A layover in Kharkov is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Kharkiv International Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by Bus/Trolleybus/Marshrutka, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of HRK:
- Can you legally enter Ukraine? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Bus/Trolleybus/Marshrutka, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the UAH. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some UAH in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Kharkov from the Airport
From HRK, the Bus/Trolleybus/Marshrutka gets you to Kharkov in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Bus/Trolleybus/Marshrutka offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at HRK may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Kharkov’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Kharkov:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $7 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $22 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Exploring Kharkov on a Layover
If you head into Kharkov, here are two things worth checking out:
Freedom Square (Ploshcha Svobody) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HRK, you can spend time at Kharkiv International Airport Business Lounge or try HRK Duty Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near HRK
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Kharkov: Puzata Hata and Gorinych. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for AeroCafe or Gloria Jean’s Coffees (HRK). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HRK, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Kharkov itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Ukraine that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at HRK
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, HRK has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Kharkov exploring the streets or relaxing at HRK, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.