Kharkiv is Ukraine’s second-largest city. It is not as popular as Kyiv or Lviv, but it is for those who enjoy the path less traveled. Experience the real Ukrainian spirit without any external influences, in Kharkiv. But before you go, ensure your health and finances are protected with travel medical insurance or travel insurance.
Kharkiv Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Kharkiv is big and unexplored. Thanks to its off-the-map beauty and culture, it is a wayfarer’s paradise. But for support in case of medical emergencies during your exploration period, travel medical insurance is your best friend.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Kharkiv?
It is legally mandatory to have travel medical insurance to enter Kharkiv, or any other part of Ukraine. This insurance must cover COVID-19 just like any other new illness that occurs after the effective date of the policy.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Kharkiv?
The public healthcare system in Kharkiv is inadequate. You may have to travel to Kyiv in case of a major medical emergency, and the private sector is extremely expensive. You need the support of travel medical insurance to shield you from unaffordable medical bills.
Kharkiv Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Be a safe traveler and buy trip cancellation insurance. There are several reasons why your trip to Ukraine can be cancelled: war, political issues, terrorism, bad weather, or even personal emergencies. But there is no reason why all your money and pre-paid bookings should go to waste.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Kharkiv?
You will face a great financial loss if your trip to Ukraine gets cancelled. This includes your payments for flight tickets, your stay and amenities. Trip cancellation insurance can cover many of these, depending on which policy you choose. You want this safety net while planning your trip to Kharkiv.
What can be covered under trip cancellation insurance for Kharkiv?
In addition to coverage for trip cancellation due to a covered reason, your Kharkiv travel insurance should also provide coverage for:
- Travel delay
- Trip interruption
- Baggage loss
- Emergency medical treatment
- The option to cancel for any reason, with some plans
Things To Do for Travelers in Kharkiv
The best time to travel to Kharkiv is from June to September. Tourists hardly ever visit this hidden gem, so you will be able to enjoy a leisurely Ukrainian summer without getting overwhelmed. Kharkiv has many Orthodox churches, unique metro stations, and beautiful parks waiting to be explored.
Here are some noteworthy things to do in Kharkiv:
Churches and Cathedrals
Allow the churches of Kharkiv to transport you to a different time. Annunciation Cathedral, Temple of the Myrrh-Bearers, Assumption Cathedral, Three Saints Church, and the Potrovsky Cathedrals are all must-visits.
The Metros
Kharkiv has the most beautiful metro stations in the world. They are intricately designed and are a matter of pride for Ukraine. Peremoha, Serpnia, Botanichnyi Sad, Pushkinska, and Kyivska are some of the really stunning ones.
Fine Arts Museum
This is a classic Soviet-style museum filled with art pieces by the greats such as Picasso, Dali, Chagall, and also by famous Russian artists. A must-see when in Kharkiv.
Kharkiv Zoo
This is the oldest zoo in the whole of Ukraine, in the heart of Kharkiv City, right next to Shevchenko Park. It is home to 6,810 animals, out of which 103 are considered rare and are under protection, such as the northern Lynx and the Cuban Boa.
Local Cuisine
Borsch soup, made of beetroot; Vareniki, a type of ravioli or dumpling; and Pyrih, a meat pie are some popular Ukrainian dishes to try in Kharkiv. Sloboda, Chekov, and Dubrovskiy are some famous local restaurants.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Kharkiv
Kharkiv is usually safe for visitors in peacetime. But like every big city, it is high on petty crime. Keep your eyes peeled for the following:
Pickpocketing
Pickpockets are a serious issue in Kharkiv. Public transport is one of their main operational areas.
Scams
Scamming is also an issue in Kharkiv. You should be careful on dating sites and in restaurants and bars. People are often catfished and robbed in Kharkiv. Credit card scams are also prevalent.
Terrorism and Insurgency
Donetsk and Luhansk are cities on the outskirts of Kharkiv and are considered dangerous because of their armed conflicts. Foreigners have been threatened, detained, and kidnapped in and around these regions.
Natural disasters
Kharkiv, much like all of Ukraine, is prone to river floods and harsh winters.
Armed Conflict
Ukraine has been in a state of war with Russia since early 2022, and fighting has occurred throughout the country. If you choose to travel to Ukraine, understand the risks. Make sure you are well-versed in your understanding of war and trip cancellation coverage prior to deciding to book a trip to Ukraine. Note that war is typically not a covered reason for trip cancellation by most travel insurance policies.
Before You Travel to Kharkiv - Do This
There are several important things to keep in mind before traveling to Kharkiv. They are:
Understand the Risks
Ukraine is currently at war with Russia. Traveling to Ukraine can be extremely dangerous due to the ongoing conflict. Make sure you understand the risk you are taking by traveling to what could be an active warzone.
Vaccines
Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before traveling to Kharkiv. This includes Chickenpox, Hepatitis B, Measles, and Polio.
Buy Insurance
To ensure you are doing your part to protect your finances from the uncertainties of international travel, do not go without travel medical insurance or travel insurance.