What To Do In Lviv: Tourist & Cultural Insights
Lviv is for many people the first stop in Ukraine. It has a rich history and lovely charming streets. But there is much more than just the few streets around the main square! Get inspired by my personal tips, what others say and some hidden gems!
Lviv is a city where history meets creativity, and where every corner hides a new surprise. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, there’s plenty to discover beyond the usual tourist spots.
Wander the Old Town
Start with the heart of Lviv, the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Cobblestone streets, pastel facades, and charming courtyards make it perfect for getting lost in. Don’t miss Rynok Square, the Town Hall Tower (you can climb it for a great view), and the Latin Cathedral.
Dive into Lviv’s Coffee Culture
Lviv takes its coffee seriously. From underground cafés like Lviv Coffee Mining Manufacture to hip third-wave spots, the coffee scene is both traditional and modern. Try a “Lviv-style” coffee, often flambéed or spiced.
Visit Local Museums
The Lviv Historical Museum gives a broad view of the city’s past. The Pharmacy Museum and the Museum of Folk Architecture (Shevchenkivskyi Hai) offer more niche experiences. For something contemporary, check out the Lviv Municipal Art Center or Dzyga Gallery.
Catch a Performance
The Lviv Opera House is a cultural gem. You can attend world-class ballet and opera for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere. Book online or get tickets directly at the box office.
Explore Hidden Courtyards and Rooftops
Lviv is full of hidden spots. Rooftop bars like House of Legends give a fun overview of the city. Inner courtyards often hide cozy restaurants, galleries or craft shops.
Experience Local Markets
Visit the Vernissage Market near the Opera House for handmade souvenirs. For a glimpse of local life, head to Krakivskyi Rynok to explore produce stalls and everyday essentials.
Festivals and Street Culture
Depending on the season, you might catch jazz concerts, street food festivals, classical music events or craft fairs. Lviv’s event calendar is packed throughout the year, especially in warmer months.
Get to Know the Local Identity
What makes Lviv unique is its blend of Ukrainian heritage with Central European influence. You’ll notice it in the architecture, food, language mix, and hospitality. Many locals speak Ukrainian, but English is increasingly common, especially among younger people and in the hospitality sector.
Volunteering in Lviv
Get Involved
Want to volunteer here in the city? Find out where to go! Here you find a list of places that I personally know and support. There is some explanation about what they do and how to support them!
Articles
Articles about my experiences as volunteer in Lviv during the war.
Discover Lviv
Places I Personally Like
Places to Eat
Deruni (Деруни)
A cosy Ukrainian restaurant with lots of traditional dishes. Their specialty is, of course, deruny — crispy potato pancakes. Hearty and affordable.
Teplyy P’yets (Теплий П’єц)
A lively pizza spot with industrial decor and creative toppings. Great for casual dinners or group meetups.
Akhali (Ахалі)
Modern Georgian cuisine done right. Think khinkali dumplings, cheese-filled khachapuri and grilled meats full of flavor.
Zashkvarka (Зашкварка)
Trendy but still very affordable. This spot offers creatively presented dishes with a modern take on local ingredients. Popular with locals.
Atlas (Атлас)
Right on Rynok Square, Atlas is a Lviv classic. Perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner, with good coffee and a charming historic atmosphere.
Khinkalnya on Fedorovycha (Хінкальня на Федоровича)
A casual Georgian eatery known for their juicy dumplings. Quick service, decent prices.
Kryivka (Криївка)
Yes, it’s touristy, but worth a visit. Enter with a secret password and enjoy Ukrainian dishes in a bunker-style setting with wartime decor.
Ramen Mo (Рамен Мо)
A no-fuss noodle bar, but easily one of the best ramen spots in the city. Simple menu, great broth.
Bars and Cafés in Lviv
Tsehla (Цегла)
Student bar with a small drinks menu, lots of atmosphere and a very international crowd. A popular hangout for expats and volunteers.
Korzo (Корзо)
Not many beers on tap, but a reliable bar for mixed drinks, chill vibes and live football on TV. Another good spot to meet fellow internationals.
Dobryy Druh 2 & 3 (Добрий Друг 2 & 3)
Relaxed local pubs with cheap drinks and an unpretentious crowd. Great for winding down.
Pyana Vyshnya (П’яна Вишня)
The go-to place for a quick cherry liqueur shot. Always standing room only, and always worth a short visit.
Zelenyy Zmiy (Зелений Змій)
A quirky bar designed like an old apothecary. Green beers and unusual shots are their specialty.
Dzyga (Дзиґа)
A café, gallery and cultural space all in one. Artistic vibe and interesting people.
Tsikava (Цікава)
Minimalist coffee bar with a strong espresso game and relaxed vibe. A solid place to work or read.
Svit Kavy (Світ Кави)
A local coffee institution with multiple locations. Known for its variety of beans and traditional Lviv-style coffee.
Kredens (Креденс)
Reliable and calm chain café. Great for a quiet break or a quick caffeine fix.
Aroma Kava (Арома Кава)
Budget coffee-to-go, with plenty of locations around the city. Fast and easy.