UKRAINE, THE BREADBASKET OF EUROPE
UKRAINE, THE BREADBASKET OF EUROPE
The Unitary, Semi-Presidential Republic of Ukraine is a democratic, Eastern European country. Ukraine/Ukraina pronounced Oo-krah-YEE-nah by the locals, unlike You-Crane in English) is the second largest European country after Russia, and borders Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, and the coastline of the Black Sea. The nation’s capital and largest city is Kyiv (Kiev). Ukraine is predominantly a Christian nation (approximately 88%) with a population of about 42 million. Its main export is agricultural products, including wheat, and as of 2022/2023 ranked fifth among the largest wheat exporters worldwide. Currently, Ukraine is most famous for its fight and resistance against the Russian invasion. Read on for more insights into my visit to Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe, or precisely Lviv.
Minimum 15% savings available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Late Escape Deals” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 7 January 2025 for stays with check-in from 1 October 2024 and check-out on or before 7 January 2025. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and is subject to availability.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
WHY IS UKRAINE THE BREADBASKET OF EUROPE?
Ukraine’s nickname is the breadbasket of Europe because it has been supplying barley (20%) and grains (43%) to Europe and the wider world since the 1990s. It boasts some of the most fertile soil (black soil) on earth, ideally suited for growing wheat. For this reason, Ukraine is one of the top three wheat producers and exporters of grains to Europe and the wider world. Hence the reason why Ukraine is the breadbasket of Europe. Despite disruptions due to the war, it has retained its status because it continues cultivating and exporting bi-products from regions unaffected by the war.
WHY DID I VISIT UKRAINE DURING THE “WAR” OR “RUSSIAN INVASION”?
During my visit to Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Bulgaria, I met people who were either taking a break from, or on their way to university in Ukraine. Additionally, others went or were planning ski trips during the holidays to Kyiv (Kiev). However, I did not impulsively decide to visit, even though they said it was safe enough.
Subsequently, researched and found that Russia is attacking a small part of Ukraine (less than 20%), mainly in the eastern and southern parts. Besides, Lviv is on the western side of Ukraine, so they would have denied entry to those areas actively involved in the war. Remember, Ukraine is a big country. For size comparison, Italy can fit twice into it.
My research revealed that Lviv was safe enough, and nothing untoward had occurred recently. Moreover, many bus companies and trains were traversing this route and other cities in Ukraine. Albeit, no planes were, and still currently not flying into the country because its airspace is closed. Upon further research, I found that many accommodations on Booking.com in Lviv (my city of choice) were either almost or fully booked. Therefore, my interest in visiting peaked even more because it appeared that though tourism had declined, it was still thriving to an extent.
For these reasons, my adventurous spirit was curious and excited to visit. Furthermore, I have always been desirous of visiting Ukraine. Some years ago, I transited through Ukraine’s airport on a flight to Poland but unfortunately did not leave the airport. However, I felt despite the current situation, it was now worth a visit. Thankfully, it went smoothly, and I had a great time.
ENTRY INTO UKRAINE
I entered and exited Lviv, Ukraine, by bus from Poland because, as previously mentioned, Ukraine’s air space is closed. Consequently, there are many bus and train services between all countries throughout Europe, so Ukraine was no exception. Therefore, I used my favourite bus service (Flixbus) to Ukraine. I love to travel with these buses because they have washrooms, more legroom, and allow similar or more luggage than planes, minus the airport hassle. The journey was from Warsaw, the capital of Poland, which took over 10 hours.
It was a full bus, with 97% females and an age range of no more than 40 years, or so it seemed. What’s more, all appeared to be Ukrainian women, plus three males and two or so passengers appeared to be visitors. Once again, I was the only “loca” black person on the bus, and everyone curiously looked at me. Maybe they were puzzled to see a female who did not look like them going to a place others were happy to leave. Who knows!?
