About Place
- Sumy is often described as "a hidden gem" and "a serene escape" by visitors, known for its peaceful atmosphere.
- The city is renowned for its green parks, historical buildings, and laid-back ambiance, offering a retreat from the busier Ukrainian cities.
- Sumy's cobblestone streets, lined with charming 19th-century buildings, and its picturesque location on the banks of the Psel River enhance its appeal.
Reasons to Visit
- Historical and Architectural Heritage : Sumy boasts numerous historical monuments, including the beautiful Transfiguration Cathedral and the Resurrection Church. The city’s architecture, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, reflects a mix of styles that tell the story of its development over time.
- Natural Beauty and Parks : The city is home to lush parks such as Children’s Park Kazka and Chekha Park, offering picturesque walks and spots for relaxation. The Psel River, which runs through the city, provides a serene backdrop and opportunities for boat rides or riverside picnics.
- Cultural Experience : Sumy hosts several museums, including the Sumy Regional Art Museum and the Nikanor Onatsky Regional Art Museum, which showcase the region’s art and history. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene with theaters and music festivals that highlight Ukrainian traditions.
Visa
- European Union Citizens : Visa-free travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- US and Canadian Citizens : Visa-free travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Australian and New Zealand Citizens : Visa-free travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Indian Citizens : Visa required, which can be obtained online through an e-Visa system or from the Ukrainian embassy.
- Other Asian Countries : Visa requirements vary; some can use the e-Visa system, while others may need to apply at a Ukrainian embassy.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Sumy :
- Approximate airfare from major European cities to Kyiv : $200-300 per person.
- Train from Kyiv to Sumy : $10-20 per person.
- Total for a couple : $440-640.
- Hotel Cost :
- Average hotel price : $40-70 per night.
- Total for 3 nights for a couple : $120-210.
- Food Cost :
- Average cost per meal : $10-20 per person.
- Total for 6 meals for a couple : $120-240.
- Activity Cost :
- Entrance fees for museums and parks: $20-40 per person.
- Total for a couple : $40-80.
- Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Car rental for 3 days : $50-100.
- Total : $50-100.
Estimated Total Cost for a Couple : $770-1,270.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 :
Start your day with a visit to the Transfiguration Cathedral (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM), a stunning example of Ukrainian Baroque architecture. Next, take a stroll along the Psel River Promenade (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM), enjoying the tranquil river views. For lunch, head to Shafran (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM), where you can try traditional Ukrainian cuisine like borscht and varenyky. Spend your afternoon at Chekha Park (2:30 PM - 5:00 PM), exploring its greenery and the small zoo. Dinner at Cafe Zdybanka (7:00 PM - 8:30 PM), known for its cozy atmosphere and local dishes. Conclude your evening with a relaxed walk through the city center (9:00 PM - 10:00 PM), admiring the beautifully lit historical buildings.
Day 2 :
Visit the Sumy Regional Art Museum (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) to explore a collection of Ukrainian art. Continue with a trip to Children's Park Kazka (11:30 AM - 1:00 PM), perfect for a leisurely walk among fairy-tale sculptures. Lunch at Fazenda (1:30 PM - 3:00 PM), where you can enjoy hearty local dishes. In the afternoon, tour the Nikanor Onatsky Regional Art Museum (3:30 PM - 5:00 PM), known for its exquisite art collections. Have dinner at Gogol-Pub (7:00 PM - 8:30 PM), a quirky spot inspired by the famous writer Nikolai Gogol. End the day with a nightcap at Cafe de Paris (9:00 PM - 10:30 PM), enjoying the relaxed ambiance.
Day 3 :
Take a morning excursion to the nearby village of Putyvl (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM), known for the ancient Molchansky Monastery and its historical significance during World War II. Return to Sumy for lunch at Panorama (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM), offering great views and delicious meals. Spend the afternoon at Troitsky Cathedral (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM), a beautiful neoclassical church. Relax at the Romantika Beach by the Psel River (4:30 PM - 6:00 PM). Dinner at Zdybanka (7:00 PM - 8:30 PM), sampling local fish dishes, followed by a quiet evening walk through Soborna Street (9:00 PM - 10:00 PM).
