Freedom Square
The second-largest square in Europe.
Kharkiv
The first Soviet-era Ukrainian capital with Europe's largest square
Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine1,443,207
About the city
Kharkiv is Ukraine's second-largest city and the heart of the Slobozhanshchyna region. Founded in the 17th century, it grew into a major academic and industrial hub with more than 40 universities.
Freedom Square is the second largest in Europe, and the 1920s constructivist Derzhprom building is a UNESCO candidate.
Coaches connect Kharkiv with Kyiv in 6–7 hours, and with Poltava in under 2 hours.
Top places to see
Derzhprom
A 1928 skyscraper — a landmark of Ukrainian constructivism.
Sarzhyn Yar
A park with natural springs and picnic grounds in the heart of the city.
Annunciation Cathedral
A striped-facade cathedral with an 80-metre bell tower.
From our travel blog
4 min
Kharkiv modernism: what to see
Derzhprom, Palace of Students and the KhTZ district.
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Start at Derzhprom. Continue across Freedom Square to Kharkiv University.
In the KhTZ district, 1930s worker-city housing still stands — with kindergartens and cultural clubs in pure constructivist form.
2 min
Where to have breakfast in Kharkiv
Three go-to spots in the centre.
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Sharikoff for classic syrniki and omelettes.
Aurora — a modern bistro with locally roasted coffee.
Khlibne on Sumska Street — the best croissants in Slobozhanshchyna.