Poltava - Discovering Ukraine

Travelling to Poltava

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Poltava, a pretty good destination in Ukraine (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Poltava and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Poltava, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ukraine, here's everything to know about Poltava for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Poltava

Poltava is a city located in central Ukraine, with a population of approximately 292,000 people. It serves as the administrative center of the Poltava Oblast (region) and is an important cultural, educational, and industrial hub in Ukraine. The city is best known for its key historical role in the Battle of Poltava in 1709, which marked a significant victory for the Russian Empire over the Swedish army and ultimately played a role in shaping the history of both countries. Poltava boasts several historical landmarks and museums, including the Ivan Kotlyarevsky Museum of Ukrainian Literature and Culture and the Poltava Battle Museum. The city also hosts a lively cultural scene with theater, music, and art festivals throughout the year.

What to visit in Poltava

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Poltava, Ukraine: 1. The Field of the Great Poltava Battle: This historical site commemorates the Battle of Poltava in 1709, a significant event in the Great Northern War. Visitors can see the preserved battlefield, monuments, and a museum dedicated to the battle's history.
2. Holy Cross Monastery: This beautiful monastery is one of the oldest in Ukraine, dating back to the 17th century. It features intricate Baroque architecture, stunning frescoes and icons, and a peaceful atmosphere.
3. Round Square: This central square in Poltava is the heart of the city, featuring a picturesque fountain, colorful buildings, and numerous cafes and shops. It's a great spot for people-watching and soaking up the city's ambiance.
4. Ivan Kotliarevskyi Literature and Memorial Museum: This museum honors the life and work of Ivan Kotliarevskyi, a famous Ukrainian writer and poet. Visitors can see exhibits showcasing his literary works, personal belongings and artifacts, and learn about his contributions to Ukrainian culture.
5. Gogol Theater: This grand theater dates back to the early 19th century and features stunning neoclassical architecture. It's a popular venue for opera, ballet, and theater performances, and a must-visit for culture lovers.
6. Pokrovsky Cathedral: This beautiful Ukrainian Orthodox cathedral was built in the early 18th century and features stunning gold-domed architecture, intricate frescoes and icons, and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot for reflection and learning about the history of the region.
7. Poltava Art Museum: This museum features a collection of works from local and national artists, highlighting the city's cultural and artistic heritage. Visitors can see stunning paintings, sculptures, and other exhibits.
Overall, Poltava is a charming and historically rich city that offers a variety of cultural, artistic, and architectural attractions for visitors to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ukraine, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Poltava.

When to go on holiday to Poltava

The best time to visit Poltava is during the summer months, which typically fall between June and August. During these months, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, making it a great time to explore the city's many outdoor attractions. However, it's important to note that the summers in Poltava can be quite hot, with temperatures occasionally reaching as high as 30°C (86°F).
If you prefer cooler weather, the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) can also be good times to visit Poltava. During these seasons, you can enjoy milder temperatures and fewer crowds. However, keep in mind that the weather during these seasons can also be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to bring layers and be prepared for changing conditions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Poltava

The most common way to get to Poltava is by train or by bus. There are several daily train connections from Kyiv to Poltava, departing from Kyiv's main train station (Kyiv-Pasazhyrskyi). The journey takes about 3-4 hours, depending on the type of train you choose. There are also several daily bus services from Kyiv to Poltava, with a travel time of about 4-5 hours.
If you are travelling from other parts of Ukraine, you can also find direct train or bus connections to Poltava from most major cities. Additionally, there is a small airport in Poltava, with limited domestic flight connections.
Once you arrive in Poltava, you can easily explore the city on foot or by using public transport, such as buses and trams. Taxis are also widely available.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Poltava, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Poltava

Here are some typical foods from Poltava, Ukraine: 1. Varenyky - These are boiled dumplings typically stuffed with mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, or sauerkraut. They are often topped with sour cream or butter and served as a main dish or as a side.
2. Deruny - These are potato pancakes that are made from grated potatoes mixed with flour, eggs, and seasonings. They are fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside.
3. Salo - Cured pork fat that is sliced thinly and served as a snack or appetizer with bread, mustard, and pickles.
4. Borscht - This is a soup made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and meat (usually pork or beef). It is typically served with sour cream and fresh dill.
5. Holubtsi - Stuffed cabbage rolls that are filled with ground meat, rice, and spices. They are either baked or boiled and served as a main dish.
6. Napoleon Cake - This is a dessert made from layers of crispy puff pastry and sweet cream filling. It is often topped with chocolate shavings or fresh berries.
7. Kovbasa - A smoked sausage that is typically made with pork or beef, and flavored with garlic, salt, and black pepper.
8. Kasha - A porridge made from buckwheat, often served as a breakfast dish with butter or sour cream.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ukraine here.

