The second largest country in Eastern Europe

Located in Eastern Europe, Ukraine is a country with a colourful political past, evident in the exhibitions and artwork on display in the numerous museums and galleries. The capital Kiev is a city of impressive historic and contemporary architecture. A skyline of high-rise buildings and office blocks together with typical Ukrainian architecture from the 14th-16th centuries, enchant visitors each year. Enjoy a tour of the streets and marvel over the impressive St. Michael's Golden-Domed Cathedral and the Kiev National Opera House. Explore the UNESCO Heritage sites of St. Sophia Cathedral and the Kiev Pechersk Lavra and take in the iconic Mother Motherland Statue. Spend an afternoon at the Kiev State Historical Museum or ponder installations at the National Art Museum. Odessa is a popular seaside destination positioned by the Black Sea; visit the Potemkin Stairs featured in the film Battleship Potemkin and relax in a restaurant by the harbour. The Odessa railway station is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.

Why Go?
Take a trip to Ukraine to experience a nation of political activists and people passionately demonstrating in the town squares. Kiev is a capital city of architectural treasures and lively events; enjoy a show at the Opera House or dine in a restaurant overlooking the river.

When to Go?
Ukraine has a mixture of climates depending on the region. Overall the country has a temperate Continental climate; the southern coast boasts a more Mediterranean climate with many locals choosing this area as a holiday destination. Rainfall is a lot higher in the northern part of Ukraine and showers can occur at any time of the year. Winters can be very cold with harsh coastal winds from the Black Sea. July and August are considered the best times to travel to Ukraine.

How to get there?
Ukraine is served by several international, domestic and military airports. Lvov International Airport (LWO), Odessa Central Airport (ODS) and Lugansk International Airport (VSG) operate indirect services from the UK with British Airways, Czech Airlines, and MALEV. Direct flights are available to Kiev Borispol Airport (KBP) from London Gatwick with Ukraine International; the journey takes approximately 3.5 hours. An intricate and well-linked railway service links Ukraine to outlying countries.

Must see
Ride the metro around the city for a convenient way to see the sights. The Metro station in Kiev is a wonder in itself with elegant décor, chandeliers and marble walls. Andriyivskyy Descent is a long avenue in the capital and a great place to shop for a keepsake; enjoy a walk down to the grand Maidan Nezalezhnosti where peaceful demonstrations are held by political and student activists. Take a boat ride along the Dnieper River which flows serenely through Kiev; discover the exhibits at the Museum of the Great Patriotic War and book tickets for a performance at the Ivan Franko Ukrainian Theatre.