Things To Do
in Pustomyty

Pustomyty is a small town in western Ukraine's Lviv Oblast, just a short drive from the historic city of Lviv. It blends quiet rural life with easy access to regional culture, crafts, and markets. Traditional wooden houses, green fields, and a sense of welcoming hospitality define the atmosphere here.

Whether you visit in summer or winter, Pustomyty offers an authentic Ukrainian experience with a relaxed pace and friendly locals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market in Pustomyty, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce. Engage with local vendors to learn about traditional Ukrainian foods and crafts. After exploring the stalls, enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café that serves delicious homemade pastries.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque streets of Pustomyty, admiring the charming architecture and colorful buildings. Consider stopping by a local art gallery to view works by regional artists and gain insight into the area's cultural heritage. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to a historical landmark, such as the Church of St. Nicholas, where you can appreciate the intricate details and serene ambiance.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Ukrainian restaurant, where you can indulge in classic dishes such as borscht and pierogi. Engage with locals over a hearty meal, often accompanied by folk music and lively conversations. After dinner, take a stroll through the town square, as the evening lights create an enchanting atmosphere.

day 2
Historical Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the nearby Lviv region famous for its historic sites. Take a guided tour to immerse yourself in the rich history of this area, including exploring ancient castles and fortresses. As you learn about the past, enjoy a traditional local breakfast at a coffee shop that has stood the test of time.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, continue your historical journey by visiting the Pustomyty Museum, where you can gain insights into the local artifacts and exhibitions representing the culture and history of the region. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can provide context and stories about the exhibits. Choose to have a picnic lunch in a nearby park afterward, allowing you to relax and enjoy the natural beauty around you.

evening
:

As evening approaches, consider attending a cultural performance or theatrical play at a local venue. Experience the creativity and talent of Ukrainian artists while enjoying the unique interpretations of traditional stories. After the performance, partake in a casual dinner at a local eatery while discussing your thoughts on the show with new friends.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee$1-3
🚇Public transit ticket$0.25-0.75
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$40-70
🎟️Museum admission$2-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Lviv’s cultural heritage and easy day trips to markets and historic sites
  • Beautiful rural landscapes, friendly locals, and authentic Western Ukrainian cuisine
  • Affordable costs of living with a calm, relaxed pace
  • Seasonal outdoor activities in Roztochya Nature Park
  • Limited nightlife and fewer dining options within Pustomyty itself
  • Public transport to more distant attractions may require planning around schedules
  • Cold winters and potential travel disruptions in adverse weather
  • Some services may be limited compared to larger Ukrainian cities
  • "Добрий день" - Good day / Hello
  • "Будь ласка" - Please
  • "Дякую" - Thank you
  • "Вибачте" - Excuse me / Sorry
  • "Ви говорите англійською?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Де туалет?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Скільки це коштує?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Я хотів би це" - I would like this

Places to Visit in Pustomyty

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Wooden Church on the town edge

A classic example of Western Ukrainian wooden church architecture, framed by fields and sky.

Countryside road with rolling fields at golden hour

Long, straight lanes and distant hills create tranquil landscapes perfect for wide-angle shots.

Riverside views near the outskirts

Gentle water reflections and rural life provide calm, photographic moments.

Roztochya Nature Park lookout points

Elevated spots within the park offer sweeping views of wetlands, forests, and open skies.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pustomyty

Western Ukrainian cuisine centers on hearty, seasonal dishes built from local produce, grains, dairy, and pork. Expect generous portions, rustic flavors, and comforting soups, dumplings, and breads that pair well with local sour cream and cheese.

Pustomyty Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Borscht (Beet Soup)

A hearty beet soup usually served with sour cream and rye bread.

Must-Try!

Holubtsi

Cabbage rolls stuffed with rice and meat, often served with tomato sauce or sour cream.

Deruny

Crispy potato pancakes, typically topped with sour cream or mushrooms.

Banush

Creamy cornmeal porridge with bryndza cheese and cracklings; a Carpathian specialty.

Salo

Cured pork fatback often eaten with rye bread and pickles; a traditional, strong-flavored delicacy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pustomyty Central Market

Seasonal produce, dairy, freshly baked breads, and local snacks perfect for sampling ingredients.

