Kharkiv Kharkivska Oblast, Ukraine Travel Guide
Ahead of the full-scale invasion, Kharkiv International Airport (HRK) was the main aerial gateway. It was formerly a modern facility handling both domestic and international traffic.
Direct flights were available from several European hubs, making Kharkiv accessible internationally. Flight availability and prices varied seasonally, with higher demand in summer.
Use resources like Dollar Flight Club to find affordable flights (pre-war context).
Compare options via Skyscanner for the best routes and prices (pre-war context).
All Ukrainian airspace remains closed to civilian flights. Kharkiv airport is non-operational.
Kharkiv is a landlocked city, so sea or river arrivals are not applicable for transportation.
All Ukrainian seaports in the Euxine Sea and Azov Sea regions face military operations or blockades.
Sea travel to Ukraine is impossible for commercial or tourist purposes.
Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) operates train services across Ukraine, including to Kharkiv. Trains are one of the safer modes of inter-city transport within Ukraine due to relative protection and robust infrastructure, though not immune to attack.
Various private bus companies operate inter-city routes to and from Kharkiv, often departing from central bus stations. These buses connect Kharkiv to other cities within Ukraine and, in some cases, to neighboring countries.
Land borders with Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Moldova remain open. These are the main entry points for those traveling to Ukraine for essential reasons.
Self-driving is highly unadvised due to the extreme dangers of the war, including damaged roads, military checkpoints, and the constant threat of attack. Other rental options (motorcycles, bicycles) are generally unsafe and unavailable.
Kharkiv's three-line subway system currently functions as both a transport mode and a specific bomb shelter. Services are subject to prevalent interruptions and closures during air raids.
The comprehensive network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses previously covered the city. Currently, services are reduced, and routes may be diverted or suspended.
Pre-war, detailed route maps were available. Now, real-time local apps and direct inquiry are necessary.
Pre-war, single-ride tickets were common. Fares were affordable. Current systems adapt to wartime conditions.
Dangerous due to shelling and air raids. Curfew restricts night travel on foot or by bicycle.
Car rental options are severely limited. Self-driving is highly unadvised due to the extreme dangers of the war, including damaged roads, military checkpoints, and the constant threat of attack.
Driving on the correct lane for traffic. Seatbelts are mandatory. Ukraine has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas.
Parking may be limited in the city center. Parking garages with fees and street parking (often requiring payment via app or meter) existed.
During wartime, parking rules could be not as enforced, but finding a safe spot is challenging.
Some areas may be restricted or unsafe for finding a parking spot due to security concerns or damage.
GPS systems may not reflect current road closures or dangerous areas. Rely on local guidance and official information for current routes and safety conditions.
