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Known as the “City of Ships”, Mykolaiv rests on the Southern Bug River and has a rich shipbuilding history dating back to the 18th century. The Ukrainian city boasts wide tree-lined boulevards, elegant architecture and an abundance of greenery.

Things to do

Encounter rare and wonderful species at Mykolaiv Zoo, from mammals and amphibians to reptiles and creepy crawlies. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the leafy gardens and wander through the exciting exhibits where you can observe tigers, lions, elephants and even a family of polar bears.

Immerse yourself in maritime history at the Mykolaiv Shipbuilding and Fleet Museum. Housed in a grand 17th-century Russian Classicism building, the museum preserves the story of the Black Sea Fleet and features model tall ships, world maps, navigation devices and cannons.

Do you love uncovering local history? Explore over 400,000 treasures at the Mykolaiv Regional Museum of Local History. Marvel at archaeological finds from the late Paleolithic period to the Middle Ages, including Scythian and Sarmatian weapons, then marvel at the precious porcelain and embellished garments.

Admire the handsome redbrick facade of the Roman Catholic Church of St. Joseph, before discovering the impressive frescos inside. Afterward, treat yourself to a traditional Ukrainian meal at the Daily Cafe. Sample a typical Borscht soup with garlic fritters, followed by Ukraine's most famous dish, a chicken kiev, paired with a local chardonnay from Radsad Winery.

Getting around

Mykoliav is a two-hour drive or a 3.5-hour bus from Odessa International Airport. Coaches and trains arrive from most major cities within Eastern Europe. Buses, trams, taxis and boats make exploring the city easy.