Useful tips and how to travel to Ukraine (2024)

By Joan Torres 9 Comments Last updated on January 4, 2024

visit to Ukraine

Bordering Russia to the east and the EU to the west, Ukraine is a massive piece of land barely discovered by the average traveler.

Intrepid adventurers will travel to Ukraine for visiting Kiev , and then pay a short visit to other big cities such as Lviv or Odesa, but the rest of the country remains pretty unknown to most of us.

However, Ukraine has a lot to offer and after spending 45 days roaming around the country, discovering everything from intriguing medieval castles to a nuclear missile launch facility, this is the best travel guide available on the internet, containing everything  you need to know for traveling to Ukraine , from transportation tips to top experiences, cultural facts, visas, safety and much more!

Interested in Belarus as well? Read my useful tips and how to travel to Belarus

visit Ukraine

In this Ukraine travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

  • COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
  • Introduction
  • Best time to visit
  • Top experiences
  • Travel insurance
  • Ukraine and Russia
  • Culture, language, and religion
  • Transportation
  • More information

eSIM card for browsing when traveling in Ukraine

With Holafly , you can now get an electronic SIM card for Ukraine from home with just 2 clicks.

5% discount with the following code:

AGAINSTTHECOMPASS

😷 COVID-19 Travel restrictions for Ukraine

Ukraine is currently out of limits due to the ongoing conflict.

Introduction: why travel to Ukraine?

Traveling in Ukraine is a unique experience, like nowhere else.

Do you know why?

Because here, you could spend weeks admiring dreamy, Medieval castles and fortresses and perfectly-shaped, cute old towns and, at the same time, you could discover the most offbeat places in Europe, ranging from a nuclear missile launch facility to the ghost city of Prypiat , and a vast range of Soviet and Communist heritage.

There isn’t another single country in Europe where you can do so much of the above in one single trip.

And the best of it is that, except for a few places, most of the country remains raw, authentic and very, very Ukrainian.

Traveling in Ukraine can be a real offbeat European adventure, like nowhere else on the continent.

how to travel to Ukraine

🪪 How to get a visa for traveling to Ukraine

Remember that Ukraine is in neither EU nor the Schengen area, so different visa rules apply.

Typically, most nationalities can get a 90-day free visa on arrival.

However, WATCH OUT! Because there are a couple of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico whose citizens, unexpectedly, will need to pre-arrange an e-visa.

I traveled to Ukraine with my Mexican girlfriend and, since Mexicans can get a free visa on arrival in absolutely every country in Europe, we just assumed that she wouldn’t need one for visiting Ukraine but apparently, she did and, on our arrival, she was deported.

We traveled to Moldova to apply and wait for her visa which, by the way, took almost two weeks, plus she had to submit a lot of documents, from travel insurance to the flight or train ticket out of the country.

Anyways, here you have more information about this painful process.

⛅ Best time to visit Ukraine

Visiting ukraine in winter.

Winters in Ukraine are deadly – as you already know – but if you are just planning to visit Kiev , Lviv or any other big city, as long as you wear proper clothes, you should be fine. In any case, traveling in Ukraine, in winter, onboard a Soviet train can be a unique experience.

Visiting Ukraine in summer

I traveled in Ukraine during the last two weeks of August and, whereas Lviv was mostly all right, the countryside was utterly hot, with temperatures around 30-35ºC.

Visiting Ukraine in spring and autumn

The best seasons to visit Ukraine. Not so hot, not so cold. I spent the whole month of October in the country and colors were at their very best, absolutely beautiful.

Traveling in Ukraine by marshrutka in summer Most marshrutkas don’t have AC and, for some incomprehensible reason, old women – and they have full authority to do it – will always close the windows because they feel cold, even when it’s 40ºC inside the minivan, and funnily enough, nobody will complain. If you are backpacking in Ukraine in summer, be aware of that.

best time to visit Ukraine

📚 Best books for independent travel in Ukraine

Ukraine travel guide by bradt.

The best guide book is, by far, the one written by Bradt, as they provide so many details about each and every region in the country, including many mentions of real offbeat gems and deep and useful travel tips for Ukraine.

how to travel to ukraine

Ukraine travel guide by Lonely Planet

A good purchase as well, but I prefer Bradt, as the Lonely Planet doesn’t get that deep into the different destinations.

how to travel to ukraine

Voices from Chernobyl by Svetlana Alexievich

If you are visiting Ukraine, it means that you may visit Chernobyl as well and, for that, I recommend you get this book, written by a Nobel prize winning author, a compilation of testimonies directly related to the disaster. A useful book for anyone wanting to empathize with all victims.

how to travel to ukraine

Why visit Ukraine: Top 5 experiences

Travel insurance for Ukraine I recommend IATI Insurance : COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount Get your discount when buying through this link

Just a small glimpse of some of the things you can do when you travel to Ukraine:

1 – Explore one of the greatest cities in Europe

Kiev is an amazing city with loads to see, loads to do and so much going on.

I spent two weeks in the capital and they were the best days of my trip.

From epic churches to bizarre Soviet places and great nightlife, Kiev is a city which you will want to return to.

Read my guide: How to spend 4 days in Kiev

places to visit in Ukraine

2 – Wander around remote mountain villages in the Carpathians

If you want to visit and check out authentic rural life in Ukraine, head to the Carpathians and spend a few days hiking from village to village.

The mountains are pretty and the region has never had much exposure to the outside world, not even during the USSR, as these remote lands were difficult to control.

people Ukraine

3 – Check out the dreamy castles & cute old towns in Western Ukraine

Most of Western Ukraine used to belong to the Austro-Hungarian Empire and then to Poland, so it is easy to understand why they have so many castles, and the different towns and villages have Central European-like architecture.

travel guide to Ukraine

4 – Pay your respects to the victims in Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

You already know about Chernobyl, so I won’t go into details, but the exclusion zone is 150km north of Kiev and, even though it is becoming too popular and kind of touristy, it is good to go and see with your own eyes the consequences of one of the worst human disaster in our history.

Read my guide: How to visit Chernobyl responsibly

top experiences in Ukraine

5 – Visit a nuclear missile launch facility

An old Soviet nuclear missile launch facility has been turned into an awesome museum where, besides checking out all the military nuclear arsenal, you can go into one of the silos and the underground control room.

Read: Offbeat places to visit in Belarus

things to do in Ukraine

🛫 How to travel to Ukraine

By air – Both Lviv and Kiev have daily flights to pretty much any country in Europe and it’s not difficult to find a budget flight.

By land – Ukraine shares a border with:

  • European Union: Hungary, Romania, Poland and Slovakia. Crossing these borders should be very easy, with no secret procedures.
  • Belarus : You can cross the border but be aware that the visa on arrival (for Belarus) is only available if you fly in & out from Minsk so, if you want to enter/exit Ukraine via Belarus, you need to apply for a Belarussian visa at the embassy.
  • Moldova: Countless borders to choose from but most people seem to prefer taking the train from Odesa to Chisinau. I personally entered Ukraine from the northern Moldovan border, near Chernivtsi, on my way to the Carpathians. Read my Moldova travel guide .
  • Russia: Despite the ongoing conflict, the border is open. Check this report to find out how to do it.

By sea – There is the possibility of traveling to Ukraine by ferry from Batumi (Georgia) to Odesa. There are two companies offering this service, Ukrferry , and Ferrysped , and detailed schedules may be found on their websites. A ticket costs around 100USD. Read my travel guide to Georgia .

Mukachevo fortress

🚑 Travel insurance for Ukraine

For Ukraine, get IATI Insurance because:

  • All types of plans: from families to backpackers
  • Covers both short-term trips and up to 1-year long trips.
  • Covers COVID-19 related stuff.
  • Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount .

Ukraine and Russia: What the hell is going on

CRITICAL INFORMATION FOR YOU TO KNOW WHEN YOU TRAVEL IN UKRAINE Ukraine is not Russia!

Ukraine is not Russia the same way that Canada is not the USA or New Zealand is not Australia.

Sure, they share a good piece of history and some cultural aspects, but you don’t need to spend much time in the country to realize that they are indeed very different, especially when you travel in Western Ukraine, which wasn’t part of the USSR until the end of WWII.

Ukrainians are particularly sensitive on this topic, to the extent that they even get offended when you write Kiev instead of Kyiv, as Kiev is the direct Russian transliteration, even though both terms are accepted in English.

travel to the Ukraine

The Ukraine-Russia war

Today, as you may know, there is an ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

It is an actual war.

In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea to themselves and yes, Crimea isn’t part of Ukraine anymore.

Their map has changed and whatever Ukrainian map in which you see Crimea, is already outdated – unfortunately .

Nowadays, the ongoing conflict is happening in another region named Donbas, a historical region in eastern Ukraine, today covering Donetsk and Lugansk provinces (oblasts).

Most people living in these provinces are ethnically Russian and, after Crimea was annexed to Russia, these pro-Russian people declared their independence from Ukraine and the problem arose when Russia decided to support the rebels.

I don’t know what the end of this will be of this but Ukraine’s map might be altered again in the next few years.

These are reasons why, in the rest of Ukraine, especially in the West, the people absolutely despise the Russian Government and don’t like it when foreigners identify Ukrainian culture as a mere variant or extension of Russian, so be aware of that.

tank graveyard Kharkiv

Culture, people, language, and religion

Modern Ukraine as it is known today, with its current borders had never existed before the country got its independence in 1991.

Over the centuries, different parts of the country have been ruled by different civilizations, from the Kievan Rus – a federation found by Slavic people which Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus claim their cultural ancestors come from – to the Kingdom of Galicia-Volhynia – which used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and then Poland and it was only annexed to the USSR after WWII .

Ukrainians claim that their modern culture directly derives from both the Kievan Rus and the Kingdom of Galicia, so their traditional culture is a mix of east and west – well, not that western but Central European – and their traditional clothes are named vyshyvanka , which are also worn in Belarus and are quite similar to Polish and Moldovan ones.

During the independence day, sometime at the end of August, I noticed that many Ukrainians were wearing the vyshyvanka.

how to travel to ukraine

The people: Ukrainians

Some travelers say that Ukrainians are serious, or that they can sometimes be unfriendly, but this is just a classic Soviet attitude, seen in other former Soviet countries as well.

Yes, some of them do look serious but, once you get to know them, Ukrainians are great people and are very hospitable as well, especially in the rural areas.

In the Carpathians, for example, we were randomly hosted by some locals who followed us on Instagram and their level of hospitality was comparable to that you experience when traveling in Iran 😉

how to travel to ukraine

Ukrainian is the official language and, in order to understand how it differs from Russian, take Spanish and Portuguese as examples.

Many Portuguese understand Spanish and vice-versa because both languages are very close but very different at the same time, same as with Ukrainian and Russian.

The Russian language, however, is widely spoken across the country and, in Donbas and the Crimea it is also recognized as an official language along with Ukrainian.

In Western Ukraine, Ukrainian is the language that prevails.

By the way, Ukrainians use the Cyrillic alphabet and if you can’t read it yet, I strongly recommend you do learn it, because it will be a real game-changer for traveling in Ukraine.

travel tips for Ukraine

Most Ukrainians belong to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and they affirm that this is the original Church of ancient Kievan Rus .

Something that surprised me about Ukraine was that religion plays a very important role in their society, more than any other European country I have been to.

religion Ukraine

In smaller towns and cities, churches are packed with young people during Sunday services and in big cities such as Kiev or Lviv, while the young generation doesn’t really practice their religion, they do believe in God, generally speaking.

Visiting the endless churches and amazing Orthodox complexes will always be one of the highlights of any Ukraine travel guide and I highly recommend you go to Pochaiv, the second holiest monastery in the country, after Kiev Lavra, but the one in Pochaiv is nicer, for the simple reason that it is bigger and located in a rural, mystical area.

Ukraine travel tips

🍲 Food in Ukraine

Ukrainian cuisine isn’t the highlight of the country but it is all right, not bad at all.

Sometimes it is difficult to determine which dishes are Ukrainian and which ones are Russian, as you can find them in both countries but in any case, Ukrainian cuisine is hearty and made for feeding masses.

Some Ukrainian foods you are likely to taste during your trip

  • Borsch – The national food which they are most proud of is borsch , a beetroot soup widely eaten across all the former USSR, but Ukrainians affirm and re-affirm it is originally from Ukraine, and I believe them, because borsch is nowhere else as available as on Ukrainian menus; well maybe in Belarus as well. Borsch is the way to go and it is traditionally served with sour cream and with something named salo .
  • Salo – Slices of pork fat, very salty and very popular. Ukrainians find it a real delicacy but I don’t like it.
  • Varenyky – When you don’t know what to order, you order varenyky , the classic dumplings available in many Slavic countries, but they always differ in shape, filling and have different names. Ukrainian varenyky are usually filled with brynza (local cheese) or potatoes.
  • Syrniki – Typically eaten for breakfast or brunch, these are some small, thick, local pancakes filled with cottage cheese, but they can also contain apple and other ingredients.
  • Chicken Kyiv – This was weird, and not my favorite, but it is very traditional. It consists of fried chicken filled with dairy butter and herbs. A real bomb.

Ukrainian cuisine

And there’s more.

Local restaurants in big cities will have many other choices but, in the rural areas, the options will be limited to borsch and varenyky.

I once had borsch + varenyky for 4 days in a row!

Then, in the Western part of the country, since that area used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and then Poland, traditional dishes are more Central European, so you find things like goulash , whereas in the Carpathians, you find Moldovan and Romanian dishes such as banusz .

This blog is purely about Ukrainian food and has some really good information.

food in Ukraine

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Ukraine?

Because of recent events, some people may perceive Ukraine as a dangerous destination to travel to but trust me, it is not.

Maidan protests (2014)

In 2014, Kiev witnessed a series of protests against the Government that lasted for more than 3 months, resulting in several peaceful demonstrators being murdered by the police.

It was crazy and such was the gravity of those protests and repression, that they were all over the international news for weeks.

During those 3 months, traveling to Kiev wasn’t recommended, of course, but this was a past episode that ended with the Prime Minister Yanukovych fleeing the country and the celebration of new elections

As we previously discussed, there is a conflict going on in Donetsk and Lugansk, in which according to the UN, more than 13,000 people have died as of 2019 .

The war, however, solely affects those two provinces, doesn’t go beyond them and, even if you wanted to go there, you couldn’t because foreigners aren’t allowed anymore.

Other than that, besides all the regular crime-related stuff, such as pickpocketing, that happens in any city – or the problem with Ukraine brides , but that’s another story – traveling in Ukraine is safe, very safe, and any Ukrainian will tell you that.

how to travel to ukraine

💻 Internet and connectivity in Ukraine

Ukraine has amazing 4G coverage and getting a SIM Card is very straightforward, as they didn’t even ask me for my passport.

I personally bought Lifecell, but Kyivstar seems to be the most popular one.

Prices are ridiculously cheap and I think I paid around 75UAH (3€) for a SIM Card packed with 4GB of data.

eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Ukraine

Basically, an eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical SIM card, with the added benefit that you can buy it from home before the beginning of your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it at your destination. 

With Holafly , you can get a SIM Card for a wide range of destinations, including Ukraine . 

Moreover, you can benefit from a 5% discount with the following code:  AGAINSTTHECOMPASS

Get a VPN for traveling in Ukraine

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Ukraine. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Money in Ukraine

In Ukraine, they use the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) and, approximately:

1 USD = 36.74 UAH

Credit cards are generally accepted anywhere and most banks will accept international cards, even though they tend to charge a small fee.

How much does it cost to travel in Ukraine?

As per costs, Ukraine is a cheap country to travel around, especially because their currency has devalued massively since the Crimea crisis, when 1€ used to be equal to 10UAH.

how to travel to ukraine

Backpacking budget for Ukraine:

Assuming you stay in dorms and eat in budget cafeterias, you can easily travel in Ukraine for 25€ a day .

Typical costs (approx.)

  • Dorm in a budget hostel: 200 UAH
  • Budget apartment in Kiev or Lviv: from 600 UAH
  • Local meal in a cafeteria: 100UAH
  • Local beer: 40UAH
  • Night train from Lviv to Odesa economical class: 200 UAH

🛺 Transportation tips: How to travel around Ukraine

The country is big but the public transportation system is great, which makes traveling in Ukraine fairly easy.

Soviet trains at their best. Amazing way to see the vastness of the country.

If you have traveled in other Soviet countries such as Kazakhstan , Uzbekistan or Russia itself, their train system doesn’t vary much. In fact, it is the same.

You can get to pretty much any city but do book your tickets in advance, especially during high season, as the cheap ones run out quickly.

There are different types of carriages but the Soviet system has 3 classes:

  • berth: no compartments but bunk beds are placed all over the carriage.
  • compartment: 4-bed compartment.
  • deluxe: 2-bed fancy compartment.

If you have never ridden a Soviet train, I recommend you travel in berth .

In case you are wondering, economical class in Ukraine (berth) isn’t like in India or Sri Lanka, not even close. They provide you with clean bed linen and the beds are relatively comfortable.

You can check prices, timings and book your ticket on this link (official governmental site).

how to travel to ukraine

By marshrutka

Marshrutka means minivan in Russian and you may use them when going to smaller towns.

If you count by kilometer, it is much more expensive than traveling by train and around 5 times more uncomfortable, but if you are getting deep into Ukraine, this might be your only choice more often than you think.

Apparently, buses also run between major cities but I don’t see a good reason for taking them, apart from when train tickets to your destination are sold out but in any case, for long distances, it is also recommended to book your ticket in advance.

Anyways, you can book your tickets on this website .

uaz Ukraine

❗ More information for traveling to Ukraine

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Ukraine destination

  • Travel Guide to Chernobyl
  • Kiev Travel Guide
  • Lviv Travel Guide
  • Ukraine Itinerary

Travel guides to former Soviet countries

  • Georgia Travel Guide
  • Belarus Travel Guide
  • Travel Guide to Moldova
  • Azerbaijan Travel Guide
  • Travel Guide to Kyrgyzstan
  • Travel Guide to Tajikistan
  • Uzbekistan Travel Guide
  • Kazakhstan Travel Guide

I hope you enjoyed my Ukraine travel blog. Please, leave a comment for any questions you might have.

travel to Ukraine

Awesome guide on traveling Ukraine! As a Ukrainian, I can say that information you provided is useful and accurate. Keep on that track! 🙂

Thanks Irina, I am happy that you like this post as an Ukrainian 🙂

Una vez más, Joan, nos dejas con ganas de más.

It would be great if I could actually read the content on the site without the pop up! I

You mentioned in another guide that you see a lot of misery in Ukraine, but you didn’t mention it in this guide. I think it’d be interesting to include more information like that.

I want to travel to Odesa from Romania by car. How would I do that?

