Located on the Dnieper River, this major industrial center has a population of 884,754. Known for its hydroelectric dam and the Khortytsia island, Europe's largest river island.
Zaporizhzhia sits along the Dnieper River in southeastern Ukraine, where steel mills and power stations define its industrial character. You can hike through the ravines of Khortytsia Island, watch Cossack horsemen perform stunts at the Horse Riding Theatre, or explore the Motor Sich Aviation Museum's collection of vintage aircraft. The city powers much of Ukraine through its nuclear plant and the DniproHES hydroelectric station, while maintaining green spaces between its industrial zones.
Khortytsia Island Nature and Activities
The Dnieper River flows around Khortytsia Island, where steppe plants grow among deep ravines. You can walk through 5-meter-deep canyons, take marked trails ranging from 2 to 15 kilometers, or relax on sandy beaches. Several medical centers and sanatoriums on the island treat patients with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions using local natural resources.
Museums and Cultural Life
In the northern section of Khortytsia, you'll find the "Zaporizka Sich" museum with its 18th-century Cossack buildings and military collections. The Motor Sich Aviation Museum displays more than 30 aircraft and engines, while Ukrainian paintings from the 16th century fill the Regional Art Museum's halls. You can watch traditional Cossack horsemanship at weekly shows in the Theatre of Horse Riding, or attend performances at the Magara Academic Drama Theatre from Thursday through Sunday.
Industrial and Power Infrastructure
Steel mills, aluminum plants, and aircraft engine factories operate in the eastern district. The DniproHES dam stretches 236 meters across the Dnieper River, generating hydroelectric power, while the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant operates six reactors. Green zones 500 meters wide separate factory areas from residential neighborhoods.
Transportation Access
You can fly to major Ukrainian cities and several European destinations from Zaporizhzhia International Airport. The river port handles both passenger and cargo vessels on the Dnieper. Built in 1873, the central railway station runs daily trains to Kyiv, Lviv, and other regional centers.
