Things To Do
in Poltava

Poltava, Ukraine is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant history. Located in the central part of the country, it serves as an important administrative center and is famous for the Battle of Poltava in 1709. The city features a blend of beautiful architecture, including classical and modern buildings, as well as lush parks and green spaces.

Poltava is also renowned for its culinary delights and warm hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Poltava
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Poltava Regional Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the picturesque Shevchenko Park, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, such as 'Vesna', where you can try traditional Ukrainian dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the iconic Poltava Battle Field and the monument commemorating the battle.

afternoon
:

Explore the local market and enjoy some street food while engaging with local vendors.

evening
:

Enjoy an evening walk along the Vorskla River and take in the beautiful sunset before heading to a local café for dessert.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$8-$15
Coffee$1-$2
🍺Local beer$2-$4
🏨Hotel per night$30-$70
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Delicious traditional cuisine
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited English-speaking services
  • Public transport may be less frequent
  • Nightlife options are more subdued than larger cities
  • "Доброго дня" - Good day
  • "Дякую" - Thank you
  • "Скільки це коштує?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Вибачте" - Excuse me
  • "До побачення" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Poltava

Visit one of these nice places.

Poltava Battle Field

An iconic historical site with beautiful landscapes, perfect for capturing the essence of the city's history.

Shevchenko Park

A green oasis in the city, featuring picturesque gardens and fountains.

Vorskla River

The river offers stunning views, especially during sunset, making it a great spot for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Poltava

Poltava offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect traditional Ukrainian flavors.

Poltava Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Poltava Varenyky

Dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or cherries, served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Galushky

Soft dumplings often served with meat dishes or in soups.

Borscht

A hearty beet soup that is a staple in Ukrainian cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Central Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.

Street Vendors

Enjoy quick bites like grilled meats or varenyky from street vendors around the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Poltava experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can average around 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winter temperatures often drop to around -5°C (23°F) or lower. Spring and autumn are generally mild, providing comfortable weather for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is the common form of greeting; maintain eye contact.

Hospitality

It is customary to offer food and drink to guests; graciously accept any offers.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Poltava is generally considered safe for tourists, though standard precautions should be observed. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious with personal belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Poltava

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to explore parks and outdoor attractions.

Summer

Warm weather ideal for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create a picturesque backdrop for exploration.

Winter

Cold and snowy, but festive holiday decorations and local winter markets offer a unique charm.

Nightlife Guide

Poltava at Night

Poltava has a modest nightlife scene with several bars and clubs catering to a younger crowd. Popular venues include jazz bars and pubs that feature live music. The atmosphere tends to be relaxed, with locals enjoying drinks and socializing, particularly during the weekends.

Hiking in Poltava

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sula National Park

Located about 30 km from Poltava, this park offers various hiking trails through picturesque landscapes.

Kremenchuk Forest

A lush forest area near Poltava ideal for hiking and nature walks, featuring diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Poltava by plane.

Poltava Airport

Located about 15 km from the city center, Poltava Airport offers limited domestic flights and serves as a gateway for regional travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Poltava is quite walkable, with many attractions located close to one another in the city center. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the city has a pleasant atmosphere for pedestrians. However, some areas may have uneven surfaces, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ukrainians

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Ukrainians, reflecting the national culture.

Russian Minority

There is a small Russian-speaking community, particularly in urban areas, contributing to the cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Poltava, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Basketball

Basketball has a growing following, with local clubs and competitions attracting young athletes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Poltava is generally manageable, with peak hours occurring during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses and minibuses, which are affordable and can be a convenient way to navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Poltava.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes; however, it's good to inquire about meat stock in soups.

Gluten-Free Options

Availability may be limited; consider speaking with staff for gluten-free alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Poltava are accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 103, and it is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Ukraine

Read more in our Ukraine 2025 Travel Guide.

Ukraine Travel Guide