First Things First: Flying to Ukraine
Finding a flight to Ukraine right now is a bit different from how it used to be. Some airports and regions are still off limits, but many major cities are up and running and excited to host travellers again.
Where to Fly Into
Here are a few solid options when looking for flights:
- Kyiv (Boryspil International – KBP): This is usually the main entry point and a great base for exploring.
- Lviv (LWO): If you're into cobblestone streets, coffee culture, and a romantic old town vibe, this is your city.
- Odesa (ODS): Dreaming of sun and sea? Odesa on the Black Sea coast is where you want to be.
- These airports are typically connected via big hubs like Istanbul, Warsaw, Vienna, and Frankfurt. So, depending on where you're coming from, you might have a quick layover in one of those cities.
Who’s Flying There?
Some of the airlines currently offering routes into Ukraine (or planning to resume service soon) include:
- Turkish Airlines
- LOT Polish Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Wizz Air (great for budget travel!)
- SkyUp Airlines (a Ukrainian low cost carrier)
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Visa stuff: If you’re from the US, UK, Canada, or most of the EU, you can visit visa free for up to 90 days. Still, double check the latest rules before you book.
Best time to visit?
- Spring (April to June): Everything’s blooming, and the vibe is just fresh and hopeful.
- Summer (July to August): Great for the beach, but popular spots like Odesa can get crowded.
- Fall (September to October): Crisp air, fewer tourists, and golden leaves in the Carpathians? Yes, please.
- Winter: Think snowy streets, cosy cafes, and Christmas markets especially magical in Lviv.
Places You’ll Fall in Love With
Here’s just a taste of what you can explore:
- Kyiv: Full of contrasts modern and ancient, chaotic and calm. Don’t miss Saint Sophia’s Cathedral or the view from the Motherland Monument.
- Lviv: One of my favourite cities in Europe. Artsy, romantic, and endlessly walkable.
- Odesa: It’s got the charm of a faded coastal resort, with opera, nightlife, and beautiful boulevards.
- Carpathian Mountains: Perfect for hiking, skiing, or just unplugging in a mountain village.
- Kamianets Podilskyi: There’s a fairy tale castle here that looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy movie.
Getting Around & Other Tips
- Transportation: Trains are your friend. They’re cheap, safe, and a great way to see the countryside. Inside cities, Uber and Bolt work well (and are super affordable).
- Currency: The Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH). Many places take cards, but small cash for markets and local cafes is handy.
- Language: Ukrainian is the official language, but you’ll hear Russian too, especially in the east. In cities, you can get by with English, gestures, and a good attitude.
Final Thoughts
Ukraine is resilient, beautiful, and full of surprises. Travelling here with Flightd isn’t just about sightseeing it’s about connecting with people, discovering stories, and supporting a country that’s rebuilding while holding onto its incredible spirit.
If you're up for a bit of adventure, history, and soul all wrapped into one unforgettable trip Ukraine might just be calling your name.
