Sumy Travel Guide

Sumy (Ru. Сумы, Uk. Суми) is a city situated in north-east Ukraine on the shore of the Psel River (see map). With a population of just over 300,000 inhabitants, it pales in size to its larger neighbor Kharkiv which is only 145 km (90 miles) to the south-east. In the middle of a large agricultural region, the city is most noted for sugar refining, food processing, clothing and footwear production, and oddly enough, the production of electron microscopes.

Founded as a defensive settlement in 1652, Sumy achieved official status as a town in 1780. Growing throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, growth accelerated with the abolishment of serfdom in 1861. The first half of the 20th century, like much of the Ukraine, brought Sumy a great deal of transition and hardship. In less than 50 years, the city was subjected to a revolution, the great famine (1920-21), and the brutality of World War II.

Today, Sumy is a quaint little city that lacks the hustle and bustle of larger centers. Its agricultural roots ensure a local population that is both gracious and hospitable. It is a very picturesque city complete with spacious green parks and historical buildings. Architectural monuments include a 17th century assembly hall and numerous theatres, churches, and homes from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors will enjoy a wide variety of attractions including theatres, museums, galleries, and a broad assortment of restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs.

Independent Sumy Guides

Sumy City Center with Resurrection Church

Phoning Sumy

+ 380 (Country Code) + 542 (City Code) + Telephone Number
For a complete list of Russia and CIS Dialing Codes, follow the link.

Additional Resources for Sumy, Ukraine

• Wiki: Sumy (eng)
• Wiki: Sumy Oblast (eng)
• Sites below are in Russian and/or Ukrainian. In order to translate, click on Google Translate and enter the webpage address.
• Sumy information portal and directory (ukr)
• Official site of the Sumy City Council (ukr)