Lviv Market Square stalls

A short drive away in Lviv city center, offering a variety of street foods, cheeses, pastries, and regional specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area has a temperate-continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers are warm and moderately humid, winters are cold with snowfall, and spring and autumn bring mild temperatures with variable rainfall. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically in late spring and early summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and manners

A handshake is common in formal settings. Use polite forms and address people with 'пан' (pan) or 'пані' (pani) for men and women respectively. Saying 'Дякую' (Dyakuyu) for thank you is appreciated.

Public behavior and etiquette

Avoid loud behavior in churches or quiet public spaces. Dress modestly for religious sites and consult locals if unsure about local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

General travel safety is good in rural areas, but stay vigilant in crowded places and carry a copy of important documents. Keep valuables secure and be cautious on rural roads at night. In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Stay informed about regional travel advisories and use official accommodation and transportation providers.

Tipping in Pustomyty

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Ukraine, tipping is customary but not mandatory. A 10-15% tip in restaurants is typical if service is good; small tips in cafes or for takeout are appreciated but not required. Rounding up a taxi fare is common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with warm to hot temperatures; occasional showers. Pack sunscreen, water, and light layers; outdoor activities are easy but expect crowds near popular routes around Lviv.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; great light for photography and relaxed hiking. Bring a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings.

Winter

Cold, with possible snowfall; daylight is shorter. Wear insulated clothing, waterproof boots, and consider indoor cultural activities as a backup plan.

Spring

Mild temperatures with rain; landscapes come alive with blossoms. Good for hiking, but paths can be muddy; carry appropriate footwear and a waterproof layer.

Nightlife Guide

Pustomyty at Night

Pustomyty itself tends to be low-key, with cozy pubs and cafes offering local beer, wines, and live acoustic sets. For a broader nightlife scene with more bars and clubs, a short trip to Lviv provides a wide range of venues, from traditional folk-inspired spots to modern clubs and jazz bars. Weekends can bring more social activity, especially in the town centers and university neighborhoods nearby.

Hiking in Pustomyty

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Roztochya National Nature Park trails

Extensive forest and wetland trails suitable for day hikes, wildlife viewing, and photography.

Carpathian foothill day hikes

Accessible routes in the foothills offering longer panoramic views and forest scenery.

Airports

How to reach Pustomyty by plane.

Lviv Danylo Halytskyi International Airport (LWO)

The main international gateway for the region, located near Lviv. Regular domestic and international flights; easy transfers to Pustomyty by taxi or bus.

Ivano-Frankivsk International Airport (IFO)

A secondary option in western Ukraine, offering regional flights and a different travel routing to the area; typically a longer drive to Pustomyty.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with local shops, markets, and a few cafés within easy reach. For broader exploration, you’ll rely on buses or short drives to Lviv, where walkable historic districts and dense pedestrian streets await. Rural roads outside the center are quieter but may be rougher surface in places.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ukrainians

The majority population in the area, with a strong sense of regional culture and language.

Polish and other minority communities

Smaller communities with historic ties to the region, contributing to a diverse cultural tapestry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and casual matches common in towns and schools.

Basketball

Active in schools and local community centers; pickup games and small tournaments occur seasonally.

Skiing and winter sports

In the nearby Carpathian foothills, winter sports attract visitors and locals during snowy periods.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light in the town itself, with more congestion occurring on the approaches to Lviv during peak hours. Public transport includes buses and minibuses; driving outside the city can be slower on rural roads, especially after rain or snow. Taxis and ride-hailing services are commonly available in the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pustomyty.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many vegetarian options are available using vegetables, mushrooms, dairy, and local grains; ask for no meat stock and look for mushroom or potato dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available in Lviv city with hospitals and clinics offering emergency and routine care. For anything more specialized, expect to visit larger medical facilities in Lviv or larger towns nearby. Always carry travel insurance that covers medical costs and keep a list of nearby healthcare facilities with contact details.

Discover Ukraine

Read more in our Ukraine 2025 Travel Guide.

Ukraine Travel Guide