How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Ukraine: guide for foreigners

From the picturesque Carpathians to historical cities and the warm Black Sea – Ukraine is ready to surprise you with its hospitality, nature and unique experiences. But for the trip to be truly successful, it is important to plan it correctly. Find out how to properly organize a trip: booking tours, medical insurance, car rental, transfers, Meet & Greet – everything you need for a comfortable and safe visit

Choose a tour in Ukraine for any taste

CHOOSE A TOUR

Ukraine is a country that never ceases to amaze with its diversity and authenticity. Here you can enjoy both modern cities and rich culture, as well as picturesque natural corners and delicious dishes. Traveling in Ukraine, you will feel sincere hospitality and discover new interesting stories for yourself. And although the war continues, most tourist routes remain comfortable and safe.

How to plan the perfect trip to Ukraine? To make your trip as successful as possible, we recommend using our guide.

Preparation for a trip: documents, insurance, tickets

Planning a trip to Ukraine in 2025 begins with careful preparation. Despite the openness of the country to tourists, it is important to take care of all the key details in advance to avoid unforeseen situations.

- What documents are needed to enter Ukraine in 2025?

To enter Ukraine, foreigners and stateless persons need to have a basic package of documents. Depending on the country of origin, the requirements may vary slightly. The main documents for crossing the border:

1. A passport valid for the entire period of stay.

Citizens of Turkey and Georgia can enter on the basis of an ID card.

2. A visa is required only for citizens of countries with which a visa-free regime does not apply

In general, representatives of most countries of the world, including citizens of the EU, Japan, Kuwait, the USA, the UK and Canada, have the right to visa-free travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

You can check whether you need a visa on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

Read more about visa requirements in Ukraine here.

Important! Also, be sure to check before traveling whether you need a Schengen transit visa for your trip.

3. Documents confirming the purpose of the trip

Tourist voucher, hotel and ticket reservations, tour, invitations to events or information about family ties.

4. Financial support

Cash, bank cards, checks, bank statements, a letter of guarantee from the host party or confirmation of paid tour and accommodation.

5. Insurance policy

Issued by an insurance company registered in Ukraine or a foreign insurance company that has a representative office in Ukraine or contractual relations (assistance).

It will be a nice advantage if, in addition to basic medical services, it also covers military risks. It is better to apply for a policy online at Visit Ukraine, because it is simply fast and affordable, and the electronic policy is valid on a par with a printed one.

- Customs regulations in Ukraine

Individuals may transport across the border of Ukraine without a written declaration to the customs authority:

1. Personal belongings: two mobile phones, one video camera, one camera, two portable personal computers; sports equipment; personal jewelry that was in use; clothing, footwear intended for personal use; 500 ml of toilet water or 100 ml of perfume, other items for personal use.

2. Goods, the total cost of which does not exceed 500 euros or 50 kg.

3. Ukrainian currency or foreign currency in an amount not exceeding the equivalent of 10 thousand euros.

4. Alcoholic beverages: vodka products (vodka, cognac, whiskey, etc.) in an amount of 1 liter, wine - 2 liters, beer - 5 liters.

5. Tobacco products – 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco.

6. Food products for personal use for an amount not exceeding 200 euros.

7. Medicines, the quantity should not exceed 5 packages of each name per person (except those containing narcotic or psychotropic substances).

- Where to find cheap air and train tickets to Ukraine?

It is most convenient to plan a trip to Ukraine through aggregators that compare prices from different platforms. If you are looking for airline tickets, pay attention to budget airlines that fly to Poland, Slovakia or Moldova - from there it is easy to get to Ukraine by land transport.

In Ukraine, airspace is closed, travel is available only by land transport (bus, train). To plan a route and buy the best tickets - use the ticket booking system on the Visit Ukraine portal. Here you can find Ukrzaliznytsia flights, as well as bus routes in one place.

Tip! Save your travel route, transfer data, tickets and reservations in one place in advance - in a smartphone or printed version. This will reduce stress when crossing the border or making transfers.

Detailed requirements for entering Ukraine in 2025 at the link.

Route planning: what to choose - classic locations or alternative routes?

Ukraine is an extremely multifaceted country, and your tourist route in Ukraine can be both classic and non-standard. It all depends on your interests and the format of the trip.

- The most popular tourist destinations in Ukraine chosen by foreign tourists

Among the classic destinations, you can highlight Kyiv, Lviv, Odessa and the Carpathians: they open Ukraine from the most famous side. You will see the gold-domed cathedrals of the capital, feel the European atmosphere in Lviv, taste the Black Sea cuisine in Odessa and breathe in the fresh Carpathian air while traveling through the mountains.

- Alternative routes in Ukraine for tourists

And if you want something non-trivial - choose alternative routes that lead to less known, but no less exciting locations. For example, in Chernivtsi you will feel Austrian sophistication within Ukraine, and a trip to Poltava region will immerse you in authentic culture, literary heritage and a cozy province.

By the way, in order not to waste time on independently planning the route and searching for ideal locations, use the author's ready-made tours from Visit Ukraine - they have already been developed by experienced specialists taking into account safety, logistics and interesting locations along the route.

If you want something more personalized - the service also offers turnkey tours adapted to your interests: gastronomic, cultural, natural or even military-historical.

All the details - including transfers, accommodation and a guide - are taken care of by the organizers. All you have to do is enjoy the trip.

How to get around Ukraine and where to stay during your trip?

Ukraine has an extensive transport system that allows you to conveniently move between cities and regions. Travelers have a variety of options available, from rail routes to private vehicles.

- Rail and bus connections

Reliable and popular ways to get around. Trains between major cities run regularly, even in difficult wartime conditions, and buses allow you to get to less popular but interesting locations. Tickets for domestic routes can be conveniently booked through the Visit Ukraine platform - all in one place, with proven carriers and convenient service.