Excuse me, but the Donbas conflict wasn’t started because “Most people living in these provinces are ethnically Russian and […] declared their independence from Ukraine and the problem arose when Russia decided to support the rebels.” Russia started the rebellion itself, pretending it to be started by those Ukrainians, just as Russia did it with all other neighboring countries, where they have disputed areas. I have a lot of friends in all parts of Ukraine, and I know what I’m talking about. And it wasn’t Prime-Minister Yanukovych who fleed, he was the President.

This blog post is very outdates and in many sections factually wrong, I don’t know why google is recommending this as if it was recently updated, when it obviously isn’t keeping up with the latest developments in Ukraine.

Im jone ukraine diffens

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Join our Expeditions

From Syria to Iraq in Pakistan, Against the Compass is finally running expeditions to the most epic and off-the-beaten-track countries.

We have scheduled expeditions for every month of the year.

Latest posts

  • Is Iraq safe to visit in 2024?
  • Things to do in Iraq in a 10-day itinerary
  • How to travel to Mosul in 2024
  • A guide to traveling in Iraq in 2024
  • How to travel to Haiti (2024)
Young Pioneer Tours

logo

Can you travel to Ukraine in 2024?

Can you travel to Ukraine in 2024? As in is it possible to visit Kiev and Lviv during the current conflict between the Ukraine and Russia? The short answer is yes and with relative ease, although it is not something we currently advocate, nor are planning tours to do so.

Travel to Ukraine before the war

Can you travel to Ukraine

Traveling to Ukraine before the war was extremely easy, with numerous international flights, as well as trains from Poland, Belarus and of course Russia. Prior to the current conflict Ukraine was one of our main destinations, particularly Chernobyl.

In fact we had a tour ready to go on February 28th 2024, of course we cancelled it, ironically to the ire of guests who had booked, but with hindsight it was obviously the correct choice. 

We are though still running tours to Transnsitria, you can read about our Unrecognised Countries tours here . 

Things though have of course changed and all flights and most trains have been cancelled, there are though still some ways in which you can travel to Ukraine in 2024.

Traveling to Lviv and Kiev from Poland in 202 4

how to travel to ukraine

While most people are trying to get out of Ukraine, many are traveling in to the country be it on humanitarian work, as journalists, or even as volunteers for the Ukrainian army. 

There are also now a number of Ukrainians traveling to Lviv and Kiev as both are now considered relatively safe. This can perhaps be epitomised by how often soon to be ex-PM of the UK Boris Johnson has been going in and out of Kiev. Wag the dog anyone?

how to travel to ukraine

To read about Wag The Dog click here . 

The most popular route into both Lviv and Kiev is to take the train from Krakow in Poland. Train times change, but it essentially involves midday journey from Krakow to Przemysi Glowny (station) for 3 hours and then changing for the Kiev leg of the journey. This part of the trip takes 15, or so hours to Kiev, or about 5 to Lviv. The cost is just over $100 as things stand. Obviously this involves going through Ukrainian customs and immigration, but with the amount of volunteers and aid workers going through is a relatively pain free process.

With that being said do not travel there with bad intentions, nor a Putin t-shirt. Do not also go as a so called “war tourist” what is happening in Ukraine is very real and should be teated with good taste.

Is it safe to travel to Lviv in 2024?

OK, so pretty much all governments as advise against all travel to the Ukraine, so we are not advocating it, but merely saying how it is. Lviv has largely been spared the horrors of war and is now home to many Ukrainians who have fled the rest of the country. 

In fact the bars and restaurants of Lviv are now so full you can hardly get in. If you were to pick anywhere in Ukraine to visit then it is Lviv.

Is it safe to travel to Kiev in 2024? 

While it was under constant attack from Russia and could have fallen, the city has now been largely left alone and life has slowly started to get back to normal. Bars are now open and people are indeed returning, although there is an 11 pm curfew.

With that being said rockets and missile attacks do still periodically hit the capital and as things stand no one truly knows how the war will play out. Therefore while you could never truly call Kiev, Kyiv safe, it is about as safe as it could be since the start of the conflict. 

Can you travel to Ukraine in 2024 with YPT?

how to travel to ukraine

Young Pioneer Tours are currently running tours to both Lviv and Kyiv, with our monthly departures being capped at six people. For obvious reasons we do not advertise these itineraries and we suggest getting in touch for more details.

About Post Author

Avatar photo

Gareth Johnson

Gareth Johnson is the founder of Young Pioneer Tours and has visited over 180+ countries. His passion is opening obscure destinations to tourism and sharing his experience of street food.

See author's posts

  • Suspendisse tincidunt nunc nec

Tripadvisor

Latest news.

how to travel to ukraine

THE YOUNG PIONEER PODCAST S2, E5: Horn of Africa Part Three – Eritrea

North Korea News Newspaper

North Korea Travel Update – January 2024

world nomad games Kazakhstan

2024 World Nomad Games in Kazakhstan Announced

how to travel to ukraine

An American in South Korea Heads North (Part 1)

  • Terms & Conditions
  • Payment Policy
  • North Korea Tours – 2017 Tours
  • Tour Extensions
  • Independent Tours
  • North Korea FAQ
  • Our Terms and Conditions
  • Our Payment Policy Terms

©YoungPioneerTours.com 2024. All rights reserved.

Caution October 19, 2023

Worldwide caution, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

  • Travel Advisories |
  • Contact Us |
  • MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Ukraine Travel Advisory

Travel advisory may 22, 2023, ukraine - level 4: do not travel.

Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s war against Ukraine. The Department of State continues to advise that U.S. citizens not travel to Ukraine due to active armed conflict. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

All U.S. citizens should carefully monitor U.S. government notices and local and international media outlets for information about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place. Those choosing to remain in Ukraine should exercise caution due to the potential for military attacks, crime, civil unrest, and consult the Department’s latest security alerts.

The security situation in Ukraine remains unpredictable. U.S. citizens in Ukraine should stay vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. Know the location of your closest shelter or protected space. In the event of mortar, missile, drone, or rocket fire, follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. If you feel your current location is no longer safe, you should carefully assess the potential risks involved in moving to a different location.

There are continued reports of Russian forces and their proxies singling out U.S. citizens in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine for detention, interrogation, or harassment because of their nationality. U.S. citizens have also been singled out when evacuating by land through Russia-occupied territory or to Russia or Belarus.

U.S. citizens seeking emergency assistance should email [email protected] for assistance. Please review what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas . U.S. citizens may also seek consular services, including requests for repatriation loans, passports, and visa services, at U.S. embassies and consulates in neighboring countries .

On February 24, 2022, the Ukrainian government declared a state of emergency. Each province (oblast) decides on measures to be implemented according to local conditions. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections, among other measures. Follow any oblast-specific state of emergency measures.

Many in the international community, including the United States and Ukraine, do not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea in 2014, nor the September 2022 purported annexation of four other Ukrainian oblasts -- Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in these areas. There are also abuses against foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in these regions, particularly against those who are seen as challenging Russia’s occupation.

Although Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine severely restricts the Embassy’s access and ability to provide services in these areas, the Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv continue to remotely provide certain emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts partially occupied by Russia – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia – to the extent possible given security conditions.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. aviation operations into, out of, within, or over Ukraine. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ukraine.

Travel to High-Risk Areas

If you choose to disregard the Travel Advisory and travel to Ukraine, you should consider taking the following steps:

  • Visit our website on Travel to High-Risk areas .
  • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
  • Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
  • Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.
  • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
  • Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
  • Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. This plan should specify who you would contact first and how they should share the information.
  • Enroll your trip in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

If you are currently in Ukraine:

  • Read the Department’s country information page on Ukraine.
  • Familiarize yourself with information on what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas .
  • Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your contingency plans based on the new information.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Notices related to your travel.
  • Get a COVID vaccine to facilitate your travel.
  • Understand the COVID testing and vaccine requirements for all countries that you will transit through to your destination.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Ukraine.
  • Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, ukraine map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Ukraine Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 4, 2023

The colorful and historic architecture in Kyiv, Ukraine in winter

In recent years, Ukraine has evolved into a popular budget travel destination. While it might not have the polish and attractions you find in Western Europe, it more than makes up for that with cheap prices, beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and sparse crowds.

Ukraine gained independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 and is actually Europe’s second-largest country, after Russia. Its history includes domination by various countries other than USSR including Poland, Lithuania, Romania, Czechoslovakia, and Russia.

Ukraine is home to the deepest metro station in the world, one of the world’s most visited McDonald’s, and some of Europe’s oldest coffee houses. There are seven places here that have been recognized by UNESCO, it has tons of ghost towns here and you can also find the famous Tunnel of Love. While the recent annexation of Crimea by Russia means you’ll want to be careful around the borders with Russia, the country itself is still safe to travel.

Personally, I didn’t have many expectations for when I arrived — but I absolutely loved my time here. It’s affordable, fun, and has a lot to offer if you step off the beaten path. The people are really welcoming, the country is inexpensive, and there’s a real sense of stepping back in time as you explore the cities and countryside. I can’t praise it enough.

This travel guide to Ukraine can help you plan your trip there while helping you stay on budget.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Ukraine

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in ukraine.

View over the abandoned apartment buildings with trees growing around them in Chernobyl, Ukraine

1. Visit the Tunnel of Love in Klevan

Just outside of Klevan, an old railway line has been turned into a natural tunnel lined it with trees. The tunnel is at its lushest during the spring and summer when the green leaves form a seemingly impenetrable barrier. It’s very beautiful and romantic (and Insta-worthy). Plus, it’s free!

2. Go skiing

Ukraine has cold, snowy winters that make it the perfect destination for budget-friendly winter sports. There are several resorts dotting the Carpathians with lift tickets starting at just 350 UAH. It’s one of the cheapest places to ski in Europe!

3. Explore Chernobyl

This nuclear plant had a critical meltdown in 1986. It was one of the worst nuclear disaster in human history. The radiation is weak enough now that people to visit the complex and the abandoned, ghost-like town nearby. Tours cost about 2,900 UAH and last a full day.

4. Visit Kyiv

The capital of Ukraine is home to an odd mix of Soviet-area communist housing, Baroque buildings, and cobblestone streets. For theater lovers, the Kyiv Opera House is host to world-class operas and ballets and the Ivan Franko Theater hosts dramas, comedies, and musicals.

5. Hike the Carpathian Mountains

One of the most popular destinations in the country, this 1,500-kilometer (932-mile) chain of mountains are a magical collection of forests, meadows, and villages. There are lakes for swimming and plenty of trails for hiking. For a full-day hike, climb to the peak of Hoverla.

Other Things to See and Do in Ukraine

1. visit chernivtsi university.

Founded in 1875, this university is the most fascinating piece of architecture in Chernivtsi, a city in western Ukraine. It’s constructed from beautifully-laid red bricks and decorated with thousands of colored tiles. The design of the building was influenced by a pseudo-Byzantine-Hanseatic-Moorish style. You can book guided tours from the university for 80 UAH.

2. Relax at Arcadia Beach

This is the country’s most famous beach. Located in Odessa, it was created to be the country’s main summer getaway spot so there’s a multitude of bars, clubs, resorts, and cafes here, making it a popular place to visit during the warmer summer months (May-September). The main beach has a waterslide and plenty of space to swim and lounge. Just be sure to arrive early to get a good spot as it does get crowded in the summer.

3. Wander the Odessa catacombs

This is the largest catacomb system in the world. There are over 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles) of catacombs under the city, created in the 17th century and expanded when the city mined for limestone in the early 19th century (the limestone was used to build the city). The catacombs were used by Soviet rebels during World War II after the Germans forced them to retreat. While dangerous to explore alone (people still get lost and die down here), you can join a 2-4-hour tour to show you around. Prices start at 350 UAH. For Star Wars fans, be sure to check out the nearby statue that was originally a tribute to Lenin and which has been transformed into a replica of Darth Vader! The Odessa Opera and Ballet is worth a visit too as it is super cheap and in a beautiful historic building.

4. See the Bohdan & Varvara Khanenko Arts Museum

Located in Kyiv, this museum hosts an impressive collection of European art. The interior is decadently coated in frescoes, intricately-carved woodwork, priceless antique furniture, and boasts an array of masterful art. Expect to see paintings from Western Europe (including works by Peter Paul Rubens, Gentile Bellini, Jacob Jordaens, and Luis de Morales), artifacts, and works from Egyptian and Greek antiquity, Persian Ceramics, Chinese paintings, and much more! Admission is 120 UAH and free on the first Wednesday of the month.

5. Hang out in Ploshcha Svobody

Located in Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine, this massive city square is one of the largest in the world. At the western end stands the first Soviet skyscraper, complete with geometrically-set concrete and glass blocks and bridges. Renamed Freedom Square after Ukrainian independence, it spans a massive 30 acres. Don’t miss the empty pedestal where the statue of Lenin used to be (it was toppled during protests in 2014).

6. Spot wildlife at Askania-Nova Reserve

Established in 1898, this vast reserve spans over 333 square kilometers (128 sq mi)and is home to a plethora of animal life like buffalo, deer, antelope, horses, zebras, camels, gnus, the rare Central Asian Saiga antelope, and a huge array of birds. Within the reserve, there are a few small villages and one town which you can reach by bus. From April to November you can take a safari for around 150 UAH.

7. See Lutsk Castle

This fortress is located in Lutsk’s old quarter and dates back to the 14th century. The castle walls stand 13 meters (42 feet) high and are between 1-3 meters (3-10 feet) thick. It’s topped with three broad towers that have repelled several sieges, including attacks by Casimir the Great (1349), Jogaila (1431), and Sigismund K stutaitis (1436). During the Nazi occupation, over 1,000 Jews were murdered here (though there sadly is no monument or marker to commemorate the tragedy). Today, there are archeological remains dating back to the 12th century preserved and on display. The castle is featured on the 200 UAH bill and you can walk the ramparts and tour the three towers that make up the main defensive fortifications. Admission is 10 UAH.

8. Visit the National Chernobyl Museum

Located in Kyiv, this small museum is a good prelude to a trip to Chernobyl. There are three exhibits on display that highlight the accident, the aftermath, and the lessons we need to learn to avoid this happening again. It’s equally sobering and educational. Admission is 10 UAH or 60 UAH with an audio guide.

9. Visit the Museum of the Great Patriotic War

This is one of the largest museums in Ukraine and highlights the story of the German-Soviet conflict during World War II. Located in Kyiv, the museum contains over 300,000 exhibits as well as several monuments and memorials spanning over 25 acres overlooking the Dnieper River (including the 62-meter-tall Motherland statue). This museum offers a sobering and unique look at the war’s Eastern conflict. Admission is 50 UAH.

10. Tour St. Sophia’s Cathedral

Built in the 11th century in Kyiv, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has an elaborate Baroque exterior with 13 golden domes. Inside the cathedral, there are beautiful murals, mosaics, and centuries-old frescoes. The cathedral was used as a burial place for Kyivan rulers during the Middle Ages. Named after Hagia Sophia in Turkey, the cathedral offers some stunning views over Kyiv from the bell tower. Admission to see the cathedral’s museum is 20 UAH while access to the bell tower is 60 UAH.

11. Visit Lviv

Lviv is the cultural capital of Ukraine. Located 540 kilometers (335 miles) west of Kyiv, it has a Central European vibe and is full of history and incredible architecture. Don’t miss wandering the Old Town (another place that has made UNESCO’s World Heritage List), visiting the Lviv Historical Museum, and enjoying the view from High Castle. For a glimpse at the city’s past, visit the Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life (it’s an outdoor museum with all kinds of traditional wooden buildings). As a university town, it’s a youthful city and hosts many of the country’s foreign students from around Europe!

12. Take a walking tour

One of my favorite things to do when I arrive anywhere new is to take a walking tour. It’s the best way to get your bearings and you might even meet and make some new friends. Kyiv Walking Tours, Guru Walk, and Free Tour all offer free walking tours in Kyiv covering most of the main points of interest. If you do take a free tour, be sure to tip your guide at the end! Get Your Guide also has a ton of tours around the country, including museum tours and trips to Chernobyl!

13. Go to a unique museum

Ukraine has to be home to some of the most interesting museums in the world. There’s a museum dedicated to the Ukrainian Easter egg in Kolomyya, a Museum of Unnecessary Things in Kyiv, a Micro Miniature Museum in Kyiv, and a Toilet History Museum in Kyiv. While we’re looking at random places and things, check out the giant crossword in Lviv, the brass Beer Belly of Ukraine (also in Lviv), and the statues of Peeing Colors in Kyiv.

14. Check out the sunflower fields

Sunflower oil is one of Ukraine’s largest exports. Reportedly with enough fields of sunflowers to cover Slovenia, it isn’t too hard to find one. Go in late July for the best views (the season lasts from July to mid-August).

Ukraine Travel Costs

Street lined with brightly colored buildings in Kyiv, Ukraine

Accommodation – Hostels start at 130-250 UAH for a bed in a 6-10-bed dorm. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have a kitchen. For a private room, prices start at 260 UAH.

Budget hotels start at 560 UAH per night. You can find cheaper options but they tend to be pretty gross places. Most budget hotels are a little outdated when it comes to decor. Don’t expect many amenities either.

Airbnb is available in larger cities throughout the country. Private rooms start at 520 UAH per night while an entire home/apartment costs at 1,000 UAH.

Wild camping is allowed in Ukraine, as long as you aren’t in nature preserves or near highways. There are also plenty of campgrounds around the country with a basic plot (without electricity) costing from 60-600 UAH per night.

Food – Food in Ukraine is similar to that in neighboring Eastern Europe and Russia. Borscht (beetroot soup), varenyky (pierogies), holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls), kovbasa (sausage), and deruny (potato pancakes) are some of the most popular and most common dishes.

For a meal of traditional cuisine, expect to pay 145 UAH or less. Portions are filling and hearty too. Fast food (like McDonald’s) can be found in the larger cities around the country and costs around 120 UAH for a combo meal. For Thai or Indian food, main dishes cost around 200 UAH. Expect to pay around 180 UAH for a large pizza.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal of traditional cuisine costs around 300 UAH. Beer can be found for just 30 UAH while a latte or cappuccino costs around 35 UAH.

For a week of groceries that includes pasta, vegetables, chicken, and seasonal produce, expect to pay around 750 UAH.

Backpacking Ukraine Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Ukraine, my suggested budget is 885 UAH per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, doing free activities like walking tours and hiking, limiting your drinking, visiting some cheap attractions like museums or galleries, and using local transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 2,425 UAH per day, you can stay in a budget hotel or Airbnb, eat out for all your meals at cheap restaurants serving traditional cuisine, go out for some drinks, take some guided tours, take the occasional taxi to get around and take the bus between cities, and tour of Chernobyl.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,950 UAH or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out at any restaurant you want, rent a car or take taxis everywhere, take higher-end guided tours, drink as much as you want, go skiing, take domestic flights to get around the country, and see as many castles and museums as you can handle. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in UAH.

