Planning a trip to the Ukraine doesn't have to be difficult. Known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities, this country is a stunning destination. Our travel cost guide will help you plan a perfect trip on your ideal budget. We've collected tons of travel cost data from previous travelers, and we're revealing average hotel prices and dining costs along with sightseeing and transportation tips. Now you'll be able to craft a memorable adventure without blowing your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to the Ukraine?
You should plan to spend around $27 (₴1,116) per day on your vacation in the Ukraine. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $9.01 (₴374) on meals
- $0.87 (₴36) on local transportation
- $30 (₴1,235) on hotels
A one week trip to the Ukraine for two people costs, on average, $376 (₴15,624). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$188
₴7,812
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$376
₴15,624
-
One Month
Per person
$806
₴33,480
-
One Week
For a couple
$376
₴15,624
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$752
₴31,248
-
One Month
For a couple
$1,612
₴66,960
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to the Ukraine cost?
A one week trip to the Ukraine usually costs around $188 (₴7,812) for one person and $376 (₴15,624) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to the Ukraine on average costs around $376 (₴15,624) for one person and $752 (₴31,248) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in the Ukraine will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to the Ukraine on average costs around $806 (₴33,480) for one person and $1,612 (₴66,960) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is the Ukraine expensive to visit?
The Ukraine is a very affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 10% of countries in the world for its affordability. Many budget travelers enjoy spending long periods of time exploring this country in depth.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, the Ukraine is very affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 10% of countries in Europe for its affordability. Very few countries in the region are as affordable as the Ukraine.
In the Ukraine, you'll find accommodation and activities that cater to both budget travelers and those seeking a more lavish experience. Budget accommodation options are available, such as hostels in Kiev, but there are also luxury hotels that cater to the more affluent customer, along with mid-range hotels for families or couples.
the Ukraine doesn't have to break the bank if you follow simple tips like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.
On average, budget travelers spend $11 (₴443) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $27 (₴1,116) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $68 (₴2,801) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to the Ukraine.
For more details, see Is the Ukraine Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to the Ukraine?
The average Ukraine trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Ukraine travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to the Ukraine cost?
the Ukraine on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$6.12
(₴254)
|
$15
(₴618)
|
$34
(₴1,417)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$0.32
(₴13)
|
$0.87
(₴36)
|
$2.57
(₴107)
|
|
Food 2
|
$3.55
(₴148)
|
$9.01
(₴374)
|
$23
(₴949)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$0.73
(₴30)
|
$1.73
(₴72)
|
$3.71
(₴154)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$1-3
(₴46-137)
|
$3-9
(₴120-361)
|
$8-24
(₴332-997)
|
L'viv, Ukraine
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations about your travel budget. While many people consider themselves "budget" travelers, the truth is that most people don't find this shoestring travel style to be enjoyable. Consider what you genuinely appreciate on a trip and think about your previous travel experiences. Do you lean more towards staying in nice resorts, or mid-range hotels, or maybe even hostels? Is dining out in nice restaurants something you prioritize? Your answers will have a big impact on your overall travel budget.
The Truth on Budget Travel
People often say you can visit the Ukraine for just $11 daily, but unless you're okay with sacrificing many comforts, be ready to shell out a lot more.
Backpackers can typically make that budget work, but it usually requires sleeping in dorm-style hostels, eating at the most affordable restaurants or fast food spots, taking public transit or walking, and sticking to free sights.
Thankfully, the Ukraine offers a wide variety of hostels, with the largest selection found in Kiev.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're on vacation as a couple or with family, you'll likely choose a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the must-see attractions, which often come with entry fees. Most travelers will want to visit the major sights, and landmarks. As most things cost money, it's best to expect a daily budget of about $27 per person.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
To experience a truly luxurious getaway, where everything from the service to the accommodation is elevated, plan for a daily price near $68. This means booking luxury hotels, dining in five-star restaurants, enjoying exclusive excursions, and hiring private drivers. You'll be vacationing among the wealthy in destinations like Kiev.
Accommodation Budget in the Ukraine
the Ukraine offers hotels with a wide range of prices. You might be surprised at the difference between budget and high-end options, especially during peak season when prices increase significantly. To save, visit in the off-season, and book early for better deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in the Ukraine for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $30 (₴1,235). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $15 (₴618) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in the Ukraine? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in the Ukraine
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $0.87 (₴36) per person, per day, on local transportation in the Ukraine. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in the Ukraine is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$0.87
₴36
With an outstanding train system, the Ukraine connects you to almost anywhere in the country. The prices are quite reasonable, and the rides are both fast and comfortable. When rail lines don't reach your destination, long-distance and regional buses can step in.
If you're considering a visit to the countryside, you'll want to rent a car. Note that in Europe, most cars feature a manual transmission, and if you prefer an automatic, you might have to pay a premium. It's important to book ahead of time, as the lower-priced rentals tend to go quickly.
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When you have a car in one of the bigger cities, make sure to check with your hotel about their parking situation in advance. You might have to pay for parking at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. Sometimes, it's more economical to park your car a bit outside of town.
Food Budget in the Ukraine
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in the Ukraine can vary significantly, the average cost of food in the Ukraine is $9.01 (₴374) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$9.01
₴374
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in the Ukraine is about $9 (₴374) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $4 to $23 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in the Ukraine are as follows:
- Breakfast: $2 to $3
- Lunch: $1 to $5
- Dinner: $3 to $7
- Coffee: $1
- Fast Food or Street Food: $1
Borsch: Borsch is a vegetable soup made from beets, cabbage, carrots, potatoes and other hearty vegetables. It is usually served with sour cream. It is often a deep red color from the beets, but in some places you'll find it made with tomatoes.
