10 Best Tourist Routes for a Road Trip in Ukraine

Traveling by your own car has many advantages, especially for those planning a trip in our not-small country. So for those who want to spend time usefully but cannot build a route that will be as interesting and varied as possible, we offer a selection of 10 best tourist routes for a car trip across Ukraine.

Stone Beauty
Main route cities: Lviv — Urych (118 km — about 2 hours), Urych — Rozgirche (65 km — about 1 hour), Rozgirche — Bubnyshche (43 km — about 1 hour).

If you enjoy admiring the beauty and grandeur of mountains and rocks, then the tourist route “Stone Beauty” is ideal for you. An incredible journey will begin at the Devil’s Rocks, near Lviv, where there is a rock complex of the 19th-20th century. Its stone was used to build Lviv roads and houses. According to legend, the formed rocks are the stone that the devil carried to destroy St. George’s Cathedral. But only the morning crowing of roosters stopped it on the way, which made the evil spirit suddenly drop this stone right near Lviv. 
In two hours’ drive from Lviv there is the village of Urych, where the ancient Tustan fortress was built. Historians believe that this was once a checkpoint between principalities during the times of Kyivan Rus. The fortress remains have no analogues in Europe, which is why Tustan was included in the State Historical and Cultural Reserve. 
In the village of Rozgirche, you will get acquainted with ancient caves that were built before our era. Inside the caves is a monastic complex dated to the 13th-16th centuries. One version is that this territory was used by pagans, and the monastery itself was founded by Kyiv monks. 
Near the village of Bubnyshche are the famous Dovbush Rocks — a place of energy, where everyone who wishes can not only look at the towering stone boulders, but also change their destiny. According to legends, Dovbush’s treasures are hidden here, and touching the Stone of Eternity gives a person Dovbush’s courage. Whoever can pass through the 22 cm-wide Devil’s Crevice has a chance to cleanse themselves of sins. The place is truly unusual and is ideal for morning meditations or rock climbing. 

Mysterious Vinnytsia Region
Main route cities: Vinnytsia-Tulchyn (84 km — 1 hour 15 min), Tulchyn — Busha (100 km — about 2 hours), Busha — Nahoriany (70 km — 90 min).

We suggest to make a tourist route past the most mysterious cities of Ukraine. Cozy and beautiful Vinnytsia stands out not only for its landmarks and the country’s largest light-and-music fountain, but also for the huge number of legends and mysteries connected with Pirogov’s place of work and residence. The famous surgeon lived at the Vyshnia estate. Many stories testify to his talent. Perhaps because of the special energy, Pirogov’s body still looks well preserved despite the time since his death. You can see Pirogov himself in the St. Nicholas church-necropolis, located near his estate. 
One of Tulchyn’s well-known landmarks tells the story of how and where Count Potocki invested his money. His estate still impresses with its grandeur, emphasized by a façade decorated with a colonnade of towering columns. However, not only the history of the 18th-century estate is interesting, but also the system of underground passages laid beneath the palace. It is said that monks-alchemists were located here, producing gold for Potocki. Whether this was truly the count’s secret to wealth or not — it is worth finding out for yourself.
One of the picturesque villages of the Vinnytsia Region will turn your view of the world upside down and give you much new knowledge, ideas, and strength — Busha. This is a place where the cultures of different eras and centuries intertwine, where remains of ancient Rus, Scythian Trypillian, and Chernyakhiv cultures were found. Yet it impresses with the largest cave temple in Europe, rock frescoes, and inscriptions that foretell the culture of times past.
In the village of Nahoriany you will see limestone caves. Their age is not known for certain, but historians claim that they will be the “grandfather” of Stonehenge and the only Celtic megalithic structure in all of Eastern Europe.

Ancient Castles of Zakarpattia
Main route cities: Uzhhorod — Nevytske (11 km — 13 min), Nevytske — Mukachevo (48 km — 40 min), Mukachevo — Chynadiieve (10 km — 13 min), Chynadiieve — Karpaty (8 km — 10 min).

Ancient castles Zakarpattia is one of the popular car routes that attracts visitors with the chance to learn the secrets of the most famous castles of Western Ukraine. In Uzhhorod, an encounter with an 11th-century fortress awaits you. It has a tragic history that has become a magnet for most tourists.
Immediately beyond the village of Nevytske rise the ruins of Anna Ruhet’s castle, from which only parts of the fortifications and towers have remained. It is said that the owner had the nickname the Stern Virgin, which is associated with her cruel treatment of young girls.
Palanok Castle is not only the oldest building, but also the main tourist spot in Mukachevo. The magnificent structure rises on a mountain of volcanic origin; it is surrounded by a deep moat and has 15 bastions and towers. Sharp logs — palanky — were driven into the ground in the castle, and they gave the 14th-17th-century monument its unusual name. There are many legends about Palanok Castle, which tell of its tragic history.
The next stop on the route is the favorite settlement of newlyweds — the village of Chynadiieve. Here, in one of Ukraine's romantic fortresses called St. Miklosh, wedding ceremonies are held regularly. The two-story building is made of white stone, and its red roof stands out against the greenery, attracting travelers' attention. And although the fortress changed many owners over the years, it managed to preserve its appearance well.
The final part of the trip is a drive along the Latorytsia River right into the heart of the Carpathians. After crossing the Matekova River, you will find yourself among the dense green of spruce trees, where you can enjoy the beauty of the local landscapes and feel the energy of the Carpathian Mountains. 