Safety Tips
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public.
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing services.
- Stay updated on local news and travel advisories.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa at all times.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly at religious sites.
- Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.
- Learn basic Ukrainian phrases or have a translation app handy.
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
- Keep emergency contact numbers easily accessible.
Flights
- Flights : Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and Ukraine International Airlines offer flights to Kyiv from various major cities. Prices typically range from $200-300.
- Train : Kyiv to Sumy via Ukrainian Railways, approx. 4-6 hours, costing around $10-20.
Hotels
- Reikartz Sumy : Central location, modern amenities.
- Pan Hotel : Comfortable rooms with river views.
- Shafran Hotel : Boutique style with a restaurant on-site.
- Voskresensky Hotel : Close to major attractions, offers good value.
- Zdybanka Hotel : Riverside hotel with a relaxed atmosphere.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Ukraine (Kyiv) : +380 44 468 6670
- Police : 102
- Ambulance : 103
- Firefighters : 101
Country
Closet Airport
- Boryspil International Airport (Kyiv)
Nearest City
- Kyiv
Heritage Sites
- Molchansky Monastery (in nearby Putyvl)
Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Turkish Airlines
- Ukraine International Airlines (to Kyiv)
Currency
- Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)
Languages Spoken
- Ukrainian
- Russian
Real Story
The Nazi Occupation of Sumy during World War II
One of the most poignant chapters in Sumy’s history is its experience during World War II. The city was occupied by Nazi Germany from October 1941 to September 1943, a period that left an indelible mark on the collective memory of its residents.
Background : When the Nazis invaded the Soviet Union in 1941, Sumy, like many other Ukrainian cities, found itself on the front lines. The city was strategically important due to its location and resources, making it a target for occupation. The German army’s arrival marked the beginning of a dark period for Sumy, characterized by violence, repression, and resistance.
The Occupation : During the occupation, the Nazis imposed harsh measures on the local population. Thousands of Sumy’s residents were subjected to forced labor, with many being deported to Germany to work in labor camps under brutal conditions. The Jewish community, which had been an integral part of Sumy’s social fabric, faced the horrors of the Holocaust, with many being rounded up and executed or sent to concentration camps.
Despite the overwhelming force of the Nazi regime, resistance in Sumy was strong. Local partisans, including members of the underground Soviet resistance, organized guerrilla warfare against the occupiers. The Molchansky Monastery in nearby Putyvl became a hub for these resistance activities. The monastery’s extensive underground tunnels were used to store weapons, hide resistance fighters, and coordinate attacks on German forces. These efforts were a vital part of the broader Soviet partisan movement that operated across Ukraine during the war.
Liberation and Aftermath : In September 1943, the Soviet Red Army launched a major offensive to retake eastern Ukraine, including Sumy. After intense fighting, the city was liberated from Nazi control. The aftermath of the occupation was devastating; the city was left in ruins, and its population had been decimated by the atrocities committed during the two years of occupation.
The legacy of this period is deeply felt in Sumy. Monuments and memorials across the city honor the victims of the occupation and the bravery of those who resisted. The Memorial to the Heroes of the Soviet Union, located in the center of Sumy, is a significant site where residents gather to remember those who lost their lives during the war.
Today, the story of Sumy’s resistance during World War II is an essential part of the city’s identity, serving as a reminder of the resilience and courage of its people in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Cuisine
Sumy’s cuisine is a delicious reflection of the broader culinary traditions of northeastern Ukraine, offering a hearty and flavorful dining experience that showcases local ingredients and time-honored recipes.
Traditional Dishes : One of the staples of Sumy’s cuisine is borscht, a beloved beetroot soup that is both nutritious and comforting. This dish is often enriched with cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and meat, typically served with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of hearty black bread. Each family in Sumy might have its own variation of borscht, making it a dish with endless possibilities.
