Lviv is an ancient city that attracts visitors with its architecture, history, and atmosphere. It is a gem of Western Ukraine, drawing millions of tourists worldwide yearly.
Lviv impresses with the combination of ancient landmarks, cultural events, and gastronomic discoveries. Every corner here breathes history, and each building has its legend. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have already fallen in love with the city, Lviv always has something to surprise you.
Contents:
- Brewery Museum
- Glass Museum
- Armenian Cathedral of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin
- Shevchenkivskyi Hai
- Observation Deck of the Church of Olga and Elizabeth
- Ivan Franko Library
- Potocki Palace
- Bandinelli Palace
- Rynok Square
- High Castle
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 places to see in Lviv, whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning. Discover what to visit to enjoy its atmosphere fully.
Brewery Museum: A Journey into Beer History
Lviv is the actual beer capital of Ukraine, and the Brewery Museum brings the history of the city’s brewing to life. Here, you can learn how the Jesuits built the first brewery 300 years ago and how Lviv beer became popular in Ukraine and many European countries.
The museum’s exhibition reveals the ancient brewing traditions used by monks and secrets from the Lviv Brewery. Visitors can see antique equipment, learn interesting facts about brewing, and taste freshly brewed Lviv beer.
What to Do:
- Learn more about Lviv’s brewing traditions.
- Visit interactive exhibits dedicated to the history of beer.
- Try authentic Lviv beer brewed using ancient recipes.
Address: Kleparivska Street, 18
Glass Museum: The Art of Medieval Cellars
The Glass Museum in Lviv is a unique space that gathers the centuries-old history of glassmaking. Located in the basement of one of the buildings in Rynok Square, it reveals the art of glassmaking from ancient times to the present.
The museum’s exhibition is divided into several halls. The first hall is dedicated to the history of Galician glass, and artifacts dating back to the 1st–2nd centuries AD are displayed. The next hall showcases the glassmaking process and other halls display works by glass artists worldwide. A special focus is given to a hall with modern glass works, which visitors can purchase as souvenirs.
Visitors immerse themselves in the atmosphere of an ancient craft and have the chance to appreciate the refined work of artisans. This is a must-visit for anyone passionate about art and crafts.
What to Do:
- Discover the history of glass art in Galicia.
- Admire ancient vases and contemporary glassworks.
- Buy a unique glass item as a special souvenir from Lviv.
Address: Rynok Square, 2
Armenian Cathedral of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin: A Unique Atmosphere
This majestic cathedral is one of the oldest religious landmarks in Lviv. Construction began in 1356 on the site of a wooden church, and the cathedral’s architecture resembles that of Armenian churches because Armenian artisans designed it. Over the centuries, it has remained a spiritual center for the Armenian community in Lviv.
Inside, the cathedral houses unique stained glass windows and frescoed walls, and famous Polish artist Jan Henryk Rosen worked on the wet frescoes. This place also became part of Ukrainian cinematography: the duel scene from D’Artagnan and the Three Musketeers was filmed near the cathedral.
What to Do:
- Admire the frescoes “The Last Supper” and “Crucifixion.”
- Attend the Sunday service at 11:00.
- Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of ancient Armenia in the heart of Lviv.
Address: Virmenska Street, 7/13
Lviv offers fascinating places that impress with their architectural beauty, cozy streets that lead to discoveries, and a unique energy that makes you want to return. One of the artistic highlights of Lviv is its galleries, each with its unique history and character. Find out more in the article “Experience the Artistic Spirit of the City: Top 7 Galleries in Lviv”.
Shevchenkivskyi Hai: A Journey into Ukraine’s Past
Where to go in Lviv for unforgettable impressions? Shevchenkivskyi Hai is one of seven open-air museums in Ukraine and a pride of Lviv. This technopark reflects the traditions, lifestyles, and architecture of different Ukrainian regions. More than 100 authentic wooden buildings, including churches, schools, windmills, and peasant homesteads., are on display.
The museum is divided into ethnographic zones representing the cultures and characteristics of Lthe Viv region, Boykivshchyna, Hutsulshchyna, Lemkivshchyna, Zakarpattia, Bukovina, Polissya, and Volhynia. The oldest buildings date back more than 200 years.
This place is ideal for family outings, such as walks, picnics, workshops, or festivals, which are often held on the grounds. You can take unique photos that capture the atmosphere of Ukrainian authenticity.
What to Do:
- Take photos in traditional houses.
- Visit a wooden church and hear its story.
- Participate in one of the ethnofestivals.
- Stroll through the ethnographic zones and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of past centuries.
Address: Chernecha Hora Street, 1
Observation Deck of the Church of Olga and Elizabeth
The Church of Olga and Elizabeth is a Neo-Gothic masterpiece in Lviv. It is located near the train station and has an observation deck at 55 meters in height. Climbing your view of the city from the ancient Ce by climbing to enter the modern neighborhoods.
The church was built in 1911 at the initiative of Emperor Franz Joseph in honor of his wife, Elizabeth, affectionately called Sisi. Their tragic love story has a romantic charm to this place.
The church’s interior is equally impressive, with Gothic arches, stained glass windows, and luxurious decorations that create an atmosphere of peace and grandeur.
