Ukrainian Winter Wonderland: 3 Routes With a Holiday Atmosphere

Winter is a time to slow down, enjoy fragrant mulled wine, and stroll through vibey streets leaning on someone special. In winter, Ukrainian cities resemble Xmas cards: snowy squares, fir-tree markets, bustling ice rinks, and cozy hotels to relax after an intense walk.

The outbreak of a full-scale war has spurred rapid growth in domestic tourism. Aiming to discover the beauty of their homeland, Ukrainians steadily plan short weekend trips.

According to the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine, the number of taxpayers engaged in tourist activities increased by 7% in 2024. Such dynamics indicate a rise in travel demand in Ukraine.

Ribas Hotels Group, a company creating the standard of hospitality in Ukraine for 11+ years, has shared three routes for winter weekends: from the fabulous Carpathians to the ancient Lviv and picturesque Odesa.

Route 1: Bukovel and Carpathians — for Full Recharge

The Carpathians are an absolute favorite of the winter season. Fresh mountain air, skiing, and aromatic herbal tea at the hotel promote an escape from everyday worries and help you regain strength.

“In winter, guests mostly choose the western regions of Ukraine. There are all opportunities for active recreation and full-fledged relaxation,” says Elizaveta Voloshyna, Head of B2C-sales at Ribas Hotels Management.

Where to stay

1. Ribas Karpaty

Ribas Karpaty is the zest of the hotel chain, with its own ski lift just 100 meters away. This is a perfect option for family vacations: while the little ones are playing in the kids’ room under a professional nanny’s supervision, parents can relax in the comfy SPA area.

Guests can savor traditional Ukrainian cuisine in the cozy atmosphere of the hotel’s restaurant. They especially appreciate buffet-style breakfasts. Various dishes and rich flavors provide a boost of energy and impressions for the entire day!

2. WOL.07 by Ribas

This apart-hotel suits both couples and friendly companies. The complex boasts a panoramic SPA center on the roof, which enables one to admire the enchanting view of the forest and mountains, while basking in the outdoor heated pool.

WOL.07 by Ribas is an ideal place for treatment, recovery, and relaxation. The hotel offers direct access to a ski lift and the seventh ski run. Each room features a kitchen for home cooking and a working area for guests who need to dedicate some leisure time to their job.

3. Helios by Ribas

A brilliant choice for those seeking peace and quiet! This hotel is located amidst majestic mountain scenery, away from the resort hustle and bustle. The rooms overlook an ancient forest, and the ski lift sits several minutes away on foot.

Helios by Ribas is perfect for a family vacation. It features all the attributes for a comfortable stay: from an expanded SPA area to a specially equipped kids’ room. Guests can enjoy skiing, sledding, snowboarding, dog sledding, and walks in the woods. The most adventurous ones can even challenge the mountain peaks!

How to plan a winter vacation most favorably?

Planning a trip to the mountains in advance empowers you to spend the saved money on other activities. Guests who aren’t eager to solely commit themselves to the hotel’s amenities can explore the Carpathians from different perspectives:

• Yaremche is an excellent starting point to get acquainted with the mountain culture. The Probiy waterfall, the souvenir market, and the wooden church of the Prophet Elijah are also worth seeing. The flavors of pine needles and mulled wine float in the winter air. The locals cook the hearty cornmeal porridge, “banosh,” on an open fire in the authentic huts called “kolybas.” This saturating dish is a renowned Carpathian hallmark.
• Polіana and Slavske are fabulous destinations for those willing to combine active recreation and local cuisine. Skiing, snowboarding, cheese tasting, and outdoor hot tubs — everything is provided for a brief and intense vacation.
• Bukovel is a modern ski resort running both in the daytime and after dusk. Trails of various complexity, a spa, ice rinks, a food market, and mountain restaurants create the atmosphere of a winter holiday.

Not everyone is excited to go on a mountain trip in winter. Some city kids prefer heartfelt meetings with friends, rambling around ancient streets, and a cup of espresso in a cozy coffee-shop. Lviv and Odesa, different in mood but equally popular winter destinations, are perfect for such trips. 

Route 2: Lviv — Classic of Winter Mood

Cinnamon’s scent, bright storefronts, and the melody of the Christmas market on Rynok Square make Lviv look very hospitable in winter. You can wander along the cobbled streets, warm up in vibey coffee-shops, and watch the snow falling on the church spires.

According to Elizaveta Voloshyna, “guests come from all over Ukraine and even abroad to visit famous establishments, historical monuments, and fairs.” The renovated Ribas Rooms Ferenc Lviv hotel recently opened in the historic center of the city, with improved service standards and an enriched breakfast menu.

