Kharkiv Kharkivska Oblast, Ukraine Travel Guide
Local SIM cards are available. Major providers in Ukraine include Kyivstar, Vodafone Ukraine, and Lifecell. Purchasing get a LOCAL sim card when you arrive (at an official store) is generally cost-effective. Your passport is necessary for registration.
Online connectivity is typically accessible in operational cafes, hotels, plus common spaces, but is subject to frequent outages due to power disruptions or damage. Starlink terminals are utilized in critical infrastructure and by many essential organizations to maintain connectivity.
Postal services (Ukrposhta) are operational but limited and subject to delays due to the war. International shipping may be severely impacted.
The main languages spoken in Kharkiv are Ukrainian and Russian. While many younger individuals in the city center may speak some English, a significant language barrier exists. Translation apps (Google Translate, DeepL) are highly recommended. Learning basic Ukrainian phrases demonstrates respect.
For essential personnel, ensure you have multiple communication methods, including local Sim cards and backup internet solutions. Stay aware of network outages and power supply issues.
Overarching norms are those of wartime survival and martial law. Respect, discretion, and adherence to security protocols are of utmost importance.
Standard greetings (handshake for men, light cheek kiss for close female friends). During wartime, safety and toughness are the focus. A simple "Dobryi den" (Hello) or "Pryvit" (Hi) is appropriate.
Casual, practical, and modest clothing. Avoid anything that could be military attire or construed as a provocation. Blend in and avoid drawing attention.
Pre-war, tipping 10% for good service was common. During wartime, support any operational local businesses as much as feasible to aid the local economy.
STRICTLY PROHIBITED to photograph military installations, personnel, checkpoints, or anything that could aid the enemy. This covers damaged infrastructure that could provide intelligence. Exercise extreme caution with all photography. Be respectful of at all times privacy and never photograph people without getting permission first, especially those in distress. You risk detention or worse.
Avoid discussing politics or the war in public. Do not express pro-Russian sentiments. Do not engage with military personnel or law enforcement unless absolutely necessary. Do not offer money to soldiers or police, given that this can be misconstrued as bribery. The war is a very private and traumatic subject for Ukrainians.
Adhering to local rules, demonstrating respect for the present situation, and maintaining a low profile are important. Prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings.
Ukraine is generally a conservative society. In Kharkiv, pre-war norms were more liberal. During wartime, the focus is on basic safety and survival.
Be mindful of local trauma. Many residents have lost homes, family, or friends. Do not ask for war stories unless you are invited to listen. Respect mourning and grief.
Follow all local laws and martial law directives without question. Be patient and understanding with service providers who operate under immense stress.
While Kharkiv was more liberal pre-war, the general Ukrainian society is conservative. During wartime, the focus is on basic safety and survival. Public displays of affection or discussions of LGBTQ+ issues may not be appropriate or safe in all contexts.
Before the war, Kharkiv International Airport offered various services to travelers. Now, the airport is closed and services are suspended.
All information related to tourism, business hours, and seasonal specialties applies to a pre-war context. Currently, safety and adherence to martial law are the only priorities.
Infrastructure for disabled travelers is extremely limited and further compromised by war damage. Public transport is not commonly accessible.
Pre-war, accessibility infrastructure was developing although usually inadequate, especially in older buildings and public transport. Many sidewalks and public spaces presented barriers.
Accessible attractions and transportation are severely limited or non-existent due to the war. War damage has made many previously accessible areas impassable.
Services for travelers with disabilities are limited. During wartime, these services are further strained or unavailable.
Resources and organizations providing accessibility information are unlikely to be updated or reliable in current conditions. Contact humanitarian bodies for specific needs if traveling for essential purposes.
Know local emergency lines (e.g., Police, Ambulance, Fire) and how to talk needs in Ukrainian or Russian.
Be aware of the nearest bomb shelters or safe rooms in any building you occupy. Follow local alerts for air raids.
Monitor official news channels and local authority communications for real-time updates on security and accessibility.
For essential personnel with accessibility requirements, direct coordination with the receiving organizations in Ukraine is essential to assess available support and potential risks.
