Visiting Ukraine

Most governments are currently advising against all travel to Ukraine due to the ongoing armed conflict following Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Check your government's official travel advisory and the Ukraine page at Yoogo before making any plans.

Ukraine uses the Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH). Banking services and ATMs continue to operate in government-controlled areas, but conditions vary significantly. The currency and economic situation have been affected by the conflict.

Ukraine has been under active armed conflict since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Most of the country is subject to aerial bombardment, and frontline areas face active ground combat. Travel to Ukraine in the current circumstances is extremely dangerous. Follow your government's advice.

Ukraine's airspace has been closed to civilian traffic since the start of the full-scale invasion. Rail travel, primarily operated by Ukrzaliznytsia (UZ), continues to function as a key route in and out of the country, particularly via western Ukraine. Travel conditions and safety change rapidly with the military situation.

Before 2022, Ukraine was a culturally rich and historically fascinating destination. Kyiv's golden-domed monasteries, Lviv's Austro-Hungarian old town, the Carpathian Mountains, and the Black Sea coast all attracted growing numbers of visitors. The country has a deeply proud cultural identity and a vibrant artistic scene.

Ukrainian is the sole official language and its use has been reinforced since 2022 as a matter of national identity. Russian was historically spoken widely in the east and south but its public use has declined significantly. English proficiency is increasing, particularly among younger Ukrainians.

Consult a travel health clinic if considering any travel to Ukraine. The conflict has disrupted public health infrastructure in many areas. Routine immunisations should be up to date. Medical care availability varies significantly by region and the security situation.

Historically, tipping was customary in Ukraine. At restaurants, 10% was standard for good service. Taxi drivers and hotel staff typically received small tips. These norms continue in parts of the country that are functioning, but conditions on the ground have changed fundamentally.

Mobile networks continue to operate in much of government-controlled Ukraine via Kyivstar, Vodafone Ukraine, and lifecell. Coverage and reliability vary significantly by region and proximity to the conflict. Internet access is available but infrastructure has been damaged in some areas.