Kamianets-Podilskyi is a fairy tale-esque city on the Smotrych River, centred around a medieval castle and dotted with centuries-old structures. The Heritage-listed city contains some of Ukraine’s most mesmerising churches, along with iconic monuments, riverside parks and a charming downtown shopping and dining neighbourhood.
Things to do in Kamianets-Podilskyi
Start your exploration of Kamianets-Podilskyi at the towering Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle, a former Ruthenian-Lithuanian castle that dates back to the 1300s. You can still see seven of the 12 original fortification towers, along with the 88-metre-long castle bridge and the fortification walls. Don’t forget about visiting the Pottery Workshop, housed within the castle, where a local pottery expert crafts beautiful jugs and glasses.
Back near the centre of town you’ll find a wealth of centuries-old churches, including magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which boasts a prominent gilded dome and whitewashed exterior. Afterwards, head over to the nearby Holy Trinity Church to admire its late-16th-century-style architecture and frescoed interior.
Need some retail therapy? Venture into the heart of Kamianets-Podilskyi to shop at local boutiques, including Mahnit for cosmetics, Karen for clothing and Foxtrot for electronics. The shops are interspersed with inviting eateries, including Music Hall, which serves delicious burgers and cocktails, and Madame Boucher, which is known for its sweet desserts.
When you need to rest your legs, head to City Park to relax on sprawling lawns by the Smotrych River. The park is also home to a large water fountain and statues. Alternatively, head to Hunski Krynytsi Square to let the kids run wild on the playground or see the Stone Love Cana monument.
Getting around Kamianets-Podilskyi
Kamianets-Podilskyi is well-connected to neighbouring cities via regular long-distance buses from Lviv and Kiev, as well as a train service from Kiev. You can walk around certain areas or use the local buses and taxis to cover longer distances.