Ukraine has become a magnet for military tourism: how to organise such a tour?
War tourism is not just about travelling, it is about understanding, empathy and solidarity. Each such visit is a small contribution to global support for Ukraine, an opportunity to hear true stories and become part of the great history of resistance. Find out more about why military tourism in Ukraine has become popular among foreigners and how to book such a tour
Ukraine has become the focus of European attention, not only as it defends its borders but also as an unexpected tourist destination for thrill-seekers and truth-seekers. Every year, more and more foreigners come to the country to see the realities of war with their own eyes, touch history and support Ukrainians.
The article below explains how war tourism is turning into a powerful tool for communication and solidarity, and why foreigners are increasingly coming to Ukraine to visit places where heavy fighting took place.
Read more about why foreign tourists come to Ukraine during the war here.
Military tourism in Ukraine: popularity among foreigners continues to grow
The phenomenon of military tourism in Ukraine is gaining momentum. According to the RFI portal, dozens of foreigners come to the country every month, willing to pay 150 to 250 euros for excursions to places of military glory.
Travellers want to feel the authenticity of the moment, see the scale of the destruction and realise the heroism of the Ukrainian people. For many, this is not just tourism, but an opportunity to personally touch global history.
For example, Australian traveller Gaby Mimovich, who came to Ukraine with Visit Ukraine, travelled thousands of kilometres to see the country in its most difficult period.
Nine years ago, Gebi first tried to come to Ukraine, but each time her plans were disrupted due to various circumstances. In 2023, she decided to make her dream come true, even in the face of the war.
Fascinated by Ukraine's unique history and architecture, Gebi travelled to nine tourist destinations. She visited Lviv, Kyiv, the de-occupied towns of the Kyiv region and Odesa. For her, Ukraine was a revelation - a country of incredible resilience, beauty and deep cultural heritage.
Watch the full video interview with Gebi Mimovic on our YouTube channel. The impressive facts shared with us by our tourist will definitely not leave you indifferent!
However, Gebi is not the only one who has travelled thousands of kilometres to see Ukraine with her own eyes. Jim Nathanson, 78, from Dayton, Ohio, USA, visited Ukraine on the eve of Independence Day. We tell you how his trip went and what impressions Ukraine left behind.
It is important to understand that such tourism is not just about adrenaline and exoticism. A portion of the proceeds from the tours are directly directed to support the Ukrainian military, turning the trip into an act of solidarity.
Of course, this type of tourism evokes mixed emotions. Local residents have different attitudes towards visitors: some consider it an exploitation of human grief, while others understand the economic and informational value of such visits. Mykhailyna Skoryk-Shkarivska, a member of the Irpin City Council, notes that despite the criticism, such tourism can become an important tool for communication and support for Ukraine.
For those planning such a tour, it is important to follow simple rules: choose legitimate travel companies, respect local residents, and be prepared for surprises and discomfort. Professional guides will help you not only move around safely but also understand the context of the events.
Recent events have made the world talk about how the US and Americans are tired of the war and are reducing their support for Ukraine. But is this really the case? We will tell you how US citizens help Ukraine by personally visiting the country during the war.
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Where to book a tour of Ukraine's places of military glory?
For those who want to better understand the Ukrainian reality and support the country, Visit Ukraine offers unique travel routes that go far beyond the usual tourism. Travellers can choose from a variety of travel formats, each of which reveals the incredible story of Ukrainian resistance and revival.
We understand that travelling to Ukraine is not just about tourism. It is a conscious choice of travellers who want to see the truth, support the country and feel the spirit of true history.
That is why it is important to prepare for possible risks during your stay in Ukraine. The insurance policy for safe travelling in Ukraine from Visit Ukraine covers military risks and provides financial support in case of emergencies. Take out insurance now and turn potential risks into opportunities for a safe and unforgettable trip.
Donation tours
Donation tours deserve special attention as they are not just a tour, but a real mission to support the affected regions. A donation tour to the Hero City of Mykolaiv allows foreigners to see first-hand the scale of the challenges that local residents have faced. Each participant has a unique opportunity to volunteer, help and contribute to the country's revival.
Tours of de-occupied cities
Tours of the de-occupied cities is a special travel format that reveals the heroic page of the Ukrainian resistance. Travellers have the opportunity to visit places of military glory, touch the history of resistance and honour the memory of heroes. Each such tour is not just an excursion, but a deep immersion into the modern Ukrainian reality.
The Visit Ukraine portal offers a wide range of different tours of de-occupied cities:
- Individual tour across Ukraine;
- Kyiv region + Chernihiv escort;
- Kyiv + escort to the de-occupied cities;
- Escort by de-occupied cities;
Special attention should be paid to the tour ‘Ukraine - From West to East’, which allows you to drive through the famous sights of the country in five days and see its true face. From charming Lviv to indomitable Kharkiv. Tourists can trace the entire spectrum of Ukrainian life: from Western architecture to Eastern resilience. This route is not just a journey, but a real story about the strength of spirit and indomitable people.
To learn more about the difference between military tours and donation tours to Ukraine, please follow this link.
It is worth noting that all these tours are more than a tourist product. It is an opportunity to personally witness history, support Ukrainian communities and understand the deeper meaning of the struggle for freedom.
Important! To book or find out more about the tours, please contact our managers: WhatsApp/Telegram. Tours are conducted in Ukrainian or English to choose from. All routes are completely safe.
Just a reminder! The President of Ukraine has identified 10 cities that have been awarded the ‘Hero City of Ukraine’ title. Each of them fought for independence, defended their homes and people. Each of them lost lives and gained freedom. Read more about the Hero Cities of Ukraine, their peculiarities and what you need to know about these symbols of invincibility here.
Photo: Freepik
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine:
Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;
Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;
Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;
Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;
Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;
Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;
Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
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Häufig
gestellte Fragen
Ist Lemberg jetzt sicher für Touristen?
Welche Empfehlungen sollten Ausländer bei Reisen in die Ukraine beachten?
Gibt es in der Ukraine einen Tourismus?
Ist Kiew jetzt sicher?
Welches sind die beliebtesten Reiseziele in den Karpaten?
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