Top 10 most common mistakes foreigners make when travelling to Ukraine

Travelling around Ukraine in 2025 can be an unforgettable experience — provided you avoid the common mistakes that many foreigners make. In this article, we have compiled a list of the most common mistakes tourists make in Ukraine — from booking errors to lack of insurance and underestimating logistics. Find out how to prepare for your trip in advance, what not to do in Ukraine, and what services will help you make your trip comfortable and safe

Legal counselling on migration issues

GET

Travelling around Ukraine in 2025 promises to be an eventful, affordable and surprisingly diverse experience — from the Carpathian Mountains to the Black Sea, from ancient castles to creative gastronomic routes. However, to truly enjoy the country, it is important to avoid common pitfalls. We have compiled a list of the top 10 mistakes that tourists most often make in Ukraine.

Arriving without medical insurance

Many tourists in Ukraine underestimate the importance of medical insurance, especially in the context of the ongoing war. Even a simple visit to the hospital can be expensive.

Before travelling, take out insurance that covers military risks so that you can feel safe in any situation. If you are travelling by car, add Mini-HULL insurance to protect your vehicle.

Booking hotels on untested websites or upon arrival

Searching for accommodation ‘on the spot’ can result in no vacancies, high prices or outright scams.

Use trusted hotel booking systems (such as Visit Ukraine) to get verified options in any region with real reviews and a guarantee of accommodation.

No itinerary or trip planning

Many tourists don't know where to go, how long it will take, or where to stop along the way.

Save time and money — choose a ready-made tour with a guide or create a custom itinerary with Visit Ukraine experts. This is especially convenient if you are visiting the country for the first time and don't want to miss the main attractions.

Trying to figure out transportation ‘on the spot’

Buying tickets at the station, confusion with buses, language barriers — all of this can ruin your impression.

Book your tickets for transportation in Ukraine in advance online. Train or bus — everything is available in a couple of clicks on Visit Ukraine.

Inattention to transfers

Have you arrived at the station and don't know how to get to your hotel or the location you need? This is a standard stressful situation that can ruin the start of your trip to Ukraine.

Book a transfer or a car with a driver in advance. The Visit Ukraine platform offers Meet & Greet services and car rental for independent travel.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Entering the country without understanding visa requirements

Incorrect documents or an incomplete package at the border can ruin your trip on the very first day.

Before travelling, familiarise yourself with the entry rules. If in doubt, consult with immigration lawyers on the Visit Ukraine platform.

Ignoring local culture and behaviour

Some tourists behave disrespectfully, not understanding the Ukrainian mentality, symbols or rules.

Take guided tours — they will help you better understand the country and avoid misunderstandings.

Underestimating souvenirs and local brands

Tourists in Ukraine often do not buy souvenirs or choose standard magnets at the train station.

Support Ukrainian brands — choose original merchandise (T-shirts, hoodies, eco-bags, souvenirs with symbols). It is not only a memory, but also a contribution to the development of the country.

Refusal of help and advice

Some travellers think they can manage on their own, even in critical situations. Don't hesitate to contact professionals. At Visit Ukraine, you will find not only tours and transfers, but also legal assistance, insurance support, visa assistance and other services.

📍 Useful links

Medical insurance for entry into Ukraine

Hotel reservations in Ukraine

Tours in Ukraine

Useful information about travelling to Ukraine

Transport and transfers

Merchandise and souvenirs

Legal advice

Reminder! Travelling to Ukraine by car in 2025 is possible, as the country continues to welcome foreign visitors despite the war. Before travelling, you should carefully prepare for the journey and read the recommendations carefully.

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 – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

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.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.