As I write the final chapter of my Ukraine trip, war has broken out, and it is quite surreal I visited not long ago. Lviv was my last stop, following Kyiv and Odesa, and, in a way, my favourite. On the other hand it’s kinda hard to pick a favourite, as I found them to be quite different. I am glad I included them all.
Lviv feels quite compact, and most of the activity seems to be centred around Rynok Square (Market Square), with the city hall taking up most of its space. From here narrow, cobblestoned streets lined with pastel coloured buildings are spreading out. An architecture spotted in other Eastern European cities, and a city giving off a less old Soviet vibe than Kyiv and Odesa. Exploring these streets are the best. They are filled to the brim with small, independent shops, and restaurants and cafes I could hashtag unique, trendy, and traditional. Not a problem finding something you haven’t experienced before. I did stray off the main square, but it didn’t get me too excited. The opera house, the musical fountain, and Taras Shevchenko Monument on Svobody Avenue are beautiful, fun, and cool, but the High Castle on Castle Hill is a no go… I’d say concentrate on the nooks and crannies 🙂
Is High Castle and Castle Hill worth it? Naaah… It is a nice hike, but there is no need to make it all the way to the top, unless you’re putting in a light work-out. Reaching the city’s highest point at 413 meter, means a 2 km walk from Rynok Square. You’ll be zigzagging on smaller roads, cobblestoned trails, and up staircases. At the top you’ll be disappointed 😀 A viewing platform, TV tower, flag, and not the best views – those you get midway. In reality there’s barely anything left of the stone fort. On the way I spotted a piece of a wall – that was it. Photo gallery at the end of the post.
Website: lviv.travel
High Castle & Castle Hill
