Chernihiv Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful city of Chernihiv with this comprehensive travel guide, including must-see attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Chernihiv

Chernihiv, located in central Ukraine, is one of the oldest and most picturesque cities in the country. The city has a rich history, dating back to the 9th century when it was founded as a fortress of the Kyivan Rus state. Chernihiv is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush forests, meandering rivers, and rolling hills surrounding the city.

List of Places to Visit in Chernihiv

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chernihiv Regional Museum of Local Lore: This museum houses a vast collection of archaeological finds, antique weapons, traditional costumes, and old photographs.
  • Boris and Gleb Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 12th-century cathedral is considered one of the best examples of Ukrainian Baroque architecture.
  • Yeletsky Assumption Monastery: Founded in the 11th century, this ancient monastery is a popular pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians.
  • Transfiguration Cathedral: This 11th-century cathedral is one of the oldest and largest in Ukraine and features intricate frescoes and mosaics.
  • Catherine’s Church: Built in 1715, this charming Baroque-style church is known for its white walls and blue domes.

Natural Attractions of Chernihiv: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shestakovka River: This picturesque river is a perfect spot for fishing, kayaking, or just taking in the scenic views.
  • Tarakaniv Fort: This 19th-century fort is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers panoramic views of Chernihiv and its surroundings.
  • Kachanivka Palace: Located in a beautiful park on the banks of the Desna River, this stunning palace was built in the 18th century and features lavish gardens and extensive vineyards.
  • National Park “Desnyansko-Starogutsky”: Covering an area of more than 200,000 hectares, this national park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
  • Nemyrivskyi Canyon: Located just outside the city, this canyon is a unique geological formation formed by the Desna River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chernihiv

Chernihiv is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking routes to explore. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Desna River Trail: This scenic trail follows the Desna River and takes visitors through lush forests and rolling hills.
  • Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi Trail: This trail leads to the beautiful Transfiguration Cathedral and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  • Tarakaniv Trail: This challenging trail takes visitors to the top of Tarakaniv Hill and offers panoramic views of the city and the region.
  • Chornobyl Trail: This trail leads to one of the most iconic places in Ukraine, the site of the Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster. Visitors can see the abandoned town of Pripyat and learn about the tragic events of 1986.

Best Things to Do in Chernihiv: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Chernihiv Christmas Fair: This annual event, held in December, features traditional Ukrainian food, music, and crafts.
  • Take a City Tour: Join a guided tour of the city to learn about its history and see the most famous landmarks.
  • Attend the Vyshyvanka Festival: Ukraine’s national costume, the vyshyvanka, is celebrated in this festival held in May.
  • Explore the Local Food Scene: Sample traditional Ukrainian dishes like borscht, varenyky, and salo at the city’s restaurants and cafes.
  • Take a Wine Tour: Visit the vineyards and wineries of the Kachanivka Palace and taste some of the best wines Ukraine has to offer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chernihiv

  • Day 1: Visit the Chernihiv Christmas Fair and enjoy traditional Ukrainian food and crafts.
  • Day 2: Take a guided city tour and visit the most famous landmarks like Boris and Gleb Cathedral and Yeletsky Assumption Monastery.
  • Day 3: Hike or bike along the Desna River Trail and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.
  • Day 4: Explore the local food scene and taste traditional Ukrainian dishes like borscht and varenyky.
  • Day 5: Visit the Kachanivka Palace and take a wine tour.
  • Day 6: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Nizhyn and explore its historic center.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the city’s parks and gardens or take a sunset cruise on the Desna River.

Food and Drink Scene of Chernihiv

Chernihiv offers a delicious and diverse food scene, influenced by Ukrainian, Russian, and European cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Borscht: A hearty soup made with beets, potatoes, and cabbage, served with sour cream and fresh herbs.
  • Varenyky: Ukrainian-style dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat, often served with caramelized onions and sour cream.
  • Pampushky: Garlic bread made with dough, served warm and covered in garlic butter.
  • Holubtsi: Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice, served with tomato sauce.
  • Chicken Kyiv: Breaded and fried chicken breast stuffed with garlic and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Horilka: Ukrainian vodka made from grains or potatoes, often flavored with herbs or honey.
  • Kvas: A sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from fermented rye or wheat bread.
  • Uzvar: A traditional Ukrainian drink made from dried fruits, often served hot with honey and spices.
  • Beer: Ukraine has a rapidly growing craft beer scene, with many local breweries producing high-quality beers.