Ukraine Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Ukraine is an affordable country to visit. You’re going to be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money unless you go out of your way to do so. That said, it’s always good to make sure you get the best deals so here are some money-saving tips for Ukraine:

  • Eat local – By eating at restaurants serving traditional cuisine, you keep your food expenses low. Skip the western food.
  • Buy beer at the supermarkets – If you plan on drinking, buy your beer at the supermarket. Beer at the bar is cheap, but this is even cheaper!
  • Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to meet awesome people, get a local perspective, and get a place to stay for free. I used it while I was in the country and met a lot of great people through it. The community here is pretty small so be sure to make your requests in advance.
  • Book overnight trains – Take advantage of the slow and cheap trains in Ukraine by taking overnight trains. You save one night’s accommodation by doing this.
  • Save money on rideshares – Uber is way cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi. Currently, Uber is available in Kyiv, Odessa, Lviv, Kharkiv, Vinnytsia, Zaporizhia, and Dnipro.
  • Get the Kyiv PASS – If you’re planning on being in Kyiv for a few days, the Kyiv PASS gets you free admissions to certain attractions, discounts to partner restaurants, free Metro trips (offline cards only), and an audio guide. It’s available for 24, 48, and 72 hours and costs 447 UAH, 746 UAH, and 1,045 UAH respectively.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Ukraine is not safe to drink. Avoid single-use plastic by bringing a reusable water bottle with a filter with you. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles that also filter your water so it’s safe and clean to drink — no matter where you are in the world!
  • Take a free walking tour – Kyiv Walking Tours offers a free tour around the city. It’s the best way to see the main sights on a budget. Just be sure to tip your guide!

Where to Stay in Ukraine

Ukraine has a growing hostel scene and you can now find hostels in most of the larger cities. Here are my favorite places to stay around the country:

  • Gar’is Hostel (Kyiv)
  • DREAM Hostel (Kyiv)
  • Mama Hostel (Odessa)
  • Park Plus Hostel (Lviv)
  • Yard Hostel & Coffee (Chernivtsi)

How to Get Around Ukraine

The Carpathian mountains covered in fog, in Ukraine

Bus – Ukraine has a mix of small, crowded, and outdated buses as well as larger, more modern coaches. FlixBus is your best choice here, as their buses are clean, reliable, and cheap.

You can take a bus pretty much anywhere in the country for under 700 UAH although if you’re prepared to change busses mid-way, the price can be half that.

Trains – Trains are perfect for longer journeys around the country. Many of the trains have an old, Soviet feel to them but they are safe, reliable, and cheap. And, because there are lots of overnight options, you can usually take an overnight train to save yourself a night of accommodation.

First-class couchettes, private and shared sleepers, and regular seats are all available. Most clerks do not speak English so buy your ticket online or have your hostel/hotel write down what you need/where you’re going.

The 9-hour trip from Kyiv to Odessa can cost as little as 300 UAH. The 7-hour trip from Kyiv to Lviv costs about the same while the 13-hour journey from Kyiv to Loskutivka (near Luhansk) costs 340 UAH.

Air – Ukraine International Airlines is the main domestic carrier here. Flights are relatively affordable, with most domestic flights costing as little as 1,000 UAH.

Car Rental – Car rentals in Ukraine can be found for as little as 575 UAH per day for a multi-day rental. The roads here are in rough shape, however, so drive carefully. Additionally, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle here.

When to Go to Ukraine

The summer is the most popular time to visit Ukraine. June-August offers plenty of warm, sunny days with temperatures ranging from 18-24°C (64-75°F). This is also the busiest time of year as well. However, the country only sees around 14 million tourists each year (that’s a fraction of the 90 million visitors a popular destination like France receives) so don’t expect massive crowds.

If you want to avoid the peak summer season, consider visiting in May or September/October. It won’t be as warm, but you can see the flowers blossom in the Carpathians or watch the leaves change in the autumn. It’s chilly at night, but the days are still perfect for sightseeing and hiking.

The winters in Ukraine are cold, with temperatures well below 0°C (32°F). Unless you’re here to ski or do winter sports, I’d avoid visiting in the winter.

How to Stay Safe in Ukraine

Crime and petty theft in Ukraine are on par with much of Europe. Most crimes are crimes of opportunity so as long as you keep your valuables out of reach when in crowded areas and on public transportation, you can avoid the most common issues. Don’t flash your valuables when out and about and avoid walking alone at night in the larger cities just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though they should take the standard precautions (not leaving their drink unattended at the bar, not walking home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Credit card fraud is a concern in Ukraine so stick to using ATMs inside of banks (and not random ATMs on the street).

The roads here are pretty terrible, so be extra careful if renting a car. Follow all the rules of the road, obey the speed limits, and wear a seatbelt. Drivers here are aggressive so be prepared. Also, don’t leave your valuables in your vehicle overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

With the rise of the far-right and Russian interference, attacks against people of color have been on the rise. Travelers of color need to take extra precautions and avoid traveling alone at night.

The war with Russia in Crimea is localized to the region (for now) so as long as you avoid visiting Crimea (which you need a special permit for) you won’t have to worry. While it is possible to visit Crimea (and there is a lot to see there), most governments have issued warnings and don’t provide assistance should an issue arise. In short, avoid visiting Crimea for now.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 102 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ukraine Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
  • BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Ukraine Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

The 8 Best Hotels in Amsterdam

The 8 Best Hotels in Amsterdam

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

Home - smartraveller.gov.au, be informed, be prepared - logo

Search Smartraveller

how to travel to ukraine

Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict.

Ukraine

Ukraine (PDF 447.96 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Medical emergencies, general (mobile phones only), advice levels.

Do not travel to Ukraine.

Do not travel to Ukraine, including Crimea and the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. 

See  Safety

We continue to advise do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. If you're currently in Ukraine, we urge you to depart if it's safe to do so.

  • Russia has launched intensified attacks against Ukraine's civilian and government infrastructure; attacks are ongoing. Russian strikes in Ukraine pose a continued threat to civilians and civilian infrastructure. Russian actions also pose a threat to Ukraine's active nuclear power plants, with particular concern for the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
  • The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. Several towns and cities in southern and eastern Ukraine are temporarily under Russian control. The security situation continues to be volatile. Heavy fighting is occurring in parts of eastern and southern Ukraine. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in some locations across the country, including in major cities. Rocket, drone, and missile attacks have struck infrastructure and military facilities.
  • There have been civilian casualties. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted. Your safety is at the highest risk if you engage in active combat. Do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. There is a risk to life. For more information on what to do if you're caught in armed conflict, see our general advice: ' There's an armed conflict '.
  • A nationwide state of emergency is in place, and martial law has been imposed. Other local restrictions may be implemented with little warning. Check the measures in place in your location, as they may vary from region to region and follow the instructions of the local Ukrainian authorities. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections. Carry identification with you at all times.
  • If you hear a loud explosion or sirens are activated, seek shelter in a hardened structure away from windows. In some cities, subway stations may be available as shelters. Ensure you have an adequate supply of basic food, water and medications. Have a list of emergency contacts on you. Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Follow the advice of Ukrainian authorities and avoid areas where military forces are gathered. Continue to monitor advice on Smartraveller and reputable local and international media about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place.
  • Where it's safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine. You need to carefully consider the safest departure options. Make contingency plans for how and when you're going to leave Ukraine. Roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or be damaged. Confirm the entry requirements of the  destination  to which you are travelling. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Ensure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication, and fuel. Keep your travel documents up to date, including for your immediate family. Continue to review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk. 
  • If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia. Contact your family and friends, so they're aware of your location and situation. Keep them up to date with your travel plans. Don't wait. Communication infrastructure may become damaged or blocked, and cyber-attacks have occurred. Russian military action could disrupt essential services, including banks, transport, and communications.

Full travel advice:  Safety

  • HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.
  • Infectious diseases include polio, tuberculosis, measles, diphtheria, hepatitis, and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. If an animal bites or scratches you, get immediate medical help.
  • Chernobyl remains radioactive.
  • Outside major cities, the standard of state medical facilities is low. There are frequent shortages of medical supplies. Russian military action could disrupt access to essential services, including healthcare.

Full travel advice:  Health

  • Always carry your passport. Local police or military may ask to see your passport and visa.
  • Ukrainian males (including Australian/Ukrainian dual nationals) from 18 to 60 years of age are being stopped from leaving Ukraine.
  • Ukraine doesn't recognise dual nationality. We may not be able to help you if you have Ukrainian nationality. Under Ukrainian law, you may be a Ukrainian citizen if you were born in Ukraine or have a parent born in Ukraine.
  • Russian military action in Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular and passport assistance to Australians. The Australian Embassy in Kyiv has temporarily relocated to Warsaw, Poland. It won't always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you. The Australian Government can't evacuate you from Ukraine. 
  • Do not enter into surrogacy arrangements. Due to the Russian invasion, the security situation continues to be volatile and could deteriorate suddenly (see ' Safety '). If, despite our advice, you take part in commercial surrogacy arrangements, you'll need to travel to the nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate, at your own expense, to obtain a travel document for your child. Your child must stay in Ukraine with appropriate care at your expense while you obtain the appropriate travel documents. The Australian Government can't evacuate you or your child from Ukraine.
  • Australian law prohibits Australian citizens, residents, and holders of Australian visas from engaging in hostile activities overseas unless they are serving in the armed forces of a foreign country. If you travel to Ukraine to fight with a non-government armed group on either side of the conflict – or recruit another person to do so (including inducing, inciting or encouraging) – your activities may amount to criminal offences. Russian proxies have given foreign nationals death sentences for engaging in the war in Ukraine.
  • Same-sex activity is legal in Ukraine, but local attitudes are less tolerant than in Australia. Violence has occurred at some gay pride events and gay venues in Ukraine.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

  • The security situation continues to be volatile. A nationwide state of emergency is in place. Other local restrictions may be implemented with little warning. Check the measures in place in your location, as they may vary from region to region and follow the instructions of the local Ukrainian authorities. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections.  
  • When it's safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine. You need to have a plan for how and when you're going to leave. Remain alert as conditions could change with little warning. 
  • Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Ukraine airspace is closed. Some roads may be crowded, exposed to military activity or damaged. Other transport options in Ukraine may close at short notice.
  • New restrictions or changes to entry requirements for other destinations could be imposed suddenly. See ' Full advice - Travel ' for information on Ukraine border regions, land border crossing wait times and rules on border crossing points. 
  • Plan for delays at land border crossings. Ensure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication, and fuel. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk. 
  • Ensure your registration, ownership, insurance, and Green Card are in order for border crossings. Carry identification with you at all times and communicate with family and friends about your travel plans. Expect delays on roads and disruptions to services, including communications and transport. Be prepared for weather conditions.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

  • If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.
  • Our embassy is temporarily operating from Warsaw, Poland. 
  • Our ability to provide consular assistance in Ukraine is severely limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine. 
  • The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
  • See the  Ukraine page  on the Department of Home Affairs website for Australian visa enquiries.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Security situation.

Russia has launched intensified attacks against Ukraine's civilian and Government infrastructure. Attacks are ongoing. Russian strikes in Ukraine pose a continued threat to civilians and civilian infrastructure. Russian actions also pose a threat to Ukraine's active nuclear power plants, with particular concern for the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. Several towns and cities in southern and eastern Ukraine are temporarily under Russian control. The security situation continues to be volatile. Heavy fighting is occurring in some areas of Ukraine. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in various locations across the country, including in major cities. Rocket, drone, and missile attacks have struck infrastructure and civilian and military facilities. There have been many casualties. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted. Your safety is at the highest risk if you engage in active combat. Do not travel to Ukraine. There is a risk to life.

The US Government issued travel advice reporting US citizens being singled out and detained by the Russian military in Ukraine. This may occur when citizens are forcibly deported or evacuated by land through temporarily Russian-occupied territory or to Russia.

A nationwide state of emergency is in place. Other local restrictions may be implemented with little warning. Check the measures in place in your location, as they may vary from region to region and follow the instructions of the local Ukrainian authorities. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections.

If you hear a loud explosion or sirens are activated, seek shelter in a hardened structure away from windows. Subway stations may be available as shelters. Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Ensure you have an adequate supply of basic food, water and medications. Have a list of emergency contacts on you and screenshot any online content you may need to refer to in case of a communications or digital blackout. Review your personal security plans. Continue to monitor advice on Smartraveller and reputable local and international media about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place.

When it's safe to do so, you should leave Ukraine. Carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Large amounts of unexploded ordnance and landmines are present in conflict and post-conflict areas. Follow the advice of local authorities about where these areas are and avoid them.

Communication infrastructure may become damaged or blocked, and cyber-attacks have occurred. Contact your family and friends to let them know your travel plans and where and how you are. 

Australians in need of consular assistance should call the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Leaving Ukraine

Where it's safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. Transport routes may be disrupted. Ukrainian airspace is closed. 

Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel.

Continue to read the travel advice of your destination to make sure you meet the entry requirements, as these may differ when entering by road or rail. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk. 

For more information on entry requirements for countries bordering Ukraine, read the travel advice:

  • Russia (Do Not Travel)
  • Belarus (Do Not Travel)

In most cases, Australians departing Ukraine must present a valid Australian passport.

Consular assistance

If you need consular assistance or you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular assistance to Australians, and you should not expect increased consular support. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine. Subscribe and follow the advice on the  Smartraveller website  and  social media .

If, despite our advice, you remain in Ukraine:

  • follow the advice of Ukrainian authorities.
  • keep your passport and other travel documentation safe.
  • contact your friends and family in Australia so they’re aware of your location, situation and any travel plans.
  • make contingency plans to leave as soon as you judge it’s safe to do so.
  • stay in a safe place and limit your movements. Ensure you have supplies of food, water, batteries, money and other essentials.
  • adopt effective personal security measures. Always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
  • shelter in a hardened structure, and stay away from windows. Identify the location of the closest bomb shelter.
  • keep up to date with developments on the security situation. Monitor reputable local and international media. Regularly check our travel advice.
  • avoid large gatherings and areas with groups of fighters and military equipment.

Civil unrest and political tension

The security situation in Ukraine continues to be volatile. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Large demonstrations took place in Kyiv before Russia's full-scale invasion around the Maidan Nezalezhnosti, St Michael's Square, outside the Presidential Administration, Parliament and other government offices.

Civil unrest can cause road closures and disrupt local transport.

Political unrest can occur in Ukraine without warning. Actions include occupying public areas and government buildings or blockages of roads by large groups of people.

Be aware of protests from November to March to mark the anniversaries of the Maidan Revolution.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

  • avoid large gatherings
  • check local media
  • follow advice from Ukrainian authorities

More information:

  • Demonstrations and civil unrest

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Ukraine, they can still happen.

Terrorists have staged attacks in European cities in recent years. Targets include:

  • public transport
  • transport hubs
  • places foreigners visit

European security services have disrupted some planned attacks.

Be alert in public places, including

  • shopping areas
  • places of worship
  • sporting venues
  • airports and other transport hubs
  • places where people gather

To stay safe:

  • be wary in places known to be possible targets
  • report suspicious activities or items to the police
  • check the media for new threats
  • take official warnings seriously
  • follow the instructions of Ukrainian authorities

If there is an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe.

Assassinations involving gun or car-bomb attacks have occurred in Ukraine in recent years. These attacks have targeted specific people but can be a danger to the public.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Petty crime

Serious crime targeting foreigners isn't frequent.

Robberies , pickpocketing and bag snatching occur:

  • on public transport
  • at crowded markets
  • in popular tourist areas
  • in bars and nightclubs

Street crime and muggings increase at night.

To protect yourself from crime:

  • pay close attention to your belongings
  • carry only what you need
  • leave valuables in a safe location
  • take extra care at night

Cases of drink spiking have been followed by robbery. To reduce your risk:

  • don't accept food or drinks from anyone you don't know
  • never leave food or drinks unattended

Be careful with your credit card.  Scams  such as card skimming and those related to using ATMs occur.

Street scams are very common. Criminals often target foreigners.

Beware of bogus internet friendships, dating and marriage schemes from Ukraine.

If a virtual friendship develops, you may be asked by your new friend or prospective partner to send money so they can travel to Australia or pay bills. In some cases, the relationship ends with very little chance that any money can be recovered.

Be wary of any dating or marriage proposals from people you meet online.

Online scammers may also claim to be stuck at a Ukrainian hospital, airport or an isolated place and need money to leave. They will often reference the ongoing military conflict in Ukraine. They regularly make false claims about being Australian citizens. 

We can't offer advice on specific schemes.

To avoid scams:

  • use ATMs in banks and reputable international hotels
  • avoid ATMs that open onto the street, especially at night
  • always keep your credit card in sight
  • be wary of anyone asking for bank account details or personal data
  • be wary of people you meet online who then begin asking for money

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. There is an increased risk in Ukraine. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

Cyber attacks

In December 2023, there was a major cyber attack on Ukrainian networks. Ukraine's largest mobile network provider was affected, leaving millions of users without a mobile signal or the ability to use the internet. It also disrupted air raid apps, some banks and ATMs.

More information:  

  • Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

More information: 

Kidnapping  

Climate and natural disasters

If you're visiting an area recently affected by  severe weather :

  • confirm your plans with your tour operator
  • check conditions with local tour operators and hotels

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Ukraine. Do not travel to Ukraine. See ' Safety '

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Do not travel to Ukraine. If, despite our advice, you travel to Ukraine, consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical or mental health condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

  • have a basic health check-up
  • ask if your travel plans may affect your health
  • plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

  • General health advice
  • Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Ukraine. Take enough legal medicine for your trip, plus a contingency supply owing to the volatile security situation in Ukraine.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

  • what the medication is 
  • your required dosage 
  • that it's for personal use 
  • Medication  

Health risks

Tick-borne encephalitis.

Tick-borne diseases, including  tick-borne encephalitis  (World Health Organization), are a risk in forested areas.

Ticks are common from spring to autumn.

To protect yourself from disease:

  • use insect repellent
  • wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Check your body for ticks during and after visiting forests.

Remove ticks from your body as soon as you can.

Measles cases can routinely occur in Ukraine, with the country currently experiencing an increase in measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before travelling.

  • Measles Outbreaks 2019  (Department of Health and Aged Care)
  • Measles immunisation service  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

HIV/AIDS  is a risk for travellers.

Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Ukraine’s last reported outbreak of  polio  was in October 2021. The outbreak was officially closed by the World Health Organization in September 2023. Due to low vaccination rates in Ukraine, polio poses a serious risk to young children.

Check your  polio  (World Health Organization) vaccinations are up to date before you travel. You may need a booster dose.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

  • tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

  • drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
  • avoid ice cubes
  • avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
  • avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If an animal bites or scratches you, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

  • Infectious diseases

Radiation poisoning

A catastrophic nuclear accident occurred at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant in 1986. It spread radioactive material across northern Ukraine and beyond. Radioactivity remains a risk in and around the plant.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of state medical facilities is low outside major cities, such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa and Lviv. There are frequent shortages of medical supplies.  Russian military action could disrupt access to essential services, including healthcare.