Varenyky (dumplings) are another iconic dish, often filled with potatoes, cheese, or minced meat. These dumplings are a favorite comfort food and can be served boiled or fried, sometimes accompanied by fried onions and sour cream. Sweet versions filled with cherries or berries are also popular, especially during the summer months.
Salo, or cured pork fat, is a traditional Ukrainian delicacy that holds a special place in Sumy’s culinary culture. Often thinly sliced and served with garlic, pickles, and bread, salo is enjoyed as a savory snack or an appetizer.
Kholodets (meat jelly) is a unique dish that might be an acquired taste for some, but it is a beloved part of the local cuisine. Made by boiling meat with bones for several hours and then allowing it to cool and solidify, kholodets is often served during festive occasions and is typically enjoyed with horseradish or mustard.
Kvass, a fermented beverage made from black or rye bread, is another traditional item in Sumy. It’s slightly sweet, mildly alcoholic, and incredibly refreshing, often enjoyed during warm weather as a cooling drink.
Modern Influences : While traditional Ukrainian cuisine dominates, Sumy’s dining scene is also influenced by modern culinary trends. Many local restaurants offer a fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes, using local ingredients in innovative ways. Restaurants like Shafran and Zdybanka have become popular for their creative takes on classic dishes, often incorporating seasonal produce and new cooking techniques.
Overall, Sumy’s cuisine offers a rich and diverse experience that reflects both the agricultural abundance of the region and the deep-rooted culinary traditions of Ukraine. Whether you’re enjoying a simple bowl of borscht or savoring a plate of varenyky, dining in Sumy is a journey through the flavors of northeastern Ukraine.
Culture and History
Sumy, a city in northeastern Ukraine, is rich in cultural heritage and history, blending influences from Ukrainian and Russian traditions due to its geographical and historical context. Established in 1655, Sumy was initially a fortress town founded by Ukrainian Cossacks to protect the region from invasions. Over the centuries, it evolved into a vibrant center for trade and craftsmanship, significantly shaping its cultural identity.
Cultural Landscape : Sumy’s culture is deeply rooted in its historical evolution, with its residents proud of their local traditions and customs. The city's architecture is a testament to its diverse cultural influences, with buildings showcasing styles ranging from Ukrainian Baroque to neoclassical designs. The Transfiguration Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, reflecting the deep spiritual and religious values held by the community.
The city's cultural scene is vibrant, with several theaters, galleries, and museums that celebrate both traditional and contemporary Ukrainian art. The Sumy Regional Art Museum and the Nikanor Onatsky Regional Art Museum are central to the city’s artistic life, featuring works by prominent Ukrainian artists and exhibitions that explore the cultural and historical narrative of the region. These museums not only preserve Sumy's artistic heritage but also promote modern expressions of creativity.
Festivals play a significant role in the cultural life of Sumy. The Sumy Regional Music Festival is an annual event that attracts musicians and audiences from across Ukraine, showcasing a mix of classical, folk, and modern music. Folk traditions are also celebrated through various local festivals, where residents and visitors can experience traditional Ukrainian music, dance, and crafts.
Religious and Spiritual Life : Religion is a vital aspect of Sumy's cultural identity. The city is dotted with beautiful churches and monasteries, including the Resurrection Church and Troitsky Cathedral, which serve as important centers of worship and community gatherings. These religious sites are not only spiritual havens but also architectural marvels that attract visitors interested in history and culture.
Modern Cultural Influences : Despite its deep-rooted traditions, Sumy is also embracing modernity. The city’s youth are active participants in cultural innovation, with local artists, musicians, and writers contributing to the contemporary cultural landscape. Sumy's cafes and cultural centers are often abuzz with discussions on art, literature, and social issues, reflecting a dynamic and evolving cultural scene.
Sumy's cultural richness is a blend of historical reverence and modern creativity, making it a city where tradition and contemporary life coexist harmoniously. This blend is evident in the city’s public spaces, where historic monuments stand alongside modern art installations, creating a unique cultural atmosphere that is both nostalgic and forward-looking.