Pierogi: This is a traditional boiled dumpling served with potatoes and cheese. It's sometimes filled with meat or cheese, and on occasion its made with fruit and is a sweeter variety.
Kotlety: A fried minced meat dish that is coated in breadcrumbs, Kotlety often served with sides of potatoes and salads.
When dining with children, make sure to find restaurants that offer a childrens' menu. This can save you a considerable amount, as those meals are usually much cheaper. Also, remember that some restaurants might not list the kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask your waiter.
Many hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some may charge extra for it. The price and quality of breakfast can differ greatly between hotels. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you want to spend more on that hotel buffet or if a nearby bakery or café would be a more budget-friendly option.
Instead of purchasing drinks everywhere, bring a water bottle along. It's also an eco-conscious choice.
Before you head out on a tour, it's important to check which meals are included. If you have to pay for some meals yourself, it could affect your overall budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in the Ukraine, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Kyiv Restaurant Food Tour: Ukrainian Cuisine Tasting for $110 details
- Odessa Food Tour for $58 details
- Ukrainian Cuisine Food Tour for $59 details
- Communist-Style Food Tour in Lviv for $37 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in the Ukraine
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in the Ukraine typically cost an average of $1.73 (₴72) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$1.73
₴72
A nice way to explore destinations in the Ukraine is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Kiev Private 6-Hour Tour - Best Sights for $79 details
- Essential Kyiv Fat Tire Electric Scooter Tour for $49 details
- Kiev One Day 6-Hour Tour for $86 details
- Private tour to Chernobyl Exclusion Zone for $269 details
Nightlife Budget in the Ukraine
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $5.79 (₴240) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in the Ukraine per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$5.79
₴240
While enjoying the local nightlife is part of the adventure, limiting drinks can help stretch your travel funds.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in the Ukraine. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Private Pub Crawl - Beer Tasting for $69 details
- Oyster Farm Private Tour with Oysters and Wine Tasting for $95 details
- Kiev Bar Crawl - Private Nightlife Tour for $48 details
- Lviv Craft Pub Crawl for $64 details
Traveling in the Ukraine
Kiev, Ukraine
Ukraine is a large, Eastern European country that's bordered by Russia and the Black Sea. It is actually the second largest country in Europe. The majority of the country was once part of the Russian Empire, and was later part of the Soviet Union.
Today, the Ukraine makes for an interesting and unique destination in Europe. It has fortresses and mountains, as well as rural areas and cities all worth a visit. The country is relatively easy to navigate, but still offers a glimpse into old world Europe. There are times that you feel like you've stepped back in time and have stumbled upon an undiscovered part of the region. The country is divided into several different regions, each with their own vibe and atmosphere. Central Ukraine is where you will find the political, financial, and cultural heart of the country. It's also the location of the capital city of Kiev. Crimea is a peninsula that is home to one of Russia's favorite beach resorts. The Western Ukraine is most influenced by Central European cultures and as such you'll find a varying form of architecture, cuisine, and language. Eastern Ukraine has the strongest Russian influence which is apparent in the language and population which lives here. Southern Ukraine has the popular Black Sea coastline and also has the popular city of Odessa.
Train and bus are probably the two most popular options for travelers in the area. Do keep your passport handy as you are likely to be questioned several times by police while you're on public transportation.
It's a relatively cheap country, but there are some tricks that can help you keep costs even lower. In particular, travel outside of the capital city of Kiev as you will find prices dramatically less in the countryside, especially as you get closer to Russia. Also make sure you head to local restaurants that serve Ukrainian food. These will almost always be cheaper than international restaurants or chains. The dishes, like most Eastern European food, are quite hearty and filling. A small portion can usually go a long way. The meals can be very fatty and if you're a vegetarian you may struggle to find options that don't include meat. In some cases it may be worth it to go grocery shopping and prepare your own meals. This would also serve to cut down on costs and give you a little variety in your meal options. Grocery stores are abundant and easy to find.
At A Glance
- If you're heading to the country from Western Europe it is best to get a ticket to the border and then buy an onward ticket after crossing the border. Even if you buy a through ticket you will have to wait several hours at the border while the trains change as there is a different rail gauge.
- The most affordable way to travel into the Ukraine is often by bus. There are several low cost providers that make the trip, but you should be prepared for minimal comfort and quality.
- Make sure you always travel between cities with your passport and any appropriate documents. Foreigners are regularly asked for these and if you do not have them you will have to pay a fine.
- If you're buying train tickets it is usually a good idea to buy them in advance. Trains are a popular mode of transportation in the Ukraine and they often sell out. If you're hoping to avoid the long lines at the ticket counter, it is possible to buy an e-ticket online.
- English is not widely spoken here. It is best to learn a little Ukrainian or Russian before your trip as most ticket tellers, vendors and shop keepers do not speak English. If you're in a crunch, find a local youth as English is taught in many schools and they are the most likely to be able to help you out.
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Top Tourist Attractions
St Michael's Monastery: A stunningly beautiful monastery with golden domes. It sits at the top of Andrew's Slope in Kiev and is one of the more popular travel destinations in the area.
Carpathian Mountains: A beautiful natural setting with meadows, fields, and forests that is very popular with tourists. The Carpathian Mountains have wildlife which includes the brown bear, wolves, and lynxes.
St. Andrew's Church: A very ornate and intricate church built in 1755, this church is in Kiev and is quite impressive in its detailed and ornate style.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.