Understand

Welcome to Donetsk, a thriving city in Ukraine that pulses with life. With a population of over a million people, it holds its place as the fifth largest city in the country. As the unofficial capital of the Donets Basin (Donbass) region, it is the beating heart of the most industrialized part of Ukraine. Surprisingly, Donetsk was founded by a Welsh businessman in 1869, who saw the potential in the coal mines of the southern reaches of the Russian Empire. Since then, the city has evolved and grown, establishing a strong steel industry during the Soviet period. Despite the hardships it faced during World War II, Donetsk rose from the rubble and underwent extensive reconstruction, transforming into a modern city that showcases the resilience and determination of its people. The original layout and architecture, reminiscent of British towns, were lost, but the spirit of Donetsk remained intact. Donetsk proudly hosted one of the venues for UEFA Euro 2012, a historic moment as it was the only European football championship to take place in Eastern Europe so far. Jointly hosted by Poland and Ukraine, the city's Donbass Arena became a stage for unforgettable matches and passionate football fans. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere and immerse yourself in the excitement of this captivating city, where history, industry, and sports come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Get in

If you're planning a journey to Donetsk, the good news is that as of 21 May 2014, trains from Kyiv to Donetsk are running according to schedule.

There are several ways to reach Donetsk:

• You have the option to fly directly to the city's airport (DOK) from Kyiv, Munich, Istanbul, or Vienna.
• If you're already in Ukraine, you can choose to travel by train, plane, or car. The drive from Kyiv can take 6-8 hours, depending on factors such as your driving speed and number of stops.
• Alternatively, there is a direct train that operates once or twice a week from Almaty, Kazakhstan, via Atyrau and Volgograd. However, please note that you will need to obtain a Russian transit visa, which can be quite expensive.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pelmeni - Pelmeni are Ukrainian dumplings filled with meat, usually pork or beef, and seasoned with onions and spices. They are boiled and served hot, often accompanied by sour cream or butter.

Borscht - Borscht is a traditional Ukrainian soup made with beets, which give it its deep magenta color. It typically contains potatoes, cabbage, carrots, and onions, along with chunks of meat like beef or pork. Sometimes, a vegetarian version with mushrooms or tofu can be found.

Varenyky - Varenyky are a type of potato dumpling native to Ukraine. They are made using a mixture of mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs, then stuffed with ingredients like cheese, sauerkraut, or mushrooms. They can be boiled, fried, or baked and often served with sour cream, butter, or melted cheese.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing