April and May are wonderful months to visit Ukraine. The weather is getting warm, flowers are blooming, and cities become full of life again. It’s not too hot and not too crowded — just perfect for travelers. You can explore beautiful cities, relax in nature, or visit spring festivals. This guide will help you plan your trip step by step — with tips from Baltimore Chronicle on where to go, what to bring, how to travel, and what to see.
Why Travel to Ukraine in April or May?
Spring is a great time to visit Ukraine for many reasons:
- The weather is mild and sunny — not too hot or cold
- Parks and gardens are full of flowers and green trees
- Fewer tourists, so it’s easier to enjoy cities and attractions
- Prices are lower than in summer
- Many local holidays and fun events take place
In April, you can enjoy cherry blossoms and spring freshness. In May, it’s warmer and great for walking, sightseeing, or even hiking.
Best Cities and Places to Visit
Here are some great places you can visit during your spring trip:
- Kyiv – The capital of Ukraine. Visit beautiful parks, old churches, and walk along the river.
- Lviv – A cozy city in western Ukraine with coffee shops, old streets, and spring festivals.
- Uzhhorod – A small city where cherry trees bloom in April. Great for walking and relaxing.
- Odesa – A city near the sea. In May, you can enjoy sunshine, sea air, and nice buildings.
- Carpathian Mountains – Perfect if you like hiking and nature. In spring, it’s green and peaceful.
You can visit 2–3 cities in one trip. Trains and buses connect most of them easily.
What Is the Weather Like in Spring?
In most places, the weather in April and May is warm and comfortable.
Here is a simple guide:
| Month | Day Temperature | Night Temperature | Rain | What to Wear |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| April | +10°C to +18°C | +3°C to +8°C | Light | Jacket, layers |
| May | +15°C to +25°C | +8°C to +14°C | Low | Light clothes, cap |
Always check the forecast before your trip, as weather can change.
What to Pack for Your Trip
Here is what you should bring for a comfortable spring trip:
- Light jacket or raincoat
- Sweaters or hoodies (for cool evenings)
- T-shirts and jeans or pants
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Small umbrella or poncho
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A small backpack for day trips
- Travel documents and health insurance
If you visit the mountains, bring warmer clothes and sturdy shoes.
How to Travel Inside Ukraine
It is easy to travel between Ukrainian cities. Here are the main options:
- Trains – Comfortable and cheap. Good for long distances (e.g., Kyiv–Lviv, Lviv–Odesa)
- Buses – Travel to small towns and villages
- Domestic flights – Faster but more expensive
- Rental car – Best for mountain trips or flexible routes
Comparison of travel options
| Transport | Best For | Speed | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | City-to-city travel | Moderate | $10–30 | Book in advance for comfort |
| Bus | Small towns/villages | Slower | $5–20 | Some buses may be older |
| Flight | Long distances | Fast | $40–100 | Only between big cities |
| Car rental | Nature, freedom | Flexible | $25+/day | Needs careful driving in rural areas |
Festivals and Holidays to See
Spring is full of local holidays and special days. Try to visit some during your trip!
- Orthodox Easter – Usually in April. People go to church and enjoy special foods.
- May 9 – Victory Day – Celebrated with flowers and concerts in cities
- Cherry Blossom Festival (Uzhhorod) – In April, the city is pink and full of life
- City Day (Lviv, Kyiv, others) – Local holidays with music, food, and open-air events
- Night of Museums (May) – Museums are open late with special programs
These events are fun, family-friendly, and let you see Ukrainian traditions.
Sample 7-Day Itinerary
Want to travel for a week? Here’s a simple plan:
Day 1 – Arrive in Kyiv, walk around the city center
Day 2 – Visit parks and historical sites in Kyiv
Day 3 – Travel by train to Lviv, explore the Old Town
Day 4 – Enjoy Lviv cafés, visit the market or festival
Day 5 – Go to the Carpathians (by train or bus)
Day 6 – Hike, relax in nature, or stay in a village
Day 7 – Return to Kyiv or take a train to Odesa
This mix includes cities, culture, and nature — and it’s easy to follow.
Where to Stay
You can find many types of places to stay in Ukraine:
- Hotels – Clean, comfortable, good service
- Hostels – Cheap, good for solo travelers or students
- Apartments/Airbnb – Good for families or longer stays
- Guesthouses – Best in the mountains or countryside
Prices are usually:
- Budget: $10–20/night
- Mid-range: $25–50/night
- High-end: $60–100/night
Use websites like Booking.com or Airbnb to find and book places in advance.
Travel Safety and Tips
Ukraine is mostly safe, especially in the west and center.
Useful advice:
- Don’t travel to active conflict zones (check news before trip)
- Keep your passport safe
- Have cash — some places don’t take cards
- Be polite and smile — people are friendly
- English is spoken in big cities, but not everywhere — use a translation app
You can also buy a local SIM card or eSIM for internet access during your trip.
Earlier we wrote about where to travel in spring 2025.