Private healthcare services are of a better standard. You'll need to guarantee payment before they'll treat you.

Medical staff outside of major centres often do not speak English, except in private clinics. Reports, prescriptions and other documents won't be in English.

If you become ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Ukrainian males (including Australian/Ukrainian dual nationals) from 18 to 60 years of age are being stopped from leaving Ukraine. Military conscription is occurring.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for being caught in possession of drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Always carry your passport.

Local police may stop foreigners and ask them to see their passports and visas.

Do not enter into surrogacy arrangements. Due to the Russian invasion, the security situation continues to be volatile and could deteriorate suddenly. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in some locations across the country, including in major cities. There's a risk to life.

Some surrogacy agencies have been prevented from fulfilling their contractual obligations since Russia's invasion, causing a significant increase in costs for the intended parents. Ukrainian Government agencies may take longer than you expect to issue documents. 

If, despite our advice, you take part in commercial surrogacy arrangements, the Australian Government can't evacuate you or your child from Ukraine. Russian military action in Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular and passport assistance to Australians. Our embassy has temporarily relocated to Poland. It won't always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you. 

You may need to spend time in Ukraine before and after the birth. You will need to travel to the nearest Australian embassy or consulate, at your own expense and risk, to obtain a travel document for your child. Your child must stay in Ukraine with appropriate care at your expense while you obtain the appropriate travel documents. Be aware of all legal and other risks involved.

Surrogacy is regulated by Ukrainian law. Get independent legal advice. 

The Australian embassy can't provide the following:

  • legal advice about surrogacy
  • information on clinics.

If, despite our advice, you choose to enter Ukraine, make sure you have up-to-date visas and passports. Subscribe and follow the advice on the  Smartraveller website  and  social media .

You need to carefully consider the risks when entering and departing Ukraine. Any travel options you pursue are at your own risk. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. The Australian Government can't advise on the safety of travelling to departure points.

If you're in Ukraine, make sure you have plans to leave Ukraine as soon as it's safe to do so. If your departure plan involves a vehicle, see ' Local Travel '.

  • Going overseas for international surrogacy
  • Going overseas to adopt a child

Australian laws

Australian law prohibits Australian citizens, residents, and holders of Australian visas from engaging in hostile activities overseas unless they are serving in the armed forces of a foreign country. Foreigners have been killed and may be targeted. Your safety is at the highest risk if you engage in active combat.

Do not travel to Ukraine. There is a risk to life. If, despite our advice, you travel to Ukraine to fight with a non-government armed group on either side of the conflict – or recruit another person to do so (including inducing, inciting or encouraging) – your activities may be criminal offences. Russian proxies have given foreign nationals death sentences in the Donetsk region for engaging in the war in Ukraine.

Russian military action in Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular and passport assistance to Australians. Our embassy is temporarily closed, and officials have relocated to Warsaw, Poland. It won't always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Ukraine is severely limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

  • Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Ukraine doesn't recognise dual nationality.

Under Ukrainian law, you may be a Ukrainian national if you were either:

  • born in Ukraine, or
  • have a parent born in Ukraine.

We may be unable to help you if you're in Ukraine and have Ukrainian nationality.

Male citizens over 18 years may be conscripted.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that you won't be granted a tourist visa if you're considered to be a Ukrainian national.

Speak to the  embassy or consulate of Ukraine  before you travel.

  • Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal in Ukraine. However, public attitudes are less tolerant than in Australia.

Violence has occurred at some LGBTI pride events and venues in Ukraine.

  • Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

We continue to advise do not travel to Ukraine.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

If, despite our advice, you travel to Ukraine, you can enter without a visa for visits of up to 90 days within 180 days.

To apply for temporary, long-term or permanent residency, contact the  State Migration Service of Ukraine .

Border measures

Entry requirements are subject to frequent change. 

You must have valid health insurance to enter Ukraine. Check the  Visit Ukraine  website before travelling.

Border issues

You need to carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. Roads, including bridges and facilities, may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice.

Ensure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication, and fuel. Use your judgement to decide the best time and safest means of exit. If you judge it's safe to leave Ukraine and travel by road, check the entry requirements for where you travel, such as  Poland ,  Romania ,  Moldova ,  Slovakia  and  Hungary , for more information. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Any travel options you pursue are taken at your own risk. 

If you judge it's safe to leave Ukraine, see the following websites on land border crossing wait times and rules on border crossing points: 

  • Waiting time at cross-border points
  • Visit Ukraine
  • State Border Guard Service of Ukraine

Other formalities

Contact an  embassy or consulate of Ukraine  for updates on how much cash you can take in and out of the country and what you must declare at customs on arrival and departure. If you take more cash than is allowed, officials may confiscate it.

Undeclared items may be confiscated.

Customs rules control the export of:

  • items of historical significance

Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Ukraine  for details on import and export conditions.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

  • in Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service
  • if you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate  
  • With the Australian Embassy working temporarily from Warsaw, Poland, obtaining a replacement passport is not straightforward, and you should expect delays.  

Ukrainian citizens aged under 16 years need consent from both parents to leave Ukraine unaccompanied. This includes dual nationals. See  Local laws

  • Advice for people travelling with children

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

  • LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH).

ATMs are available, and credit cards are widely used in cities. However, as a result of the current invasion of Ukraine by Russia, ATMs might not be refilled with cash, and some bank cards might not be accepted. During power cuts, ATMs and card terminals may not work.

Outside major cities, carry enough cash in local currency.

There's a risk that cyber attacks could disrupt mobile, internet and banking services.

Local travel

Mh17 crash site.

On 17 July 2014, Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 was shot down near Hrabovo in the Russian-controlled part of Donetsk province.

Investigations into the crash have been suspended.

Do not travel to this area due to ongoing armed conflict in the surrounding vicinity.

Driving permit

You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Ukraine. 

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

When you drive, you must carry the following:

  • original vehicle registration papers
  • ownership documents
  • insurance papers

You'll need to show them at border crossings or if stopped by police. This includes rental vehicles.

When crossing a border in a private vehicle, you'll need to carry a Green Card to prove you have the minimum insurance required by the country you're driving in. You may be able to obtain a Green Card at the insurance company offices at some border crossings, or you should contact your insurance provider. 

Read more information from the  Ukrainian Government on border crossing  or call the SBGSU Hotline on 1598 from a Ukrainian mobile.

If you decide to leave Ukraine by road, check the travel advice on  Smartraveller  for the safety risks and entry requirements of the country you're entering.

Road travel

Driving in Ukraine can be dangerous. Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged; this extends to bridges and facilities. See ' Safety '.

Hazards include:

  • poorly lit and maintained roads
  • aggressive or speeding drivers
  • drivers who ignore road rules
  • drunk drivers
  • ice and snow
  • unsafe vehicles on rural roads.

It's common to park on footpaths.

Driving with a blood alcohol reading above 0% is illegal.

Check your travel insurance covers you before driving in Ukraine.

Don't expect vehicles to stop for you or to follow road rules.

  • Driving or riding

Use official taxis or services such as Uber, Bolt or Uklon.

Agree on the fare before getting in the taxi.

Motorcycles

Make sure your travel insurance covers you before riding a motorcycle, or electric scooter.

Always wear a helmet.

Public transport

Buses can be crowded, particularly around public holidays and peak commuting times.

They may not meet safety standards.

  • Transport and getting around safely

Rail travel

Watch your belongings on trains.

Don't agree to look after anyone else's luggage or store it in your compartment.

  • Ukrainian Railways

Commercial flights are not operating within Ukraine due to Russia’s ongoing invasion.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Ukraine's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

In February 2022, the Australian Government directed the departure of Australian Embassy staff from Ukraine due to the volatile security situation. All staff have departed. Our Embassy has temporarily relocated to Warsaw, Poland.

Australians in need of consular assistance should contact the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
  • 1300 555 135 in Australia.

Russian military action in Ukraine has severely limited our ability to provide consular assistance to Australians. It will not always be possible for the Australian Government to assist you, and Australians should not expect increased consular support. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Ukraine.

For all visa enquiries, see the  Ukraine page  on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Australian Embassy Ukraine  (temporarily operating from Warsaw, Poland)

Email for consular assistance:  [email protected]

Website:  ukraine.embassy.gov.au

X:  @AUinUA

""

Travelling to Ukraine?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Ukraine travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: January 9, 2024 09:02 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, ukraine - avoid all travel.

Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat.

On October 10, 2022, Russia launched numerous missile strikes against Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure in multiple cities, including Kyiv. The attack resulted in several casualties.

If you are in Ukraine, shelter in a secure place until it’s safe for you to leave.

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited.

Useful links

  • Security alert - Embassy of the United States in Ukraine

Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Back to top

Russian military invasion

On October 10, 2022, Russia attacked Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure in multiple cities, including Kyiv.

Heavy fighting is ongoing in several areas of the country. Bombardments, explosions and missile launches occur on a daily basis. Thousands of civilian casualties have been reported. There are basic supply shortages and essential services disruptions in areas close to the front lines. Strikes and bombardments could also pose a threat to Ukraine's nuclear energy infrastructure, notably to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Security conditions are deteriorating rapidly. Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat.

If you are in Ukraine, you should shelter in a secure place unless it is safe for you to leave the country.

On June 6, 2023, the Kakhovka dam located on the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast ruptured, leading to major downstream flooding. Many towns and settlements currently face flooding with additional ones at risk. Thousands of residents are without access to basic services, potable water, and electricity. Unexploded ordnance could be swept downriver and into flooded areas. Evacuation orders are in place between the dam site and Bilozerka, directly West of the city of Kherson. Evacuation sites are reportedly being shelled resulting in civilian casualties. Local authorities have issued boil-water advisories in certain areas due to the risk of water-borne illness.

There are severe disruptions to essential services. Many roads in the area are impassable or closed.

If you are in Kherson Oblast:

  • follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
  • exercise caution
  • monitor local news and weather reports
  • use only bottled water for drinking and cooking

Ukrainian airspace is currently closed. The government of Ukraine has declared a state of emergency and imposed martial law, which gives local authorities broad powers to enforce security measures such as:

  • security checks
  • mandatory evacuation
  • prohibition of assemblies
  • mandatory mobilization and exit ban

Follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including curfews and evacuation orders.

The government of Ukraine decreed a full military mobilization. If local authorities consider you a citizen of Ukraine, you may be subject to military obligations and most likely prevented from leaving the country.

Russian military action in Ukraine could further disrupt transportation routes and the provision of essential services throughout the country.

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited. You should not depend on the Government of Canada to help you leave the country.

If you are in Ukraine:

  • shelter in a hardened structure and stay away from windows
  • identify the location of the closest bomb shelter
  • maintain a supply of basic food, water and medications
  • monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
  • follow the instructions of local authorities including curfews and evacuation orders
  • ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
  • review your personal security plans on a daily basis
  • inform a family member or friend of your whereabouts
  • register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Ukraine to do so

If you are able to leave Ukraine safely:

  • use your judgement to decide the best time and the safest means of exit
  • study your itinerary in detail to avoid areas where fighting is taking place
  • verify your destination’s entry requirements regularly since many neighbour countries are adjusting them
  • expect highly congested routes, checkpoints and delays
  • make sure to stop at all checkpoints and roadblocks, even if they appear unattended
  • inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
  • bring sufficient gasoline if you use your car

The Russian Federation has illegally occupied and annexed Crimea. The area is heavily militarized and Russian authorities have strict control over the area.

Canada doesn’t recognize Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and continues to consider Crimea to be sovereign Ukrainian territory. The Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow is only accredited to Russia and therefore cannot provide services in Crimea.

Due to the ongoing situation, the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine in Kyiv has extremely limited access to consular clients.

  • Special entry/exit requirements
  • Risk level for Crimea

Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts

Russian-backed separatists continue to control sections of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

There is a de facto dividing line, known as the Contact Line, between Ukrainian government-controlled areas (Government Controlled Areas, GCA) and separatist-held areas (Non-Government Controlled Areas, NGCA) of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. There are managed crossing points across the contact line in both oblasts.

Non-Government Controlled Areas (NGCA)

The security situation in the NGCA, and the area within 20 km from the contact line inside the GCA, remains unstable due to armed conflict, including direct and indirect fire. There are occasional bombings in the NGCA.

There are numerous checkpoints controlled by separatist forces within the NGCA. Separatist groups have sometimes threatened, detained or kidnapped individuals at NGCA checkpoints.

Our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in the NGCA of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts is extremely limited.

Government Controlled Areas (GCA)

There are numerous checkpoints controlled by government forces within the GCA.

Uncleared minefields and other remnants of war are present in numerous areas of the oblasts, especially in rural areas.

If you intend to travel in either of the oblasts despite the advisories, it is highly recommended you mitigate risks by conducting secure route planning, consulting with local authorities and/or experienced local partners, and monitoring the security situation where you are travelling.

If you are in the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts:

  • maintain a low profile
  • be vigilant at all times
  • avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
  • follow the instructions of local authorities
  • monitor local media for the latest information
  • Risk levels for Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is common, particularly:

  • in crowded places
  • in tourist areas
  • in bars and nightclubs
  • on public transportation

In central Kyiv, criminal activity, including muggings, is more prevalent at night. Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash.

Harassment and assaults can happen against racialized communities. Local authorities may not respond to racially motivated violence and harassment.

Armed robbery can occur, especially in the larger cities.

Weapons, including small arms and explosives, are present in all areas of the country. On occasion, personal disputes between individuals may involve the use of these weapons. Violent incidents, such as shootings, can occur in both residential and public areas. Tourists are not particularly targeted, but you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Be aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant.

Bombings and bomb threat hoaxes

Small-scale targeted bombings, including car bombs, have on occasion occurred in Ukraine, including in Kyiv. Attacks are generally linked to criminal activity or are politically motivated with the intent to damage property. Some attacks have resulted in casualties. There is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Always be alert when in public places.

Bomb threat hoaxes are common and can target any location, including, but not limited to:

  • shopping malls
  • transportation hubs
  • government facilities
  • public spaces

If you are in an area affected by a bomb threat, follow the instructions of local authorities and evacuate calmly.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

  • pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
  • use ATMs located inside a bank or business
  • avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
  • cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
  • check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Investment fraud

Unsolicited emails offering enticing business or financial opportunities are most likely fraudulent. Don’t travel to Ukraine with the intention to obtain restitution after losing money to a scam.

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Ukraine, seek legal advice in Canada and in Ukraine. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve. 

Scammers often target tourist areas and hotels.

Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay. Avoid running a tab or leaving your credit card with bar or restaurant staff.

Stay alert to possible street scams. One common scam involves a person dropping a wallet or a bundle of money in front of a tourist, hoping the tourist will pick it up. The scammer then accuses the tourist of stealing some of the money. These scams can involve several crooks, some posing as police officers. If this happens to you, don’t pick up the dropped items. Simply walk away without engaging in conversation.

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to Ukraine to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam. Be alert to attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place frequently. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

  • government buildings, including schools
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Following the disaster at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, an exclusion zone of 30 km was established by local authorities which includes the cities of Prypiat and Chornobyl. The exclusion zone remains radioactive. Access to this zone is strictly restricted and must be arranged through a specialized tour operator. Anyone visiting Chornobyl must follow the safety instructions issued by the State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management.

Safety instructions  - State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities outside major centres aren’t usually highly developed. Plan ahead to minimize safety risks.

Road safety

Travel by road can be hazardous. Most roads outside major cities are poorly maintained. Drivers are often aggressive and have little regard for traffic regulations. Pedestrians and cyclists should be particularly careful.

Avoid driving at night outside major cities. Limited road visibility, poor vehicle maintenance and intoxicated drivers pose hazards.

While roadside services such as repair facilities exist, they are frequently inadequate.

Public transportation

Kyiv has a punctual and reliable metro system. Buses, however, are usually overcrowded and in poor condition.

At airports, order a taxi from a designated taxi booth within the arrivals terminal or use a trusted ride-sharing app.

Don’t hail a taxi on the street. Instead, order one from your hotel or use a trusted ride-sharing app. Negotiate fares in advance, as you may be overcharged.

Exercise caution on trains, particularly at night, due to the risk of robbery and muggings. Store personal belongings and travel documents in a safe place and don’t leave the compartment unattended. Ensure that the door is secured from the inside.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Ukrainian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Ukraine.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Work permit: required

If you intend to stay in Ukraine for more than 90 days, you must obtain a visa prior to entering the country. For further details on visas and work permits, please contact the Embassy of Ukraine to Canada.

You must have an invitation from a Ukrainian company or individual if travelling to Ukraine for any other purpose than tourism. Before you travel, contact the nearest Ukrainian embassy for more information about the invitation process.

  • Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
  • Ukrainian visa information - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

Other entry requirements

Immigration officials may ask for proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Ukraine.

Crimea and Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts

Ukrainian authorities will refuse entry to foreigners who attempt to enter Ukraine from Russia through Crimea or separatist-controlled areas in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

If you choose to travel to these areas despite the current risk level, you must first obtain a special permit from Ukrainian authorities. To travel to Crimea, permission is required from the State Migration Service of Ukraine. To travel to the Non-Government Controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, one needs a special permit from the Security Service of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian government requires that this permit be presented, along with your passport, at designated checkpoints along the administrative boundary of the occupied Ukrainian territory.

If you don’t enter Crimea or Non-Government Controlled Areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts through the designated Ukrainian checkpoints, you will be banned from entering Ukraine in the future.

Children and travel

Children under the age of 16 who are travelling outside Ukraine without one or both parents, and who are travelling on a Ukrainian passport, require a notarized letter of consent from the parent or parents who are not travelling.

  • Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 31 August, 2023

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified this country as no longer poliovirus-infected but at high risk of an outbreak . Polio can be prevented by vaccination.

Recommendations:

  • Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
  • One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Health care standards vary throughout the country. Facilities are limited outside major cities. Doctors and nurses may not be able to communicate in English (or French) and not all hospitals have translation services available.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Identification

Local police may ask to see your passport and visa at any time.

  • Carry adequate identification at all times
  • Keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport in a safe place, in case of loss or seizure
  • Always cooperate with local authorities and be aware that they could detain you while your identification documents are being verified

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

Don’t take pictures of military installations or other government buildings.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Ukraine.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Ukraine, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ukraine.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ukraine, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Ukrainian court.

If you are in this situation:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ukraine to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If you’re planning to visit Ukraine for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek specialist legal advice on Ukrainian and Canadian laws prior to making any arrangements.

It is also recommended that you consult with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on current policies regarding citizenship through descent, as well as on the issuance of Canadian travel documents.

The Embassy of Canada to Ukraine can’t provide recommendations on the selection of surrogacy agencies.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Ukrainian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Despite large and active 2SLGBTQI+ communities in major urban centres, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Ukrainian society. Avoid public displays of affection.

Expect a heavy police presence at Pride parades and certain 2SLGBTQI+ events. Counter-protests and violence are possible. Have a plan for safely exiting the area when participating in Pride parades or other 2SLGBTQI+ events.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an international driving permit

Car insurance is mandatory.

There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Ukraine is the hryvnia (UAH).

Credit cards are accepted in most major cities. Foreign currency can be exchanged at most banks, hotels and licensed exchange booths.

Upon entering or leaving Ukraine, you must make a declaration to customs if you have €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies. Undeclared amounts exceeding the equivalent of €10,000 may be seized.

There are strict customs regulations and procedures regarding the export of antiquities and items of historical interest. It is prohibited to export antiques, works of art, historical treasures and other similar items without a special permit from the Ukrainian Ministry of Culture.

Brush and forest fires are common in eastern and southern Ukraine in July and August. In case of a major fire, stay away from the affected area. Air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

  • Always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
  • Monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Snow and Ice Storms

In winter, avalanches, heavy snow and freezing rain pose a risk. They can make roads impassable and can cause power disruptions. These conditions can affect access to isolated areas. The conditions can also limit the ability of first responders to reach these areas in case of emergency.

Flooding occurs in western Ukraine during the winter thaw and following sustained heavy rains. This may cause damage to roads and infrastructure. Plan your route carefully.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

  • police: 102
  • medical assistance: 103
  • firefighters: 101
  • general emergencies: 112 (from cell phones only)

Consular assistance

If you are in Ukraine and require consular assistance:

  • email: [email protected] or
  • contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa, at any time

You should also register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

how to travel to ukraine

  • Passports, travel and living abroad
  • Travel abroad
  • Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK.

The authorities in Ukraine set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK . The Ukrainian State Border Guard Service has the final decision on whether a person is eligible to enter Ukraine.

Permanent residents

If you are a permanent resident of Ukraine, you do not need to show proof of insurance.

Passport validity requirements

If you’re travelling without a visa, your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required. If you’re applying for a visa, your passport may need to have an additional period of validity. Check with the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK for further details.

Additional requirements at the border

At the border you will need to:

  • complete an immigration card
  • scan your fingerprints as part of biometric data collection at border crossing points if requested by the immigration officer
  • bank cards with bank statements
  • accommodation bookings
  • tourist vouchers
  • a letter of financial support from your sponsor
  • return or onward travel tickets

You can find more information on: - Ukrainian Embassy in the UK - State Border Guard Service of Ukraine

Visa requirements

British Citizen passport holders can enter Ukraine without a visa for visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ukraine has confirmed that this policy will continue to apply to British citizens until 30 January 2025.

If you’re planning to stay in Ukraine for longer than 90 days in a 180 day period, you need to get a visa. For more advice contact the Ukrainian Embassy in London or Consulate General in Edinburgh .

Expired residence cards

If you have a temporary or permanent residence card that’s expired, you are still allowed to return to Ukraine. The expired document will remain valid while martial law remains in place and for 30 days afterwards. For more information see the Visit Ukraine website or contact the State Migration Service of Ukraine .

Visa overstays

If you need to extend your stay in Ukraine, check with the State Migration Service. If you overstay the 90 day allowance, you will be fined and may not be able to return to Ukraine for 90 days after leaving the country.

Non-government controlled areas

If you intend to go to any of the areas not controlled by the Ukrainian authorities, you must apply to the State Migration Service .

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Ukraine guide .

Accommodation

The ongoing invasion has severely affected the availability of accommodation. You should book and confirm accommodation in advance. Find further information at Visit Ukraine .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Ukraine (in Ukrainian), including antiques and items of historical interest. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. If in doubt seek prior permission from the customs authorities .

Bringing your car to Ukraine

Non-residents are allowed to bring a vehicle for personal use into Ukraine for up to one year. There’s no need to complete a customs declaration form. The vehicle can only be used in Ukraine by the person that brought it into the country. The vehicle cannot be used for commercial purposes, dismantled, sold or rented to other people. If you want to do any of these things, you’ll need to register the vehicle in Ukraine and pay the appropriate customs tax.

You must take the vehicle out of Ukraine within the required timeframe, or place it into the customs regime of the State.

If your vehicle breaks down and cannot be fixed, you should inform the State Customs Service and provide them with evidence that it cannot be repaired. You may then dispose of the vehicle through the official channels of the State Customs Service.

If you bring a private vehicle into Ukraine with the intention of travelling through the country, you may be asked to complete a customs declaration form and pay a deposit.

For further information on bringing your car to Ukraine, contact the State Customs Service of Ukraine .

Crossing international borders

It is illegal to enter internationally recognised Ukrainian territory through a border point that is not currently controlled by the Ukrainian authorities. If you do, you risk arrest or a fine, and a travel ban.

International border crossings that are not currently under the control of the Ukrainian authorities include:

  • all land border crossings into Donetsk oblast
  • many of the land border crossings into Luhansk oblast
  • all air and sea ports in Crimea and the Kerch Bridge road and rail crossing into Crimea

Information on border crossing procedure, entry and exit regulations, and checkpoints are provided at the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine website .

Leaving Ukraine at international borders

Travelling from ukraine to poland.

If you plan to travel to Poland, check the travel advice page for Poland which includes information on entry requirements.

The Ukrainian government website lists the main border crossings into Poland .

Travelling from Ukraine to Hungary

If you plan to travel to Hungary, check our travel advice page for Hungary which includes information on entry requirements.

The Hungarian police website gives more information on crossing the Ukraine-Hungary border .

Travelling from Ukraine to Slovakia

If you plan to travel to Slovakia, check our travel advice for Slovakia which includes information on entry requirements.

For information about cross-border rail connections, see the Slovak national rail website . For information on crossing the border see Slovak government advice .

Travelling from Ukraine to Romania

If you plan to travel to Romania, check our travel advice for Romania which includes information on entry requirements.

Travelling from Ukraine to Moldova

If you plan to travel to Moldova, check our travel advice for Moldova which includes information on entry requirements.

FCDO advises against all travel to Transnistria.

Border with Belarus

Ukraine’s border with Belarus is currently closed.

FCDO advises against all travel to Belarus. See FCDO Travel Advice for Belarus .

Border with Russia

Ukraine’s border with Russia is currently closed.

FCDO advises against all travel to Russia. See FCDO Travel Advice for Russia .

Related content

Invasion of ukraine.

  • UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals
  • Move to the UK if you're coming from Ukraine
  • Homes for Ukraine: record your interest
  • Find out about the UK’s response

Is this page useful?

  • Yes this page is useful
  • No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

St. Michael's Monastery.

Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

Big, diverse and largely undiscovered, Ukraine is one of Europe’s last genuine travel frontiers, a nation rich in colourful tradition, warm-hearted people and off-the-map experiences.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Saint-Sophia Cathedral in Kiev, Ukraine

St Sophia's Cathedral

The interior is the most astounding aspect of Kyiv's oldest standing church. Many of the mosaics and frescoes are original, dating back to 1017–31, when…

Kyevo-Pecherska Lavra

Kyevo-Pecherska Lavra

Tourists and Orthodox pilgrims alike flock to the Lavra, set on 28 hectares of grassy hills above the Dnipro River in Pechersk. It's easy to see why…

how to travel to ukraine

Kamyanets-Podilsky Fortress

Central Ukraine

Built of wood in the 10th to 13th centuries, then redesigned and rebuilt in stone by Italian military engineers in the 16th century, K-P's fortress is a…

Prymorsky Boulevard, Odesa's elegant tree-lined promenade

Prymorsky Boulevard

Odesa's elegant facade, this tree-lined, clifftop promenade was designed to enchant the passengers of arriving boats with the neoclassical opulence of its…

Wehrwolf - Ruins of Hitler's underground headquarters, near Vinnytsia, Ukraine.

Between May 1942 and July 1943, Adolf Hitler paid several visits (accounts vary) to his regional military headquarters in a vast bunker 8km north…

Chernivtsi National University facade.

Chernivtsi University

The Carpathians

University buildings are often called 'dreaming spires', but Chernivtsi's is more like an acid trip. This fantastic, Unesco-listed red-brick ensemble,…

Artifical flowers decorating small winged angel statue on grave at Lychakivske Cemetery.

Lychakivsky Cemetery

Don't leave town until you've seen this amazing 42-hectare cemetery, only a short ride on tram 7 from the centre. This is the Père Lachaise of Eastern…

Aerial spring view of Palanok Castle in Mukachevo town, Ukraine.

Palanok Castle

Built atop a 68m-tall volcano, Mukacheve's highlight is this dramatic castle that pops up from the surrounding plain west of town, like something in a…

Latest stories from Ukraine

Filter by interest:

  • All Interests
  • Adventure Travel
  • Art & Culture
  • Beaches, Coasts & Islands
  • Food & Drink

TOPSHOT - A man holds his child as families, who fled Ukraine due to the Russian invasion, wait to enter a refugee camp in the Moldovan capital Chisinau on March 3, 2022. (Photo by Nikolay DOYCHINOV / AFP) (Photo by NIKOLAY DOYCHINOV/AFP via Getty Images)

Apr 27, 2022 • 2 min read

In an effort to Ukrainian migrants make it safely to their new homes, Lonely Planet and The Points Guy are together launching a campaign to help Miles4Migrants…

Refugees from Ukraine are seen on the platform boarding the train to Warsaw, at the railway station in Przemysl, southeastern Poland, on April 5, 2022. - More than 4.2 million Ukrainian refugees have fled the country since the Russian invasion, the UN says. (Photo by Wojtek RADWANSKI / AFP) (Photo by WOJTEK RADWANSKI/AFP via Getty Images)

Apr 5, 2022 • 2 min read

LVIV, UKRAINE - MARCH 02: Several people in the crypt of a church converted into a museum, which is now used as a shelter, on the eighth day since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, in Lviv (Ukraine). After 8 days of war since the beginning of the attacks in Ukraine by Russia, the balance of the war according to the latest information, both by the Ukrainian government and UNHCR, is at least 2,000 civilians dead and about one million refugees who have fled Ukraine. In the early hours of this eighth day of fighting, Russia has entered a new town of 300,000 inhabitants. Russian and Ukrainian delegations are scheduled to sit down at the negotiating table today. On the table is the demand by the former Soviet republic for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory. (Photo By Pau Venteo/Europa Press via Getty Images)

Mar 11, 2022 • 5 min read

Abandoned ferris wheel in amusement park in Pripyat, Chernobyl area

Apr 22, 2021 • 2 min read

Dec 23, 2020 • 2 min read

how to travel to ukraine

Dec 19, 2019 • 4 min read

The sun sets over ski tracks and pine-tree forest in Bukovel, Ukraine's biggest ski resort © Volodymyr Goinyk / Shutterstock

Nov 20, 2019 • 4 min read

how to travel to ukraine

Nov 13, 2019 • 2 min read

how to travel to ukraine

Oct 9, 2019 • 2 min read

In the foreground is a memorial to the Chernobyl disaster, depicting two hands cupped together around a miniature of Reactor 4; behind the memorial is the huge grey arch of the New Safe Confinement structure which encloses the remains of Reactor 4.

Jun 10, 2019 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Ukraine

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Ukraine with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Ukraine and beyond

Kiev Pechersk Lavra.

Train advice from the Man in Seat 61...

The Man in Seat 61

Share on Facebook

How to travel by train from

London to kyiv & ukraine.

  • Buy train tickets
  • Buy ferry tickets
  • Book a hotel
  • Privacy & cookies
  •   Home

Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, take the train from the uk to ukraine.

It's easy to travel by train from London to Ukraine, an adventurous journey that's also comfortable & affordable, superior to a soulless flight.  Eurostar and German Railways link London with Warsaw, then there is a comfortable daily sleeper train Kyiv Express from Warsaw to Kyiv.  Change in Kyiv for Odessa.  Or use the direct sleeper from Vienna or Budapest to Lviv & Kyiv.  This page explains train times, fares and how to buy tickets.

Update 2024 :  Trains to Ukraine are running in spite of the war, although for obvious reasons, non-essential travel to Ukraine is not generally advised, www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/ukraine .

Train times, fares & information

small bullet point

Useful country information

Which route to choose .

It's easy to travel from London to Lviv or Kyïv by train.  It takes just 2 nights, taking Eurostar & luxurious German ICE trains from London to Berlin on day 1, a EuroCity train from Berlin to Warsaw on day 2, then the comfortable Kyiv Express sleeper train from Warsaw to Kyïv overnight arriving on the morning of day 3.  Or you can travel by fast & comfortable daytime trains with overnight stops in Berlin & Krakow.  The journey is an adventure in itself.  Why not spend some time in Berlin, Warsaw or Krakow on the way?  All these routes are operating in 2024.

Option 1 , London to Kyiv & Odessa via Warsaw

This is the most time-effective option.  Departures are daily all year round except Christmas Day.  You get some time to see a bit of Warsaw, too!

London ► Kyïv & Odessa

Day 1, travel from London to Berlin using any of the options shown on the London to Germany page .  For example:

Leave London St Pancras at 09:01 by Eurostar , change at Brussels Midi & Cologne Hbf onto high-speed ICE trains arriving Berlin Hbf 19:02.

Leave London St Pancras at 11:04 by Eurostar , change at Brussels Midi & Cologne Hbf onto high-speed ICE trains arriving Berlin Hbf 21:02.

Eurostar has a cafe-bar, ICE trains have a restaurant car, all these trains have power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Stay overnight in Berlin.   Top choice here is the InterCity Hotel Berlin Hbf (my favourite), only 200m from Berlin Hbf 's main entrance, relatively inexpensive with great reviews, or if you're in the money, the excellent 5-star Steigenberger Hotel just outside the station.  If you're on a budget, the cheaper 3-star Motel One Berlin-Hbf is behind the station or use www.hostelworld.com .  Of course, if you really want to push the boat out, the famous Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is next to the Brandenburg Gate just 17 minutes walk away.

Alternatively, travel from London to Berlin using the European Sleeper as shown here , or the Brussels-Berlin Nightjet sleeper as shown here .

Day 2, travel from Berlin to Warsaw by EuroCity train , leaving Berlin Hbf at 09:52 and arriving Warsaw Centralna at 15:09.

The Berlin-Warsaw EuroCity trains are comfortable air-conditioned trains with a restaurant car serving drinks, snacks and meals.  Treat yourself to lunch in the restaurant car with a beer or two.

Alternatively, on Mondays-Saturdays you can take the early 05:51 Berlin-Warsaw EuroCity train arriving 11:15, which will give you an afternoon in Warsaw, see the Warsaw Centralna station & city information .  A left luggage office and lockers are available.

Warsaw's historic old town is a 20 minute walk from Warsaw Centralna - if you fancy a modest splurge, the celebrated Ufukiera restaurant ( www.ufukiera.pl ) is excellent and right on the square in the heart of Warsaw's old town.  The Palace of Culture (a wedding cake style Soviet skyscraper and distinctive Warsaw landmark, www.pkin.pl ) is right next to the station and has a viewing terrace on the 30th floor.

Transfer from Warsaw Centralna to Warsaw Wschodnia by taxi, tram or local train, see transfer information here .

Odessa & Kyïv ► London

The Kyiv Express has comfortable Ukrainian sleeping-cars with 3-berth compartments, you can book all three berths for single or double occupancy.  There may be a buffet car serving tea, coffee, beer and snacks, but it's a good idea to take your own supplies of food, water and wine or beer.  Around 4am, the train is shunted into the gauge-changing shed at Yagodin (the Ukrainian border point) and jacked up to have its wheels changed from Russian 5' gauge to standard European (4' 8½") gauge.  You remain in your sleeping-berth on board while this is done, an interesting experience.  See Tim Richards excellent blog entry about of the Kyiv Express .

Transfer from Warsaw Wschodnia to Warsaw Centralna by taxi, tram or local train, see transfer information here .

Day 2, travel from Warsaw to Berlin by EuroCity train , leaving Warsaw Centralna daily at 12:46 and arriving Berlin Hbf at 18:06.

Alternatively, daily except Saturdays there's a later EuroCity train leaving Warsaw Centralna at 16:45 and arriving Berlin Hbf at 22:06, giving you some time to explore Warsaw, see Warsaw Centralna station & city information .

The Warsaw-Berlin EuroCity trains are comfortable air-conditioned trains with a trolley refreshment service and a restaurant car serving drinks, snacks and full meals.  Treat yourself to a meal in the restaurant:  Three courses, a beer and a coffee only come to around €11.

Day 3, travel from Berlin to London using any service shown on the London to Germany page .  For example:

Leave Berlin Hbf at 06:56, change at Cologne Hbf & Brussels Midi , arriving London St Pancras at 15:57.

Leave Berlin Hbf at 08:56, change at Cologne Hbf & Brussels Midi , arriving London St Pancras at 17:47 (18:57 weekends).

Leave Berlin Hbf at 10:57, change at Cologne Hbf & Brussels Midi , arriving London St Pancras at 19:47.

Alternatively, travel from Berlin to London using the European Sleeper as shown here , or the Berlin-Brussels Nightjet sleeper as shown here .

How much does it cost?

How to buy tickets.

Step 1, book your London-Berlin tickets following the step by step instructions here .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.

Polrail is a reliable and highly recommended Polish train ticketing agency.  They use the Polish ticketing system so can access all the berths in 1, 2 & 3-berth compartments with booking opening 60 days ahead .

Don't book at the last minute, this train often gets fully-booked 2-3 weeks ahead.

What's the journey like?

1. London to Brussels by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph).  There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi.  Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00).  There's a 30-minute minimum check-in as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train.  More about Eurostar & check-in procedure .  St Pancras station guide .  Brussels Midi station guide & short cut for changing trains in Brussels .

2. Brussels to Cologne by ICE3

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat.  50 minutes after leaving Brussels the ICE calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava.  As you approach Cologne Hbf you'll see the twin towers of Cologne Cathedral on the right, next to the station.  More about ICE3 trains .  Brussels Midi station guide .  Cologne Hbf station guide .

3. Cologne to Berlin by ICE2

ICE2 trains have a restaurant car, bar car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat.  Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine.  It passes through the industrial Ruhr via Wuppertal & Hamm.  After leaving Hannover, the train passes non-stop through Wolfsburg - look out for the original Volkswagen factory on the left, built in 1938.  The train then travels at up to 280 km/h (174 mph) on the high-speed line to Berlin Hbf , where it arrives at the low-level platforms.  More about ICE2 trains .  Cologne Hbf station guide .  Berlin Hbf station guide .

4. Berlin to Warsaw by EuroCity train

These comfortable air-conditioned trains have a restaurant car.  See the Berlin-Warsaw EuroCity page for more photos, tips & information .

5. Warsaw to Kyiv by Kyiv Express

The Kyiv Express has modernised Ukrainian sleeping-cars with 2-berth & 3-berth compartments.  All bedding is supplied, and washrooms and toilets are at the end of the corridor.  Berths convert to seats for daytime use.  A smartly-uniformed Ukrainian railways sleeper attendant travels with each car.  There's no dining-car, so take a picnic and your own supplies of wine or beer.  Photos courtesy of www.andybtravels.com .  See Tim Richards excellent blog entry about of the Kyiv Express .

Back to top

Option 2 , London to Lviv & Kyiv via Krakow

This route is often the most practical as there are plenty of seats and it usually has good availability, even when the direct sleeper trains from Warsaw, Vienna or Budapest to Ukraine are sold out (those sleepers often sell out within hours of reservations opening).  And if you use Regiojet between Krakow & Ukraine it can all easily be booked online.

London ► Lviv & Kyiv

Leave Krakow Glowny at 05:05, change at Przemysl (arrive 07:33, depart 09:35), arriving Lviv 12:27 & Kyiv 19:57.

Leave Krakow Glowny at 05:59, change at Przemysl (arrive 09:06, depart 09:35), arriving Lviv 12:27 & Kyiv 19:57.

Leave Krakow Glowny at 09:35, change at Przemysl (arrive 12:10, depart 13:45), arriving Lviv 17:24 & Kyiv 05:01.

Leave Krakow Glowny at 16:38, change at Przemysl (arrive 19:19, depart 20:28), arriving Lviv 00:05 & Odessa 12:55.

Leave Krakow Glowny at 19:15, change at Przemysl (arrive 22:04, depart 23:26), arriving Lviv 02:20 & Kyiv 09:58.

Kyiv & Lviv ► London

The easiest option is to use the integrated service run by private open-access operator Regiojet as they have an allocation of seats on Ukrainian Railways Kiev-Lviv-Przemysl Intercity train so can sell integrated tickets as one transaction:

Leave Kyiv at 12:06 or Lviv 19:25, change at Przemysl (arrive 20:20, depart 22:12) arriving Krakow Glowny 00:53.

Leave Odessa at 14:45 or Lviv 03:08, change at Przemysl (arrive 05:53, depart 07:16) arriving Krakow Glowny 09:50.

Leave Kyiv at 22:14 or Lviv 08:34, change at Przemysl (arrive 11:16, depart 11:57) arriving Krakow Glowny 14:58.

Leave Lviv at 13:06, change at Przemysl (arrive 15:21, depart 17:27) arriving Krakow Glowny 20:14.

Leave Kyiv at 12:06 or Lviv 19:25, change at Przemysl (arrive 20:20, depart 22:05), arriving Krakow Glowny 00:41.

The 12:06 Kyiv-Lviv-Przemysl is a comfortable air-conditioned Ukrainian Intercity (IC) train with 1st & 2nd class.  All other Lviv-Przemysl trains are Ukrainian sleeper trains, with platskartny, kupé 4-berth and (usually) 2-berth spalny vagon.

Przemysl-Krakow trains are comfortable air-conditioned Polish trains.  Times may vary.

To check times, first check the Ukrainian train at www.uz.gov.ua/en/passengers/timetable (to access it, you may need to set your VPN to a Ukrainian IP address).  Then check times for a suitable Polish connecting train at Polish Railways www.intercity.pl .

You travel from Krakow to Berlin on day 2, stay overnight in Berlin, then travel from Berlin to London on day 3.

London to Brussels by Eurostar starts at £52 one-way or £78 return in standard class, £97 one-way, £140 return standard premier (1st class).

Step 1, book from London to Krakow as shown on the London to Poland page .

Option 3, London to Lviv & Kyiv via Vienna

This is a convenient and comfortable option, but often sells out soon after reservations open.  It takes 2 nights.  See Ukrainian news report showing the new Vienna-Kyiv sleeping-car service .  There are just two or three direct Vienna-Kyiv sleeping-cars and they usually leave fully-booked.

Day 1, travel from Kyiv to Vienna by direct sleeping-car, leaving Kyiv at 13:25 & Lviv at 20:12 every day, arriving Vienna Hbf 11:21 next day.

The sleeping-car has 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, see the photos below.  At Chop on the border with Hungary the through sleeping-car is jacked up to have it's wheelsets changed from Russian gauge used in Ukraine (5') to European standard gauge (4'8½").  A restaurant car operates between Zahony (on the Ukrainian border just after Chop) and Vienna, treat yourself to breakfast.

Vienna to Kyiv costs €80.50 in a 3-berth sleeper, €90.50 in a 2-berth sleeper or €152.90 in a single sleeper.

Vienna to Kyiv costs around €138 in a 3-berth sleeper €149 in a 2-berth sleeper, or €241 in a single-berth sleeper.

Step 2, book the train from Vienna to Lviv or Kyiv online at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at .

But be warned, these direct sleeping-cars usually sell out soon after booking opens.  Oebb will only book one-way or round trip starting in Vienna because tickets need to be collected from an ÖBB station in Austria.  They cannot be collected in Ukraine.  Booking this way you pay no fee or mark-up, just the official fare. 

If you have any problems or want a one-way ticket starting in Ukraine, you can also book the Vienna-Kyiv train via reliable agency www.polrail.com , with tickets posted or couriered to you for a small fee.  Polrail are based in Poland so charge in zlotys, but as they have access to Ukrainian ticketing system they are good for booking this train.  But as the train often sells out they may have difficulties securing places via this route.

Train travel in Ukraine

Classic Ukrainian sleeper trains offer the normal 'Russian' range of sleeping accommodation:

Whichever class of travel you choose, each coach is looked after by a pair of attendants called a provodnik (male) or provodnitsa (female).  The provodnik will check your ticket at the door to the sleeper when you board.  Shortly after departure, the provodnik will come round to take your ticket.  You may be asked if you would like a glass of black Ukrainian tea ('chai') - this costs about 10 Hyrvnia, about 30p/€0.35.  Bedding (two sheets, pillowcase and towel) is then handed out in sealed packs - blankets and mattresses will already be stacked in your compartment.  After a few journeys, you will become quite proficient at making up your bed!

A samovar with unlimited free hot water is available at the end of the corridor - pack some tea or coffee, sugar, cuppa soups or water-based drinking chocolate and bring your own mug.   Most long distance trains have a restaurant car serving drinks, snacks, and inexpensive full meals - reckon on less than £6 for two courses and a couple of bottles of beer.

There is no need to worry about security on Ukrainian trains, it's the way Ukrainians themselves travel, including families and women travelling alone.  Just use the same common sense that you would use anywhere, use the locks on your compartment door at night and don't leave valuables unattended.  In addition to the normal lock on the compartment door, spalny vagon and kupé compartments have a security latch which stops the door opening more than an inch or two, and which cannot be released from outside.  There's also a safe place for your bags at night - if you have a bottom bunk, there is a metal box underneath the bunk which you can only get to by lifting up the bunk - in other words, for anyone to get to your bags, they will have to shift you off your bunk first!

Fast InterCity+ trains

Fast air-conditioned day trains branded InterCity+ (IC+) now link a number of Ukrainian cities, in addition to the traditional overnight sleeper trains.  These InterCity+ trains have 1st & 2nd class and a bar counter.  For example:

To check train times use Omio.com (easy to use, small booking fee) which connects to UZ's ticketing system, or Ukrainian Railways website booking.uz.gov.ua/en .

Booking opens 45 days or now sometimes 60 days in advance for any journey within, or originating within, Ukraine.

It's now easy to buy tickets online, as shown below.  Alternatively, you can buy tickets in person at any Ukrainian railway station.  If your Ukrainian or Russian isn't up to scratch, write down your requirements, using the Cyrillic (Russian) script if you can.  Alternatively, to avoid the queues and any language hassles, you can book rail tickets through travel agencies, for example those located in the lobbies of certain major hotels.

Option 1, buy at Omio.com

Omio.com has a direct connection to UZ's ticketing system so can sell Ukrainian domestic train tickets in plain English with a small booking fee.  You may find this easiest to use this.

Option 2, buy at booking.uz.gov.ua/en

You can book Ukrainian train tickets direct from Ukrainian Railways (UZ, www.uz.gov.ua ) at booking.uz.gov.ua/en .

Tip:   You may need to use a VPN set to a Ukrainian IP address, at the time I write this UZ have restricted access to their website to Ukrainian IP addresses.

It has a few quirky translations, but it's the cheapest way to buy tickets as there are minimal fees.  Remember that Kyiv in Ukrainian is Kyiv .  Suite / First-Class Sleeper means beds in 2-berth Spalny Vagon sleepers.  Coupe / Coach With Compartments means beds in 4-berth kupé sleepers.  Berth/Third-Class Sleeper means Platskartny open-plan bunks.  InterCity trains are clearly marked in the search results.

At the end of the booking you might get a print-at-home e-ticket for some trains which you can just print and board the train, or for other trains you might get a voucher which must be exchanged for a ticket at the station before departure, for example in Kyiv main station there's a collection counter at window 12, hall 4 in the old wing of the station, with a self-service collection machine installed there too. Just read the confirmation page carefully to see what you have to do once you have made your booking.

Several seat61 correspondents have successfully used this to book tickets, using UK or other non-Ukrainian credit cards.  Feedback if you use this service would be appreciated!

Kyiv station

Kyiv has one main central station, usually known as plain Kyiv, officially Kyiv Passazhyrsky , often abbreviated to Kyiv-Pas, see map showing location .  It's one big central station but it has two terminal buildings, one each side of the tracks.  The classic station building on the northern side of the tracks was built in 1949.  The terminal on the southern side (sometimes misleadingly referred to as Kyiv southern station) is a striking glass-and-steel building dating from 2002.  You'll find all the usual main station facilities at Kyiv-Pas.  The metro station for Kyiv-Pas is called Kyiv Vokzalna.

Ferries from Ukraine

Various ferries used to run between Istanbul and Odessa, appearing and disappearing.  Further feedback always appreciated!

Istanbul - Odessa ferry:   www.ukrferry.com

Sails twice a week between Istanbul (= Haydarpasa, on eastern side of the Bosphorus) and Odessa (= Chernomorsk, just south of the city), a 23 hour voyage across the Black Sea.

Departure from Odessa on Tuesdays & Fridays, usually evening.  Departure from Haydarpasa on Thursdays & Sundays, usually midday.  You can check this at www.ukrferry.com although it takes a bit of effort.  The English selector is top left.

The company is Ukrferry and the vessels are the Vilnius Seaways & Kaunas Seaways with a range of cabins available, fares from $90 with bunk in a shared 6-berth, deluxe private cabins also available.

This ferry is operating in 2017 and taking foot passengers, you can contact them to check the current status.  Feedback appreciated !

Traveller Silvan Wyss took this ferry in July 2017:

"I booked the ferry some weeks in advance and paid 2580 UAH (€85).  The online booking tool on www.ukrferry.com works quite smoothly and some moments after payment I had the confirmation in my spamfolder.  Foot passengers have to check-in in an office building some kilometres from the actual port in Chornomorsk and the time for that seems to be 2pm no matter when the ship actually leaves.  After some waiting me and around 15 fellow passengers were brought to the port by minibus.  Here I had to go through customs and passport checks which included some waiting in not very welcoming rooms without windows.  Finally at around 5pm I arrived in my cabin which I shared with another passenger, with the scheduled departure at 9pm.

During the 27 hour trip the restaurant served four meals without any choice, you just have to eat what they cook but this was perfectly OK. Apart from that there is a duty-free shop selling spirits and a bar selling drinks and some crisps at some times during the sailing. The cabin was nice with a small but very clean washroom.  All information aboard the ferry, whether written or spoken is in Russian only.  Foreigners sometimes really had to fight for some info in English.

While the actual cruise could be described as "boring", sailing through the Bosphorus late in the evening was very nice.  Turkish immigration was rather weird with some officers entering the ship and controlling the passports in the bar area.  After some more waiting time, foot passengers were then guided out of the ship and finally left alone in the middle of the desert of Haydarpasa port.  Not that nice at around 1am.  I decided to walk to Kadiköy, other travellers may prefer a taxi here.

Did I like it? - Well, yes. the journey itself was very nice.  However, all the procedures before and after are very time consuming with little or no information and medium friendly staff.  After all, it seems as if foot passengers are rather tolerated than actually welcome. Would I recommend it? - Yes!  To everyone who has the time and wants to experience something different.

Lonely Planet India - Click to buy online

Buy Lonely Planet Ukraine online at Amazon.co.uk

European rail timetable & maps.

Traveller's Railway Map of Europe - buy online

Rail Map Europe is the map I recommend, covering all of Europe from Portugal in the west to Moscow & Istanbul in the east, Finland in the north to Sicily & Athens in the south.  Scenic routes & high-speed lines are highlighted.  See an extract from the map .  Buy online at www.europeanrailtimetable.eu (shipping worldwide) or at www.amazon.co.uk (UK addresses).

Hotels in Kyiv & Ukraine

In lviv:  the george hotel.

In Lviv, look no further than the classic & excellently-located George Hotel .  Wonderful - and cheap by western standards, doubles from £36.

For something upmarket and still inexpensive go for Lviv's Grand Hotel , also classic and well located, around £90 a double.

Backpacker hostels

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in Copenhagen and most other European cities at rock-bottom prices.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer.  It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit.  These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here .  Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

UK flag

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  There's no need to buy a physical SIM card!  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.  And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone.  You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or Buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities?  Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa.  They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities.  My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

Back to home page

Watch CBS News

U.S. citizens travel to Ukraine to help in war efforts: "Ukrainians have inspired the world"

March 8, 2022 / 9:41 AM EST / CBS News

The number of international fighters helping Ukraine is growing every day. The Ukrainian government reports more than 16,000 foreigners have already arrived, including some Americans.

Andriy Penchak is an American licensed truck driver who was born in Ukraine. He landed with three other Americans ready to go into the war zone. He told "CBS Mornings" co-anchor Tony Dokoupil that he wanted to save the lives of the Ukrainians still inside the country.

He launched this mission from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He's never been to battle and used personal savings to pay for his plane tickets.

Penchak  said the hardest part was leaving his three young children. "I didn't say goodbye. I said, see you later," he said.

While the White House says the American military is not going into Ukraine to fight Russia, everyday Americans like Penchak are not restricted from going in — although it's not recommended.

"We encourage all Americans not to travel to Ukraine right now, and those Americans who are in Ukraine to leave Ukraine, because it is not safe," said Kristina Kvien, the acting U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.

Bipartisan leaders of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Congressman Gregory Meeks and Congressman Michael McCaul traveled to Ukraine's border to view the war's human toll up close.

Meeks said that the Americans traveling to Ukraine is an example of the importance of democracy.

"I think that what they see and what people around the world are seeing is democracy is at stake and as President Zelensky said to us, this is not just a fight for the Ukrainian people, this is a fight for all of us. It's just starting here," said Meeks.

"Ukrainians have inspired the world, and these freedom fighters, I call them," McCaul said.

Before the war, Kristofer Kalas was a pastry chef who split his time between Ukraine and New York.

Now, he's dressed in full body armor walking toward the checkpoint into Ukraine. He made sure his wife and baby made it safely to Poland but decided to go back - not to fight, he says, but to help others and help ensure Ukraine remains for years to come.

"I want my child to have a Ukraine to go back to when she's grown up," Kalas said.

Russia's military warned foreign fighters they'd be treated as "mercenaries," not as protected combatants under "international humanitarian law." Kalas said .

"As far as I can tell, they don't protect civilians under humanitarian law, so I don't put much credence in anything they say," Kalas said.

More from CBS News

Dozens of Indian nationals duped into joining Russia's war against Ukraine

Johnson on IVF: "It's something that every state has to wrestle with"

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg talks IVF ruling, State of the Union

Walmart to expand same-day delivery options to include early morning hours

how to travel to ukraine

Find cheap flights to Ukraine

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to ukraine.

Save 20% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

FAQs - booking Ukraine flights

Is there public transportation to the city center from popular airports in ukraine.

Boryspil International Airport (KBP) and Kyiv International Airport (IEV) are the most popular and busiest airports in Ukraine facilitating international flights. The former is about 18 miles east of Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, and is served by an express train and several intercity bus routes. On the other hand, IEV is about four miles southwest of downtown and is easily accessible by the urban electric train service and bus routes 78 and 22.

What are the travel requirements for Ukraine?

Ukraine grants entry to citizens of the United States without a visa for up to 90 days. However, you must present a passport that has at least six months of validity remaining from the time of your entry in Ukraine and a minimum of one blank page to accommodate the entry stamp. Return tickets should also be shown as further evidence of your intention to return to the US.

Which airport in Ukraine is close to famous Ukrainian attractions?

Lviv Danylo Halytskyi International Airport (LWO) is the closest airport to charming and famous Ukrainian attractions, such as Potocki Palace, The Lviv Theatre of Ballet and Opera, Dormition Cathedral, Lychakiv Cemetery, Market Square, and many others. Trains, buses, and taxis are available to these sites in Lviv from LWO.

What can I do during a layover at Boryspil International Airport?

If you are traveling into Kyiv for a layover, you will be landing at KBP. The airport serves as a single-stop shop to accommodate all your requirements. There are a plethora of cafeterias and shops where you can savor freshly made Ukrainian cuisines. Those traveling with children may find the airport playground to be a welcome distraction. You may also visit the neighboring district of Pechersky, known for its white-domed structures, for a memorable stopover.

How long is the flight to Ukraine?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Ukraine takes 29h 29m, covering a distance of 5231 miles. The most popular route is Providence - Chernovtsy with an average flight time of 24h 30m.

What is the cheapest flight to Ukraine?

The cheapest ticket to Ukraine from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $679. The most popular route is from Providence to Chernovtsy, and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $1,228.

What are the most popular destinations in Ukraine?

The next most popular destinations are Lviv (13%) and Odesa (8%). Searches for flights to Dnipro (6%), to Kharkiv (6%) and to Chernovtsy (4%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Ukraine

  • Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Ukraine flight deals.
  • US citizens who want to be close to the city center should consider flying into either Boryspil International Airport (KBP) or Kyiv International Airport (IEV). These airports are located close to Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine. Moreover, they have many amenities, such as restaurants, duty-free shops, waiting lounges, and parking services.
  • If you are hoping to visit Arcadia beach in Ukraine, it is best to fly into Odessa International Airport (ODS). ODS is walking distance from the beach, and you get ample time to feast on the wide stretches of sand, bird-watch, sunbathe, or play beach games.
  • Car rental services are available at many popular airports in Ukraine if you prefer to drive yourself. SIXT, 7Cars, Europcar, and United Auto Rental are just a few of the companies with offices at KBP and IEV.
  • If you are hoping to exchange foreign currency for local currency, there are banking services and currency exchange booths at Terminal D, Level 1 of KBP, and Terminal B and D of IEV.
  • Travelers from the United States who are elderly, disabled, or have reduced mobility will be provided with complimentary special assistance when their flight lands at KBP. When booking your flights, you should request special assistance.

Flights to Ukraine

Return flight deals:.

