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25 Best Things to Do in Kiev (Ukraine)

Ukraine’s capital is a green metropolis on flowing hills next to the Dnieper River. In the middle ages Kiev was the capital of an enormous state occupying a big tranche of Eastern Europe, and you can enter monasteries and cathedrals stemming from this golden age.

There’s no denying that Kiev has seen some tough times, from the Mongol invasion from the east in 1240, to the Nazis attacking from the west in the Second World War. These moments are part of Kiev’s identify and remembered with colossal memorials like the Motherland Monument.

But the city has always rebounded, as it did in the 19th century when it sprouted the many Baroque churches that pierce the skyline. Today, Kiev has 21st century history to retrace at Maidan Nezalezhnosti, the site of momentous demonstrations in 2004 and again in 2014.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Kiev :

1. Kiev Pechersk Lavra

One of the most important sites in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, the World Heritage Pechersk Lavra is a marvellous complex of churches, bell towers and subterranean caves.

It can take around four hours to see everything, and you may need an English guided tour to get the most out of Pechersk Lavra.

Beginning in the 11th century, the oldest portions of this complex are underground, in two man-made cave systems, Near and Far.

If you’re planning to go below, try to arrive before the crowds as you’ll descend into a rather confined and bewildering space with a taper candle to light your way.

Canonised monks like Nestor the Chronicler used to live in cells, and are now preserved as mummified, imperishable relics.

Women have to observe a pretty strict dress code that entails covering your hair and wearing a skirt.

Available tour : Kiev: City Exploration and Kiev Pechersk Lavra Tour

2. Great Lavra Bell Tower

Still part of Pechersk Lavra, this sensational monument deserves special attention as it’s one of Kiev’s emblems.

The Great Lavra Bell Tower is an unmissable fixture on the city’s skyline and dwarfs the other monuments at Pechersk Lavra, climbing to just below 100 metres.

At the time of its construction (1731-1745) it was the tallest free-standing bell tower in the world, and is composed of four tiers, each narrower than the last, culminating with a gilded dome.

The style is Ukrainian Baroque, and while studying the three upper tiers architecture geeks will notice that the columns are Doric on the 2nd tier, Ionic on the 3rd and then Corinthian on the fourth.

For a small fee you can go up for an all-encompassing view of Kiev, while the mighty bell tolls every quarter of the hour.

3. Saint Sophia’s Cathedral

Also included in the same World Heritage Site, Saint Sophia’s Cathedral is Kiev’s oldest surviving church and has architecture and ornamentation dating back to the 1000s.

Like the Pechersk Lavra it’s been elected one of the Ukraine’s Seven Wonders.

The cathedral, famed for its 13 gilded domes, was initiated in 1037 by Prince Yaroslav the Wise whose sarcophagus is on display.

You have to take your time shuffling around the interior because of the sheer quantity of medieval frescos and mosaics that have survived since the cathedral was built.

The pinnacle is the Orans of Kiev icon in the chancel vault, standing six metres high and depicting the Virgin Mary.

In the monastic buildings there’s a museum showing medieval artefacts from the cathedral and a model of Kiev before it was annihilated by the Mongols in 1240.

4. Pirogovo – Kiev Museum of Folk Architecture and Life

A perfect document of Ukrainian folk culture awaits at a sprawling open-air museum on the southern outskirts of the city.

Rural architecture from six different Ukrainian regions has been moved to this site and reassembled in six distinct villages.

There are more than 300 buildings, from churches to dwellings to workshops, in a living museum where you can watch time-honoured crafts in action like forging, weaving and pottery.

The museum was founded in 1969 and over time has amassed some 70,000 artefacts.

On show in old rustic buildings are glassware, ceramics, costume, metalwork, woodwork, embroidery and carpets, all opening a window on folk crafts and culture in days gone by.

Private tour : Kiev: Museum of Folk Architecture in Pereiaslav-Khmelnytskyi

5. St Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery

On bluffs over the right bank of the Dnieper, this working monastery dates from the 12th century and boasts a multi-domed cathedral and a bell tower.

The exterior architecture is from the middle of the 18th century and in an elaborate Baroque style, but the interior of the cathedral kept hold of its Byzantine design.

Sadly the building was torn down in the Soviet era when its art was moved to Moscow, but it would be reborn 70 years later.

Come by to see the sky blue walls capped with shining domes and the majestic view of the Knieper from the top of the bell tower.

The museum on the lower floors of the bell tower records the history of the monastery and the fate suffered by other religious monuments in the Soviet era.

Guided tour : Kiev: St. Sophia Cathedral and St. Michael’s Monastery

6. The Motherland Monument

Erected in 1981 the Motherland Monument is a gigantic, 62-metre stainless statue commemorating the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War.

