Lviv is like an open-air museum, dotted with historic buildings, monuments and architectural masterpieces. You can explore Ukraine’s vibrant cultural heritage in an array of attractions within this UNESCO-listed city, from engaging museums and ornate palaces to an opera and ballet theatre.

Things to do

Start your holiday in Lviv at Market Square in the city center, where you’ll find the iconic Town Hall. Climb 400 steps up to the top of the Town Hall to admire panoramic views of the ancient city, which incorporate many of its biggest landmarks.

You’ll find another stunning view of Lviv at the High Castle Hill at sunset, where the vistas sprawl from the top of the 413-meter-high summit. For an indoor activity, tour the lavish Potocki Palace, which is adorned with Louis XVI stucco molding, gilding and colored marble and features European paintings from the European Art Museum.

Marvel at the 17th-century Baroque ceiling paintings in the Bernardine Church, then explore the complex of Rococo-style buildings at the UNESCO-listed Saint George’s Cathedral. Stop by the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption to see its beautiful 700-year-old frescoes dedicated to the city of Lviv.

For a dose of culture, attend a live performance at the Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet. Marvel at its 19th-century Viennese Renaissance architecture and decorative paintings, then step inside for an evening of cultural entertainment.

Getting around

You can reach Lviv by flying into Lviv Danylo Halytskyi International Airport, located six kilometers away, while high-speed trains and buses travel from nearby cities. Lviv is serviced by taxis and an extensive tram and bus network.