Ukraine - United States

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

  • Flights  » 
  • United States

Browse destinations:

  • Worldwide  » 
  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Sweepstakes
  • Travel Tips

9 Ways to Help Ukraine Right Now

From Airbnb to UNICEF, here are organizations to support in order to help the people of Ukraine.

how to travel to ukraine

Ukraine has been thrown into chaos as Russia continues its invasion of the country, and its citizens have borne the brunt, forced to flee or hide out in temporary shelters to avoid the attacks.

As the conflict continues, the travel industry has reacted, canceling cruises and tours that included Russia on their itineraries. But the ongoing turmoil has devastated people around the world and left them feeling desperate for help.

Several organizations have stepped up to provide on-the-ground support to the people and animals of Ukraine, both inside the country and in surrounding areas, including offering everything from basic necessities like housing and food to psychological support.

Here are a few organizations to learn more about and support to help the people of Ukraine.

Airbnb is offering free, short-term housing to up to 100,000 refugees who are fleeing Ukraine, funding the effort through the company, donations to the Airbnb.org Refugee Fund, as well as using the site's hosts. Local nonprofits are responsible for booking and coordinating stays for refugees, according to the company.

People can donate to Airbnb's refugee fund or volunteer to host someone online.

Find out more

World Central Kitchen

Founded by celebrity chef José Andrés , World Central Kitchen provides meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. The organization is offering hot meals at border crossings in Poland as well as in surrounding countries where Ukrainian refugees have fled. The group is also supporting local restaurants in the Ukrainian cities of Odessa and Lviv.

Donate: Here

The United Nations-based group provides access to basic services like water and sanitation, health care, schooling, psychosocial support, and emergency cash assistance. For the crisis in Ukraine, the group is setting up 26 Blue Dot hubs in six neighboring countries to provide assistance for fleeing families, which offer everything from psychosocial support to facilitating family tracing and reunification efforts for children who may have become separated from their families.

This Ukraine-based animal rights organization is helping rescue animals and provide support to shelters that are running out of food, money, and other resources. People can donate to help their efforts to reach shelters and the animals they support.

Amnesty International

This human rights organization investigates potential human rights abuses and lobbies governments and companies, ensuring people follow international law. In Ukraine, the group said it has received "reports of the use of indiscriminate weapons by the Russian army."

Going forward, the group said it will monitor and investigate human rights violations as well as work to "defend individuals likely to be targeted, like human rights defenders, journalists, and LGBTI Ukrainians."

Doctors Without Borders

This organization, also known as Médecins Sans Frontières, provides medical assistance all over the world, including in conflict zones. In Ukraine, the group has distributed kits to treat the wounded in Mariupol and has provided telemedicine training for trauma care for 30 surgeons from eastern Ukraine. Additionally, the group is trying to get essential staff and supplies into Ukraine.

Doctors Without Borders is also sending teams to Poland, Moldova, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia.

Ukrainian Red Cross

The Ukrainian Red Cross has conducted widespread relief efforts, including supporting fire brigades and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine as well as providing water, food, and hygiene items as well as first aid to people in need.

Save the Children

This nonprofit focuses on helping children and their families with aid, including food, water, hygiene kits, psychosocial support, and cash assistance. The group is currently working with migrants and asylum seekers in five reception centers in Romania and is assessing the needs in Poland and Lithuania.

International Rescue Committee

This group helps people recover from disasters and rebuild their lives. The International Rescue Committee is currently on the ground in Poland and is "working to scale up the support we provide to the government and local nonprofits to address the crisis and help meet the basic needs of people fleeing the conflict."

Additionally, the group is lobbying to protect Ukrainians already in the U.S. by asking the Biden administration to provide Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

  • Transition Guide (Opens in new window)
  • Subscribe Now (Opens in new window)

Your Military

  • Army Times (Opens in new window)
  • Navy Times (Opens in new window)
  • Air Force Times (Opens in new window)
  • Marine Corps Times (Opens in new window)
  • Pentagon & Congress
  • Defense News (Opens in new window)
  • Israel-Palestine
  • Extremism & Disinformation
  • Afghanistan
  • Benefits Guide (Opens in new window)
  • Family Life
  • Military Pay Center
  • Military Retirement
  • Military Benefits
  • Discount Depot
  • Gear Scout (Opens in new window)
  • Military Culture
  • Military Fitness
  • Military Movies & Video Games
  • Military Sports
  • Pay It Forward (Opens in new window)
  • Military History
  • Salute to Veterans
  • Black Military History
  • Congressional Veterans Caucus (Opens in new window)
  • Military Appreciation Month
  • Vietnam Vets & Rolling Thunder
  • Service Members of the Year (Opens in new window)
  • World War I
  • Honor the Fallen (Opens in new window)
  • Hall of Valor (Opens in new window)
  • Create an Obituary (Opens in new window)
  • Medals & Misfires
  • Installation Guide (Opens in new window)
  • Battle Bracket
  • America's Military
  • Task Force Violent
  • CFC Givers Guide
  • Newsletters (Opens in new window)
  • Early Bird Brief
  • MCON (Opens in new window)
  • Long-Term Care Partners
  • Navy Federal

Want to go fight for Ukraine? Here’s what to do.

how to travel to ukraine

Editor’s note: In a follow-up story , Ukraine officials have again stressed that they are only seeking those with military training to take part in combat. People without military training or combat experience should not travel to Ukraine intending to fight, officials added. The U.S. State Department also recommends citizens not travel to Ukraine.

Under siege by its much larger and more powerful neighbor, Ukraine has been so far able to slow down Russia’s attack, a senior U.S. defense official said Sunday morning.

But there is a long fight ahead.

“ The Russians have been frustrated . They have been slowed. They have been stymied, and they have been resisted by Ukrainians, and to some degree, they’ve done it to themselves in terms of their fuel and logistics and sustainment problems,” the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to brief reporters. “But as I said earlier, we would expect them to learn from these issues and adapt to them and try to overcome them. So I think we all need to be very sober here. in recognizing that this is combat, and combat is ugly, it’s messy, it’s bloody, and it’s not wholly predictable.

And to that end, Ukraine is calling on foreigners who want to help.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has created “The International Legion of Territorial Defense of Ukraine.”

how to travel to ukraine

Volunteer fighters arrive in Ukraine. But the untrained should stay home

A ukrainian defense official said that they've received more than 3,000 applications for u.s. citizens wanting to fight..

It is a new effort, a Ukrainian official tells Military Times, to help bolster the fight.

Several veterans have reached out to Military Times interested in helping Ukraine.

Before you go, this is what you need to know, according to the official, who spoke to Military Times Sunday on condition of anonymity in an interview repeatedly interrupted by ongoing airstrikes.

Here’s what veterans, other U.S. citizens or anyone else interested in helping out, need to know.

  • Apply to the Embassy of Ukraine in your country with the intention of joining the Foreign Legion of Territorial Defense of Ukraine (ask a military diplomat or consul for details). Applicants can visit the Embassy in person, call or send an email to start the process.
  • Get your documents in order . This includes an ID, a passport to travel abroad, documents confirming military service or work with law enforcement agencies and participation in combat.
  • Arrive at the embassy with documents for an interview with the defense attaché and the settlement of any visa issues with the consul.
  • Write an application for enlistment in the Territorial Defense of the Armed Forces of Ukraine for military service under a contract on a voluntary basis. (This is in addition to Step 1.)
  • Receive instructions on how to arrive in Ukraine and what to bring . Military clothing, equipment, helmet, body armor, combat gloves, tactical glasses, belts and vests are recommended. “It is not obligatory,” the official said, “but a foreign soldier in his national uniform looks good for the International Legion.”
  • Go to Ukraine in an organized manner . Representatives of Ukrainian embassies, consulates (abroad) and Territorial Defense in Ukraine will provide assistance on the way. Contacts will be provided at the Embassy of Ukraine in your country.

how to travel to ukraine

Live updates on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

Follow for the latest tweets on the situation in ukraine..

Howard Altman is an award-winning editor and reporter who was previously the military reporter for the Tampa Bay Times and before that the Tampa Tribune, where he covered USCENTCOM, USSOCOM and SOF writ large among many other topics.

In Other News

how to travel to ukraine

Joint VA/DOD medical site launches new health records system today

The nation's only joint veterans affairs and defense department health care center began using a new compatible medical records system on saturday..

how to travel to ukraine

National Guard helicopter crashes at Texas-Mexico border, killing 3

Two soldiers and one border patrol agent were killed in the crash, according to the military..

how to travel to ukraine

Flosi takes over as Air Force’s top enlisted airman

As the 20th chief master sergeant of the air force, david flosi becomes the primary enlisted adviser to the service’s secretary and chief of staff..

how to travel to ukraine

1,000 US troops deploying to build offshore port for Gaza aid

The military expects to have the mission to distribute aid to the gaza strip in the next 60 days..

how to travel to ukraine

Father of Marine killed in Afghanistan arrested at State of the Union

The father of a marine killed in afghanistan was kicked out of the president's national address thursday after trying to disrupt the speech..

As Ukrainian president visits, Turkey’s Erdogan offers to host a peace summit with Russia

Presidents Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, and Volodymyr Zelensky shake hands standing in a stone-framed entranceway

  • Show more sharing options
  • Copy Link URL Copied!

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose NATO-member country has sought to balance its close relations with both Ukraine and Russia, offered during a visit Friday from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to host a peace summit between the two countries.

Erdogan, who has repeatedly discussed brokering a peace deal, said at a news conference in Istanbul following his meeting with Zelensky that he hoped Russia would be on board with Turkey’s offer.

“Since the beginning, we have contributed as much as we could toward ending the war through negotiations,” Erdogan said. “We are also ready to host a peace summit in which Russia will also be included.”

Zelensky said in a statement at the start of the meeting that he was grateful for Turkey’s support. He said he was interested in strengthening bilateral cooperation, protecting commercial vessels in the Black Sea, and having Ukraine work with Turkish defense companies.

Erdogan said the two discussed the stability of the shipping corridor and he reiterated Turkey’s support for Ukraine’s “territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence.”

Olena Kovalyk's husband Oleh Kovalvk, disappeared on April 9,

World & Nation

In war-torn Ukraine, a woman searches for her husband. Will she find him?

In a Ukrainian village, a woman wants only one thing: to find her husband, who disappeared shortly after Russia’s war on Ukraine started two years ago.

Feb. 24, 2024

The visit comes as Zelensky and other officials continue to press other nations for more munitions and weaponry to halt the advance of Russian troops trying to make deeper gains into the Ukraine-held western part of the Donetsk region and also penetrating into the Kharkiv region in the third year of war.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he was attending a meeting of the foreign ministers of France, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, that “drop-by-drop” aid to Ukraine no longer works.

“If things continue as they currently happen, it’s not going to end well for all of us,” Kuleba said. “What is required is an unrestricted and timely supply of all types of weapons and ammunition to ensure that Ukraine beats Russia and the war in Europe does not spill over.”

An envoy from China, which has frustrated Ukraine and its Western allies by boosting trade with Russia and portraying the conflict and its causes largely from Moscow’s point of view, was in Kyiv on Thursday during a European visit for talks on settling what it calls the Ukraine crisis. Li Hui, the special representative for Eurasian affairs, met with officials from Russia, the EU, Switzerland and Poland before his stop in Ukraine and was scheduled to go on to Germany and France.

Shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Turkey hosted a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers as well as unsuccessful talks between negotiators from the two countries aimed at ending the hostilities.

Ksenia Karelina poses in a wedding photo.

Russia arrests L.A. woman for treason after she gave $50 to Ukraine, employer says

A Russian American woman from Los Angeles is held in Russia on treason charges, apparently over a donation to a charity for Ukraine.

Feb. 20, 2024

Later in 2022, Turkey, along with the United Nations, also brokered a deal between Russia and Ukraine that allowed the shipment of millions of tons of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea. Russia, however, pulled out of the deal last year, citing obstacles to its export of food and fertilizers.

In Istanbul, Zelenskky also was to visit shipyards where Turkish companies are building two ships for the Ukrainian navy, according to his office.

Zelensky last visited Turkey in July, when he returned to Ukraine with a group of Ukrainian commanders who were in Turkey following a prison exchange deal, and were to remain on Turkish territory until the end of the war. There was no explanation from Ankara or Kyiv about why they were allowed to return to Ukraine.

During Li’s visit to Kyiv, Ukrainian officials described the horrors of the war.

“It is very important that you hear firsthand about the situation on the front line, what is happening and where we are,” Andriy Yermak, the head of the presidential office, said, according to a Ukrainian statement.

It wasn’t clear how Li reacted to the presentation. China released a terse statement Friday saying only that Li arrived in Kyiv by train at noon, held candid and friendly talks, and departed by train the same evening.

The war has created a sharp division between China and the West. The Chinese government avoids using the words “war” or “invasion” to describe Russia’s attack and cites NATO expansion as a root cause of the conflict.

The Ukrainian statement said the two sides discussed the possibility of China’s assistance in prisoner exchanges, the return of Ukrainian children in Russia and the return of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which Russia took control of during fighting in 2022.

Ukraine Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko on Friday urged Russia to immediately comply with an International Atomic Energy Agency resolution calling for the complete withdrawal of its troops from the Zaporizhzhia plant and its return to Ukrainian control.

“Every day that Russians stay at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant increases the number of the existing problems and increases the threat of a nuclear incident,” Halushchenko said on national television.

Ayse Wieting and Suzan Fraser write for the Associated Press. Wieting reported from Istanbul and Fraser from Ankara, Turkey. AP writers Ken Moritsugu in Beijing, Illia Novikov in Kyiv, Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi and Liudas Dapkus in Vilnius contributed to this report.

More to Read

This handout image from the state-run Saudi Press Agency shows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, left, meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024. Zelenskyy arrived in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday and met the kingdom's powerful crown prince to push for a peace plan and the return of prisoners of war from Russia. (Saudi Press Agency via AP)

Ukraine’s Zelensky lands in Saudi Arabia to push for peace and POW exchange with Russia

Feb. 27, 2024

In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Italy's Premier Giorgia Meloni, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, from right to left, attend laying flowers ceremony at the Wall of Remembrance to pay tribute to killed Ukrainian soldiers, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has welcomed Western leaders to Kyiv to mark the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, as Ukrainian forces run low on ammunition and foreign aid hangs in the balance. (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP)

Western leaders rally around Kyiv to mark 2 years since Russia’s full-scale invasion

Poland's new Prime Minister Donald Tusk tells during a news conference that his pro-European Union government is urgently preparing a new spending bill to secure raises for teachers and re-dedicate some 3 billion zlotys ($762 million), originally meant for state media, to children's health, after President Andrzej Duda, allied with the opposition party, vetoed the previous bill that earmarked funds for state media, in Warsaw, Poland, Wednesday Dec. 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Poland’s new prime minister visits Ukraine in latest show of foreign support for Kyiv

Jan. 22, 2024

Start your day right

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., walks outside the chamber as he tries to assemble enough lawmakers to begin the final steps of completing a partial government funding bill, at the Capitol in Washington, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Congress passes first package of spending bills hours before shutdown deadline for key agencies

A soldiers from the 3th Battalion of Parachute Riflemen of the Mexican Army patrols the community of El Aguaje, in the municipality of Aguililla, Michoacan state, Mexico, on February 18, 2022. - While in the US tons of avocados were eaten while people watched the Super Bown, in Mexico, where they were produced, soldiers deactivated explosives planted by drug traffickers who impose their law in the state of Michoacan. (Photo by ALFREDO ESTRELLA / AFP) (Photo by ALFREDO ESTRELLA/AFP via Getty Images)

Soldiers and civilians are dying as Mexican cartels embrace a terrifying new weapon: Land mines

FILE - Police detain a man trying to lay flowers to honor Alexei Navalny at a monument in St. Petersburg, Russia, to victims of Soviet repression, on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024. Over the last decade, Vladimir Putin's Russia evolved from a country that tolerates at least some dissent to one that ruthlessly suppresses it. Arrests, trials and long prison terms — once rare — are commonplace. (AP Photo, File)

How Putin’s crackdown on dissent became the hallmark of the Russian leader’s 24 years in power

FILE - Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban speaks at CPAC in Dallas, Aug. 4, 2022. Former President Donald Trump is meeting Friday, March 8, 2024, with Orban, a prominent conservative populist whose crackdowns in Hungary have sparked criticism that he's eroding that country's democracy. The meeting comes as Hungary has had conflicts with President Joe Biden's administration. (AP Photo/LM Otero, File)

Trump meets with Hungary’s Viktor Orban, continuing his embrace of autocrats

March 8, 2024

The biggest moments from Biden’s 2024 State of the Union address

President Biden delivered an aggressive State of the Union speech Thursday night in which he drew sharp contrasts with former president Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress.

Biden made reference to “my predecessor” more than a dozen times and challenged GOP lawmakers over their resistance to his first-term agenda. As the speech went on, he increasingly engaged with angry outbursts from the audience .

It was a speech befitting the political moment, as Biden faces an expected rematch against Trump and tries to push his agenda through a polarized Congress.

While Republicans found multiple occasions to jeer, Democrats broke out in chants of “Four more years!” more than once.

Here were six highlights:

‘My predecessor’

Within the first few minutes of the speech, Biden swiped at Trump — and did not let up.

Biden knocked Trump over topics including his coziness with Russia, the Jan. 6 , 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, and his leadership during the coronavirus pandemic.

After describing the economic and societal anguish brought by the pandemic, Biden said his predecessor “failed the most basic” presidential duty: “the duty to care.”

That drew an angry outburst from the audience as someone yelled out, “Liar!” House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) shook his head.

Abortion rights

Biden wasted little time addressing a top issue for Democrats in the November election: abortion rights.

Biden criticized Trump for bragging about appointing the Supreme Court justices who in 2022 helped overturn Roe v. Wade and end the constitutional right to an abortion. And with some of the justices in the audience, Biden warned that the decision has unleashed a political storm.

“With all due respect, justices, women are not without electoral or political power,” Biden said. “You’re about to realize just how much.”

Biden also seized on the recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling that frozen embryos are children , which has disrupted fertility care in the state. Democrats have called it the latest consequence of Republicans’ long campaign against abortion rights and reproductive care. Biden challenged the GOP to “guarantee” IVF protections “nationwide.”

Looking to November, Biden also accused Trump of wanting a national abortion ban, a topic the former president has ducked as he prepares for the general election. “My god, what other freedoms would you take away?” Biden said.

Mixing it up with congressional Republicans

While Biden repeatedly criticized Trump, he also did not hesitate to mix it up with the Republican lawmakers in the room.

Discussing Jan. 6 early in the speech, Biden said Trump “and some of you here seek to bury the truth” about what happened that day.

As the speech went on, though, Republicans in the audience became more willing to respond — and Biden obliged them. One of those moments arrived when Biden charged Republicans with wanting to cut Social Security and cut taxes for the wealthy.

“Oh, no? You guys don’t want another $2 trillion tax cut?” Biden said. “I kind of thought that’s what your plan was. Well, that’s good to hear.”

