IMPORTANT UPDATE, FEBRUARY 2022: Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24th and there’s an ongoing war. Therefore, it’s NO LONGER…
Times visited: 1
Cities visited: Kyiv
Towns and villages visited: Chernobyl, Pripyat, Samburky, Pyrohiv
UNESCO sites visited: 1/8
Ukraine was one of those countries I kept putting off visiting – not because I didn’t want to go, but because I didn’t want to rush it. Ukraine is vast and packed with culture, history, and natural beauty, and I knew a quick visit wouldn’t do it justice. But when my mum suggested Kyiv for our fifth annual mother/daughter trip, I couldn’t say no – and luckily, we decided to stay for a full week rather than our usual weekend trips.
Despite being a large and bustling city, Kyiv completely charmed me. I especially loved exploring the many colourful churches and spending time at the Pirogovo Open-Air Museum, which felt like stepping back in time. But the true highlight of the trip was our day tour to Chernobyl – a place I’ve dreamed of visiting for as long as I can remember. Seeing the power plant and the haunting ghost towns was a surreal and unforgettable experience.