The list of things to do in Ukraine is long. From viewing all of the major tourist attractions in city centers such as Kiev and Odessa, to going off the beaten track and hiking, cycling, or horseback riding through the wilderness, there are enough activities in Ukraine to satisfy the most adventurous traveler. The many fun things to do in Ukraine include visiting museums, doing outdoor activities, and visiting religious sites, but the possibilities are nearly endless.

Sightseeing in Kiev

The first stop for many travelers to Ukraine is Kiev, the capital. The main sights in Kiev, such as the Golden Gate of Kiev and the underground monastery Pechersk Lavra, are popular among visitors, especially those interested in the complex and fascinating history of Ukraine.

Museums

In addition to the historic attractions in Kiev, there are many excellent museums for visitors to explore. The National Art Museum is over a century old and has an extensive collection of art by Ukrainian artists from the Middle Ages to the present. In addition, the Museum of Folk Architecture just on the outskirts of Kiev is one of the most interesting things to do in Ukraine, especially if you are interested in how Ukrainian village life. The open air museum features village houses that have been restored along with traditional furnishings, handicrafts, and costumes.

Chernobyl

The Chernobyl Museum in Kiev is one of the most meaningful activities in Ukraine. The exhibits take you through what happened the day of the Chernobyl disaster, and showcases items from the scene of the disaster as well as belongings of victims. There are even a few tours that take visitors out to the remnants of the nuclear plant and the abandoned town of Pripyat, where the workers had been housed.

Cycling

This is another one of the fun things to do in Ukraine that focuses on the outdoors. Cycling is becoming more popular in the country, and there are some good cycling trails, particularly in the Crimea region. The best cycling is arguably in the Carpathian Mountains, but there are few bike shops along the way and the trails are noticeably less developed.

Hiking

Hiking is also one of the more popular things to do in Ukraine. Trails are not always well-marked, but you can book a trek with a tour group, or if you have experience trekking and backpacking, the backcountry of the Carpathian and Crimean mountains are ideal for roughing it. Along the way, you can also stop at the many lakes. Other outdoor activities in Ukraine include scuba diving and swimming in coastal areas and in Ukraine's many freshwater lakes, such as Svityaz Lake, a nature reserve.

Churches and Cathedrals

Ukraine is home to some of the most impressive churches and cathedrals in Eastern Europe, and visiting these religious sites is one of the most popular things to do in Ukraine. From the underground monastery of Pechersk Lavra to the Cathedral of Saint Sophia in Kiev, Ukraine's religious monuments are built with care and detailed architecture that show the value placed on such edifices.

The Black Sea

Other fun things to do in Ukraine include sunbathing and people watching at popular seaside resort towns such as Yalta. Tourists at this town on the Black Sea enjoy walking on the promenade on the waterfront, shopping, and sampling Ukraine's excellent cuisine. There are also opportunities to sample Ukrainian wines and pick up some beautiful handicrafts as a souvenir of your time in this beautiful country.