Free Activities in Ukraine: From Tours to Natural Landmarks

Looking for new experiences without extra expenses? Ukraine has plenty of exciting places you can visit for free! From captivating tours to unique natural landmarks, there are many options for budget-friendly travel. So, put on your comfy shoes and start exploring new corners of our country!

1. Lviv Railway History Museum

Founded in 1973, this Lviv museum tells the story of Ukraine’s oldest railway. It houses over 925 exhibits, including rail samples, railway workers' equipment, uniforms, trilingual passenger tickets from 1918-1921, and model train cars. A highlight is the 1916 album "Construction of the Volodymyr-Volynskyi – Sokal Railway" and the "Koptomir" counting machine. Entry to the museum is free, and thematic tours are available for organized groups.
• Address: 54/56 Fedkovycha St., Lviv
• Opening hours: Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Friday – until 3:45 PM)

2. Odesa House-Museum of N. K. Roerich

This museum is dedicated to Nicholas Roerich's work and reveals fascinating aspects of his paintings and philosophy. Among the exhibits are watercolors by Fonvizin and paintings by Anatoliy Metla. Additionally, the museum frequently hosts free exhibitions, lectures, and concerts, and the latest event schedule is available on its official website.
• Address: 47 Velyka Arnautska St., Odesa
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays

3. Exhibition “Hryvnia: More Than Money” (Kyiv)

This free exhibition in Kyiv is dedicated to the Ukrainian hryvnia and explores its history, symbolism, and cultural impact. Visitors can see banknote sketches, historical artifacts, and works by prominent Ukrainian artists. The exhibition also highlights how banknote designs have changed, reflecting Ukraine’s historical developments.
• Address: Ukrainian House National Center, 2 Khreshchatyk St., Kyiv
• Opening period: March 28 – May 11, 2025

4. Potocki Palace in Tulchyn

Built in​​​​​​ the 18th century, Potocki Palace is one of Ukraine’s most famous architectural landmarks. Following a recent restoration, its courtyard has been expanded and now features lanterns and benches for visitors. The Potocki family’s coat of arms—“Piliawa”—is in the courtyard's center – “Piliawa.” While the palace’s facade is still under renovation, the grounds are open for free tours.
• How to get there: Take a bus from Vinnytsia to Tulchyn
• Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

5. Skole Beskids National Nature Park

Located in western Ukraine, this national park attracts travelers with its breathtaking landscapes and unique natural landmarks. Be sure to visit the Urych Rocks and the ruins of an 11th-century fortress, which once protected the region from Tatar-Mongol invasions.
• How to get there: Take a bus from Skole to the village of Urych, then walk
• Best season: Spring and autumn

Don’t miss the Carpathian Mountains—the natural and cultural heart of the country. Check out “Mountains and People: A Cultural Route Through the Ukrainian Carpathians.”

6. Bogit Mountain Sanctuary

The Bogit Mountain Sanctuary is an ancient pagan ritual site and a significant historical landmark. The mountain was once home to one of the most famous idols, the Zbruch Idol. Today, visitors can see a dolmen and a ritual site and enjoy stunning forest views at the mountain’s base.
• How to get there: Walk 3 km from the village of Horodnytsia (Ternopil region)
• Best season: Summer and autumn

7. Bakota Canyon

Bakota Canyon is a place of stunning natural beauty and rich history. Located on the banks of the Dniester River, it is home to the submerged village of Bakota, which was abandoned after the construction of a reservoir. The most breathtaking view of the river can be found near the rock monastery. This is an ideal destination for free outdoor relaxation and hiking.
• How to get there: From Kamianets-Podilskyi to the village of Bakota, then walk
• Best season: Summer

Photo: Anatoly Ivanov