Recent political, territorial and economic difficulties have done little to burnish the image of a former Soviet nation struggling to find its identity between Russian and western European influences.
Nevertheless, Ukraine is home to a host of beautiful places with a great range of tourist activities. And while some regions are advised as off-limits due to separatist clashes, most of this vast country is open for business.
Vibrant cities, ancient castles, stunning countryside, diversity of landscapes and a welcoming attitude all help make it a special destination, regardless of its troubles.
The lack of mass tourism lends Ukraine a charm and authenticity often missing elsewhere.
Here are 11 places that will make you fall in love with this eastern European country.
Lviv
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Seen as Ukraine's cultural capital, Lviv has the most western architecture of all the country's cities.
It boasts a splendid UNESCO-protected Old Town renowned for beautiful narrow streets, magnificent churches, fascinating museums and charming atmosphere.
It's cozy and welcoming, offering a wide range of themed restaurants, cool bars and great nightlife.
No matter the season, it's popular with Ukrainians who come here for a weekend to feel the Old Town vibes.
Ukraine extra: Lviv is famous for its knaipas -- local pubs that serve drinks and food. One of the most curious ones is Gasova Lampa (Gas Lamp) -- a museum-restaurant with one of the biggest collection of gas lamps in Europe. (Gasova Lampa, 20 Virmenska St, Lviv; Ukraine; +380 50 371 0908).
As a day trip from Lviv, visitors can follow the Golden Horseshoe route: a tourist trail around the most prominent regional castles -- Olesko Castle, Zolochiv Castle and Pidhirtsi Castle.
Chernivtsi
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Nicknamed Little Vienna for the rich Austro-Hungarian architectural heritage, Chernivtsi is one of the gems of western Ukraine.
There's the stunning UNESCO-protected building of Chernivtsi University, romantic walks and charming Vienna-style cafes.
Lovers of Art Nouveau architecture can explore the elegant frescoes and beautiful interiors of the Chernivtsi Museum of Art (Teatralna Square, 10, Chernivtsi; +380 3722 26071).
With a history of multiculturalism and constantly changing jurisdictions, the city is one of the most interesting destinations in the country.
Ukraine extra: One of the best coffee shops in the city is the charming Chashka (Stepana Bandery St, 9, Chernivtsi, Ukraine; +380 50 972 8888).
Sofiyivsky Park in Uman
Photo: Alexxx Malev/Flickr.
One of the most prominent examples of European gardening design dating back to the early 19th century, Sofiyivsky Park is a unique Ukrainian natural attraction.
It was founded by Polish noble Stanisław Potocki as a birthday gift to his wife Sofia.
The extensive park is home to waterfalls, lakes, statues, fountains, antique grottoes and artificial ruins, and is a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing walk surrounded by natural beauty.
Ukraine extra: Another picturesque example of 18th-century landscape design is Olexandriya Park in Bila Tserkva, a small town near Kiev.