For many, autumn marks the start of new projects and studies, and is generally a challenging period after a relaxed summer. Therefore, if there's no time for long trips abroad, we recommend looking closer to home at the interesting destinations within Ukraine, which can be enjoyed in just a few days. We will tell you where to go this fall to recharge and gather energy for new achievements.
Odessa
Some might find it strange to recommend visiting a southern seaside city in the fall. But that's the charm of it. When deciding where to travel in Ukraine in the autumn, consider that during this period, the crowds of beach tourists leave Odessa, giving the coastline a tranquil atmosphere. Less noise, fewer vendors and tourists, less hustle - the perfect time for a relaxed vacation by the sea.
It's worth noting that September in Odessa is usually warm enough for sunbathing and swimming. And if you decide to visit the famous resort town in October or November, you'll enjoy long and inspiring walks on deserted beaches. By the way, autumn is the best time to relish the sounds of the sea, as in summer, the cries of beach vendors and music from bars often drown out the seagulls' calls and the waves' murmur.
As for sightseeing historical attractions, the light autumn coolness is beneficial here too. Pleasant weather without scorching heat might encourage you to explore all the best places in Odessa and even walk up the Potemkin Stairs.
flickr / Alexander Gidalevich
Chernivtsi
Chernivtsi is a cozy and small city, perfect for a spontaneous autumn weekend. Due to its rich history, the city has preserved numerous significant cultural and architectural monuments. The central attraction, recognized by all, is the Residence of Bukovinian and Dalmatian Metropolitans, which now functions as a university. The complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and impresses with its grandeur and atmosphere.
In Chernivtsi, it's also worth seeing the house-ship, the Armenian Church, St. Nicholas Cathedral, the town hall, and St. Nicholas Church, built back in 1607. After a rich cultural program, you can rest in a café in the city center with a cup of aromatic coffee or stroll through the shady parks. In Chernivtsi, Shevchenko Park and October Park are worth a visit.
flickr / Artem Chernatsky
Lviv
Lviv rightly appears in all the rankings of top travel destinations in Ukraine, and our autumn travel ideas wouldn't be complete without it. This ancient city, with its medieval architecture and unique charm, starts to play with vibrant colors in the fall. Even if the weather is rainy, it won't spoil the impression but will add a touch of mystery, as Lviv is beautiful at any time of the year. A definite advantage is that the main attractions of Lviv are compactly located within walking distance.
In the capital of Western Ukraine, endless walks on central streets and delicious discoveries in local restaurants await you. The Galician cuisine will delight everyone: Lviv cheesecake, strudels, delicious meat dishes, and chocolates. You can burn off the extra calories by climbing the Town Hall or High Castle Hill Vysokiy Zamok, where you get the best views of the city.
Another must-do for an autumn trip to Lviv is a walk through Stryisky Park. This beautiful park complex dresses in vibrant fiery outfits in the fall, and the friendly squirrels will be a pleasant bonus to your walk.
Don't forget that Lviv is popular with tourists year-round, and booking a hotel room in advance is always a good idea. You can find a hotel in Lviv on the InTravel portal, where you can easily choose the best option for yourself among hundreds of offers.
flickr / Andrii Zabytivskyi
Bukovel
Autumn, mountains, and forests are almost inseparable concepts. Bukovel is perfect for an autumn vacation as it is the most developed mountain resort in Ukraine. Here, you can find entertainment to suit every taste and budget. You can take a cable car to the mountain top, walk through the forest, ride a bike, horse, quad bike, or even a boat on the local lake.
For those who prefer a relaxing vacation, Bukovel also offers a modern spa complex. In the resort's restaurants, many seasonal dishes are prepared in the fall, and you should definitely try dishes with porcini mushrooms gathered locally.
Another undeniable advantage of an autumn vacation in the Carpathians is the lower hotel prices. Before the first snow falls and the ski season starts, you can save a bit on accommodation.
flickr / Rhian Staakman
Uman
Uman is a small and seemingly unremarkable town. However, one gem makes it worth visiting - the Sofiyivka Arboretum. This man-made wonder was created by the order of magnate Stanislaw Potocki, who once owned Uman. He created an incredible park as a gift to his wife, Sofia.
The park's composition includes numerous walking alleys, two ponds, waterfalls, grottoes, cliffs, and other features. The theme of antiquity is clearly evident, as statues of Cupid, Euripides, and Orpheus, Flora's pavilion, the grottoes of Venus, Calypso, and Scylla, the Hippocrene spring, and busts of Plato, Homer, and Socrates, along with the underground Acheron river, are all present.
The park is unique because it is beautiful at any time of the year. In the fall, the trees turn golden, creating a stunning picture. A day in the park flies by quickly, given all the interesting things to see. Horse and boat rides are among the available activities.
It's important to note that in September-October, Hasidic Jews gather in Uman to celebrate their New Year. If you seek a quiet and peaceful rest, avoid planning your trip during these days, as accommodation prices soar. The date changes every year, so it's best to check in advance; for example, in 2017, Rosh Hashanah was celebrated on September 20-22.
flickr / Marianna Malinovska
