Kyiv Travel Guide (Central Ukraine/Ukraine/Eastern Europe/Europe)

Introduction to Kyiv

Kyiv, also known as Kiev, is the capital city of Ukraine, located in Central Ukraine. It is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, founded in the 5th century. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Kyiv is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ukraine.

List of Places to Visit in Kyiv

There are many fantastic things to see and do in Kyiv. Here is a list of some of the most popular attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Saint Sophia Cathedral
Kyiv Pechersk Lavra
Golden Gate of Kyiv
Independence Square
National Museum of the History of Ukraine
Museum of Ukrainian Folk Decorative Art
Museum of Western and Oriental Art
House with Chimeras

Natural Attractions of Kyiv: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Andriyivsky descent
Kyiv Botanical Garden
Mariinsky Park
Trukhaniv Island
Dnipro River Cruise

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kyiv

Kyiv is a great city for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes:

Dnieper River Bike Trail
Andriyivsky descent walking path
Tarasa Shevchenko Park
National Botanical Garden

Best Things to Do in Kyiv: Activities and Tours

There is plenty of fun to be had in Kyiv. Here are some of the best things to do:

Kyiv Ghost Tours
Kyiv Food and Culture Walking Tour
Explore the underground tunnels of Kyiv
Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Ukrainian cuisine

Week-Long Itinerary for Kyiv

Kyiv is filled with so many attractions that it can be hard to know where to start. Here is a sample week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day	Activity
1	Visit Saint Sophia Cathedral
2	Explore Kyiv Pechersk Lavra and Golden Gate
3	Enjoy the picturesque views along the Andriyivsky descent
4	Take a cruise on the Dnipro River
5	Visit the National Museum of the History of Ukraine
6	Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Ukrainian cuisine
7	Relax in Mariinsky Park

Food and Drink Scene of Kyiv

Kyiv has a diverse and delicious food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Chicken Kyiv
Borscht
Varenyky (Ukrainian dumplings)
Salo (cured pork fat)

Local Beverages

Horilka (Ukrainian vodka)
Kvas (fermented drink made from bread)
Medovukha (honey-based liquor)

Where to Stay in Kyiv: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many options for accommodation in Kyiv. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels and guesthouses to consider:

InterContinental Kyiv
Hilton Kyiv
Senator Maidan
Dream Hostel

What to Buy in Kyiv: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kyiv has a rich culture and history, and there are many unique souvenirs and products to bring home. Here are some ideas:

Vyshyvanka (traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt)
Pysanky (traditional Ukrainian Easter eggs)
Hand-painted ceramics
Mead (honey wine)

Local Culture and Customs of Kyiv

The people of Kyiv are friendly and welcoming. Here are some local customs to keep in mind:

Dress appropriately when visiting churches and other religious sites
It is customary to bring a small gift when visiting someone’s home
Sample the local cuisine, as it is an important part of the culture

Best Time to Visit Kyiv

The best time to visit Kyiv is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you are interested in winter activities such as skiing, then December to February may be the best time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kyiv

Here are some important things to keep in mind when visiting Kyiv:

Do:

Try the local cuisine
Respect the local customs and culture
Bargain at local markets

Don’t:

Wear shoes inside religious sites
Take photographs of military installations
Drink tap water

Safety and Health

Safety in Kyiv

Kyiv is a relatively safe city, but it is always wise to exercise caution. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Be aware of pickpockets and keep your valuables safe
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in quiet areas
Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts

Health in Kyiv

Overall, Kyiv is a safe destination for travelers. It is important to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months. Make sure to drink bottled water and avoid tap water.

Getting to Kyiv: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several transportation options for getting to Kyiv:

Plane: Kyiv has two airports - the Boryspil International Airport and the Kyiv International Airport (Zhuliany)
Train: Kyiv has several train terminals, with international trains departing from the Central Railway Station
Bus: Kyiv has several bus stations with domestic and international connections

How to Get Around in Kyiv

Kyiv has a well-developed public transportation system, including a metro, buses, trams, and trolleys. Taxis and ridesharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Kyiv: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many interesting destinations near Kyiv, including:

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
Lviv
Odessa
Carpathian Mountains

Conclusion

Kyiv is a vibrant and exciting city with something for everyone, from history and culture to outdoor activities and delicious cuisine. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in Ukraine’s capital city.