The Chernobyl reactor explosion of 1986 has left areas in the North of Ukraine polluted with high levels of radiation, and as such these areas are to be avoided at all costs. There is an exclusion zone around these danger areas and as such it is impossible to accidentally wander into them, but it doesn’t hurt to be wary when around these regions.

Other than this, there are no major safety concerns in Ukraine. Petty theft levels are around the same as other large Western European countries, so normal common sense applies.

Water used for cooking, drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should first be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Fruit and vegetables should be washed and peeled before consumption.

Immunisation against tick-borne encephalitis is recommended if visiting forested areas.