Along the way, a couple of the ladies with enquiring eyes eventually approached me, and we talked. One spoke some English, and another I sat across from me used a translator because the bus had free WiFi. They were curious as to why I was visiting etc., and seemed quite surprised and pleased that my purpose was for tourism.
Ukraine, the Breadbasket of Europe Cont...
Throughout the journey, we stopped twice for border checks (departing Poland and arriving in Ukraine). During these stops, we never exited the bus. At the Polish border, the border police (male and female) entered the bus, collected all passports, and left. After 20 minutes or so, one returned and handed the passports to the driver, who distributed them, and then we continued on our journey.
When we arrived at the Ukrainian border, two beautiful female officers entered the bus, fully clad in camouflage instead of the customary police or immigration-type uniforms. They went seat to seat, collected the passports, looked at the faces, and compared them to the photo in the passport. When the officer approached me, she looked at me twice as though she was thinking, “Why the hell is she here?!” She smiled at me as though she was happy to see a visitor and left with all the passports. Similarly to the Polish border, they took about 25 minutes to return the passports, and then we continued our journey into Lviv, incident-free.
EXITING UKRAINE
On exiting Ukraine, I went to Krakow, the third largest city in Poland. The journey was shorter by two hours to/from Warsaw. Moreover, the border crossing took over an hour because many vehicles were leaving Ukraine around this time. Added to this, we had to disembark the bus and enter the immigration building with our luggage for processing by immigration officers who were in standard uniform, not camouflage.
This procedure did not occur on arrival, so I can only speculate that maybe it was because we arrived at the border after midnight. I am uncertain. However, the almost eight-hour journey to Krakow, Poland, was also incident-free.
NOTICEABLE CHANGES IN LVIV/UKRAINE SINCE THE WAR
These were some of the things I observed, and changes made in the city as a result of the ongoing war:
- Since the beginning of the war, many historical statues were wrapped in protective sheets and fireproof material as a preventative measure to protect them from damage. Some like the 200-year-old ancient statues of gods/goddess Adonis, Diana, Amphitrite, and Neptune. A cloth banner is now in their place depicting it.
- The sky was quiet because the airspace over Ukraine was, and is still presently closed, which meant no planes flew by.
- Almost every day, there were air-raid sirens, which meant, “risk of attack – seek shelter.” Nevertheless, in Lviv, it was more of a warning or an indicator that a Russian plane left its base, etc. It works by sounding for a few minutes, stops, and then a second one is heard a few minutes or hours later to cancel the first warning. However, because it has become almost a norm there, everyone went about their business as usual, and so did I, air-raid siren, or not.
- There was, and last time I checked, still a curfew from 00:00 until 5:00 am (all should be off the street by midnight). That did not affect me because, whenever I visit a country I am more than likely off the street before 9:00 pm.
- High Castle, a historic castle (a defensive fort from the 13th – 19th century) is on Castle Hill, the highest point overlooking the city, and offers the best view of the city center of Lviv. Before the war, it was a popular lookout spot for locals and tourists. Since the war, access to this area has been denied for security reasons. However, High Castle Park at the foot of the hill, is still accessible to all and offers a somewhat limited view of the city.
- In a symbolic change, Ukraine celebrated Christmas Day on December 25th, 2023, instead of the traditional date of January 6th – 7th. On July 2023, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a law with the official date change, and all churches across the country upheld it. Therefore, the new date, moving forward, is in defiance of the Russian Christian Orthodox Church’s guidance and, I guess. with Ukraine’s alignment with Western customs and rejection of Russia.
ABOUT THE CITY OF LVIV
Lviv is the largest city in western Ukraine and the sixth-largest in the country. They refer to it as the Cafe Capital of Ukraine because it has the most cafes per capita. It is the primary publishing and cultural center. It has many industries and institutions of higher learning, such as the very impressive Lviv University.
Furthermore, this historic city is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. It is also listed as an endangered site due to the Russian invasion. In the city, the residents can feel some sense of security in case of an emergency and need to seek cover. Because the city has over 6000 underground rooms and bunkers under churches, museums, malls, shopping centers, and coffee shops.
Moreover, Lviv is beautiful with a rich history and culture. It is an unpretentious city with many Neo-Gothic churches like Saint Olga and Elizabeth, art nouveau and baroque buildings, historic architecture, and cobblestone streets. Even more, the city boasts of its many parks and public gardens. Lviv is truly an easy-going city and one of the cleanest cities I have seen (I was honestly surprised by this).
Ukraine, the Breadbasket of Europe Cont...
Additionally, I found that Lviv had a different degree of coldness, temperature-wise. Because, while it was ranging around 5 – 7 degrees Celsius (without snow), it felt colder than -10 degrees Celsius (with snow) in Sofia, Bulgaria. I guess they share the same bone-chilling temperatures as their Russian neighbours.
From the sites I visited and at the bus station, it was visible that Lviv was not void of visitors. The locals were happy to see us in their country, especially from my interactions with the souvenir salespeople. It was clear that other visitors also felt it necessary to visit Ukraine, whether for vacation or not. On arrival, I also met a young man from the U.S.A. who took a one-month vacation (funded by himself) to go to Kyiv/Kiev and assist in the rebuilding of houses.
The city was quite alive with trams, trolleybuses, and all forms of fully functional transportation. From my observation, Lviv seems to have a well-developed transport system, which impressed me. Furthermore, it was “business as usual” in Lviv because the cafes and restaurants, including Fine dining and fast food chains, were always filled with diners.
The shelves of supermarkets and mini-marts were stocked with every kind of food, including snacks. So were the bakeries, big and small shops, with fruits in abundance at the local markets and stalls. Besides, just about every two-minute walk, there was a store, shop, cambio outlet, or cafe. Thankfully, everything functioned smoothly, as if there was no war.
Other important Tips You Should know about Ukraine
- Ukrainian (the official language), Russian, and English (limited), plus another 17 other languages.
- Official currency – Ukrainian Hryvnia
1 USD = 39.33 UAH
1 Euro = 41.89 UAH
1 GBP = 49.00 UAH
- Ukraine is the world’s largest producer of sunflower seed. It is grown so abundantly that it can cover the entire landmass of some of Europe’s smaller countries.
- Ukraine has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One such site is the Saint-Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv/Kiev.
- The famous Chicken Kiev/Kyiv dish (made from chicken breast) did not originate in Kyiv/Kiev, Ukraine. Some suggested it is French or more likely Russian. Subsequently, it was renamed to Chicken Kiev/Kyiv by a restaurant in New York to appease its Russian customers.
- Ukraine was at the heart of World wars not once but twice. The first time (World war 1, 1914 – 1918) was during Hitler’s occupation when over 8 million Ukrainians and 1.5 million Jews lost their lives as victims of the Holocaust, and World War II between 1939 – 1945.
Ukraine, the Breadbasket of Europe Cont...
- Ukrainians love their booze but are not in the top 10 heaviest drinkers in Europe. However, their vodka alternative is called Horilka/Gorilka, which means “burning water”, which they often flavour with chili.
- Ukraine is home to one of the most beautiful languages. Besides Russian, I think it is one of the sexiest accents I have encountered so far, not French. It is just my opinion. On the other hand, Ukrainians may not wish to hear this, but both accents sound similar. Nevertheless, Ukraine ranked 3rd after France and Persia at a global linguistic contest in Paris in 1934.
- In Ukraine, wedding rings are worn on the right hand, in line with Christian Orthodox beliefs.
- Kyiv (Kiev) is the birthplace of the world’s largest plane (Antonov An-225 Mriya). It was the only one made with the largest wingspan (88.4 meters). Additionally, it weighed 640,000 kg and was a Soviet Union masterpiece. However, Russia destroyed it at the beginning of its invasion.
- Ukraine has about four or five ski slopes they can brag about, including Bukovel in the Carpathian Mountains.
- The Guinness World Record’s Longest musical wind instrument in the world is the Trembita, made in Ukraine. The Trembita is an alpine horn made of solid wood, looks like a tube, and is up to 4 meters long.
- Ukrainian language uses Cyrillic Alphabet which contains 33 letters.
- Ukraine is one of the few countries geographically in the heart of Europe. Rakiv, a small town on the western side of Ukraine, is one such place in the heart of Europe.
- In 1853, pharmacists Ignacy Lukasiewicz and Jan Zeh (Polish-born, Ukrainian residents) invented a new (naphtha) gas/kerosene lamp in Lviv, Ukraine. A bronze statue of one of the inventors (Jan Zeh) is outside the cafe. The Gas Lamp (Gasova Lyampa) is now a pub-museum and has a replica of the first gas lamp. Additionally, it has the second-largest collection of gas lamps in Europe, which includes 528 items.
- The capital Kyiv (Kiev) was given the title “The Hero City” status by the Soviet Union following the resistance to the Nazis in its battle in 1941.
- Chernobyl/Chornobyl is in Ukraine, and it is the site of the world’s worst nuclear power plant disaster.
- Ukraine had the second-largest military in Europe behind Russia and 14th worldwide before the war. However, France is now in second place.
- From my observation, many Ukrainian women are gorgeous. It is why they are in the top 10 list of most beautiful women worldwide.
- The world’s deepest metro underground station is Arsenalna Station in Kyiv (Kiev), Ukraine. Further, from ground level, at the top of the escalator, to the bottom of the metro, is a whopping 105.5 meters (346 ft.) below ground.
- After declaring independence in 1991, Ukraine gave up the third-largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and denuclearized the country. In exchange, U.S.A. the UK, and Russia guaranteed Ukraine’s security in 1994, known as the Budapest Memorandum. Hmmm, if only they knew what they know now.
Ukraine, the Breadbasket of Europe Cont...
- Ukraine is the world’s top sunflower meal, seed, and oil producer. Other top 10 exports are cereals, animal and vegetable fats, oils and waxes, iron and steel, ores, slag, wood, electrical machinery, equipment (including computers), food industry waste, and animal fodder.
- The first Ukrainian book was printed in the city of Lviv.
- Khrystyna Nahorna, the oldest woman in Ukraine, died on November 5th, 2017, at age 117.
- Ukraine has some of the richest soil on earth. The Chernozems of central Ukraine are among the most fertile soil on earth. Furthermore, Ukraine has a quarter of the world’s most fertile soil (Chernozem). It is a rich black soil, referred to as “Humus”, and occupies two-thirds of the country’s area.
- Ukraine is not a member of NATO nor the European Union (EU).
- The religious population in Ukraine is as follows: 77% are Eastern Orthodox Christians, 9% Catholics, 2% Protestants, 2% other Christians, 10% Atheists, and other religions, including Jews and Muslims 5%.
- Easter is celebrated according to the Julian Calendar in Christian Orthodox countries like Montenegro, Bulgaria, Egypt, North Macedonia, Georgia, and Ukraine, among others, Therefore, these countries never celebrate Easter at the same time as other Christians worldwide. Consequently, Ukraine celebrated Easter on Sunday, May 05, 2024.
ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF LVIV/UKRAINE
During my flight to Poland, I sat near a pleasant young lady who was surprisingly a Ukranian. While chatting, I mentioned that I was on my way to her country, and of course, she was astonished at my choice of country and time of visit. I asked if the people were hospitable, and oddly enough, she said that Ukrainians were unfriendly. However, I responded that she was friendly and that I might meet some individuals similar to her. She retorted that I would see what she meant once I was there. I understood that it was a challenging time for them, and I didn’t expect them to be hospitable, so I went with an open mind.
My first interaction with any Ukrainian, besides the lady on the plane, was with a young Ukrainian lady I met in Yerevan, Armenia. We spent the evening sightseeing. Considering her situation back home, she was extremely outgoing and was excellent company. On arrival in Warsaw, Poland, it was on to a 10-hour-plus journey with those on the bus to Ukraine.
On entering the bus, I had many curious eyes on me. After a while, a couple of ladies eventually approached me to enquire more about me and my trip. One spoke some English, and another who sat across from me used a translator because the bus offered free Wifi. They were curious as to my reason for visiting Ukraine, and seemed quite surprised and pleased that my purpose was tourism. We all shared smiles and chatted intermittently between border stops and naps along the journey. They did not seem stand-offish, rather most were trying to find a comfortable spot to sleep.
I immediately felt the hospitality of the people on arrival at the Lviv bus station. I sat at the cafe and awaited the arrival of the host of my accommodation. Certainly, it was a kind gesture to offer pick-up and drop-off service to and from the bus station at no charge. While I waited, the cafe attendant was quite pleasant, and knew a little English, so we chatted about why I chose to visit, etc., while I sipped my tea.
While I sipped my tea, a couple of soldiers entered for coffee, and I took the initiative to say “hello” and “good luck” to them, along with a “thumbs up”, they reciprocated and smiled. During my stay in Lviv, one grocer whose grocery store I patronized often was always happy to see me and chatted with me in perfect English. I observed that he was always very polite, helpful, and jovial with all his customers.
Further, I observed that the younger people seemed unaffected by the war or may have mentally adjusted to it because they were “out and about” and enjoying life. Contrary to the older folks, especially the women over 60-ish, who looked pensive or withdrawn. Whether that was their modus operandi or due to their current situation, I cannot say. Nonetheless, throughout my stay, I got much more than I expected from the people.
Ukraine, the Breadbasket of Europe Cont...
Generally, I felt welcomed by all, especially during such a stressful time. Because all the locals I interacted with were pleasant. Those who took my photos on the streets or went out of their way to help me find some tourist sites. My host/hostess for their kindness by offering me a free city tour.
Notwithstanding, the enthusiastic group of university students took photos with me at the House of the Scientists. I spent over half an hour communicating with them because they spoke perfect English. What a lovely group of youths (both males and females), I guessed they were happy to practice speaking in English. Further, I also made it one of the local podcasts, as they did public interviews on the streets of Lviv. For good measure, I must make a special mention also to the three Ukrainian ladies I met on tour in the Dungeons of the Jesuit Church. Not forgetting, the two lovely ladies from Odessa were also vacationing in Lviv.
Moreover, the week I spent in Ukraine was enjoyable and memorable, and everyone I met contributed to it. Additionally, I must also send a special hello to Niko and his family, Volodymyr, Melania, and Daryna. Thanks to all for being sweet and hospitable.
UKRAINE'S SAFETY AND SECURITY
Regarding security and safety in Ukraine, I felt safe throughout my stay. Even with the ongoing war in some parts of the country, I felt no anxiety or feared for my safety. Moreover, I heard of no crimes, petty or otherwise, and neither did I experience anything like pickpockets, etc. Strangely enough, I saw no police officers but soldiers were always milling around on some streets. Suffice it to say, I felt safe and extended my impromptu stay from five days to one week because the threat of war was not an issue for me.
HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Prices for everything in Ukraine were plain and simple, CHEAP, except for souvenirs (T-shirts, etc.). Yes, most tourist memorabilia was a bit pricey. Although, I learned that before the war, Lviv/Ukraine was much cheaper. Nonetheless, everything else, including food, accommodation, and all public transportation (metro, buses, minibuses, trams, trolleybuses, Uber, and taxis), was economically priced and excellent for the budget traveller.
ABOUT UKRAINIAN FOOD
Traditional Ukrainian cuisine is varied with a mixture of multicultural and ethnic compositions. It shares some of its foods and flavours with its Russian and Polish neighbours but has its own unique twist and flavours. Ukrainian cuisine includes chicken, eggs, beef, fish, and mushrooms. They tend to eat plenty of grains, potatoes, vegetables (fresh and pickled), locally grown produce, spices, and livestock. Moreover, they almost always top their dishes with sour cream and dill, making their cuisine fresh, tasty, and unforgettable.
Ukraine the Breadbasket of Europe Cont...
UKRAINIAN DISHES YOU MUST TRY
- Borscht/Bortsch (this Ukraine’s national. It is a soup made from beetroot, potatoes, cabbage, pork, or beef, topped with sour cream and dill, and served with rye bread. There is also a meat and meatless version, and yes, it is reddish because of the beets). In fact, this dish has been on the UNESCO endangered cultural heritage list since the Russian invasion.
- Chicken Kiev/Kyiv (a popular dish with the name of the capital of Ukraine. According to history, it likely originated in Russia, perfected in France, and gained popularity at a hotel in Kyiv/Kiev. They made this dish with pounded and flattened chicken breast Subsequently, they added herb butter and spices, rolled and dipped it in egg and bread crumbs then baked it). The American version contains cheese.
- Varenyky/Vareniki (a national favourite, which are dumplings with fillings consisting of mushrooms, potatoes, sauerkraut, cottage cheese, or cherries. It comes in variations of sweet and savory, boiled, or fried).
- Holubtsi (another favourite dish, which is stuffed cabbage rolls filled with rice, carrots, spice, and meat, then baked and topped with tomato sauce).
- Banosh/Banush (a smoked-flavoured porridge cooked on an open fire. It comprises corn grits, fried pork fat, brynza/bryndza cheese, sour cream, and sometimes mushrooms, with pork cracklings on the side).
- Syrnyky/Syrniki (a pancake made with cottage cheese, flour, eggs, and sugar. It is then fried and served with toppings of jam and sour cream).
- Salo – Cured Pork (served in thin slices with rye bread and pickles gherkins).
- Deruny/Deruni – Potato pancake (this dish is made from finely grated potatoes, mushrooms, spices, and onions. They then fry and served them with a side of cheese and sour cream).
MUST DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN LVIV/UKRAINE
I must admit that sightseeing was fun in Lviv. The city is massive and not void of fascinating things to see and do. A captivating town awaits all who choose to visit.
1. Lviv National Opera – for those who love the arts, such as operas, ballets, concerts, etc. It is beautiful inside and out and is the most prominent building at the top of Svobody (Liberty) Avenue, in the heart of the city.
2. The Church of Saints. Olha (Volha) and Elizabeth – this 19th-century church is the most magnificent one in Lviv (just my view). Furthermore, it does not look like any of the typical churches in Lviv. For 20 UAH you can climb the tower for the best view of the city center because, after the Television Tower, it is the tallest building in the city.
The Church of the Martyrs Boris and Gleb in the city park Bodnanivka has a huge martyrdom of Princes Boris and Gleb. This gold-covered church is gorgeous. (After visiting this church, cross the road and visit the metal Sculpture of four hand gestures that spells LVIV, it is simply outstanding). In my view, these are the two most magnificent churches I have seen in Lviv and many countries.
3. Potocki Palace – built in the 1880s, it is a total gem in the heart of the city. It is one of the grandest architectural buildings in Lviv. The day I visited, the gates had a “closed for the day” sign attached, and many workers were on the compound cleaning as if they were prepping for something big.
4. The House of Scientist – formerly the Nobel Casino, is a true hidden gem in Lviv. I think the 19th-century neo-baroque finishing and the staircase, are the main attractions. Accordingly, it gives insight into the lives of Lviv’s past aristocrats. Additionally, it has served as a scene for many historical movies throughout the years. When I visited, I paid a small entry fee of 20 UAH. A little time later, it was filled with guests from a wedding because it is a popular wedding photography spot.
5. Old Town – The history, architecture, cleanliness, considerate drivers, shopping, restaurants with delicious foods, etc. etc. Old Town is a must-see. Rynok Square or Market Square – a vibrant area in the heart of the city, with baroque buildings, shops, cafes, cobblestone roads, and the creative display of the locals.
