Ukraine’s historic cities, vibrant culture, and resilient spirit make it a deeply rewarding place to visit – but understanding money in Ukraine and how currency works is essential for a smooth and safe experience. Whether you’re exploring Kyiv’s architecture, shopping in local markets, or taking a trip to the Carpathians, knowing how to pay is key. This guide covers what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Ukraine (Ukrainian Hryvnia – UAH), cash handling tips, and key dos and don’ts. With these insights, you can avoid hidden fees and confidently navigate Ukraine’s payment systems.
How to pay in Ukraine – cash or card?
In Ukraine, cards are the most accepted and preferred form of payment. But it’s still wise to carry some cash, especially when heading outside major centers. Most shops, restaurants, and hotels take Visa or Mastercard, and contactless or mobile options are common. The hryvnia (UAH) is the official currency.
You can use cash for:
- Public Transportation: Marshrutkas, minibuses, and some regional trains are cash-only.
- Street Vendors and Markets: Outdoor markets and small kiosks typically take cash.
- Small Businesses: Local cafés, bars, and shops may not always take cards.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Many budget stays accept cash only.
- Tips and Gratuities: Cash tips are common for service staff.
- Rural Areas: Electronic payment facilities are less reliable outside cities.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: Mid- to high-end hotels in cities and tourist areas accept cards.
- Restaurants: Most urban dining establishments accept Visa and Mastercard.
- Retail Stores: Supermarkets, shopping malls, and chain stores widely accept cards.
- Car Rentals and Tours: Reputable companies accept cards for bookings and deposits.
- Online Bookings: Domestic and international travel, hotels, and events can be booked online by card.
What’s the best currency to take to Ukraine?
The Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) is the official and only accepted currency in Ukraine. It’s the best currency to use for all purchases, whether you’re in Kyiv, Lviv, or exploring smaller towns.
Foreign currencies such as USD and EUR are not accepted for payments.
Where to get currency in Ukraine?
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Ukraine. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Ukraine
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Ukraine
If you’re withdrawing money in Ukraine from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa and Mastercard. Some of them also accept Plus, Cirrus and CUP cards. Others such as JCB, Maestro, American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Ukraine?
It’s usually not necessary to bring Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) before your trip, as it may be difficult to find outside Ukraine, and exchange rates abroad are typically poor. Instead, bring USD or EUR in cash, which are widely accepted for exchange.
ATMs are widely available in Kyiv, Lviv, and major cities, and most accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, and Plus. However, due to ongoing security and infrastructure issues, ATM availability can be inconsistent, so withdraw when you can and keep some reserve cash.
Exchange currency at banks or licensed exchange bureaus, not at the airport or unofficial locations. Cash is essential for small purchases, public transport, and in rural areas, though cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets in urban centers.
Where to withdraw money in Ukraine
You can withdraw money in Ukraine at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Ukraine are those owned by popular banks such as:
- OTP Bank,
- UkrSibbank,
- Kredobank,
- Tascombank, and
- Oschadbank.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Ukraine.
Where to exchange currency in Ukraine
You can exchange currency in Ukraine at licensed currency exchange offices and banks branches.
Currency exchange offices: Known as “Obmin Valyuty”, these are extremely common in Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa, and other cities. You’ll find them at train stations, shopping centers, and along main streets. They often offer better rates than banks and usually display rates publicly outside.
Banks: Major banks such as PrivatBank, Raiffeisen Bank Aval, and Oschadbank provide reliable exchange services. Most banks operate Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Pro Tip: Bring USD or EUR – they are the easiest and most accepted for exchange. Old, torn, or marked bills may be rejected. Always count money carefully and ask for a receipt.
You can find good currency exchanges in Ukraine using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 160+ countries, including Ukraine. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: They have the highest fees and poorest exchange rates. Wait to get to the city to exchange cash.
Is carrying cash in Ukraine safe?
Carrying cash in Ukraine is generally safe in most cities and tourist areas, but caution is advised due to the country’s ongoing instability and risk of petty crime in crowded places. Cash is still widely used, especially in smaller towns or when card systems are offline.
To carry cash safely in Ukraine:
- Carry only what you need for the day and store the rest securely in your hotel.
- Use a zipped crossbody bag or money belt – avoid back pockets.
- Be discreet when handling cash, especially in public markets or public transit.
- Use ATMs inside banks, malls, or hotels – avoid standalone machines.
- Keep small bills for taxis, local eateries, and tipping.
- In some regions, card systems may be unreliable – always have cash as a backup.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Ukraine
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