Attractions

• Rynok Square is the most famous place in Lviv, where you can feel its heartbeat. In winter, there is a Christmas market, live music, and twinkling garlands on the facades of ancient stone houses. 
• Nearby is Vernissage, a spontaneous flea market where you can find rare antiques, paintings, sculptures, and goods by folk craftsmen.
• The Potocki Castle, the House of Scientists, and Stryi Park are also worth visiting. The latter is the oldest city park in Europe, which looks especially picturesque in winter.
• For gastronomic experiences, visit the “Felix” restaurant, famous for its delicious borscht, or the “Tsukernia” cafe, which tempts with various fragrant desserts.
• For evening gatherings, we recommend the “Didukh” bar with a warm atmosphere and authentic local drinks.
• Remember to take a ride on the Lviv tram to get a local’s perspective.

Route 3: Odesa — Black Sea Off-Season

In winter, the Pearl of the Black Sea (an unofficial Odesa’s name) has a special atmosphere: fewer tourists and more space. Empty beaches give a feeling of weightlessness, and the cold, breathtaking seascapes deeply resonate with one’s emotions. Numerous theater events and gastronomic tours can help warm the soul and body in the absence of the tender Odesa’s sun.

Attractions

• Odesa National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre is an architectural gem, worth seeing at least once in a lifetime.
• After the performance, you can admire the sea beauty, walking along Prymorskyi Boulevard.
• Be sure to visit Park Peremohy, which impresses with its beauty and coziness at all seasons.
• Art lovers should attend thematic lectures by Volodymyr Ostrovsky, held on Saturdays at the Wall Street Business Center.
• The Langeron embankment beckons to take a stroll along the seashore with a cup of hot tea or fragrant mulled wine.
• If the soul craves peace and aesthetics, visit the buffet on the Fountain to savor your favorite dessert while gazing at the astounding sea spaces.
• Monica, Nikos, and Yug restaurants are perfect for warm family gatherings. They serve Italian, Greek, and Mediterranean cuisines, as well as incredible seafood.
• Ester and Roastery perfectly align with fun, friendly meetings. The first is known for Italian and Japanese-American cuisine, and the second — for its hearty burgers.
• Consider Lou-Lou or My Butter to impress your significant other with a romantic candlelit dinner.

Where to stay

The Ribas Duke Hotel Odesa is a five-star upper upscale boutique hotel located opposite the Opera and Ballet Theater. It is perfect for picky guests eager to immerse themselves in the historical center of Odesa. You can overhear the sounds of daytime rehearsals from the rooms, and in the evening, enjoy performances and delicacies in prestigious restaurants.

Just a few minutes walk takes you to Derybasivska Street and Prymorskyi Boulevard. The hotel is famous throughout Odesa for its elegant design, exquisite cuisine, and varied buffet-style breakfasts. It has everything you need for a perfect winter weekend!

Elizaveta Voloshina shares that a special program will await the guests of the Ribas Duke Hotel Odesa on New Year’s Eve, which attracts even locals. “This is a splendid opportunity to spend a festive night in a safe, lush atmosphere and stay at the hotel after the party,” she adds.

Ribas Hotels Group: Service, Development, and Caring for Guests 

Ribas Hotels Group maintains high service standards in all regions of Ukraine.

“We aim to take care of every guest, even the smallest and fluffiest ones. We make every effort to ensure each trip with Ribas is filled with comfort and warmth,” notes Elizaveta Voloshyna.

Despite the challenges of the war, the Ukrainian hospitality industry is steadily recovering. According to developers, Ribas Hotels Group plans to launch new projects in various regions of Ukraine in late 2025–2026. Investors are confident in the potential of domestic tourism and are ready to develop quality service in this challenging time.

Elizaveta Voloshina emphasizes: “All hotels in the Ribas chain are autonomous: equipped with generators, stable internet, water supply, and have shelters — directly in the hotel or within walking distance. We understand that comfort today is primarily safety.”

She also commented on the issue of inclusivity: “We started re-equipping hotels from the beginning of the full-scale invasion to provide guests with disabilities with comfortable conditions. Some of the facilities have been adapted by now, and we are constantly working on others so that every guest feels comfortable and confident.”

Ribas Hotels Group will proceed to develop the hotel network in the most interesting Ukrainian locations — from the Carpathians to the Black Sea coastline. Everyone can choose the preferable vacation format: family trip, romantic weekend, or blissful solitude retreat.

If you haven’t planned a winter trip yet, it’s time to do so to feel the Ukrainian winter to the fullest.