As seems the norm with former Soviet nations, the general consensus on Ukraine is that it is a grey, dull and lifeless country. Shockingly enough, this just isn’t true. The country is home to some absolutely stunning natural and man made attractions, spread throughout the land, and the incredibly friendly natives make it an ideal place for tourists.

The capital city of Kiev (also known as Kyiv) is an obvious starting point – the birthplace of modern Ukraine, Russia and Belarus is also one of the largest cities of any of the CIS countries and full of attractions for all who visit. One of the most visited places in the city is the Caves Monastery, headquarters of the pro-Russian Orthodox Church and home to winding catacombs filled with numerous church relics. Those who are afraid of the dark need not fret, as there are various other attractions to see in the open; the Museum of Ukrainian Art; the Golden Gate of Kyiv; Independence Square and the Dnieper River are just some things available to see.

Elsewhere in the country the attractions don’t let up, with the city of Lviv – the centre of Ukrainian national culture and one of the oldest cities in Europe – offering the City Castle, the National Museum and the Market Square of the old city amongst others. Odessa shows visitors an odd mix, with a seaside holiday resort mixed closely with a polluted industrial sector and a history of revolution. The Crimea is an ever-popular region of Ukraine, with the many seaside resorts proving popular with Kremlin leaders of the past and now proving just as popular with tourists – the most popular Crimean city, Yalta, is home to property prices higher than those in Kiev as well as numerous attractions and historical sights.

Ukraine offers something for everyone, with a vibrant and exciting nightlife of clubs, bars, theatres, operas and other performances, along with good quality restaurants and fine wines. Numerous activities can be undertaken, from going skiing to watching the national sport of football – it all ensures that a visit to the country certainly won’t be boring.