- Traveling by your own car or rented transport

A good option for those who want to have complete freedom of movement and visit places outside the tourist routes.

Renting a car in Ukraine without a driver will be the best choice if: you have a driver's license of the required category, your driving experience and age meet the requirements of the company offering cars for rent, you are perfectly oriented in the city. In all other cases, it is better to order a car rental with a driver.

Visit Ukraine offers car rental services of various classes, including SUVs for trips to the mountains or countryside, and even buses for large companies. To make your trip as safe as possible, it is recommended to take out mini-CASCO car insurance in Ukraine before traveling by car - it covers risks associated with damage in a road accident, and also has an option that will insure your car even against war risks.

- Where to stay in Ukraine?

Regarding accommodation – Ukraine has a large number of hotels, hostels, apartments and green estates. It is worth booking accommodation in advance, especially in tourist regions or during holidays and festivals. It is better to give preference to those options that have good reviews, are located close to shelters and have flexible cancellation conditions..

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How to make your trip to Ukraine as comfortable as possible from the first minutes?

To make your trip start without stress, it is important to take care of some details before arrival.

- If this is your first time in Ukraine or you simply do not want to waste time looking for a taxi, use the Meet & Greet service. You will be met right at the airport or at the train station – with a nameplate, help with luggage and organize a transfer to the hotel or other location. This service is especially convenient for families, tourists with bulky luggage or during late arrival, because Ukraine has a curfew, so you should act quickly to have time to get from the station to your place of residence.

- Also, before traveling, you should understand that changing several types of transport during a trip to Ukraine can be a difficult test for a traveler, however, if you book a transfer, for example, from a European airport directly to the Ukrainian city you are going to, it will greatly facilitate the journey. No complications, transfers with heavy suitcases, waiting for a bus or a long border crossing. Fast, convenient and reliable - we can safely say that a transfer in Ukraine is one of the easiest ways to get to Ukraine in 2025.

The advantage is that you can book a car of any class for the trip - from economy to business and premium class. Drivers are verified, cars are in good technical condition, and routes are adapted to the current security situation.

Recommendations for safe travel to Ukraine

To ensure a safe trip to Ukraine in 2025, follow these recommendations:

- Check official information. Read the recommendations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of your country regarding travel to Ukraine. Follow the messages on the websites of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine and local authorities.

- Prepare your documents. Make sure that your passport is valid and the visa (if required) is correctly issued. Make copies of important documents (passport, insurance policy, visa) and save them in digital form.

- Take care of medical insurance for foreigners. Your policy should cover treatment in Ukraine, including possible emergencies, and it is also desirable to have additional coverage for risks associated with war.

- Watch for air alerts. Install the mobile application "Air Alert" (App Store | Google Play) and learn about the rules of conduct during shelling. In the event of an alarm, immediately go to the nearest shelter.

- Do not photograph military facilities. It is prohibited to photograph checkpoints, military equipment, positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other strategic facilities.

- Be prepared for checks. In wartime, law enforcement officers may check documents. Always have them with you.

- Follow the guide's instructions, especially in areas near destroyed facilities. If you visit thematic excursions, respect the memory of the dead.

Read about the current rules for staying in Ukraine and its safe cities at the link.

What to see in Ukraine? TOP places that are definitely worth seeing in Ukraine

Ukraine amazes with the diversity of landscapes, cultures and moods. There are mountain peaks, sea coast, ancient cities and forgotten peasant farms with an incredible atmosphere. Here is a selection of locations that are definitely worth including in your itinerary - depending on the season and your interests:

Summer - ideal for nature, sea and active recreation

- Odessa coast - sea, historical center, gastronomic tourism.

- Carpathians - trekking, waterfalls, climbing Hoverla or Pip Ivan.

- Shatsk Lakes - ideal for camping, relaxing by the water and silence.

- Bakota - a flooded village with incredible views, which became popular thanks to Instagram.

Read more about places worth visiting in Ukraine in the summer here.

Autumn is the season of wine, warm colors and mystical atmosphere

- Lviv – coffee, old quarters, warm rain and street musicians.

- Vynohradiv and Mukachevo – tasting of Transcarpathian wines, castles, ethno festivals.

- Sofiivka in Uman – a landscape park that is especially beautiful in autumn.

Winter – festive spirit, fairs, mountains

- Yaremche and Bukovel – skiing, sledding, Hutsul cuisine.

- Kyiv – New Year’s locations, museums, Sofiivska and Mykhailivska squares.

- Lutsk – an atmospheric city with Lyubart Castle and a puppet theater in an old prison.

Spring is a time for blooming cities and easy travels

- Uzhhorod – blooming sakura, old town, wine cellars.

- Kamianets-Podilskyi – a medieval fortress, canyon and festivals.

- Chernivtsi – exquisite architecture and a university that amazes with its beauty.

Planning the perfect trip does not have to be complicated. Regardless of whether you are looking for the best route, want to book a tour of Ukraine, arrange medical insurance, rent a car or order a Meet & Greet service – the Visit Ukraine team will help you at every stage.

Contact a personal manager who will select all the services according to your wishes. Save time, travel confidently and discover Ukraine safely and comfortably.

Let us remind you! June is a great time to travel around Ukraine, because the July heat has not yet set in and the tourist routes are also not yet crowded. We have already told you where to go in June in Ukraine, which places are ideal for relaxation, adventure or romance.

We wish you a good trip!

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – health insurance with coverage of war risks;

Visit Ukraine Mini Hull Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Osago – compulsory motor third party liability insurance for cars with Ukrainian registration;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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