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Travel in Ukraine: the practical guide

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The rooftops of Lviv's old town seen from the town hall tower
Contents

In short: Kyiv and Lviv are Ukraine’s most visited cities. EU citizens enter without a visa, but there are no civil flights: you arrive by train from Poland, notably from Przemyśl.

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Entry requirements

EU citizens enter without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, with a valid passport. Rules depend on nationality: check them before you go.

Getting there

Ukrainian airspace is closed to civil flights. You arrive by road or rail from neighbouring countries:

  • By train from Przemyśl (Poland): the fast Intercity+ train serves Lviv then Kyiv, in about 7h40 to Kyiv; night trains also run.
  • By coach from several cities in Poland and Central Europe.

Train tickets are booked on the Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) website or app; book ahead.

When to go

  • May to September: the best time, mild and bright.
  • Winter: cold and often snowy; Lviv is very lively at Christmas.

Internet

Ukraine is not part of the European Union: check your operator’s terms, or install a travel eSIM.

What to see in Ukraine

  • Kyiv: Saint Sophia Cathedral and the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (UNESCO World Heritage), St Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, Andriyivskyy Descent, Khreshchatyk.
  • Lviv: the UNESCO-listed old town, Market Square, the opera, the cafés.

Where to stay

Our Kyiv and Lviv pages present the best areas for your travel style.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Ukraine?

EU citizens can enter Ukraine without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, with a valid passport. Check the latest rules for your nationality.

How do I get to Ukraine?

Ukrainian airspace is closed to civil flights: you arrive by train or coach from neighbouring countries. The most common route is the train from Przemyśl, in Poland, to Lviv and Kyiv.

How long is the train from Poland to Kyiv?

The fast Intercity+ train links Przemyśl to Kyiv in about 7h40, via Lviv.

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