What to Do:
- Climb to the observation deck and take panoramic photos.
- Visit the church and learn more about its history.
- Admire the Neo-Gothic style of the building.
Address: Kropivnytsky Square, 1
Ivan Franko Library: A Treasure of Knowledge
The Ivan Franko Library is a unique landmark in Lviv. It preserves rare editions, books belonging to kings and cardinals, and works more than 800 years old. It’s an ideal space for lovers of literature and history.
Visitors can see ancient folios that preserve the memory of different eras. One of the most interesting parts of the library is the room with unique editions, where books that once belonged to King Louis XV can be found.
The library’s interior captivates with its atmosphere: the silence, the smell of old books, and historical grandeur create an unforgettable impression.
What to Do:
- Browse through unique books that can’t be found anywhere else.
- Visit rooms with historical collections.
- Take atmospheric photos among the ancient shelves.
Address: Dragomanova Street, 5
Potocki Palace: The Grandeur of Architecture and Art
Potocki Palace is one of Lviv’s most significant architectural landmarks. This building, built in the classical style with baroque elements, impresses with its scale and details. It was constructed in the 19th century at the request of Józef Potocki, one of the most influential magnates of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
The palace’s façade features large windows, balconies with intricate stucco, and elegant balustrades. Its luxurious ceremonial halls are decorated with gilding, marble, and wood carvings. Masterpieces of painting and sculpture complement the atmosphere of aristocratic life.
Today, the palace is part of the Lviv Art Gallery and is a popular venue for official events, including marriage registrations. A stroll through the palace is like a journey into an era of luxury and refined taste.
What to Do:
- Admire the interior and exhibits of the Lviv Art Gallery.
- Take photos against the backdrop of the grand building and its façade.
- Attend an event held in the palace.
Address: Mykola Kopernyk Street, 15
Bandinelli Palace: The First Post Office in Lviv
In Rynok Square, in the heart of Lviv, stands the elegant Bandinelli Palace. This historical building holds special significance for the city, where the first European-style post office in Ukraine was opened in the 17th century. The Florentine merchant Roberto Bandinelli founded the post office, significantly contributing to the city’s infrastructure development.
Today, the palace preserves the atmosphere of past centuries. In its halls, you can learn more about the history of postal services and Lviv’s role in the European postal network. A visit to the palace is an excellent opportunity to feel the spirit of the city during its trade boom.
What to Do:
- Discover the history of Lviv’s postal service.
- Appreciate the architecture of the 17th-century building.
- Take a stroll around Rynok Square and visit other nearby landmarks.
Address: Rynok Square, 2
How could one skip the most famous tourist gems of this enchanting city?
Rynok Square: The Heart of Lviv
Maxim-CheRynok Square is where your journey through Lviv begins. The city originated here over 700 years ago. Today, the square remains its leading cultural and historical center, with each building bearing its legend.
The square’s architecture is mostly Renaissance, though some buildings retain Gothic elements. At the center stands the Town Hall, the city’s symbol, now the City Council building. By climbing 400 steps, you can reach the observation deck and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from above.
The square features 44 unique townhouses. Due to a tax on the number of windows, many have narrow facades with three windows and deep inner courtyards. Among the most notable buildings are the Kornyakt Palace, which has an “Italian courtyard,” the Black Stone Museum, and the Bandinelli Palace, which houses the Postal Museum.
What to Do:
- Visit the Town Hall and climb its tower.
- Try Lviv coffee at one of the cafés.
- Find the legendary “Kryivka” restaurant (but you’ll need to know the “right password”).
- Stop by the Lviv Gingerbread Workshop “Yurashki,” where you can paint your gingerbread or try fragrant herbal tea with sweets.
- See the sculptures of Neptune, Amphitrite, Adonis, and Diana by the fountains.
- Take a walk during festivals or fairs that regularly take place in the square (e.g., Leopolis Jazz Fest or “Golden Lion”).
High Castle: The Panoramic Gem of Lviv
High Castle is a must-visit when in the city. A real castle once stood here, but only the ruins remain today. However, the most crucial reason tourists visit is the breathtaking views.
High Castle Park is located on a hill 413 meters above sea level. From the upper terrace, you get a magnificent panorama of the city – you can see both old and new Lviv, red rooftops, church spires, and magical narrow streets.
At the top is an artificial mound created in the 19th century in honor of the Union of Lublin and an observation deck. You must walk along picturesque park paths and climb stone stairs to reach it. Along the way, you can admire the monument to Maksym Kryvonos, the Cossack colonel who captured this fortress in 1648, and a mysterious artificial cave.
What to Do:
- Enjoy the view of the city from a bird’s-eye perspective.
- Walk along the quiet paths of the park.
- Take photos with the picturesque landscapes in the background.
- Pay attention to the historical elements that remind you of the castle’s existence.
Address: Zamkova Street
Lviv offers unforgettable emotions to everyone who visits. With its unique atmosphere, rich history, and hospitable residents, the city continually reveals new facets.
Lviv offers a multitude of fascinating places and mysterious corners. Whether you choose from the list we’ve prepared, there’s something for everyone here—from historic landmarks to modern museums and cozy cafés. Lviv is waiting for you!
