How to get to Poltava

Situated in the very heart of Ukraine, historic Poltava is renowned for its rich cultural traditions and a cozy atmosphere that attracts lovers of history and literature. For those planning how to reach this picturesque city, multiple options are available: thanks to a well-developed transport interchange, it is convenient to arrive by train, bus, or private car. Before travelling to Poltava, it is worth checking the schedule and selecting the optimal route to ensure your journey becomes a comfortable start to exploring the region.

Currently, direct air connections to Poltava are unavailable. The city airport does not serve regular passenger flights, and civil aviation flights in the region are temporarily suspended. Therefore, reaching the city by air is not possible at this time.

Ground transport remains the optimal choice for travellers. A developed network of railways and bus routes allows you to comfortably reach your destination by utilising services from other localities.

Rail transport is one of the most convenient and reliable ways to reach the city. Poltava is a major transport hub, so tickets are usually readily available. The city has two functioning railway stations: Poltava-Kyivska and Poltava-Yuzhna (South), which receive trains from various directions.

Long-distance trains, as well as high-speed "Intercity" and "Intercity+" express trains connecting Kyiv and Kharkiv, regularly pass through the station. Choosing this option allows you to significantly save travel time and enjoy the journey in comfortable conditions. Thanks to a convenient schedule, travellers can easily plan their arrival and immediately set off to explore local attractions.

Bus services connect the region with many major transport hubs, offering travellers a convenient and picturesque alternative to trains. One of the most popular routes runs from neighbouring Kharkiv: comfortable coaches cover the distance of 148 km in approximately 3.5 hours, allowing passengers to enjoy views of the Ukrainian forest-steppe.

There is also steady demand for trips from Dnipro, where the journey of about 219 km takes on average 4.5 hours. Most intercity buses arrive at the central bus station, located within convenient transport accessibility to the main sights and the historic centre.

Travelling by private car is an excellent opportunity to reach Poltava with maximum comfort, independently planning your departure time and stops in picturesque places. The city is located at the intersection of important transport routes, making it convenient to drive here from many regions of Ukraine. The main international highway M-03 passes directly through the city, ensuring quality road surfaces and convenient access.

One of the most popular routes leads from the capital — Kyiv. The distance of about 340 km can be covered in approximately 4–5 hours, enjoying the views along the way. The journey from neighbouring Kharkiv will take even less time: the path of about 150 km along a modern highway usually requires about 2 hours behind the wheel. It is also convenient to travel from Dnipro, located approximately 160 km away; such a trip lasts on average about 3 hours. On all main directions, there are sufficient petrol stations and roadside cafes for a comfortable rest.

Preparing for your trip to Poltava will help avoid minor inconveniences and allow you to focus on exploring the city's rich cultural heritage. We have collected several useful recommendations that will make your stay here as comfortable and pleasant as possible.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: The climate here is temperate continental: summers can be hot, while winters are snowy and cool, so dress according to the weather. For walks in the historic centre, where ancient cobblestones have been preserved, be sure to bring comfortable flat-soled shoes.
2. Urban Transport: It is convenient to move around the city by trolleybuses and fixed-route taxis ("marshrutkas"), the network of which covers all districts. For greater comfort and time-saving, you can use popular mobile apps to hail a taxi — the rates here are quite reasonable.
3. Financial Matters: The national currency is the Hryvnia. Most supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels accept bank cards without issues; however, it is better to always have some small denomination cash with you for paying fares in public transport or buying souvenirs at local markets.
4. Safety and Health: It is not recommended to drink tap water; it is better to buy bottled water in shops. Pharmacies are frequently found in the city, usually marked with a green cross, and many of them operate around the clock.
5. Language Barrier: The official language is Ukrainian, but many residents speak Russian. Difficulties with English may arise outside hotels and popular tourist locations, so having an online translator on your smartphone will be a useful addition.
6. Local Hospitality: The residents of the region are famous for their cordiality and openness. When entering small shops or cafes, it is customary to greet the staff. If you are invited to visit someone's home, it is considered good manners to bring something for tea.
7. What to Avoid: You should not consume alcoholic beverages in public places (parks, squares, on the streets) — this is prohibited by law and may lead to a fine. It is also recommended to refrain from discussing sensitive political topics with people you do not know well.
8. Gastronomic Tip: Being here and not trying the famous Poltava galushki (dumplings) is a real omission. This is the city's main culinary brand, but be prepared for the fact that portions in local establishments serving national cuisine are often very generous.

Observing these simple rules will help you feel confident in Ukraine and enjoy the atmosphere of one of the country's most colourful cities. May your journey proceed easily and leave only warm memories.