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Zaporizhia and the Island of Khortytsia

If you've never heard of Zaporizhia, then you are not alone.

Zaporizhia is considered to be an industrial city for the reason that it has many enterprises. However, it is not the only thing that this city is famous for.

Zaporizhia is located in the southeast of Ukraine, on the banks of the Dnieper River. This is the sixth largest city in Ukraine, framed by impressive Stalinist architecture.

The gem of the city is the largest island of Khortytsia on the Dnieper that is known not for its size, but for its history. The island which was the homeland of Zaporizhian Cossacks is filled with mysterious and fascinating myths and legends. 

Today, Khortytsia Island is a National Reserve with unique flora and fauna, a large number of ravines called "balka" and spectacular hiking routes. There are nice beaches, pagan sanctuaries, and the reconstruction of Zaporizhian Sich on the island. Khortytsia is a very popular recreational area among both kids and adults. Here, from the hills of the river you can admire beautiful views at the Dnieper Hydroelectric Station, which was considered to be one of the biggest achievements of Soviet industrialization programs. 

You will definitely get a lot of positive emotions and unforgettable memories, if you visit the Theatre of Horse Riding “Zaporozhian Cossacks”, located in the southeast part of the island.  Wearing traditional Cossack costumes, the actors of this folklore-ethnographic ensemble perform breathtaking acrobatic exercises with stunts on horseback. The horse riding school gives an opportunity to take some lessons and explore the beauty of the island riding with a guide. 

When it comes to food and drink, it's pretty good and pretty cheap in Zaporizhia. There are plenty of wonderful places to go that don't cost a lot. You will surely find the city to be a fun and budget-friendly destination.

Here are some options for you to consider: If you are looking for delicious food, a glass of wine and cozy atmosphere, Villa Oliva restaurant is a perfect place for you. But if you are a beer lover, you can enjoy tasty beer at Pinta Trattoria and Pub, made by its own brewery. 

 

So, if you can find a cheap flight and are looking for a nice and cheap place to spend a few days, then Zaporizhia is worth a visit.

 

Budget Travel Tips:

Hostel per night: $6

Hotel per night: $15

Food per day: $15

 

How to get to Zaporizhia:

Direct flight from Kyiv, 1 hour

Train from Kyiv (InterCity), 7 hours

 

If you’re planning a trip to Zaporizhia and Khortytsia Island, we would love to show you around in person. Book a tour with a local guide in Zaporizhia

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