TOP 5 Routes for Autumn Cycling Trips in Ukraine

Cycling trips are a wonderful way to see Ukraine up close: through roads between villages, the scents of autumn forests, and the quiet of the suburbs. We’ve gathered five routes suitable for travel in October and November, varying in difficulty, length, and geography. Podillia canyons, Dnipro cliffs, lakes of Shatsky National Park, Trypillian hills, and Carpathian slopes—each of these destinations reveals a different side of Ukraine. All you need to start is to choose a suitable route and a comfortable pace.

From Ternopil to the Dniester Canyon

The route starts in Ternopil and leads to one of the largest canyons in Europe—the Dniester Canyon. It covers about 100 kilometers, usually completed over 2–3 days with stops. The difficulty level is moderate.

Along the way, you can visit Vyshnivets with its palace, first mentioned in 1395 when Vyshnivets was the property of Prince Korybut Olgerdych. Picturesque Podillia villages with preserved authentic architecture are also worth seeing.

The final point of the route is the Dniester Canyon, located at the junction of four regions: Ternopil, Ivano-Frankivsk, Chernivtsi, and Khmelnytskyi. Its length reaches about 250 kilometers, making it one of the largest not only in Ukraine but in Europe.

Autumn is an ideal time for this cycling route: the canyon slopes are covered in warm colors, and river panoramas become especially striking.

Along the Dnipro to Taras Hill

This cycling route combines nature with cultural heritage. It starts in the capital and finishes in Kaniv, one of Ukraine’s most important historical centers. The route is approximately 120 kilometers, typically completed in 2–3 days at a comfortable pace with stops.

The final point is Taras Hill (also known as Chernecha Hill), the resting place of Taras Shevchenko and a center of national memory. Here you’ll find Shevchenko’s grave and the literary-memorial museum. The route also passes through the Kaniv Nature Reserve, well-maintained and visitor-friendly, with viewpoints offering Dnipro panoramas that are especially impressive in autumn when the slopes are covered in golden foliage.

Cycling among the lakes of Shatsky National Park

Shatsky Lakes are one of the best regions in Ukraine for autumn cycling. The routes here are easy and suitable even for beginners, while the surrounding nature provides the peace often missing on the road. Cycling routes in this area range from 60 to 80 kilometers, easily covered over 2–3 days with rest stops by the lakes.

The route passes through Shatsky National Nature Park, established in 1984 to preserve the lake-rich Polissya region. The park covers over 40,000 hectares and is part of UNESCO’s international network of biosphere reserves. Svitiaz is the largest and deepest natural lake in Ukraine, included in the list of the country’s seven natural wonders.

Autumn adds a special atmosphere to this journey: pine forests smell of resin, sandy paths are warmed by the sun, and the lake waters become crystal clear. This route is also perfect for those looking to combine cycling with outdoor relaxation.

From Kyiv to Rzhyshchiv through Trypillian hills

This route along the Dnipro is one of the most pleasant for an autumn cycling trip: easy, scenic, and steeped in history. The total distance is about 90 kilometers, making it possible to complete in 1–2 days at a relaxed pace. The terrain is flat, with convenient spots for stops along the Dnipro banks.

The path starts in Kyiv and leads to Trypillia, the namesake of one of Europe’s oldest agricultural cultures. Stop here to visit the Trypillian Culture Museum and climb Divich (Maiden) Hill for panoramic views of Trypillia and the Dnipro plains. According to legends, the site is connected to ancient Slavic cults and considered sacred. The hill’s name likely relates to an ancient Slavic goddess cult—the Mother Goddess, or Goddess Divo.

The final section runs along the Dnipro to Rzhyshchiv, a quiet town with a special atmosphere. Nearby is the famous rock formation “Totokha,” considered by many a place of power. Autumn makes this route particularly beautiful: riverbanks turn golden, the air is crisp, and the journey feels slow and meditative.

Polonyna Runa—Mountain Route from Uzhhorod to Voevodyn Waterfall

The Uzhhorod – Nevytsky Castle – Polonyna Runa – Voevodyn Waterfall cycling route is one of the most famous in the Carpathians. It covers about 100 kilometers, typically completed in three days. The terrain varies from asphalt to dirt roads, and the difficulty is considered high, making it suitable for experienced cyclists.

Polonyna Runa is a high-mountain plateau located between the Latoritsa and Uzh rivers. The area includes nature reserves “Sokolovi Skeli,” “Shypit,” and “Tur’ye-Polyansky.” The main natural attraction is the Voevodyn Waterfall, about 24 meters high. It is believed to have formed during an earthquake and is named after the loud sound (“voi”) of water falling from the cliffs.

The journey begins in Uzhhorod, where you can visit the Museum of Folk Architecture and Life. Here you’ll see a church built without a single nail and learn about the lives of Lemkos, Boykos, and Hutsuls. The route also passes the 12th-century Nevytsky Castle, built on a volcanic hill, which can be visited for free.

Autumn is not a reason to stay home; on the contrary, it’s a time when travel becomes more honest and meaningful. If, after these cycling trips, you want to continue exploring Ukraine during this season, check out our collection “Where to Go in Autumn: A Selection of Locations in the Carpathians and Podillia”. It offers ideas for even cozier autumn adventures.