Kharkiv is a million-plus city, the second largest and most populous city in Ukraine, which can rightfully be considered the country's scientific center. The city has 142 research institutes and 45 higher educational institutions. Quite a few universities accept foreign citizens for studying, and Kharkiv is the leader among all Ukrainian cities.

Many people are very surprised when arriving in Kharkiv for the first time. No one expects such a European city quite far from central Europe. The city authorities are doing a lot to make citizens feel comfortable. Over the past 10 years, the city from a typical post-Soviet city has transformed into a very modern and beautiful center of eastern Ukraine.

Right in the city center is the Freedom Square - the largest square in Europe, which occupies almost 12 hectares. In winter, a huge Christmas tree is set up on it, an incredibly beautiful New Year's fair is organized, where you can not only ice skate on the rink, but also try national dishes. During the warm season, concerts often take place.

Near the square there is a city park named after T.G. Shevchenko which is a very beautiful place. This year, most of the reconstruction work was completed, and now the park can again please the residents and visitors of the city. Alleys, fountains, green spaces, monuments, many shops, several cafes, and restaurants - all this creates an excellent atmosphere for a relaxing walk at any time of the year.

Of course, our city is not limited to only the Shevchenko park - there are many others, but the park named after M. Gorky is especially worth mentioning.Gorky Park is the main park of the city, according to many residents. It was completely rebuilt in 2012, and now resembles a giant oasis in the city center. Its main feature is a large number of different attractions and rides operating all year round. We advise you to visit the Ferris wheel. A beautiful view opens up at the highest point of the ride. Also there is a lake, food courts and a large number of various sites in the park. You can also rent rollers, bicycles, scooters, segways and even bicycle cars in the warmer months. It’s always best to see it with your own eyes!

Strelka Park is a very interesting place, since the entire park is located along the main river of the city, Lopan. The main feature of the park is a large bridge, which is illuminated in the evening. In addition to the usual lighting, the city began to arrange a beautiful light show right on the bridge. So, if you like water and lights in the dark of night, you should definitely visit this place.

Although the city is quite large, getting from point A to point B is very simple and convenient. All the main parts and areas are connected by the metro - the main artery of the city. Kharkiv also boasts a large number of trams, trolleys and bus routes. Recently, a single ticket system has been launched in the city, and now you can pay using a special Eticket in almost all types of transport (except buses).

So now let’s talk a little about the culture of the city. Kharkiv has 16 museums, a city art gallery, 6 state theaters and 80 libraries.

Among the theaters, the Kharkiv National Academic Opera Theater - the first Ukrainian stationary opera house. The theater building is impressing with its modern architecture, and its large size. The contemporary repertoire of the theater includes opera performances in Ukrainian, Russian, French and Italian, classical and modern ballet performances.

If you like sports, we have good news for you. In addition to the cultural and scientific side, the city has another very important one - sports. Annually, traffic is repeatedly blocked to host marathons, biathlons and triathlons, in which anyone can participate. If you like watching sports instead of participating - there is a huge stadium "Metalist" in the city, which often hosts football matches and other events.

Everything comes together to form a city we know and love, it instills a soul in it and pleases millions of people. In addition, it is the country's biggest student city, so choosing Kharkiv for higher education will definitely be a good idea.

 Rita Kazmina