Most travelers begin in the historical capital city of Kiev, arguably one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, where the ancient streets, striking architecture, stunning scenery, and wealth of cultural and religious sights make it one of the most fascinating places to explore.

The early capital of Old Rus is also enriched with monuments such as the grandiose St Sophia's Cathedral, famous for its 11th-century mosaics and frescoes, and the Cave Monastery, the holy center of the early Orthodox Church.

The Carpathian Mountains draw skiers and hikers year-round, and the region is also popular for its restorative spas and historic sites. Gateway to the mountains is the city of Lviv, one of the main cultural centers of the country and a delight to explore with its medieval old town and distinctive architecture.

The harbor town of Odessa, known as the 'Pearl of the Black Sea', is an established tourist destination that also serves as the gateway to many of the famous Black Sea resorts, and is a fascinating city with a wonderful mixture of cultures and historical architecture.

With things looking up for a country that is beginning to loosen its ties with Russia and forge new ones with the EU and NATO, Ukraine is a destination worth considering for its history and culture alone.

From the Word Travels destination guide to Ukraine copyright Globe Media 2011