Amazing places of Western Ukraine
Main cities on the route: Kamianets-Podilskyi — Khotyn (27 km — 30 min), Khotyn — Kryvche (47 km — 50 min).

This tourist route will be interesting not only for adults, but also for children. A short car trip will offer the chance to get acquainted with many interesting locations.
In Kamianets-Podilskyi, you will find a huge number of 14th-16th century landmarks, among which the city symbol deserves special attention — Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress, where the film Taras Bulba was shot. No less interesting will be an introduction to the beautiful historical monuments that have been well preserved to our time: the triumphal arch, old mansions, cathedrals, the Turkish bastion and churches.
The next stop on the route is the city of Khotyn, which is home to one of the seven wonders of the world — Khotyn Fortress, dated to the 6th century. It is a unique place where one cannot help feeling the spirit of the Ukrainian lands and the grandeur of ancient Kyivan Rus.
The small village of Kryvche became famous thanks to one of the longest and deepest caves in Ukraine — Crystal Cave. Its length reaches 23 km, and its depth is 40 m. The cave walls are covered with natural crystal, which is what gave the cave its name.

The European charm of Prykarpattia
Main cities on the route: Chernivtsi-Zalishchyky (48 km — 50 min), Zalishchyky-Nyrkiv (28 km — 35 min).

For those who want a trip around Ukraine that is not too long, yet as interesting as possible, the route from Chernivtsi to Nyrkiv is ideal. Such a journey will let you feel the distinctive European charm of Prykarpattia, get to know one of Ukraine's most popular tourist cities better, and see the luxurious former residence of the metropolitans. 
In Chernivtsi, you will discover old landmarks, have the chance to visit churches and cathedrals, see the first stone house, and simply stroll along cozy cobbled streets.
The next stop on the route is Zalishchyky — a peninsula city encircled by the Dniester River channel. It was once a famous Polish resort, where trade and crafts flourished. Today, Zalishchyky is a developed district center in Ternopil Oblast, with many interesting 19th-century architectural monuments: the Church of the Protection of the Most Holy Mother of God, the Barons Brunitskyi Palace, the synagogue, the People's House, and others. 
The acquaintance with the settlement of Nyrkiv will be no less interesting. In Ternopil Oblast, it is known for the healing waters of the largest lowland waterfall in Ukraine. In the 19th century, there was a mill here, and later a hydroelectric plant, which has not survived to this day. However, its absence allows tourists to safely take baths or imagine a hydromassage while standing under the rushing flow of the waterfall. Near this location are the Hermit's Cave and the Maiden's Tears waterfall. And for those who want to admire the beauty of the Middle Ages, it is worth driving to the Chervonohorod Castle, built in the Gothic style, to see the remains of the Dominican church and enjoy the captivating views.

Architectural gems of Chernihiv Oblast

Main cities on the route: Baturyn — Trostianets (229 km — 3 h 30 min), Trostianets — Sokyryntsi (207 km – about 3 h), Sokyryntsi — Kachanivka (40 km — 45 min).

The town of Baturyn in Chernihiv Oblast is famous for its beautiful landscapes, but many people remember it thanks to the Hetman Capital National Reserve. Here you can get acquainted with the palace of Hetman Kyrylo Rozumovskyi, visit the archaeology museum, or learn about the secrets of Kochubeivskyi Park.
The castle-like Round Yard is the calling card of the town of Trostianets. It impresses not only with its age, but also with its unique architecture. There are no similar buildings in Ukraine among 18th-century structures. Nearby is Vasyl Holitsyn's Prince's Palace, where centuries ago music could be heard and the owners entertained guests in the dance hall. A true work of architecture is the Annunciation Church, for whose construction shaped bricks and various decorative elements were used.
The luxurious two-story palace in the Empire style is the main landmark of the small and cozy town of Sokyryntsi. The building impresses with its grandeur and beauty. The main facade is decorated with archways and a colonnade of the Ionic order, while the rear facade has a ramp leading from the second floor to a huge landscape park in the English style. Among the preserved structures in the park are a cozy gazebo and an unusual Gothic bridge.
In the town of Kachanivka is the eponymous historical and cultural reserve, which became a place where famous Ukrainian figures stayed. Nearby is a cascade of 12 lakes and a large park where tourists are allowed not only to walk, but also to have picnics.

Along the paths of history
Main cities on the route: Korosten-Novograd-Volynskyi (101 km — 1 h 45 min), Novograd-Volynskyi — Korets (37 km — 37 min).

