Short Trips and Long Routes: How to Travel Across Ukraine at the End of the Year

The end of the year traditionally changes the rhythm of travel. Some people plan long-distance routes, others opt for short weekend getaways, while some simply want to see a city from a different perspective. Domestic tourism in Ukraine is gradually shifting toward a flexible travel format — without rigid plans, but with a clear desire to change the scenery.
During this period, major cities and popular destinations become especially appealing. They combine convenient logistics, a vibrant event atmosphere, and the opportunity to gain new experiences without long journeys.

Kyiv as a Starting Point for Winter Discoveries

Kyiv in winter is not only the center of urban life but also a starting point for many short trips. Beyond traditional routes, more and more people are paying attention to seasonal locations near the capital. One such destination is Dobropark, which transforms at the end of the year into a festive space for walks and leisure.
Before the New Year, light installations, themed areas, and decorative elements appear here, creating a true winter fairy-tale atmosphere. This is a type of trip that requires minimal preparation: head out for half a day, take a walk, capture some photos, and return to the city in a completely different mood.

Preparation is especially important for such trips, particularly when it involves guided walking routes or travel outside the city. A well-planned itinerary, a fully charged phone, navigation tools, and a camera at hand allow travelers to focus on experiences rather than details. That’s why many people order an iPhone 17 in Kyiv in advance — not as a novelty for its own sake, but as a practical tool for photography, navigation, and preserving travel moments.

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Long Routes Without Extra Costs

In addition to short getaways, the end of the year is also a great time for longer journeys. A program allowing travelers to cover up to 3,000 kilometers by train free of charge has become especially relevant. For many, this is an opportunity to discover new cities or visit regions they previously postponed due to ticket costs.
This travel format changes the approach to planning. People are more willing to experiment with routes, combine several cities in one trip, and avoid being tied to a single destination. The train becomes not just a means of transportation, but an integral part of the journey itself.
Along the way, there is time for observation, note-taking, photo editing, or planning the next stops. These moments often remain behind the scenes, yet they shape the overall travel experience.

Travel as a Way to Change the Pace

Modern tourism is increasingly less about “seeing everything” and more about “feeling the moment.” Whether it’s a few-hour trip to Dobropark or a journey covering hundreds of kilometers by rail, the process itself becomes what matters — the road, pauses, and spontaneous decisions.
The end of the year only amplifies this feeling. Cities glow differently, landscapes transform, and travel becomes a way to reset. And while transportation, routes, and technology may not be at the forefront of these stories, they are exactly what makes such journeys possible.