Ukraine Tour Highlights

Experience the highlights of Ukraine during a 1-day layover tour that offers a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and history. Begin your adventure in Kiev, where you’ll visit iconic landmarks such as the golden-domed St. Sophia’s Cathedral and the historic Kiev Pechersk Lavra monastery complex. Explore the charming streets of the old town, sampling traditional Ukrainian cuisine at local eateries. Then, venture to Lviv, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, admiring the ornate facades of Renaissance and Baroque buildings. Wrap up your whirlwind tour with a visit to Lviv’s bustling central market, where you can pick up souvenirs and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere before catching your next flight.

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a one-day layover tour in Ukraine:

Morning:

• Arrival in Kiev: Begin your day early with a morning arrival at Boryspil International Airport in Kiev.
• Transfer to St. Sophia’s Cathedral: Head straight to St. Sophia’s Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kiev’s most iconic landmarks. Marvel at its golden domes and intricate mosaics while learning about its rich history.
• Explore St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery: Next, visit St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, another architectural gem of Kiev located just a short walk from St. Sophia’s Cathedral. Admire its stunning blue domes and explore the monastery grounds.

Midday:

• Lunch in the Old Town: Take a break for lunch in Kiev’s charming Old Town. Sample traditional Ukrainian dishes at a local restaurant or café, such as borscht (beet soup), varenyky (dumplings), or salo (cured pork fat).
• Visit Kiev Pechersk Lavra: After lunch, head to the Kiev Pechersk Lavra monastery complex, one of the holiest sites in Ukraine. Explore its underground caves, filled with mummified monks, and admire the beautiful churches and cathedrals on the grounds.

Afternoon:

• Flight to Lviv: In the afternoon, catch a short domestic flight from Kiev to Lviv. Flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
• Explore Lviv Old Town: Upon arrival in Lviv, head straight to the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, churches, and cafes.
• Visit Market Square: Spend some time in Lviv’s bustling Market Square, the heart of the city’s social and cultural life. Admire the beautiful Renaissance and Baroque buildings surrounding the square and soak in the lively atmosphere.
• Shopping and Souvenirs: Take the opportunity to pick up some souvenirs or gifts at the market stalls or shops around Market Square. Look for local handicrafts, traditional embroidered shirts (vyshyvanka), or delicious Lviv chocolates.

Evening:

• Departure: Head back to Lviv Airport in the evening for your onward flight. Reflect on your whirlwind tour of Ukraine as you catch your next flight, carrying memories of the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.