Kharkiv Tour: A war-torn journey through Ukraine’s resilient city

Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, has always been a center of culture, education, and industry. In recent years, it has become a symbol of resistance and resilience, standing strong against war and destruction. Our Kharkiv War Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s historical landmarks, war-affected districts, and the remarkable efforts of its people to rebuild.

Freedom Square & Derzhprom: The Beating Heart of Kharkiv

One of the largest squares in Europe, Freedom Square, has witnessed both grand celebrations and the horrors of war. Dominated by the towering Derzhprom building, a masterpiece of Soviet constructivism, the square now carries the scars of missile strikes. Today, it remains a gathering place for citizens and a powerful testament to Kharkiv’s indomitable spirit.

Parks of Kharkiv: Echoes of the Past and Hopes for the Future

Once lively places of recreation, Gorky Park and Shevchenko Park have transformed due to the war. Gorky Park’s iconic Ferris wheel and amusement rides stand as eerie reminders of a life abruptly interrupted. Meanwhile, Shevchenko Park, home to the city’s most revered monument of Taras Shevchenko, remains a focal point of national identity and pride. These parks reflect not only the changes brought by war but also the determination of Kharkiv’s people to reclaim normal life.

Saltivka: A District on the Frontlines

Saltivka, one of the largest residential districts in Ukraine, was heavily bombarded during the initial phases of the war. Walking through the shattered apartment blocks, burnt-out vehicles, and makeshift barricades, you will witness firsthand the devastation war brings to civilian areas. Yet, in the middle of destruction, life continues—markets reopen, families return, and reconstruction begins.

Kharkiv Metro: A City Beneath a City

During the heaviest shelling, thousands of civilians sought refuge in the Kharkiv Metro, transforming underground stations into temporary homes. Stations like Akademika Pavlova and Heroiv Pratsi became shelters where families lived for weeks, relying on volunteers for food and medical aid. Today, these stations have resumed normal operations, but traces of those desperate days remain—a sobering reminder of the war’s human cost.

Defense of Kharkiv Museum: A Living Archive

A newly established Defense of Kharkiv Museum offers a compelling look at how the city fought back. Featuring wartime photographs, personal accounts, and salvaged military equipment, this museum provides crucial insight into the bravery and sacrifice of Kharkiv’s defenders. Visitors can hear testimonies from soldiers and civilians who lived through the city’s darkest hours.

War Memorials & Damaged Landmarks

Kharkiv is home to several war memorials honoring the fallen. The Glory Memorial Complex and Defenders of Ukraine Square serve as solemn reminders of the cost of freedom. Additionally, select buildings damaged by war are preserved as historical markers, showcasing the high price Kharkiv has paid in this ongoing struggle.

Why Visit Kharkiv Now?

This is not just a tour of ruins; it is an opportunity to witness a city that refuses to be broken. Walking through its streets, talking to its people, and hearing their stories brings a deep understanding of the resilience and determination of Ukrainians. Our expert guides will provide a firsthand account of how the city has changed, how it fights back, and what the future holds.

Kharkiv is more than a battleground—it is a city of heroes, a place of resistance, and a testament to the power of the human spirit. Join us on this extraordinary journey to see, learn, and stand in solidarity with those who continue to defend freedom and rebuild their lives. This is history in the making, and you have the chance to witness it firsthand.