While the war in Ukraine continues to cast a long shadow over daily life, many Ukrainians who are able to travel are still planning summer getaways in 2025.
Travel may look different these days, but for many, it’s not just about relaxation—it’s about reclaiming moments of peace, connection, and normalcy. And according to a new survey by Ribas Hotels Group and Ribas Invest, most of those summer plans are staying within Ukraine’s borders.
Domestic Travel Preferences Amidst Martial Law
The ongoing martial law in Ukraine has significantly shaped vacation habits. The survey, conducted in March–April 2025, shows that 83.3% of Ukrainians have reduced how often they take vacations. Over the past three years, 68.1% vacationed every year, 16.7% every two years, and 9.4% only once every three years. This summer, just 29% of respondents plan to travel abroad, while 3.6% don’t plan to vacation at all.
Top Domestic Destinations
Despite these constraints, domestic tourism is thriving. The Carpathian Mountains are the top choice, with 75.7% of respondents naming the region as their preferred destination. Other popular summer spots include Odesa (48.5%), Lviv (21%), and areas in the Kyiv region (16.9%).
Key Factors Influencing Destination Choices
Ukrainians are choosing destinations based on a range of practical and emotional factors:
- Comfortable conditions (84.8%)
- Favorable pricing (71%)
- Convenient location (67.4%)
- Availability of additional services (53.6%)
- Reputation of the vacation spot (37.7%)
- Environmental friendliness (21.7%)
Preferred Leisure Activities
When it comes to how Ukrainians want to spend their time off, nature and wellness rank high. The most popular activities include:
- Nature walks (75.4%)
- Beach vacations (69.6%)
- SPA treatments (56.5%)
- Dining at restaurants (55.8%)
- Excursions (40.6%)
Barriers to Vacation Planning
Even for those eager to travel, there are barriers. According to the survey, these are the most common obstacles:
- High costs (74.6%)
- Low comfort levels (71.7%)
- Safety concerns (37.7%)
- Poor location (4.6%)
Travel Companions and Preferences
Travel remains a social experience. Most respondents prefer vacationing with loved ones:
- With a partner (67.4%)
- With children (54.3%)
- With friends (approximately 25%)
- Alone (8.7%)
These travel trends show how resilience and practicality are shaping the way Ukrainians think about vacation. With safety top of mind and limited international options, domestic tourism—especially in the Carpathians—continues to offer a much-needed escape and a way to reconnect with the beauty of home in uncertain times.