6. Lviv City Hall – located at Rynok Square, this beautiful building with a tower that offers a panoramic view of the city. To reach the top of the tower, it is 350 steps. The City Hall is one of the buildings which offers the best view of Old Town. However, it is not opened daily. On the day I visited, I was told it is open on weekends only.
Ukraine, the Breadbasket of Europe Cont...
MUST DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN LVIV/UKRAINE
7. Svyatogo Yura Cathedral – also called St. Georges’s Cathedral. This yellow, gorgeous cathedral is on a hill with a big courtyard and surrounded by a green park. It is another one of the many outstanding churches in Lviv.
8. High Castle Hill and Gardens – this historic castle is on Castle Hill, the highest point in the city, and offers the best view of Lviv. Even though it has been inaccessible since the war, one can still enjoy High Castle Park at the foot of this hill. This park is a beautiful, green, and serene park which offers some view of the city.
9. Saints Peter and Paul Garrison Church or the Church of the Jesuits – I recommend this church not only for its magnificent interior but also for a small price one can visit its underground bunker and the largest underground museum in Lviv. It is a unique exposition of the 13th – 19th century history of Lviv.
Dominican Cathedral – another beautiful church with an underground bunker. However, it is a smaller and less exciting bunker than the Church of Jesuits’ and you must also pay to enter. Nevertheless, it still holds much interest to visit.
10. Stryisky Park – the oldest and largest park in Lviv. It is a charming park with a stream, a botanical greenhouse, a lake with swans, squirrels, and 200 types of trees. Perfect for jogging, strolling, or sitting and enjoying nature in the city center.
11. The Mars Field – a military cemetery on the site of former military graves. Furthermore, it is now the new burial site for the fallen heroes of the Ukrainian/Russian war. It is a fascinating, beautifully designed, and decorated site and kept in pristine condition. Every grave is decorated with flags, freshly cut flowers, memorabilia, teddy bears, etc., making it a lovely and touching tribute. On the other hand, it is also a very depressing place because to view the photos on the graves of so many young, handsome brothers, sons, husbands, and fathers is truly heartbreaking. Despite this, it is a must-see when in Lviv. The historical Lychakiv Cemetery is nearby and is also a must-see.
12. Edem Resort, Medical & Spa – do not let the name confuse you. It is not a hospital but a paradise for relaxation. This is a gorgeous must-see resort in Lviv, with a luxurious recreation center and hotel. Edem Resort is located near a picturesque lake and is surrounded by nature in its greenest form. Edem caters for guests 14 years and older. It offers peace of mind, luxurious spa treatments, golfing, horseback riding, a fitness center, saunas, tennis courts, restaurants, etc., and 5-star hotel rooms. If you are not a guest of the resort, you can enter and enjoy the immaculate surroundings for the day. However, if you choose to stay, one night or more, it will be costly but visit.-worthy.
CONCLUSION
Ukraine, or precisely, the city of Lviv, is lovely with warm people, despite their current predicament. However, you can feel that the country has a calm atmosphere and the people have a resilient spirit. Maybe because it is a predominantly Christian country, who knows!? Nonetheless, I felt it, and it touched me, and why I was sad when I left.
Moreover, the budget traveller would be happy there because, (Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe) is a super-cheap country. In conclusion, I will recommend anyone to visit Lviv, even now, for the adventurous and those who are not faint-hearted. In conclusion, according to their phrase, patriotic greeting, and call for national unity, “Slava Ukraini” (Glory to Ukraine).
Please Subscribe for future articles, if this post was helpful in any way. Also like my Facebook page to view my travel videos from around the world. For more interesting posts, check the other informative and enjoyable travel articles from my Travel Blogs.
I appreciate and thank you in advance.
Use the share buttons below on scroll, if you wish to share anything on this page. The + button offers more share icon options when clicked.
