Things To Do
in Shostka

Shostka is a small city located in the Sumy Oblast of Ukraine, known for its rich industrial history and scenic landscapes. The city is surrounded by lush forests and rivers, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers. Shostka is also recognized for its cultural heritage, featuring various monuments and historical sites.

Despite its size, it offers a unique blend of urban and rural life, reflecting the essence of Ukrainian culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Shostka City Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk and perhaps have a picnic breakfast.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical sites including the Shostka Museum of Local Lore, where you can learn about the city's history and cultural artifacts.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional Ukrainian cuisine and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the nearby forest for a morning hike, immersing yourself in the natural beauty surrounding Shostka.

afternoon
:

Visit one of the local food markets to sample fresh produce and local delicacies, perfect for a light lunch.

evening
:

Wind down with a visit to a local café, enjoying some coffee or dessert while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a local restaurant$6
Coffee$1.50
🚕Taxi ride within city$3
🛒Groceries (weekly)$25
🏨Hotel per night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and heritage.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Language barrier with locals who may not speak English.
  • Less tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • "Доброго дня" - Good day
  • "Дякую" - Thank you
  • "Скільки це коштує?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Де туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Я не розумію" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Shostka

Visit one of these nice places.

Shostka City Park

A beautiful park featuring lush greenery and scenic pathways, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Historical Monuments

Visit the various monuments throughout the city, which provide a glimpse into Shostka's rich history and are great for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shostka

Shostka offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect traditional Ukrainian flavors, making it a culinary hub for visitors.

Shostka Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Borscht

A beetroot soup often served with sour cream, borscht is a staple in Ukrainian cuisine and a must-try when in Shostka.

Must-Try!

Varenyky

These dumplings can be filled with potatoes, cheese, or fruits and are often topped with fried onions or sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shostka Central Market

A vibrant place to explore local produce, meats, and baked goods, where you can also find cheap street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shostka has a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F). Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, with the summer months experiencing occasional thunderstorms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and addressing people with their titles is respectful.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.

Gift Giving

When invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shostka is generally a safe city for visitors, but it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep your personal belongings secure and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Shostka

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops in the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather with plenty of sunshine, perfect for hiking and enjoying outdoor cafes, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and picturesque fall foliage create a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing and walking tours.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter in Shostka offers opportunities for winter sports and enjoying the cozy atmosphere of local cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Shostka at Night

Shostka's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and cafés where you can enjoy drinks and socialize. Most places close early, but you can find a few spots that stay open later, offering a relaxed atmosphere with live music or small events on weekends. Local residents often gather to enjoy evenings together, making it a cozy experience for visitors.

Hiking in Shostka

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Krasnopillia Forest Trail

A scenic trail located about 15 km from Shostka, offering beautiful views and a variety of flora and fauna.

Velyka Pysarivka Trail

This trail runs through lush landscapes and is suitable for both hiking and biking, approximately 20 km from the city.

Airports

How to reach Shostka by plane.

Sumy Airport (UMSY)

Located about 100 km from Shostka, Sumy Airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest airport to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shostka is a walkable city with compact neighborhoods. Most attractions, restaurants, and cafes are within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are generally available, and the city layout makes it easy to navigate on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ukrainian Nationals

The majority of Shostka's population consists of ethnic Ukrainians, who contribute to the city's cultural identity.

Local Workers

Many residents are employed in local industries, including manufacturing and agriculture, shaping the city's economic landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is extremely popular in Shostka, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys a following, with community courts available for recreational play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Shostka are generally light, with minimal congestion. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, making it easy to travel around the city. Walking or cycling is also a viable option for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shostka.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients used in traditional meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Shostka include several hospitals and clinics offering basic medical services. For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Ukraine

Read more in our Ukraine 2025 Travel Guide.

Ukraine Travel Guide