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Lviv, Ukraine | @eugenesnooff There’s something wonderfully refreshing about Lviv, a city that lies at the crossroads of Europe and Russia. With brightly-colored buildings and little cafes serving up chocolate and coffee, Lviv definitely leans European, more reminiscent of Vienna or Prague than its Russian counterparts. But Ukraine’s premier tourist stop is still very much a secret, with a collection of treasures for the traveler willing to go the extra mile.

Fun Fact: Russia excluded, Ukraine is the largest country in Europe by geographical size, stretching 603,628 square kilometers.

Lviv, Ukraine N 49.83° / E 24.02°

@sswanssia April - July Lviv is Ukraine’s cultural capital, and many of the nation’s major festivals take place here. From the National Chocolate Festival to the Cheese and Wine Festival to numerous art and music festivals, there’s a lot to celebrate in Lviv. But if you want a relatively calm weekend – and a warmer one at that – visit during late spring and summer.

Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet | @djvovanu4 Crème de la Crème It seems every European nation has its own “little Paris” but Lviv truly lives up to this name. Between its museums, theaters, and universities, you’ll come away from your trip feeling a little more cultured. Dress up and catch a show at the Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet, or just stroll through the daily used book market. Be sure to stop by one of the museums, which aren’t limited to art (although the Lviv Art Gallery is fantastic). From the Pharmacy museum to the Arsenal museum, you’ll learn a lot about Ukraine’s fascinating history. One of our favorites is Lvivarnya, the Museum of Beer. Also the oldest brewery in the country, Lvivarnya now has exhibits on the region’s brewmaking that will satiate your thirst. #lvivgram | @djvovanu4 Here is the Church, Here is the Steeple A smorgasbord of Rennaissance, Romantic, and Baroque architecture mingle in Lviv’s UNESCO-recognized old town, and you can have a delightful afternoon simply walking around. Be sure to visit the Town Hall for a great viewing platform, and nearby the heart of the city, Rynok Square features a slew of colorful buildings in different architectural styles. The Potocki Palace will delight those who stop to see the castle miniatures in the backyard. But most of all, make a list of churches to visit. Representing several denominations, each church puts different architecture styles on display. Top churches include the Church of Sts. Olha and Elizabeth, the Dominican Cathedral, and the Armenian Cathedral – and those are just the start. Stryis'kyi Park Lviv Ukraine | @nazariy_lialka Up Above the Clouds so High Green spaces aren’t neglected in the city, so be sure to walk or bike the wide, shady boulevards of Ivan Franko Park before wandering over to High Castle, a park and hill that offers fantastic views of the city. Lviv is also located near the thunderous Carpathian Mountains, and incredible hiking is only a car ride away. Explore the hikes in the Borzhava or Chornogora ranges, both of which are easily accessed from Lviv. #lvivphoto | @lucy.tkach The Ukrainian Way Lviv enjoys a more relaxed pace than many of its Ukrainian counterparts, in large part due to the presence of university students. The city embraces frivolity, and whether you’re wandering through an alleyway of lost toys, setting up shop in a cat cafe, or navigating a street with seven names, embrace the lightheartedness. Enjoy one of the weirder themed restaurants, like Kryjivka, a strange spot reminiscent of an underground bunker where would-be patrons prove their loyalty by saying “Glory to the Heroes” in Ukrainian (Heroyam slava!) in order to gain entry. @sswanssia   Lebed's Discovery @sswanssia "If you want to feel the real spirit of Lviv, wake up earlier, take some coffee and explore the city not only in the center, but also beyond its borders. Don't be afraid to get lost! On your way you can also find interesting places, historic buildings and atmospheric courtyards with unique charm, which you won't see in guidebooks."

#lviving | @katin_budapest Life is Good in Lviv Cafe culture dominates in Lviv, and whether you feel like sipping on an espresso or indulging in some classic Ukrainian treats, you’ll find the cafes a warm and welcoming place to be. Add excitement to your mocha at the Lviv Coffee Mining Manufacture, where coffee is mined, roasted and mixed right in front of your eyes. For dinner, a variety of influences touch Lviv’s top dining spots, but you can’t leave without trying some local Galician cuisine. For a bizarre night out try the Masonic Restaurant, which advertises itself as the “most expensive Galician restaurant” and is located in a ramshackle apartment. Traditional fare can be found at delicious places like Baczewski and Trapezna Idey.

George Hotel Lviv | @george_lviv Lviv Luxury If you visit Lviv outside the festival season, accommodations are super affordable. The George Hotel is a classic in Lviv – this Baroque style building oozes character and charm, and will only set you back around $30 USD a night. For a bit more luxury, the Nobilis Hotel and Chopin Hotel offer elegant rooms and great locations.

Lviv, Ukraine | @sl_lennon Can’t Miss This "A few places in Lviv, which you must visit, include the opera theater, as well as the palace of Potocki, a tall castle which offers an incredible view of the whole Lviv and the old city. Near the palace is a chocolate workshop and a coffee shop (which has very tasty coffee)." – @miynosyk A New View "If you want to see the most delightful and stunning views of the city, then go to The Town Hall of Lviv – one of the highest viewing points (65 meters). By the way, this architectural monument is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List." – @sswanssia SUBMIT TO UPCOMING DESTINATIONS!

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