Ukraine which is located in Eastern Europe, is home to a number of architectural marvels and a rich history. Be it tombstones or fresco paintings depicting the unsaid truths of history, Ukraine has it all for you. Mykolaiv is a port city in Ukraine which again has a very awe-inspiring history attached to it. You will find a lot of Russian influence in the architecture of Ukrainian buildings due to its proximity to Russia. The city plan of Mykolaiv is so modern that you would doubt if it actually dates back to so many years ago in history. When you visit Europe, make sure you show some love to Ukraine and more so to Mykolaiv. Here is a list of the best things to do in Mykolaiv.

Best Things to Do in Mykolaiv

Visit the Admiralty
Pay respects at Saint Nicholas Cathedral
Appreciate the artwork at V. V. Vereshchagin Mykolaiv Art Museum
Have fun at The Fairytale (Skazka)
Visit the Monument to Shipbuilders
Olbia Archaeological Site
Spend time with four-legged pals at Mykolaiv Zoo
Mykolaiv Observatory

1. Visit the Admiralty

Given that Mykolaiv is a port city, shipment areas are a common sight. The naval complex surrounding is a wonderous place. You should definitely visit it as it is one of the best things to do in Mykolaiv. The Admiralty building is made out of the classic Russian style of architecture and was used as a command centre in the past. Today, it stands tall as the seat of Mykolaiv City Council. Everything right from the entrance to the interiors and the Lenin statue in the complex showcase the richness of Ukrainian history.

Also read: Top attractions to cover in Odesa: Ukraine’s Untold trails.

2. Pay respects at Saint Nicholas Cathedral

When you talk about Eastern Europe, you can imagine a picture of a line of beautiful cathedrals. Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Mykolaiv and its architecture is a sight to behold in Ukraine. Witnessing its beauty and the Fresco paintings is one of the best things to do in Mykolaiv. The construction and history of this Cathedral date back to the early 1800s when Greek merchants had settled here. The blue dome-shaped structure will remind you of the beautiful island of Santorini. Although this church was shut down during the Soviet period, prayer services began again during the Second World War.

3. Appreciate the artwork at V. V. Vereshchagin Mykolaiv Art Museum

Art and history always go hand in hand. You will find depictions of Art History in V. V. Vereshchagin Mykolaiv Art Museum. The museum has been established in memory of Vasily Vereshchagin who was a Russian war artist. Most of his paintings are depictions of the situation that existed during the Russian Revolution. The unique landscapes which are portrayed in Vasily Vereshchagin’s paintings are all associated with the neighbouring countries like China and India. If you are someone who would like to understand history better, a visit to V. V. Vereshchagin Mykolaiv Art Museum would be one of the best things to do in Mykolaiv.

4. Have fun at The Fairytale (Skazka)

Take a break from the history of Mykolaiv. Visit this romantic park and delve into the authentic emotion of Ukraine. The Fairytale (Skazka) sees a lot of youngsters as it is lined with fairy tale inspired structures like castles and Ferris wheels. Take a stroll through memory lane as this is one of the best things to do when you visit the Fairytale (Skazka). The park was built in memory of Mykolaiv’s shipbuilding whose replica has been built at the park. There is also a race track and steam locomotive within the park for kids to have some fun.

Also read: These offbeat destinations in Europe are a must-visit in your next trip

5. Visit the Monument to Shipbuilders

Time and again Mykolaiv has proved that it is probably one of the best shipbuilding complexes not only in Ukraine but in the whole world. The shipbuilders of Ukraine have to be given credit for this and that is why the Monument to Shipbuilders was constructed. It has also found a place in the stamps of Ukraine. You will find a set of 11 bronze coloured statues that represent different people who involve themselves in the process of shipbuilding from the welders to the sailors.

6. Olbia Archaeological Site

Have you heard of the Indus valley civilization? Known to be one of the greatest civilizations ever, it’s city planning has left even the best of archaeologist bewildered. The same is the case with Olbia Archaeological Site in Mykolaiv. If you are an architecture enthusiast, visiting this archaeological site is one of the best things to do in Mykolaiv. The history of the archaeological site dates back to the 7th century when Greek colonists had settled in the area. The site stretches for a sprawling 50 acres and was an important trading point between Greece and Scythia.

Also read: Top things to do in Kharkiv, Ukraine with your loved ones!

7. Spend time with four-legged pals at Mykolaiv Zoo

A visit to the zoo is exciting for anybody. Spending time at the Mykolaiv Zoo is one of the best things to do in Mykolaiv. This will be an ideal activity to take up especially if you have children with you. The zoo is home to almost 500 different species of animals like African elephants, wolves and even polar bears. There is also a farm area located within Mykolaiv Zoo where children under the supervision of their parents can pet the goats and Bactrian Camels. A visit to this zoo will be a welcome change from the history and architecture of Mykolaiv.

8. Mykolaiv Observatory

Space, stars, comets and planets! Learning about our solar system at Mykolaiv Observatory is one of the best things to do in Mykolaiv. The observatory was set up in 1821 and it was one of the first among the lot to be set up in Eastern Europe. To satisfy the astronaut in you, you can have a look at aeronautical objects like astronomical clocks, telescopes, books about the solar system and chronometers. You will also get to see portraits of various space scientists and observers who have contributed immensely to Ukrainian space research. You should definitely add this place as a must-visit place in your Ukraine itinerary.

Also read: Top Attractions to cover in Kiev: The Historic Capital

Feel like packing your bags to Ukraine already? Well, then go ahead and plan your ultimate tour package with Pickyourtrail and brace yourself for the vacation of a lifetime! If you need help with customising your itinerary, you can leave a WhatsApp message to us. Do download the Pickyourtrail app for Android and iOS and receive jaw-dropping deals! Happy holidaying!