has a completely different atmosphere from inland Ukraine, with Mediterranean influences, diverse architecture, and a unique sense of humor. Arrive and check into accommodation, then take an initial walk to get oriented. Feel the sea breeze and absorb the city's special energy.
Variable by transport method
$25-60
Book transport in advance; overnight train from
Kyiv is a popular option
Lunch
A seafood restaurant near the port serving fresh Black Sea fish
Seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Potemkin Stairs and city center
Visit the iconic Potemkin Stairs, Odesa's most famous landmark and one of the world's most beautiful staircases. The 192 steps create an optical illusion and offer stunning views over the port. Explore the surrounding area including the elegant boulevards, historic buildings, and parks. Walk along Deribasivska Street, the city's main pedestrian thoroughfare, soaking in Odesa's unique atmosphere and architecture.
3 hours
$0-5
Evening
Odesa nightlife
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with sea views, then experience Odesa's famous nightlife at a jazz club or seaside bar
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Odesa near Deribasivska (Mid-range hotel)
Central location allows easy exploration of the historic center and access to beaches
Odesa has its own dialect and humor - locals are known for their wit and the city has produced many famous comedians
Day 12 Budget: $70-95
Explore Odesa's rich literary heritage and enjoy the Black Sea beaches that have attracted visitors for over two centuries.
Morning
Monument to Ilf and Petrov and literary sites
Visit the Monument to Ilf and Petrov, celebrating the famous satirical writers who immortalized Odesa in their novels. The monument features characters from their beloved book 'The Twelve Chairs.' Explore other literary sites around the city - Odesa has inspired countless writers with its cosmopolitan atmosphere. Visit the beautiful Odesa Opera House, one of Europe's most stunning theaters, for a tour or to book evening tickets.
3 hours
$5-10
Lunch
A beachside cafe serving light Mediterranean-influenced dishes
Mediterranean-Ukrainian
Mid-range
Afternoon
Beach time and seaside promenade
Spend the afternoon at one of Odesa's beaches, enjoying the Black Sea atmosphere that has made this city a resort destination for centuries. Walk along the seaside promenade, visit beach clubs, or simply relax on the sand. The beaches range from lively and social to quieter spots. Experience why Odesa is considered Ukraine's summer capital and playground.
4 hours
$10-20
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a memorable final dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Black Sea, celebrating your Ukrainian journey
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Odesa (Same accommodation as Day 12)
Final night in Odesa before departure day
The Odesa catacombs are the world's largest urban underground labyrinth - tours are available if you have extra time
Day 13 Budget: $65-85
Final morning in Ukraine with time for last-minute exploration or shopping before departure.
Morning
Final explorations and souvenir shopping
Spend your final morning revisiting favorite spots or discovering last-minute treasures. Visit local markets for authentic Ukrainian souvenirs - embroidered linens, traditional ceramics, honey, or artwork. Pack carefully, ensuring you have room for purchases. Enjoy a final Ukrainian breakfast at a beloved cafe, savoring the flavors and atmosphere you've come to appreciate over two weeks.
3 hours
$20-40
Lunch
A final meal at a favorite restaurant or a quick bite before departure
Ukrainian
Mid-range
Afternoon
Departure
Transfer to the airport or train station for your departure. If flying internationally from
Kyiv, allow time for the journey from Odesa. Reflect on your two weeks exploring Ukraine's diverse regions, rich history, warm hospitality, and resilient spirit. The country's combination of ancient heritage and contemporary culture creates unforgettable memories.
Variable
$10-30
Allow plenty of time for transport to airport, especially if connecting from Odesa to
Kyiv
Evening
Departure or overnight in
KyivDepending on flight times, either depart or spend a final night in
Kyiv near the airport
Where to Stay Tonight
Near airport if needed (Airport hotel)
Convenient for early morning departures
Keep some Ukrainian hryvnia for airport purchases, but most places also accept cards
Day 14 Budget: $50-80