Things To Do
in Sumy

Sumy is a picturesque city located in northeastern Ukraine, known for its vibrant culture, lush parks, and historical significance. The city is situated on the banks of the Psel River, providing beautiful natural scenery and recreational opportunities. Sumy boasts a rich architectural heritage, including stunning churches and monuments that reflect its diverse history.

With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, Sumy offers a unique experience for visitors seeking to explore Ukrainian culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Sumy's Heritage
morning
:

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

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the central park, Park of Pushkin, and take a moment to relax by the fountains.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes like borscht and varenyky.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Head to the beautiful M. L. Kropyvnytskyi Park to enjoy a morning walk or rent a bike.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sumy Art Museum to appreciate local artwork and exhibitions.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife at a trendy bar or café, enjoying live music and socializing with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$6
Coffee$2
🏨Hostel Night$10
🚍Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🍺Local Beer$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Welcoming locals and friendly atmosphere.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English-speaking locals.
  • Less developed tourism infrastructure.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.
  • "Доброго дня" - Good day
  • "Дякую" - Thank you
  • "Скільки це коштує?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Вибачте" - Excuse me
  • "Допоможіть, будь ласка" - Help, please

Places to Visit in Sumy

Visit one of these nice places.

Sumy City Hall

An iconic building showcasing beautiful architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.

Pushkin Park

A serene park with lush greenery and fountains, ideal for nature photography.

The Psel River

The riverbanks provide stunning views, especially during sunset, making it a great photography spot.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sumy

Sumy offers a delightful culinary experience, with a mix of traditional Ukrainian dishes and modern eateries. From hearty meals to sweet pastries, there’s something for every palate.

Sumy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Borscht

A traditional beet soup served hot, often accompanied by sour cream and bread.

Must-Try!

Varenyky

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

Holodets

A jellied meat dish often enjoyed as a cold appetizer.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sumy Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food vendors selling snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sumy experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to -10°C (14°F). Spring and autumn are mild, offering pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is a common greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to start eating and keep your hands above the table.

Personal Space

Respect personal space, especially in crowded areas; Ukrainians may value a bit of distance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sumy is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s advisable to take standard precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep your belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Sumy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, although rounding up is also common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for exploring parks and enjoying outdoor cafes.

Autumn

The foliage turns vibrant colors, providing beautiful landscapes for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall, creating a picturesque winter scene in the city.

Nightlife Guide

Sumy at Night

Sumy's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a mix of bars, clubs, and cafes. The city comes alive in the evenings with locals and visitors enjoying live music, dancing, and socializing. Popular spots include trendy lounges and traditional pubs where you can experience local drinks and cuisine while mingling with the friendly crowd.

Hiking in Sumy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Svyatogorsk National Nature Park

Located about 70 km from Sumy, this park offers scenic trails and stunning views of the Svyatogorsk Monastery.

Psel River Trails

Various trails along the Psel River provide opportunities for nature walks and exploring the riverside landscape.

Airports

How to reach Sumy by plane.

Sumy International Airport

Located approximately 2 km from the city center, this airport primarily serves domestic flights and is the main gateway for travelers coming to Sumy.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sumy is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, parks, and restaurants are within a short distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian zones make for a pleasant walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ukrainians

The majority of the population is Ukrainian, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Russians

There is a notable Russian-speaking community in Sumy, reflecting the region's historical ties.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a beloved sport in Sumy, with local teams drawing significant support from the community.

Basketball

Basketball has a growing popularity, with several clubs and community programs encouraging youth participation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sumy is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or public transportation. Buses and trams provide efficient ways to get around, and taxis are readily available. However, rush hour can see some congestion in busy areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sumy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though vegan options may be limited.

Gluten-Free

It's advisable to ask about gluten-free options, as they may not be explicitly marked on menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Sumy are accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be reached easily, but it’s advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical care abroad.

Discover Ukraine

Read more in our Ukraine 2025 Travel Guide.

Ukraine Travel Guide