In a park beside the Knieper, this symbolic figure of a woman is visible from all over Kiev.

To give you an idea of the dimensions, the monument is made with individual blocks of steel, held together with more than 30 kilometres of welding.

The sword that the figure holds up is 16 metres in length and weighs nine tons alone.

On the figure’s left arm is a shield bearing the insignia of the Soviet Union.

The higher of the monument’s two observation decks is at the top of this shield, though you’ll need to wear a harness to visit this upper one.

7. Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II

The Motherland Monument is integrated into this museum, and the memorial continues at the base.

See the marble plaques for the city’s 11,600 fallen soldiers and 200 workers, a “Flame of Glory” in a giant bowl surrounded by military hardware from the war.

Also walk the “Alley of the Hero Cities”, where Soviet cities that offered stiff resistance to Nazi Germany are remembered.

The museum is also gigantic, telling the story of the Second World War from Ukraine’s perspective with more than 300,000 objects.

The exhibitions here are very well-curated and the galleries are loaded with weapons both heavy and light, as well as maps, uniforms and archive photographs.

8. Maidan Nezalezhnosti

To get a handle on current affairs in Ukraine make for ground zero, at Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square). This has been a centre for political activism since 1990, and is where the Euromaidan protests occurred in 2013-14. There’s a contemporary memorial to the “Heavenly Hundred”, people who died in the protests.

On the lighter side, when Kiev hosted Eurovision in 2017 the fan zone was located here as if to show how much has changed in just a few years.

While you’re sightseeing, get a photo of the 2001 Independence Monument, Hotel Ukraine and the regal portico of the Tchaikovsky National Music Academy.

9. Khreshchatyk

A gathering point and upmarket shopping street, Khreshchatyk ties the Maidan to the rest of Kiev.

This thoroughfare was almost obliterated in the Second World War, and was rebuilt in the Soviet Neoclassical style.

One of the neat things about Khreshchatyk is that during weekends and public holidays road traffic is prohibited and the street fills with families and couples strolling along and checking out the many street performers.

All of the major international retailers are on Khreshchatyk and there’s an wide choice of cafes, restaurants and ice cream shops, with outdoor terraces where you can sit and watch everyone going about their day.

Look out for the palatial TSUM department store, a Kiev institution, as well as the Ukrainian House convention centre and the lively Kiev Passage side street.

10. Andriyivskyy Descent

The most famous street in Kiev drops down the sharp slope from the Upper Town to the Podil quarter on the Dnieper.

At the top, St Andrew’s Church is in an opulent Baroque style and dates to the middle of the 18th century.

You can catch a funicular up from Podil, or inch your way up the cobblestone street if you’re feeling fresh.

The architect was Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, an Italian who made his name in Russia and the Baltic, designing the Winter Palace in St Petersburg.

From there make your way down through a neighbourhood known as the “Montmartre of Kiev”, not just because of the steep topography but also the arty ambience and evocative 19th-century architecture.

There are plenty of chic cafes to call in at, and stalls by the street sell paintings in summer.

Andriyivskyy Descent is also the location for the Kiev Day celebrations at the end of May.

Kiev’s riverfront merchant’s quarter and former city centre was razed by fire at the start of the 19th century and rebuilt on a grid system.

To get there you could catch the funicular down from St Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, which will drop you in a neighbourhood that was saved from major damage in the Second World War so looks jus as it did more a century ago.

Podil is a hip, cultural area, boasting Ukraine’s most prestigious university and lots of places to dine out.

Among the big sights are the spacious Poshtova Ploscha (Postal Square) next to the funicular station, and Kontraktova Ploscha (Cotracts Square), named for the Contracts House trading hall.

On this square look for the 18th-century Fountain of Samson, comprising a sculpture of Samson slaying the lion under a handsome rotunda.

Included in : Ancient Kiev Walking Tour

12. St Volodymyr’s Cathedral

Kiev has many churches, monasteries and cathedrals now run as museums, but St Volodymyr’s Cathedral is a functioning place of worship where you can observe Eastern Orthodox services.

These happen twice a day on weekdays (08:00 and 17:00) and three times on Saturday and Sunday (07:00, 10:00 and 17:00). Easy to spot for its yellow facade, St Volodymyr’s is the mother cathedral of the Kiev Patriarchate of the Ukrainian Eastern Orthodox Church.

The architecture is 19th-century Neo-Byzantine, and many of the frescoes were painted by the feted Russian Romantic Nationalist Viktor Vasnetsov.

When the St Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery was pulled down in the 1930s the relics of St Barbara were moved here, where they remain today.

13. Mykola Syadristy Microminiature Museum

Within the Kiev Pechersk Lavra complex is a museum for the artist Mykola Syadristy.

