Ukraine / Україна – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Ukraine?
Ukraine is a large country, the second largest country in Europe, lying in the east of the continent, bordering Russia. Often described as the bread basket of Europe, the landscape consists mainly of fertile plains criss-crossed by rivers. Its only mountains sit in the far west and the extreme south. The highest point is Mount Hoverla, in the south west of the country, at 6,762 ft (2,061m) above sea level.
Aside from Russia, it shares borders with Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova. It has a population of around 33 million people (2023), about one in ten of whom live in the metropolitan area of the capital, Kyiv.
A bit about the history of Ukraine
Ancient History and Early Kingdoms
The history of Ukraine dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation going back thousands of years. The area was home to early cultures, including the Scythians, who were known for their skills in horsemanship and warfare. In the 9th century, the region became part of the medieval state of Kievan Rus, a powerful federation of Slavic tribes that is considered a precursor to modern Ukraine, Russia and Belarus. Kievan Rus flourished for several centuries before declining in the 12th century due to invasions from the Mongols.
The Cossack Hetmanate and Polish Influence
During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Ukrainian region was caught between competing powers, including Poland, Russia and the Ottoman Empire. The Cossacks, a group of semi-military communities, played a significant role in Ukraine’s history, establishing the Cossack Hetmanate in 1649 under the leadership of Bohdan Khmelnytsky. The Hetmanate was a semi-autonomous state that was initially aligned with Poland but later became a protectorate of the Russian Empire.
Under Russian and Austro-Hungarian Rule
In the 18th century, much of Ukraine was incorporated into the Russian Empire, while the western part of the country was controlled by the Austro–Hungarian Empire. The Russian Empire imposed policies that aimed to suppress Ukrainian culture and language. However, Ukrainian national identity continued to develop, and movements for independence and autonomy grew stronger in the 19th century.
Early 20th Century and Soviet Influence
After a brief period of independence following World War I, Ukraine became part of the Soviet Union in 1922. During the Soviet era, Ukraine suffered greatly, including the Holodomor (1932–1933), a man made famine that resulted in the deaths of millions of Ukrainians. Ukraine also played a significant role in the Soviet Union’s industrialisation and the Eastern Front during World War II.
Post-Soviet Ukraine and Independence
In 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine declared its independence. The country faced significant challenges in the years that followed, including political instability, economic difficulties and issues related to its relationship with Russia. Ukraine navigated between pro-European and pro-Russian factions, and tensions over issues such as gas supplies and Crimea became prominent.
Orange Revolution and Euromaidan
In 2004, Ukraine experienced the Orange Revolution, a series of protests against a disputed presidential election. The revolution resulted in a re-run of the election, and Viktor Yushchenko, a pro-European candidate, was elected president. In 2013, the Euromaidan protests erupted in response to President Viktor Yanukovych’s decision to abandon an association agreement with the European Union in favor of closer ties with Russia. The protests led to Yanukovych’s ousting in 2014, deepening the political divide between Ukraine’s pro-European west and pro-Russian east.
Annexation of Crimea and Ongoing Conflict
In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea, a move that was widely condemned by the international community. Shortly afterward, pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine declared independence, leading to a conflict between the Ukrainian government and separatist forces, which was further fueled by Russia’s support for the separatists. The war in Donbas, in eastern Ukraine, has continued with intermittent ceasefires and political negotiations.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Ukraine has pursued closer ties with the West, including aspirations to join the European Union and NATO. It has faced ongoing challenges related to corruption, economic development and territorial integrity. The conflict in the Donbas region remains unresolved, and relations with Russia continue to be strained.
Ukraine road trip
On our mammoth 25,000 mile (40,000 km) European road trip, we inadvertently entered Ukraine from Transnistria in Moldova.
It appears that Transnistria likes to have a border with Moldova, but not with Ukraine! We found this strange, because as far as we understood, Transnistria wants to be reunited with Russia? Whereas Moldova definitely wants to be part of the EU – and has firm plans for entry in 2030 – there are posters announcing this fact. In fact even the Moldova border sign states it! Nevertheless, as soon as we realised where we were, due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, we headed straight back to Transnistria!
What’s it like to drive in Ukraine?
As with almost everywhere on the continent of Europe, they drive on the right hand side of the road in Ukraine.
Do you require an international driving permit in Ukraine?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Ukraine?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Ukraine?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What are the speed limits in Ukraine?
The speed limits for cars in Ukraine are:
- 30 mph (50 km/h) for urban driving
- 35 mph (60 km/h) outside of built up areas
- 70 mph (110 km/h) on dual carriageways
- 80 mph (130 km/h) on motorways
What currency do they use in Ukraine?
In Ukraine they use the Ukrainian hryvnia. The use of credit / debit cards is now widespread, although not guaranteed – have some cash just in case. There are lots of ATMs. Euros and dollars are also widely accepted, although exchange rates are often poor in restaurants etc.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Ukraine?
They speak Ukrainian and Russian in Ukraine, depending on which area you are in. English is spoken in many cities, in particular by the younger generations.
What time zone is Ukraine in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Ukraine?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Ukraine?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Ukraine, although you should avoid national parks and natural reserves.
What plug / socket type do they use in Ukraine?
In Ukraine they use plug / socket types C and F.
Health issues in Ukraine
Is it safe to drink water in Ukraine?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Ukraine. Bottled water is readily available across the country.
What vaccinations are required for Ukraine?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Ukraine.
Phones in Ukraine
What is the country calling code for Ukraine?
The country calling code for Ukraine is +380
What are the emergency phone numbers in Ukraine?
- The emergency number for police in Ukraine is: 102
- In Ukraine, the emergency number for ambulance is: 103
- The emergency number for fire in Ukraine is: 101
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!