Is Poltava an expensive destination for tourists?

Poltava is generally an affordable destination for tourists compared to other cities in Ukraine. The cost of accommodation, meals, and transportation are typically lower than in popular tourist destinations like Kiev or Lviv. However, prices can vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation or activities you choose. Overall, Poltava can be considered a budget-friendly destination for travelers.

Where to find accomodation in Poltava

The best areas to find accommodation in Poltava are the city center, the Historical and Cultural Reserve "The Field of the Great Poltava Battle", and the Ivan Kotlyarevsky Museum-Reserve. These areas are convenient for exploring the city's main attractions, as well as for accessing public transport and various restaurants and shops. Also, staying near Gogolya Street or Zhovtneva Square can be a good option, as they are both busy areas with plenty of accommodation options.
You can check hotel prices at Poltava here:
Booking.com

Is Poltava a safe destination for tourists?

Poltava is generally a safe place for tourists. However, it is always important to take necessary precautions while travelling. Some common safety tips include: 1. Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings at all times 2. Be cautious of pickpockets and keep your belongings secure 3. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unsafe areas 4. Follow local laws and customs 5. Keep a copy of your important documents in a safe place, such as a hotel safe 6. If you are unsure about the safety of a particular area, it is always best to err on the side of caution and avoid it.
Overall, though, Poltava is generally considered a safe destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ukraine here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Poltava.

What type of travelers will enjoy Poltava the most?

Poltava, Ukraine is a great destination for travelers who are interested in history, culture, and historical architecture. It is also suitable for those who are seeking a peaceful and relaxing trip. Here are some of the types of travelers who may enjoy visiting Poltava: 1. History and culture enthusiasts – If you are interested in Ukrainian history, Poltava is a must-visit destination as it is home to many historical landmarks and monuments, including the famous Battle of Poltava Museum-Preserve.
2. Couples – Poltava is a great place for romantic getaways, featuring many picturesque parks and gardens, cozy cafes, and restaurants.
3. Families – While Poltava may not have theme parks or amusement centers, it has plenty of educational and fun activities that families can enjoy. For example, visiting the Poltava Regional Museum or exploring the Koshova museum can be engaging for all members of the family.
4. Solo Travelers - If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful trip, Poltava can be a perfect destination for you. This city offers plenty of options to relax and recharge.

How to get around Poltava

There are several transportation options available in Poltava, Ukraine. The most common ones are: 1. Public transportation: buses, trolleybuses, and trams run throughout the city. Tickets can be purchased from the driver or at kiosks near the stops.
2. Taxis: there are numerous taxi services available in the city. You can either hail them on the street or use taxi apps like Uber or Bolt.
3. Walking: the city center is relatively compact and easy to navigate on foot.
4. Cycling: there are several bike rental services available in the city. Poltava also has bike lanes and trails for cyclists.
5. Private car: you can rent a car from a rental service or use your own if you have it. Keep in mind that parking in the city center can be challenging.

What to see around Poltava

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Poltava: 1. Kremenchuk Reservoir - a beautiful lake with panoramic views, perfect for a picnic and water activities.
2. Chyhyryn - a historic city with beautiful architecture, ancient fortifications, and museums showcasing rich Ukrainian history.
3. Park-Museum of Ukrainian Decorative Folk Art in Opishne - an open-air museum with beautiful pottery and traditional Ukrainian folk art.
4. Hadiach - a cozy town with historic architecture, beautiful parks, and interesting museums dedicated to Ukrainian national hero Bohdan Khmelnytskyi.
5. Polis'ka Svitlytsia - a historic wooden church and architectural monument with great cultural significance.
6. Dykan'ka - a small town with beautiful architecture, including an iconic neoclassical estate and the Museum of Petro P. Bilii, one of Ukraine's most famous writers.
These are just a few ideas, I hope it helps!
For every travel information about Ukraine you can click here.

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