All of Syadristy’s works fit into a single room.

And that’s because they’re miniscule and require microscopes to see them.

Only then will you realise how complicated these pieces are, like a chessboard on the head of a pin, or the smallest book in the world at no more than 0.6 square millimetres.

The artist’s sense of imagination is also made plain in microscopic works like a poppy seed turned into a bird’s nest or a flea wearing a pair of golden shoes.

14. Mikhail Bulgakov Museum

One of the most acclaimed Russian writers of the 20th century was born and grew up in Kiev.

His fine late-19th-century house on Andriyivskyy Descent is now a museum about his life and novels.

What makes the house so engrossing is that it inspired the home of the Turbins in the novel the White Guard, and the play The Days of the Turbins that came after.

The house is filled with Bulgakov’s possessions, and where replicas have been used they have been painted white.

At the end of a tour you’ll be invited to a cup of tea or coffee in this genteel setting.

15. Hryshko National Botanical Garden

Just downriver from the Motherland Monument, this sweeping botanical garden is managed by the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine.

In all there are 13,000 varieties of trees, shrubs and flowers from far and wide.

The gardens are lovely in almost any season, but if there’s a time you simply have to come it’s the end of spring.

This is when the hundreds of lilac bushes on the “Lilac Alley” are in full bloom.

Spring and early summer bring a riot of colour as the peonies, magnolia and roses are also in flower.

Check out the greenhouse for exotic species and there are reptiles in the terrarium.

Bring a picnic blanket and give yourself time to watch the Dnieper bending past the spires of the St.

Michael’s Vydubytsky Men’s Monastery far below.

16. State Aviation Museum

Situated inside the old terminal building for Zhulyany Airport, the State Aviation Museum is a few kilometres southwest of the city centre.

Anyone with an eye for aircraft or Soviet hardware will be in heaven here.

The museum opened in 2003 on the 100th anniversary of the first manned flight.

It’s the second largest museum of its kind in former Soviet countries and has a growing fleet of aircraft, which numbered over 70 at the last count.

You can inspect Ilyushins, Antonovs, Sukhois, Tupolevs, Yakovlevs and of course, aircraft produced by the fabled Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau (MiGs). The size of some of the helicopters may catch you by surprise, like the Mi-24, which is both a gunship and a transport for eight passengers.

Available tour : Kiev: 3-Hour Museum of Aviation

17. Landscape Alley

On the south side of the Andriyivskyy Descent, just off Velyka Zhytomyrska Street is a green space that has been turned into a wonderland by dozens of pieces of public art.

If there’s one thing all the artworks have in common it’s that they’re whimsical, light-hearted and adored by kids.

Some of the characters you’ll meet are a 30-metre cat centipede, a happy elephant fountain and benches in the form of a crow, cat and rabbit, all covered with mosaic tiles.

And at this hillside setting you can bask in photogenic views of Podil, the Dnieper River and Zamkova Hora (Castle Hill).

18. One Street Museum

It’s hard not to be enchanted by Andriyivskyy Descent, and all the stories associated with this famous street.

If you’re thirsty for more information there’s a museum near the bottom.

The museum has been cleverly designed to recreate the atmosphere of the street at the dawn of the 20th century.

There are more than 7,000 exhibits in the showcases, and it’s a crazy miscellany of artefacts, from vintage postcards to sketches, antique Bulgakov editions, photographs, costumes, tableware, newspaper cuttings and antique typewriters.

There are insights about the noteworthy people who have lived on the street, the history of St Andrew’s Church, and the castle built by Richard the Lionheart that once crowned the hill.

19. Golden Gate

In the middle ages Kiev was the capital of the Kievan Rus’, a federation of Slavic states that stretched from the Black Sea to the Baltic.

In that time there stood a humungous gate at the southern entrance to the city, but it was pulled down in the 13th century and remained a ruin until the 1980s.

In 1982, on Kiev’s 1500th anniversary the gate was reconstructed, even though nobody could agree exactly how it looked in its 11th-century heyday.

So even if the design is open to question the gate is an impressive structure with four tiers of merlons above the main portal and wooden extensions on each side.

In the surrounding garden there’s a monument to Yaroslav the Wise, an enlarged bronze version of a sculpture by Ivan Kavaleridze.

20. National Opera House

It’s not often that you can visit a capital city and decide on a whim to watch Madame Butterfly, Rigoletto or Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet.

But that’s exactly what you can do at the National Opera House, and compared to the rest of Europe tickets cost next to nothing.

A seat in the stalls will cost around 500 Hryvnia, €18, and it’s even less in the balcony.

The building is magnificent as well, built in the Academic style over the turn of the 20th century after its predecessor burnt down.

If you’re staying at a hotel you can ask your concierge to book tickets if there’s more than a day’s notice, or you can go to the box office on the day.

