Ukraine Travel Tips

The currency in Ukraine is called the hryvnya (UAH). Paper currency comes in denominations of UAH1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200. One hryvnya can be divided into 100 kopiyok. The coins come in denominations of UAH1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 kopiyok.

Currency should only be exchanged at banks or official currency booths on the street. There is a thriving black market for changing money in Ukraine, but it can be dangerous and is not recommended. The best way to get cash in Ukraine is to use your ATM card from home. Every major city in Ukraine has a developed network of ATMs, which dispense the money in local currency. This will ensure the best rate and least amount of trouble. Credit cards are not readily accepted.

Banks are open from 09:30 to 17:30, Monday through Friday.

Visitors can import up to UAH1000, and export up to UAH10,000. If you bring in over UAH1000, you will need to fill out a customs form. The import of foreign currency is limited to US$10,000, and exports are limited to US$5,000.

Visitors can import up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, as well as one litre of spirits and two litres of wine. Visitors under the age of 20 are not qualified for a duty-free allowance. Goods for personal use are fine, as are gifts with a value up to 200 Euros. To find out what you can take home from Ukraine, contact your country’s Customs Service Office.

Ukraine uses the same voltage as most of Europe, 220V/50Hz.

There are a number of health risks which visitors should be aware of. Water in all towns should be regarded as a potential health risk. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled first or otherwise sterilised. It’s best to stick to bottled water in any case. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise sometimes carries increased risk and vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

The worst health problem visitors are likely to experience is a case of traveller’s stomach from exposure to new micro-organisms in the food. Health service does, in theory, offer free medical treatment to all citizens and travellers who fall ill. However, as in most of the former Soviet Union, health care is a serious issue. For minor difficulties, visitors should simply ask their hotels for help, or go to a pharmacy where most drugs are readily available. For major problems, visitors are seriously advised to get medical help outside of Ukraine. The UK and Ukraine have a mutual agreement on emergency medical treatment, so UK travellers won’t need to pay an insurance levy upon arrival. In any case, travel insurance is strongly recommended before visiting Ukraine.

American Medical Centers: +380 490 7600

Ukrainians are known for their hospitality, so you need not be afraid to ask a local for help or directions. Your visit will most likely be trouble-free, but as in all major cities there’s still an element of theft, so use common sense. Don’t leave your bags, camera or anything valuable unattended at tourist spots, the airport or on the transports. The political situation in Ukraine is also somewhat tenuous, so visitors should check with their embassy before travelling, and keep aware of the current political mood while in the country.

Ukrainians are a very warm and welcoming group of people, so it’s not at all uncommon to be invited into their home for food or drink. On the streets, the locals are usually friendly and glad to help. Dress is casual, though people tend to go formal at the theatre. It’s considerate to avoid ostentatious displays of wealth in public places. Ukrainians also have dozens of small social conventions and superstitions, which visitors won’t be expected to know. For example, always bring an odd number of flowers to your host, never whistle inside a house and don’t put an empty bottle on the table.

In Orthodox churches, women must wear scarves or hats, and men must remove their hats. Be prepared to take off your shoes when you enter a Ukrainian house. The host will usually provide slippers. At the entrance to most restaurants, you will be asked to check your coat and baggage.

Although Ukrainian is the only official language in the country, nearly everyone speaks Russian. You may have trouble finding people who speak English, so be prepared to use your universal communication skills.

Restaurants generally include a service charge of 10 to 15 per cent to your bill and if the service charge isn’t added, it’s standard to tip your waiter 10 per cent. Taxis drivers, however, don’t expect to be tipped.

The country code for Ukraine is +380. Ukraine has reliable communication connections with the West and most major cities have IDD facilities and can be dialled from abroad. Telephone cards for the public payphones can be bought in post offices. Most international mobile phone companies have roaming agreements with Ukraine and Internet cafés are available in all major cities.

GMT + 2

As a general rule, most visitors will need a visa to enter Ukraine. Visas should be obtained before travelling at the Ukrainian embassy in your home country, for which there is a small fee. Your passport must be valid for at least one month beyond the date of your visa expiration. Visas are not available upon arrival.