Useful information

Ukraine

The stunning country of Ukraine is located in Eastern Europe and is bordered by the black sea, Poland, Russia, Belarus, Hungary, Moldova, Romania and Slovakia. The present administrative structure of the country comprises 24 regions.

The capital of Ukraine is Kyiv with a population of 2.6 million people. Located on the Dnipro River, Kyiv is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, founded c.600 A.D. by Prince Kyi. Other major cities include Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Odessa the major port on the Black Sea; and Lviv.

Climate

The average temperature 

Holidays
New Year’s Day.Jan 1  

Jan 7 Orthodox Christmas Day.

Mar 8 International Women’s Day.

May 1-2 Labour Days.

May 9 Victory Day.

Jun 28 Constitution Day.

Aug 24 Ukrainian Independence Day.

Jan 1 2006 New Year’s Day.

Jan 7 Orthodox Christmas Day.

Mar 8 International Women’s Day.

May 1-2 Labour Days.

May 9 Victory Day.

Jun 28 Constitution Day.

Aug 24 Ukrainian Independence Day.

Money of Ukraine.

The currency of Ukraine is Hryvnya (UAH) which is comprised of 100 kopiyok. You will be able to get coins in 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 kopiyok denominations. Notes are available in groupings of 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 UAH. If you need to exchange money, it is advisable that you do it only at a currency booth on the street or in banks. It is also a good idea to keep all receipts relating to money changing. Most banks are open Monday to Friday from 9:30am to 5:30pm.

Transport

The fastest form of transport in the larger cities are the marshrutka or minibuses. These vehicles follow a particular route with a particular fare. Transport systems in the cities are very good and include buses, trolleys and trams which are inexpensive to use.

Taxis

There are taxi-stands at some busy corners in central Kyiv. Hailing a taxi can be a frustrating and time consuming experience. After a taxi stops, the required destination should be stated; if a driver agrees, a price should be negotiated before getting in a car. Extra precaution should be taken in the evenings, when it is advisable to use only a clearly marked taxi rather than a private car.

Ukraine Airport Guide.

Keep all the documentation you receive from customs as these have to be presented when you leave the country again. Facilities in Ukraine's airports include: money exchange, banks, ATMs, shops, duty free stores, restaurants, bars, travel agencies, business centers and facilities for the disabled.

Boryspil International Airport located just 29 km from Kiev is the largest airport in Ukraine and receives most of the international flights. Other airports which serve Kiev are Zhulyany Airport (domestic) and Gostomel Airport (cargo).