Where to Stay in Chernihiv: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chernihiv offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Hotel Ukraine: Centrally located, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving Ukrainian and European cuisine.
  • Hostel Chernihiv: A budget-friendly option with dormitory rooms and a shared kitchen.
  • Art Hotel: A charming boutique hotel located in a historic building, featuring individually decorated rooms and a cozy restaurant.
  • Guesthouse Chernihiv: A family-run guesthouse offering home-like atmosphere, comfortable rooms, and a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in Chernihiv: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Chernihiv has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many unique souvenirs and local products to bring home as a reminder of your visit. Some popular options include:

  • Vyshyvanka: Traditional Ukrainian embroidery, featuring intricate patterns and designs.
  • Honey: Ukraine is famous for its high-quality honey, made from a variety of flowers and herbs.
  • Pottery: Folk pottery is a cherished tradition in Ukraine, and the city offers many beautiful handmade pieces.
  • Craft Beer: Take home some of the best local beer from one of Chernihiv’s breweries.

Local Culture and Customs of Chernihiv

Chernihiv is a welcoming and friendly city, with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors should keep in mind the following customs and traditions:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering shoulders and legs.
  • Ukrainians are hospitable and love to share food and drinks with guests, so be prepared to eat and drink a lot.
  • Respect the local language – while many people speak English, it’s always appreciated if visitors learn a few words of Ukrainian or Russian.
  • Ukrainians celebrate many festivals and holidays throughout the year, so try to plan your trip around one of these events for an authentic experience.

Best Time to Visit Chernihiv

Chernihiv can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. The city is particularly beautiful in late spring and early summer when the flowers are in bloom, and the surrounding countryside is lush and green.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chernihiv

Do:

  • Respect the local culture, customs, and traditions.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Visit the city’s museums and historical sites.
  • Take a guided city tour to learn about the history and culture of the city.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Be excessively loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Leave trash or litter in public spaces.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chernihiv

Chernihiv is a safe city for tourists, as the crime rate is relatively low. However, visitors should take basic precautions, such as locking up valuables, and avoiding walking alone at night in poorly-lit areas.

Health in Chernihiv

The health system in Chernihiv is reliable, with many hospitals and clinics offering quality care. It’s recommended to have travel insurance before visiting Ukraine as healthcare costs can be high for foreigners.

Getting to Chernihiv: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chernihiv is easily accessible by bus, train, or car.

Airports Near Chernihiv

The nearest international airports are located in Kyiv – Boryspil Airport (KBP) and Kyiv – Zhuliany Airport (IEV). From there, visitors can take a bus, train, or taxi to reach Chernihiv.

Bus Stations Near Chernihiv

There are several direct bus routes connecting Chernihiv with major cities in Ukraine, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Lviv. The central bus station is located near the city center, within walking distance of most attractions.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Chernihiv by renting a car or taking a taxi from nearby cities. Additionally, there are several tour operators offering guided tours of the city and the surrounding region.

How to Get Around in Chernihiv

Chernihiv is a relatively small city, and most of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also take a taxi or hop on a local bus or trolleybus to reach more distant parts of the city.

Where to Go Next from Chernihiv: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Chernihiv is located in a scenic area of central Ukraine, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth considering, including:

  • Kyiv: The capital of Ukraine is located just two hours away from Chernihiv and offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and entertainment opportunities.
  • Polissya: A region of pristine forests, wetlands, and rivers, located in northern Ukraine.
  • Kachanivka Palace: A stunning palace surrounded by beautiful gardens and vineyards.
  • Nizhyn: A historic town located just 70 km from Chernihiv, known for its architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Chernihiv is a fascinating city that’s a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, and nature. With its vibrant food scene, stunning natural beauty, and friendly locals, Chernihiv has something for everyone. So come and discover this hidden gem in the heart of Ukraine!

Trinity Monastery in Chernihiv Trinity Monastery in Chernihiv The Cathedral of SS. Boris and Gleb The Cathedral of SS. Boris and Gleb