Military Kharkiv Tour Guide: Discover Kharkiv Wartime History

Military Kharkiv is not only a city that has survived devastating shelling, but also a symbol of resilience and heroism. Its streets and monuments reflect tragic events and heroic deeds that have become part of modern history. By visiting Kharkiv, you have the opportunity to see how the war has changed this city and its people, as well as to understand the depth of its struggle for independence. Find out more about military tourism in Kharkiv and the most important locations to visit

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Kharkiv is one of the largest cities in Ukraine, which has been unprecedentedly affected by the war. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Russia in 2022, the city has become a symbol of resistance, endurance and resilience. Its streets are not only witnesses of bloody battles, but also pages of living history that are worth seeing with your own eyes.

It is extremely important to understand the military history of Kharkiv, because it is here that tragedies and heroism, the pain of loss and the power of rebirth are combined.

What locations are worth seeing during a military tour of Kharkiv, how to do it with Visit Ukraine, and why it is a unique experience for a foreign tourist - we will tell you further in the article.

The history of the war in Kharkiv

The history of Kharkiv is closely intertwined with military events, from the Cossack era to the present day. In the twentieth century, the city became a battlefield in the Second World War, and in the twenty-first century it became one of the epicentres of Russian aggression.

Since the first days of the full-scale war in February 2022, Kharkiv has been subjected to massive attacks. Northern Saltovka, the city centre, educational institutions and infrastructure were particularly affected. Many historical monuments were destroyed or damaged. But the city lives, fights and remembers.

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What can you see on a military tour of Kharkiv and the region?

Military tourism in Ukraine is not only a sad memory, but also a unique opportunity to see with your own eyes the historical sights of Kharkiv and the consequences of the war.

What to see in Kharkiv during the war:

● The destroyed Epicentre is a symbol of the destructive power of war. The Epicentre is one of the largest shopping centres in Kharkiv, which was severely damaged during the fighting. The ruins of this site have become a symbol of the power and scale of the war, as well as a warning of how the conflict affects civilians and infrastructure.

● Northern Saltivka. One of the most affected districts of Kharkiv, where destruction can be seen at every turn. There is a mural of a deceased volunteer that has become a memorial for Kharkiv residents. The destroyed tram depot is another mark of the war that reminds us of the cruelty of time.

● Palace of Labour. The historic building, which was often visited by people, became the object of brutal shelling. It is not only an architectural monument, but also a place where the spirit of Kharkiv is embodied. Visiting this place is an opportunity to see how the war affects the city's cultural heritage.

● The Kharkiv Regional State Administration building is the point where the events of 2014 and 2022 intersect. This building became a place of protests in 2014, and with the outbreak of the great war in 2022, it also survived shelling. It is now an important historical point for understanding the connection between the events of Euromaidan and the war in Ukraine.

● Technical school. The place of death of Kharkiv territorial defence soldiers who defended the city from the aggressor. This location is a reminder of the heroism and sacrifice of local residents who stood up to defend their hometown.

● School 134 on Shevchenko Street. The famous school became the scene of heavy battles for the city. This area was the scene of a desperate struggle of the Ukrainian military to hold Kharkiv. This place reminds us of the struggle and courage.

● The destroyed Jewish memorial. The memorial, dedicated to the victims of Nazism during World War II, was destroyed during the war against racism. This place is a symbol not only of the tragedy of the past, but also of the current struggle against totalitarianism.

● Chuhuiv (Kharkiv region) is a city of military glory from Cossack times to the present day. Chuhuiv has rich historical traditions that date back to the Cossack era. It is a place with a deep military heritage, where important battles took place. A visit to Chuhuiv allows you to understand how history and modernity are intertwined in the struggle for independence.

● Memorial at the 18th cemetery. The Alley of Glory is a place of honour for the fallen. This place is a memorial to the heroes who gave their lives for the freedom of Ukraine.

● Monuments to the Ukrainian Insurgent Army and Mykola Khvylovyi, a representative of the cracked revival. The Slovo House is a reminder of the wave of repression against Ukrainian cultural figures. These monuments recall the heroic pages of Kharkiv's history and symbolise the struggle for Ukrainian independence and cultural heritage.

