Kharkiv, Ukraine: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Kharkiv, Ukraine? If you're planning to go to Kharkiv, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kharkiv, Ukraine

Based on the climate and weather in Kharkiv, Ukraine, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kharkiv, Ukraine

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kharkiv, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Kharkiv, Ukraine by month

January

January in Kharkiv can be extremely cold, very snowy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. It also snows about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in this region is freezing and very snowy. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains regularly and snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Kharkiv is cold and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. It also snows 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you visit Kharkiv during April, you will probably notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

In May, Kharkiv is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Kharkiv, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you are traveling to Kharkiv in June, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you are traveling to Kharkiv in July, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

Traveling to Kharkiv in September, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October is cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

In November, Kharkiv can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Kharkiv, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

Traveling to Kharkiv in December, you will notice that it is freezing, very snowy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ukraine has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kharkiv. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Choral Synagogue:

If you go to Sviatohirs'k, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Kharkiv, Ukraine

Kharkiv is one of the most vibrant cities in Ukraine, featuring an assortment of cultural and historical landmarks that contribute towards its tourism industry. The city, which is located in the eastern part of the country, attracts thousands of tourists from across the globe who come to admire its authentic architecture, natural landscapes, diverse traditions, and friendly locals. Here is a list of some of the top tourist attractions in Kharkiv.

Freedom Square

Also known as Maidan Svobody or Square of Liberty, it is the largest square in Ukraine and one of the most significant landmarks in Kharkiv. The square was initially built in the 19th century and renovated several times due to damages caused by World War 2. Freedom Square is characterized by impressive fountains, green parks, sculptures, and elegant historic buildings such as the University Building, city hall, and the Gosprom building. The Square is also famous for hosting concerts, cultural events, and rallies, making it one of the most versatile spots in town.

Kharkiv Historical Museum

The Kharkiv Historical Museum is a fascinating place to explore, especially if you’re interested in ancient Ukrainian history. It houses comprehensive exhibits that tell the story of Kharkiv’s evolution from a small village into a bustling metropolis. The museum covers various topics such as prehistoric times, the Cossack era, the industrial revolution, and the Ukrainian revolution of 1917. Some of the most impressive items on display include traditional folk costumes, Tsarist-era antique furniture, swords, and other historical artifacts.

The Derzhprom Building

Derzhprom building, also known as the State Industry Building, is a must-see attraction for tourists interested in Kharkiv’s architecture and grandeur. The building was constructed in 1926 and designed to house various government ministries and institutions. The building has sixteen floors, making it one of the tallest buildings in Soviet Ukraine at the time of its construction. The structure features bold lines, a neoclassical design, and an impressive facade.

Shevchenko Park

Shevchenko Park, a large and expansive park in the city center, is an excellent spot to relax and unwind with family or friends. It’s named after Taras Shevchenko, an iconic Ukrainian poet, and painter. The park is characterized by serene water fountains, winding footpaths, verdant green spaces, and refreshing recreational facilities such as an amusement park, a football field, and a cycling track. You can also enjoy boat rentals to explore the river, which runs through the park.

Conclusion

The listed tourist attractions are just a small selection of what Kharkiv has to offer. Other exciting sights and sounds include the Annunciation Cathedral, Gorky Central Park, and the Botanical Garden. Visitors to Kharkiv can also take pleasure in its fantastic food and drinks, notably Kharkiv beer and the traditional dish of varenyky. Ukraine’s unique customs, architecture, and a vast cultural landscape ensure that this city is a captivating destination. With so much to see and do in Kharkiv, it is no surprise that it draws a significant flow of tourists every year.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Southeast Bengal, India, Maggie Valley, North Carolina, United States of America, Bad Gottleuba-Berggießhübel, Germany, Stornoway, Scotland, United Kingdom, Yala, Thailand, Blois, France, Peoria, Illinois, United States of America, Banbury, England, United Kingdom, Arujá, São Paulo, Brazil, Putrajaya, Malaysia, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.