A richly diverse city with an outstanding fusion of cultures

Lviv is a culturally and historically important city in the west of the Ukraine. It is situated close to the border with Poland, and has a historic old town area that has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has had a difficult and sometimes bloody history, having been part of Poland, part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, under Nazi occupation, absorbed by the Soviet Union and finally a city in the independent nation of Ukraine. Centuries of sporadic invasion and occupation, but nevertheless prosperous living in Lviv, have created a unique blend of cultures that has shaped development of the city into the fascinating place that it is today. As one of the host cities of the Euro 2012 football tournament, Lviv will find itself placing host to an even larger community of European visitors.

Why Go?
Visit a multicultural city with a wonderfully diverse collection of architectural styles. A holiday in Lviv takes you into the heart of Eastern Europe, to a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. A holiday in Lviv will be inspirational and unforgettable with plenty of picture-perfect photograph opportunities.

When to Go?
When the 2012 UEFA European Football Championship gets under way, visitors from all over Europe will be descending on Lviv and other cities in the Ukraine and neighbouring Poland. The city has plenty to offer throughout the year, and the mild spring and summer temperatures make an ideal time to visit. Rainfall is higher in the height of summer, so it may be wise to pack a waterproof coat.

How to get there?
There are currently no direct flights to Lviv from the UK, but several airlines have indirect flights to the city. Flights to Lviv are available with Ukraine International Airlines, with a transfer at Kiev Boryspil International Airport, just outside of the Ukrainian capital. Lviv International Airport (LWO) is just 4 miles outside of the city centre and is currently undergoing extensive expansion work in preparation for the Euro 2012 football tournament to be held in Ukraine and Poland.

Must see
Spend some time in the old-town part of Lviv to see a remarkable combination of architectural styles, including neoclassical and baroque, as well as Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. Lviv Market Square is at the heart, where the city hall is located. The National Museum and the National Gallery are packed with interesting exhibits from Lviv’s diverse cultural heritage. Classical music lovers should look out for performances by Lviv’s highly-regarded symphony and chamber orchestras, which are both based in the city.