Biden also appeared happy to highlight the unanimous Republican opposition some of his signature proposals have faced in Congress. Referencing the Inflation Reduction Act — a sweeping measure to combat climate change, lower health-care costs and reduce the federal deficit — that Biden signed in 2022, he said Thursday that it sought to lower prescription drug prices and noted that “not one of you Republican buddies voted for it.”

Border battle

Addressing one of the biggest vulnerabilities in his reelection campaign — the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border — Biden again called on Republicans to drop their resistance to the Senate bipartisan security deal that the GOP recently scuttled at the behest of Trump.

“We can fight about fixing the border,” Biden said, “or we can fix it.”

The border deal would overhaul the asylum system and give the president new power to effectively shut down the border if illegal crossings reach a certain threshold. But Trump lobbied Republican lawmakers to oppose the deal, calling it a political gift for Biden.

Biden touted the proposal’s toughness in his speech, which led to objections from Republicans in the audience. Biden also used the moment to engage with GOP lawmakers, credulously asking why they did not like a bill “that conservatives got together and said was a good bill.”

Going into the speech, Republicans had challenged Biden to “say her name” and mention Laken Riley, the slain Georgia nursing student whose alleged killer, immigration authorities say, illegally entered the country .

They got their way — sort of — while Biden discussed the bipartisan border security deal. Responding to an outburst from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), Biden paused and addressed the matter, though he appeared to initially mispronounce Riley’s first name as “Lincoln.”

“An innocent young woman who was killed by an illegal, that’s right,” Biden said.

Tough on Russia

The first moments of Biden’s speech were striking not just for the direct criticism of Trump but also for the context in which it came. Calling for increased Ukraine aid, Biden deployed the kind of tough-on-Russia rhetoric that has become less common in the GOP under Trump.

“My message to President Putin … is simple,” Biden said. “We will not walk away. We will not bow down. I will not bow down.”

Ukraine aid has become tied up in Congress, in part because some Trump-aligned Republicans believe the United States should focus more on domestic issues than the overseas conflict.

Biden also did not spare Trump on Russia, hammering him over his recent comments that he would encourage Russia to do whatever they want to a NATO country if that country was not paying enough for defense.

“Bowing down to a Russian leader,” Biden said. “I think it’s outrageous, it’s dangerous and it’s unacceptable.”

The age matter

With polls showing many voters concerned about his age, Biden, 81, did not shy away from the topic.

“I know I may not look like it, but I’ve been around a while,” Biden said jokingly. “And when you get to my age certain things become clearer than ever before.”

He then referenced his age to contrast his optimism for America with Trump’s view, nodding at the fact that Trump is just four years younger than he is.

“Now other people my age see it differently — an American story of resentment, revenge and retribution,” Biden said. “That’s not me.”

Election 2024

Get the latest news on the 2024 election from our reporters on the campaign trail and in Washington. Here are key takeaways from Super Tuesday and election results by state .

Who is running? A rematch between Trump and Biden is all but certain after Dean Phillips and Nikki Haley ended their presidential campaigns .

Republican delegate count: GOP candidates for president compete to earn enough delegates to secure their party’s nomination. We’re tracking the 2024 Republican delegate count .

Key issues: Compare where the candidates stand on such issues as abortion, climate and the economy.

Key dates and events: From January to June, voters in all states and U.S. territories will pick their party’s nominee for president ahead of the summer conventions. Here are key dates and events on the 2024 election calendar .

  • Biden campaigns in Pa. following feisty State of the Union address Earlier today Biden campaigns in Pa. following feisty State of the Union address Earlier today
  • Where will Nikki Haley’s supporters go now that she’s dropped out? March 6, 2024 Where will Nikki Haley’s supporters go now that she’s dropped out? March 6, 2024
  • The biggest moments from Biden’s 2024 State of the Union address March 7, 2024 The biggest moments from Biden’s 2024 State of the Union address March 7, 2024

how to travel to ukraine

  • Election 2024
  • Entertainment
  • Newsletters
  • Photography
  • Press Releases
  • Israel-Hamas War
  • Russia-Ukraine War
  • Global elections
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East
  • AP Top 25 College Football Poll
  • Movie reviews
  • Book reviews
  • Financial Markets
  • Business Highlights
  • Financial wellness
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Social Media

Turkey’s Erdogan offers to host a peace summit with Russia during a visit from Ukraine’s Zelenskyy

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the end of a join news conference following their meeting at Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the end of a join news conference following their meeting at Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy answers a question during a joint news conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan following their meeting at Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan listens to a question during a joint news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following their meeting at Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, talks during a joint news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following their meeting at Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy smiles during a joint news conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan following their meeting at Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan talks during a joint news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following their meeting at Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the end of a joint news conference following their meeting at Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul, Turkey, Friday, March 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

  • Copy Link copied

ISTANBUL (AP) — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan , whose NATO-member country has sought to balance its close relations with both Ukraine and Russia, offered during a visit Friday from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to host a peace summit between the two countries.

Erdogan, who has repeatedly discussed brokering a peace deal, said at a news conference in Istanbul following his meeting with Zelenskyy that he hoped Russia would be on board with Turkey’s offer.

“Since the beginning, we have contributed as much as we could toward ending the war through negotiations,” Erdogan said. “We are also ready to host a peace summit in which Russia will also be included.”

Ukraine remains firm on not engaging directly with Russia on peace talks, and Zelenskyy has said multiple times the initiative in peace negotiations must belong to the country which has been invaded.

Zelenskyy said any peace negotiations must align with a 10-point plan he has previously suggested, which includes food security, restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, the withdrawal of Russian troops, release of all prisoners, a tribunal for those responsible for the aggression, and security guarantees for Ukraine.

FILE - Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, center, attends a rally in Moscow on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018. During his 24-year rule, Russian President Vladimir Putin has gone from tolerating dissent to suppressing any challenger. Most Russian opposition politicians are in prison or exile. (AP Photo/Evgeny Feldman, File)

“Any proposals for settling this war must start with the formula proposed by the state defending its land and its people,” he said. “We want a fair peace.”

The Ukrainian leader expressed hope that at the inaugural peace summit expected to be held this year in Switzerland, the possibility of reopening all Ukrainian ports, not only in Odesa but also in Mykolaiv in southern Ukraine, will be considered.

Zelenskyy, who visited shipyards where corvettes for the Ukrainian navy are being built, said on X that agreements were reached on joint defense projects with the Turkish government and corporations. He said on Telegram that they also agreed to simplify trade and remove barriers to business.

Erdogan said the two discussed stability in the Black Sea shipping corridor and he reiterated Turkey’s support for Ukraine’s “territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence.”

The visit comes as Zelenskyy and other officials continue to press other nations for more munitions and weaponry to halt the advance of Russian troops trying to make deeper gains into the Ukraine-held western part of the Donetsk region and also penetrating into the Kharkiv region north of it in the third year of war.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he was attending a meeting of the foreign ministers of France, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, that “drop by drop” aid to Ukraine no longer works.

“If things continue as they currently happen, it’s not going to end well for all of us,” Kuleba said. “What is required is an unrestricted and timely supply of all types of weapons and ammunition to ensure that Ukraine beats Russia and the war in Europe does not spill over.”

An envoy from China, which has frustrated Ukraine and its Western allies by boosting trade with Russia and portraying the conflict and its causes largely from Moscow’s point of view, was in Kyiv on Thursday during a European visit for talks on settling what it calls the Ukraine crisis. Li Hui, the special representative for Eurasian affairs, met with officials from Russia, the EU, Switzerland and Poland before his stop in Ukraine and was scheduled to go on to Germany and France.

Shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Turkey hosted a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers as well as unsuccessful talks between negotiators from the two countries aimed at ending the hostilities.

Later in 2022, Turkey, along with the United Nations, also brokered a deal between Russia and Ukraine that allowed the shipment of millions of tons of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea. Russia, however, pulled out of the deal last year, citing obstacles to its export of food and fertilizers.

During Li’s visit to Kyiv, Ukrainian officials described the horrors of the war.

“It is very important that you hear firsthand about the situation on the front line, what is happening and where we are,” Andriy Yermak, the head of the presidential office, said, according to a Ukrainian statement.

It wasn’t clear how Li reacted to the presentation. China released a terse statement Friday saying only that Li arrived in Kyiv by train at noon, held candid and friendly talks, and departed by train the same evening.

The war has created a sharp division between China and the West. The Chinese government avoids using the words “war” or “invasion” to describe Russia’s attack and cites NATO expansion as a root cause of the conflict.

The Ukraine statement said the two sides discussed the possibility of China’s assistance in prisoner exchanges, the return of Ukrainian children in Russia and the return of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which Russia took control of during fighting in 2022.

Ukraine Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko on Friday urged Russia to immediately comply with an International Atomic Energy Agency resolution calling for the complete withdrawal its troops from the Zaporizhzhia plant and return of the station to Ukrainian control.

“Every day that Russians stay at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant increases the number of the existing problems and increases the threat of a nuclear incident,” Halushchenko said on national television.

In other developments:

— Zelenskyy signed an order Thursday allowing the first demobilization of soldiers who were conscripted into the army before Russia’s full-scale invasion. The order takes effect in April or May.

The soldiers, who had been required to continue their service after martial law was declared, can return home and remain in the army reserves, according to the order. It was not known how many troops are eligible because that information is classified.

— Indian authorities said Friday that they are in talks with Russia about returning Indian citizens duped into working for the Russian army, a day after a federal investigation agency said it broke up a human trafficking network that lured people to Russia under the pretext of giving them jobs.

Fraser reported from Ankara, Turkey. Associated Press writers Hanna Arhirova and Illia Novikov in Kyiv, Ukraine, Liudas Dapkus in Vilnius, Ken Moritsugu in Beijing and Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi contributed to this report.

how to travel to ukraine

Ukraine's Zelenskiy to visit Turkey on Friday, Turkish presidency says

Ukraine Southeast Europe Summit, in Tirana

Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu and Ece Toksabay Writing by Ezgi Erkoyun Editing by Chris Reese, Alexandra Hudson

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

Vote on referendum on changes to the Irish constitution called the Family Amendment and the Care Amendment, in Ireland

Senegal kicks off short election campaign after poll delays

Senegalese presidential candidates launched their shortened campaigns on Saturday, two days after a court confirmed the election would be held on March 24, ending weeks of uncertainty and kick-starting a competition that remains wide open.

People shop at a popular market in downtown Cairo

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

IMAGES

  1. Highlights of Ukraine

    how to travel to ukraine

  2. Travel to Ukraine

    how to travel to ukraine

  3. 7 Useful Tips for Tourists Visiting Ukraine

    how to travel to ukraine

  4. Ukraine Holidays and Tours

    how to travel to ukraine

  5. ‘Keep calm and visit Ukraine’: country launches tourism campaign

    how to travel to ukraine

  6. Why You Should Go Backpacking in Ukraine (Travel Ukraine)

    how to travel to ukraine

VIDEO

  1. How to travel to Ukraine

  2. Is Ukraine safe for tourism or international students or for living night edition

  3. How to get to Ukraine? #travelblog #traveltoukraine #ukraine

  4. WHAT COULD RUSSIA DEMAND TO END UKRAINE WAR

  5. Ukraine looks to boost tourism

  6. Ukraine Map: Great Success of Ukraine! The END of the Russians has arrived

COMMENTS

  1. Ukraine International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  2. Useful tips and how to travel to Ukraine (2024)

    1 - Explore one of the greatest cities in Europe. Kiev is an amazing city with loads to see, loads to do and so much going on. I spent two weeks in the capital and they were the best days of my trip. From epic churches to bizarre Soviet places and great nightlife, Kiev is a city which you will want to return to.

  3. Can you travel to Ukraine in 2024?

    Travel to Ukraine before the war. Traveling to Ukraine before the war was extremely easy, with numerous international flights, as well as trains from Poland, Belarus and of course Russia. Prior to the current conflict Ukraine was one of our main destinations, particularly Chernobyl.

  4. Ukraine travel advice

    If you are a dual British-Ukrainian national or you have the right to reside in the UK, and want to leave Ukraine, contact the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine on [email protected] for advice ...

  5. This travel company wants tourists to visit Ukraine right now

    Despite international alerts warning against travel to Ukraine, the company says it's so far sold 150 tickets, while its website offering information on safely traveling to and from Ukraine is ...

  6. Ukraine Travel Advisory

    Ukraine - Level 4: Do Not Travel. Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia's war against Ukraine. The Department of State continues to advise that U.S. citizens not travel to Ukraine due to active armed conflict. Read the entire Travel Advisory. All U.S. citizens should carefully monitor U.S. government notices and local and international media ...

  7. Alerts and Messages

    Level 4: Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia's war against Ukraine. The Department of State continues to advise that U.S. citizens not travel to Ukraine due to active armed conflict. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Read More

  8. Ukraine Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    It was one of the worst nuclear disaster in human history. The radiation is weak enough now that people to visit the complex and the abandoned, ghost-like town nearby. Tours cost about 2,900 UAH and last a full day. 4. Visit Kyiv. The capital of Ukraine is home to an odd mix of Soviet-area communist housing, Baroque buildings, and cobblestone ...

  9. Ukraine Travel Advice & Safety

    If you travel to Ukraine to fight with a non-government armed group on either side of the conflict - or recruit another person to do so (including inducing, inciting or encouraging) - your activities may amount to criminal offences. Russian proxies have given foreign nationals death sentences for engaging in the war in Ukraine.

  10. Travel advice and advisories for Ukraine

    Ukraine - AVOID ALL TRAVEL. Avoid all travel to Ukraine due to the Russian military invasion. Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat. On October 10, 2022, Russia launched numerous missile strikes against Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure in multiple cities, including Kyiv. The attack resulted in ...

  11. Entry requirements

    Visa requirements. British Citizen passport holders can enter Ukraine without a visa for visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ukraine has confirmed that this policy will continue to ...

  12. What To Know About Russia And Ukraine Flying Restrictions

    The U.S. State Department currently assigns a Level 4 travel advisory (Do Not Travel) to Ukraine and Russia. This is the highest warning level and will remain until the conflict ends.

  13. Travel Advisory: Ukraine

    Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia's war against Ukraine. The Department of State continues to advise that U.S. citizens not travel to Ukraine due to active armed conflict. Read the entire Travel Advisory. All U.S. citizens should carefully monitor U.S. government notices and local and international media outlets for information about ...

  14. Ukraine travel

    Air Travel. Ukrainian migrants need help getting to their new homes - here's how you can help. Apr 27, 2022 • 2 min read. In an effort to Ukrainian migrants make it safely to their new homes, Lonely Planet and The Points Guy are together launching a campaign to help Miles4Migrants….

  15. Information for those who are abroad and wish to return to Ukraine

    Foreigners are allowed to enter the territory of Ukraine. Citizens of other countries need to have an insurance policy that covers the cost of COVID-19 treatment and observation. New rules for crossing the border of Ukraine. For foreigners, it is necessary to have an insurance policy for the case of COVID-19, and one of the following documents:

  16. Ukraine travel advisory: is it safe to go now?

    Therefore, both central and western parts of Ukraine are safe enough. People continue to live, work, go to restaurants, movies and various events, and, of course, travel around the country. As for foreigners in Ukraine, according to official statistics from the State Border Guard Service, more than 2.4 million foreigners visited Ukraine in 2023 ...

  17. Ukraine Travel Guide

    1. Explore Kiev. A visit to Ukraine must start at the capital Kiev where you can visit numerous churches, such as Saint Sophia's cathedral, or hang out at Independence Square. 2. Admire the Architecture of Lviv. Walk around this pebbled city, visit St George's cathedral, watch a show at the Lviv National Academic Opera and Ballet theater, and ...

  18. How to travel by train from London to Kyiv & Ukraine

    Option 1, London to Kyiv & Odessa via Warsaw - using the daily Warsaw-Kyiv sleeper train. The most time-effective option, but can sell out. Option 2, London to Lviv & Kyiv via Krakow - by comfortable daytime trains with overnight hotel stops in Berlin & Krakow and usually has availability. Option 3, London to Lviv & Kyiv via Vienna - using the ...

  19. U.S. citizens travel to Ukraine to help in war efforts: "Ukrainians

    Americans travel to Ukraine to help Ukrainians defend against Russia 03:36. The number of international fighters helping Ukraine is growing every day. The Ukrainian government reports more than ...

  20. Cheap Flights to Ukraine

    What are the travel requirements for Ukraine? Ukraine grants entry to citizens of the United States without a visa for up to 90 days. However, you must present a passport that has at least six months of validity remaining from the time of your entry in Ukraine and a minimum of one blank page to accommodate the entry stamp. Return tickets should ...

  21. 9 Ways to Help Ukraine Right Now

    The United Nations-based group provides access to basic services like water and sanitation, health care, schooling, psychosocial support, and emergency cash assistance. For the crisis in Ukraine ...

  22. How travel is being impacted by the Ukraine invasion

    Alexey Maishev/Sputnik via AP. CNN —. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has spurred travel interruptions across the globe. The European Union closed all airspace across its 27 countries to Russian ...

  23. Want to go fight for Ukraine? Here's what to do.

    Write an application for enlistment in the Territorial Defense of the Armed Forces of Ukraine for military service under a contract on a voluntary basis. (This is in addition to Step 1.) Receive ...

  24. Turkey's Erdogan offers to host Ukraine-Russia peace summit

    The visit comes as Zelensky and other officials continue to press other nations for more munitions and weaponry to halt the advance of Russian troops trying to make deeper gains into the Ukraine ...

  25. Zelensky: Russian missile strike hits near Ukraine and Greek ...

    A Russian missile exploded just 500 meters from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during a deadly attack on the Black Sea port city of Odesa on ...

  26. The biggest moments from Biden's 2024 State of the Union address

    Calling for increased Ukraine aid, Biden deployed the kind of tough-on-Russia rhetoric that has become less common in the GOP under Trump. "My message to President Putin … is simple," Biden ...

  27. Turkey's Erdogan offers to host a peace summit with Russia during a

    Erdogan said the two discussed stability in the Black Sea shipping corridor and he reiterated Turkey's support for Ukraine's "territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence.". The visit comes as Zelenskyy and other officials continue to press other nations for more munitions and weaponry to halt the advance of Russian troops trying to make deeper gains into the Ukraine-held ...

  28. House Republicans consider a loan program for some Ukraine aid

    The lion's share of assistance for Ukraine comes in the form of weapons pulled from the U.S. supply; the nonmilitary aid that could be subject to a loan is just a small slice of U.S. aid to the ...

  29. Ukraine's Zelenskiy to visit Turkey on Friday, Turkish presidency says

    ISTANBUL, March 7 (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy will visit Turkey on Friday and meet Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, the Turkish Presidency said. In a post on social media ...

  30. China's Envoy Li Hui Makes Second Visit to Ukraine Within a Year

    Li Hui, the Chinese government's special representative for Eurasian affairs, visited Ukraine and met with Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in Kyiv Thursday.