Top 10 ancient castles in Ukraine that are definitely worth seeing at least once in your life

Ukraine impresses with its wealth of medieval castles scattered throughout the country — from the mysterious strongholds of Transcarpathia to the impregnable fortresses of Podillia. Each of these architectural gems preserves unique stories about the days of knights, princely dynasties, and heroic battles for independence. Learn more about the most impressive castles in Ukraine that every traveller should see

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Ukraine is a veritable treasure trove of medieval architecture, where every stone tells its own unique story. From the majestic fortresses of Podillia to the mysterious strongholds of Zakarpattia, our country has preserved countless architectural monuments that impress with their beauty and historical significance. These ancient castles are not just ruins of the past, but living witnesses to epoch-making events, royal intrigues, and heroic battles. Each of them has its own character, legends, and unique atmosphere that transports visitors to the distant times of knights and beautiful ladies.

Read on to find out about the top 10 most impressive castles in Ukraine that everyone should see.

Castles of Kyiv: architectural gems of the capital

Kyiv's castles are a unique phenomenon in the architectural landscape of Ukraine. Unlike medieval fortresses, these structures appeared in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as private residences of wealthy Kyiv residents, stylised as medieval castles. The Baron's House on Bankova Street, the Gothic Doctor's Castle, and the half-ruined Steingel Castle create a unique atmosphere of antiquity right in the centre of the modern capital. These architectural masterpieces are a reminder of an era when Kyiv's homeowners competed to create the most luxurious buildings.

Photo: Vitaliy Stelmakh

For those who want to see these architectural masterpieces, the Visit Ukraine portal offers a special tour called ‘Three Castles: Individual Excursion.’

Khotyn Fortress: the grandeur of Podillia

Khotyn Fortress is one of the best-preserved castle complexes in Ukraine, towering over the Dniester River for over a thousand years. This powerful stronghold has survived dozens of sieges and witnessed battles between different nations and states. Massive stone walls, tall towers, and deep dungeons create a unique medieval atmosphere. The fortress's panoramic platform offers a breathtaking view of the Dniester River and the surrounding area, while authentic exhibits of weapons and knightly armour help to imagine the life of the garrison at that time.

Photo: Serg-N-Melnikoy

If you are interested in this fortress, consider taking the Visit Ukraine tour ‘Treasures of the Khotyn Fortress’.

Lubart's Castle in Lutsk: the pearl of Volhynia

Prince Lubart's Castle in Lutsk is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ukraine. Built in the 14th century, it became the residence of Lithuanian princes and an important defensive point of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Powerful red brick walls, high towers and ancient chambers create the atmosphere of a real medieval castle. Today, it houses a museum where you can learn about the history of Volhynia and see unique archaeological finds.

Photo: Wikipedia

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Castles of Volhynia: the historical heritage of the region

The Volhynia region is rich in castle complexes, each with its own unique history. The mysterious fortresses of Dubno and Zbarazh, the mystical Tarakaniv Fort and the luxurious Vyshnevetskyi Palace, known as the ‘Little Versailles’, create a unique tourist route. These castles tell of the struggle for independence, princely dynasties and the architectural traditions of different eras. Each of these fortresses has its own legends and secrets, which make the journey particularly exciting.

You can explore all the castles of Volhynia thanks to the organised tour Visit Ukraine ‘Castles of Volhynia: Amazing Lutsk and the Tunnel of Love’.

Mukachevo Castle ‘Palanok’: the pearl of Transcarpathia

Mukachevo Castle ‘Palanok’ is one of the greatest fortresses of Transcarpathia, located on a 68-metre volcanic rock. The castle has a thousand-year history and is associated with the names of many historical figures, including Prince Fyodor Koriatovich and Princess Ilona Zryni. Powerful fortifications, underground passages and museum exhibitions make a visit to the castle a real journey through time. The walls of the fortress offer picturesque views of the Latorica Valley and the Carpathian foothills.

Photo: Yuriy Krylivets

Castles of Transcarpathia: forgotten pearls

The ruins of 12 medieval castles have been preserved in Transcarpathia, each with its own unique history. Khust Castle on the top of Zamkova Mountain guarded the salt road from Solotvyno, Vynogradiv Castle Kankiv attracts tourists and filmmakers, and the Royal Castle of Nyalab in the village of Korolevo remembers the hunting of Hungarian King Stephen V. These architectural monuments, shrouded in legends and myths, preserve the secrets of past centuries.

A specialised tour from Visit Ukraine, ‘The Forgotten Castles of Transcarpathia,’ will help you explore all these mysterious structures.

Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress: an impregnable stronghold

Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved fortress complexes in Ukraine. Located on a rocky peninsula surrounded by the Smotrych River canyon, the fortress has been an impregnable stronghold for centuries. Numerous towers, bastions and defensive structures create the impression of a powerful military machine. The old town of Kamianets with its narrow streets and historic buildings complements the overall picture of the medieval atmosphere.

You can combine a visit to the fortress with other notable places in the region as part of the Visit Ukraine tour ‘Bakota, Kamianets-Podilskyi, Chernivtsi’.

Pidhirtsi Castle: Italian Baroque in Ukraine

Pidhirtsi Castle in the Lviv region is a unique architectural monument of the 17th century, built in the Italian Baroque style. The castle belonged to the magnate family of Konetspolsky and was considered one of the most luxurious palaces of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The three-storey building with an inner courtyard impresses with its elegance and monumentality. Although the castle is in need of restoration, it still retains traces of its former grandeur and luxury. The park with terraces and regular layout creates an atmosphere of aristocratic sophistication.

Olesko Castle: the birthplace of King Jan Sobieski

Olesko Castle in the Lviv region is the birthplace of the future Polish king Jan III Sobieski, victor over the Turks at Vienna. The 13th-century castle is located on a high hill and impresses with its architectural beauty. After restoration, a museum was created here, where you can learn about the history of the castle and its famous inhabitants. The park around the castle with its alleys and ponds creates a romantic atmosphere for walks.

Photo: Paul In

Svirzh Castle: the romance of centuries past

Svirzh Castle in the Lviv region is a magnificent example of 15th-century defensive architecture, which was later rebuilt into a Baroque palace. The castle belonged to the magnate family of Cetners, and later to the Zhevusky family. The picturesque ruins of the castle among the greenery of the park create a romantic atmosphere that attracts both tourists and newlyweds for wedding photo shoots. Legends of ghosts and underground treasures make a visit to the castle especially exciting.

Discover Ukraine with Visit Ukraine

Want to see these incredible castles with your own eyes?

The Visit Ukraine portal offers a wide selection of exciting tours to the most beautiful corners of our country. From the mystical castles of Transcarpathia to the majestic fortresses of Podillia, each trip will be an unforgettable adventure filled with stories, legends, and vivid impressions.

Experienced guides will tell you the most interesting facts about each castle, share little-known legends and help you feel the spirit of bygone eras. Comfortable routes, well-thought-out logistics and original excursions will make your trip not only informative, but also as convenient as possible.

Visit Ukraine is your reliable guide to the world of Ukrainian history and culture. Choose a tour that suits your taste and embark on an exciting journey!

Reminder! In previous articles, we talked about Ukrainian locations that are on par with Iceland. Natural wonders worth seeing in Ukraine — collected at the link.

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