Lviv

Lviv is the largest city in western Ukraine, and it has a fascinating historic core. The capital, which was founded in 1240 and named after Leo, the King of Ruthenia's oldest son, changed hands multiple times between the Poles and the Russians before becoming independent in 1991.

Lviv is jam-packed with monuments, museums, and historic buildings, many of which include archaeological finds dating back to the 5th century. Lviv, known as one of Ukraine's most prominent cultural centers, is home to a plethora of art galleries, including the Lviv National Art Gallery, which has over 50,000 works of art. From opera and ballet events to delightful café culture, there's enough to do for a cultural day out.

What a pity if you pay a visit to Lviv without setting your foot on an outdoor market in Lviv. Although the origins of the famed nesting "Russian" dolls are disputed, there is no questioning the skilled craftsmanship of those who create them. When you go to a market, you'll find a wide range of handicrafts that highlight the country's traditional arts. Many textiles are utilized in many houses around the country, including traditional embroidered blouses known as vyshyvanka and hand towels.

Location: Lviv, Ukraine

Highlights: Market Square, The Old Town, Insomnia - The Haunted House, Svyatogo Yura Cathedral, Armenian Virgin Mary's Dormition Church, Lviv High Castle, Museum of Folk Architecture and Life, ...

Best time to visit: May 14th to September 16th