● Seven Wonders of Kharkiv - unexpected architectural treasures. In Kharkiv, you can find unexpected architectural masterpieces, even despite the devastating shelling. These buildings are not only beautiful, but also a symbol of the city's rebirth after the destruction.

● Underground Kharkiv. The underground spaces of Kharkiv, including the old cellars, have become reliable shelters during the shelling. This is a place that allows you to see the city from a different angle - from the depths of its history.

● Derzhprom is a pearl of constructivism, a pearl that has survived and is proud. It is a unique building that has remained intact despite the brutal shelling. Derzhprom is a symbol of recovery and national pride.

If you want to learn more about Kharkiv's military history, it is important to know that safety and comfort during your trip is a priority. Opting for organised tours with professionals will allow you to not only visit these important sites safely, but also gain a deeper understanding of the events. In today's realities, an independent route can be dangerous, complicated and require a lot of time to find proven locations. That's why tours with Visit Ukraine are the perfect choice for those who want to see Kharkiv at its best.

Military tours in Ukraine: why is it important to visit the places of military glory?

A Military Tour in Kharkiv is not just an excursion, but an opportunity to go through a unique experience that combines safety and deep immersion in history.

The main advantage of such tours is guaranteed safety. The routes are chosen so that tourists visit only proven places where there is no threat to their lives.

Another important part of these tours is the professionalism of the guides. These are not just people who conduct tours, but real experts in the history of the city, local residents who have directly experienced the events they talk about. Thanks to these guides, tourists get a deep understanding of not only the history of Kharkiv, but also the current challenges the city faces.

This is not just passive contemplation, but active immersion in the city's life. Tourists have the opportunity to see how war changes cities, people, and entire nations, and to witness how Kharkiv continues to recover despite all the difficulties.

How to book a tour through Visit Ukraine?

The process of booking tours through Visit Ukraine is extremely simple and convenient. You can choose from a ready-made itinerary offered on the website or contact the managers to create an individual programme that suits your interests.

If you want to see specific places or discuss the route with a guide, Visit Ukraine managers will be happy to help you create a personalised tour for you, including a professional guide and an organised transfer.

Thanks to such tour organisation, you can fully enjoy your visit to Kharkiv and learn more about its military history in a comfortable and safe environment.

To book a tour or get a consultation, contact our managers - they will find the best and safest offer for you to travel around Ukraine: WhatsApp/Telegram.

What is important to know for those who are going to visit Kharkiv?

To ensure a safe trip to Ukraine in 2025, follow these recommendations:

- Check official information. Read the recommendations of your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding travel to Ukraine. Follow the messages on the websites of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine and local authorities.

- Prepare your documents. Make sure that your passport is valid and that your visa (if required) is properly issued. Make copies of important documents (passport, insurance policy, visa) and save them digitally.

- Take care of your health insurance. Your policy should cover treatment in Ukraine, including possible emergencies, and it is advisable to have additional coverage for war-related risks.

- Keep an eye on air alerts. Install the Air Alert mobile application (App Store | Google Play) and learn the rules of behaviour during shelling. In case of an alarm, immediately go to the nearest shelter.

- Do not take pictures of military objects. Photographing checkpoints, military equipment, positions of the Armed Forces and other strategic objects is prohibited.

- Be prepared for inspections. During wartime, law enforcement officers may check your documents. Always have them with you.

- Follow the guide's instructions, especially in areas near destroyed objects.

- Respect the memory of the dead - this is not just a tour, but a place where history lives on.

By booking a tour through Visit Ukraine, you get not only a comfortable journey, but also access to unique locations with experienced guides who will help you understand the depth of the city's history.

With Visit Ukraine, you can be sure of the safety of your trip and an individual approach to each tourist.

Book a tour and discover the Kharkiv that lives and fights!

Just a reminder. Kyiv is a city that keeps traces of important historical events that changed the course of not only Ukrainian but also world history. Military tours of Kyiv open up unique locations and tell stories that have become part of the modern capital. Read here to find out how to take a military tour of Kyiv and see the traces of war in the capital of Ukraine with your own eyes.

Photo: Reuters

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