Neighbouring the vast country of Russia, in Eastern Europe, the Ukraine is one of the largest countries in Europe best known for its diverse culture, varied landscapes many old Orthodox churches, Soviet-era buildings, forested mountains and Mediterranean-like Black Sea coastline.

Be sure to sample the country’s iconic dish ‘borscht’, a popular beetroot soup. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking and cycling through the verdant scenery of the Carpathian Mountains and extensive sunflower fields in summer and look forward to curling up in front of a fire during the icy winter.

Explore the ancient capital of Kiev with its golden-domed cathedral, St. Sophia’s and the impressive Pechersk Lavra Monastery complex; discover the Renaissance architecture of one of Europe’s oldest cities, Lviv; and visit the famed Potemkin Stairway in Odessa. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the scenic Crimean Peninsula.