Have you ever been to the homeland of the potato pancake? If not, then the ready-made tourist route “Along the Paths of History” will let you see not only the city where porcelain used to be made, but also the largest potato pancake monument in Ukraine. 
The must-see places in Korosten are Ostrozkyi Park, which lies on the slope of a granite cliff; the secretive oldest structure, “Skelia”; the trident monument, and many other interesting historical monuments. 
It is best to view Novograd-Volynskyi from the platform of the Zviahil Fortress of the 16th century. We recommend checking the time with the sundial in the square in front of the city council, and having a picnic on the bank of the Sluch River.
The unique city of Korets will introduce you to the ruins of Korets Castle, built back in 1386. Here you can walk through the corners of the underground and imagine what the magnificent structure looked like several centuries ago. Worth attention is the Holy Trinity women’s monastery, which, despite the Soviet authorities’ ban, still operated during the harsh Soviet years. A vivid example of decommunization is the Taras Shevchenko monument. In fact, this is a former Lenin monument in which the head was replaced with the head of the Kobzar.

Pearls of Central Ukraine
The main cities on the route are: Kyiv — Buku (110 km — about 2 hours), Buku — Uman (150 km — about 2 hours).

The capital of Ukraine — is one of the few cities that impresses both with its size and its pace of life. But Kyiv is interesting not only for its lively atmosphere, but also for its sights of history and architecture. Here it is worth seeing the spiritual center of Ukraine — Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, strolling along Andriivskyi Descent, and taking in the city from the height of the tallest monument in Ukraine — Motherland Monument. Learn many interesting things on tours of numerous museums, or arrange an active getaway for yourself with all-terrain vehicles, aquasurfing, and many other types of entertainment.
We suggest continuing the journey by car to the luxurious city of Buku. Here is a beautiful landscape park, created in 1996 by entrepreneur I. Suslov. The park is an example of how, on the site of a large landfill, one can create one of the most beautiful parks in Ukraine. Here you will find a variety of rare plant species, a mini-zoo, fountains, places to rest, and a chapel. 
Want to see what people will do for their loved ones? Continue your journey to Uman. This city is known not only for the annual gatherings of Hasidim, but also for the incredibly beautiful dendrological park, Sofiivka, whose area is almost 180 ha. It was designed at Count Potocki’s request, when in 1796 he decided to make a gift for his beloved wife Sofiia. Diverse landscapes, numerous cozy places, beautiful views, sweet scents of blooming flowers — this place leaves its visitors indifferent no one. 

Lviv and its surroundings
The main cities on the route are: Lviv — Zhovkva (30 km — 40 min), Zhovkva — Krekhiv (12 km — 14 min), Krekhiv - Stare Selo (64 km — about 1 hour).

Zhovkva is a small town near Lviv that yields to it only in size and number of tourists. In fact, Zhovkva also has many historical sights, castles, and monasteries. It has an equally romantic atmosphere that is ideal for leisurely romantic walks.
Just 3 km from the village of Krekhov there is an ancient monastery of defensive type. It is a unique structure that, despite hundreds of years, has preserved its original beauty and uniqueness. 
Stare Selo is a place that knows how to surprise. It was here that one of the largest castles in the Lviv region — Stare Selo Castle — was built. And although the building looks half-ruined, it still impresses with its beauty and the harmony of the architectural features of Eastern European Renaissance. If you are taking impressive photos, then be sure to do it near Stare Selo Castle!

Carpathian beauty

The main cities on the route are: Skole — Bubnyshche (29 km — about 80 min), Bubnyshche — Starunia (117 km — 2 hours), Starunia — Synevyr (194 km — 3 hours 30 min).

Near the picturesque town of Skole, which is located in Lviv Oblast, there is one of the most beautiful national nature parks, “Skole Beskids”. The area impresses with its beauty. Here you can look from Mount Parashka (1268 m) at the nearest villages and even at Lviv. Get acquainted with endangered plant species already listed in the Red Book and swim in the “bowl of youth”, located at the foot of Hurkalo Waterfall. 
The next stop on our ready-made tourist route is the Dovbush Rocks. There are many stories and legends surrounding this place. One of them says it is a place endowed with extraordinary power. Anyone who visits here can cleanse themselves of sins and gain the spirit of Dovbush himself. 
In the small settlement of Starunia there is Ukraine’s unique active volcano — the Starunia mud volcano. It reacts to any seismic activity, which activates it and causes violent eruptions of gas, mud, and oil. Starunia’s “eternal fire” is the work of local residents, who light the crater of the volcano to avoid excessive gassing of the region.
The pride of Western Ukraine is Lake Synevyr. Its size and crystal-clear water, which like a mirror reflects the surrounding nature, are impressive. The name of the lake is connected with the love story of Count Syn’s daughter and the poor shepherd Vir. You can learn more from the locals, who can offer accommodation so you can stay longer in this beautiful place.