21. St Cyril’s Monastery

If you want to browse one of Kiev’s exquisite churches without being jostled by tourists, this beautiful monument needs to be on your list.

St Cyril’s is a little way from the centre of the city and requires a metro and trolleybus ride.

But what greets you at the end of the journey is a monastery and church harking back to the Kievan Rus’. The church’s Ukrainian Baroque facade is from the 18th-century and conceals a 12th-centrury interior, the only one in Kiev that hasn’t required major interventions.

The many original frescos are bright and sharp after a restoration in the 1970s.

Go upstairs to the gallery for a closer look at the image of the Transfiguration on the ceiling.

22. Babi Yar

While you’re in the northwestern suburbs you can uncover perhaps the darkest period in Kiev’s history.

A brief walk from St Cyril’s Babi Yar is a ravine where a mass murder took place on September 29-30 1941. In two days 33,771 Jews were murdered by the SS, the largest single mass killing carried out during the campaign against the Soviet Union.

And during the remainder of the war up to 150,000 Jews, Romanis, the mentally ill, Soviet Prisoners of War and Ukrainian nationalists were killed in this place.

The site is now a memorial park, hosting separate monuments to the various group of victims: Jews, children, Romani people and clerics.

Available tour : Kiev: Babiy Yar Memorial & Museum World War II

23. Taras Shevchenko Park

Something that bears repeating is just how green the centre of Kiev is: You can whole quarters of the city without leaving tree cover.

One of the prettiest parks is Taras Shevchenko Park, fronting the Taras Shevchenko National University and a popular hangout for students.

But they’re not the only ones who meet-up here, as older citizens gather for boisterous games of chess that can get very heated.

Little ones can take pony rides, and you can also see the statue of Taras Shevchenko surrounded by flowerbeds.

This 19th-century writer and polymath has had an enormous influence on Ukrainian culture and helped to shape the modern Ukrainian language.

24. House with Chimeras

Opposite the President’s Residence on Bankova Street is the pinnacle of Art Nouveau architecture in Kiev.

The House with Chimeras dates to 1901-02 and was designed by the Polish-Ukrainian architect Władysław Horodecki as his personal home.

Horodecki was a keen hunter, which explains the many creatures on the facade, both mythical and real, like dolphins, deer, elephants, frogs, rhinoceroses and mermaids.

Today the building is owned by the government and reserved for official receptions.

Access is restricted on the road, and in these tense times you can’t just show up to view the interior.

But if you fill out an online form well in advance there are tours on weekends, where Horodecki’s bizarre decoration includes a chandelier with catfish being strangled by lotus flowers.

25. Besarabsky Market

At the southern end of Khreshchatyk, a couple of streets across from Taras Shevchenko, is Kiev’s historic market.

Even plastered with advertisements, the early-20th-century market hall is imposing, and was the work of the Polish architect Henryk Julian Gay.

Shopping here can be intimidating as the stalls are run by fierce babushki.

Also, none of the produce is labelled with prices, as haggling is the way people do business.

So if you want to do some shopping you may need a Ukrainian friend with you.

If not, come for a snapshot of day-to-day life and grab something from one of the bars and cafes on the edge of the market.

25 Best Things to Do in Kiev (Ukraine):

• Kiev Pechersk Lavra
• Great Lavra Bell Tower
• Saint Sophia's Cathedral
• Pirogovo - Kiev Museum of Folk Architecture and Life
• St Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery
• The Motherland Monument
• Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II
• Maidan Nezalezhnosti
• Khreshchatyk
• Andriyivskyy Descent
• St Volodymyr's Cathedral
• Mykola Syadristy Microminiature Museum
• Mikhail Bulgakov Museum
• Hryshko National Botanical Garden
• State Aviation Museum
• Landscape Alley
• One Street Museum
• Golden Gate
• National Opera House
• St Cyril's Monastery
• Taras Shevchenko Park
• House with Chimeras
• Besarabsky Market

• The Top 20 Attractions In...

These Are the Top Attractions in Kyiv (Kiev), Ukraine

Kyiv is a treasure trove of ancient Ukrainian culture, complete with 950 churches, cathedrals and monuments dotting the city. Come to the capital of Ukraine to explore top attractions such as St Andrew’s Church, the MM Hryshko National Botanical Garden, the Mariyinsky Palace and the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, with its underground catacombs.

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Saint Sophia Cathedral

Climb to the top of the bell tower in the oldest standing church in Kyiv for sweeping 360-degree views over the capital. The Saint Sophia Cathedral was built in the early 11th century to celebrate Yaroslav the Wise’s victory in protecting the city from tribal raiders. Today, the cathedral has undergone minimal reconstruction and is listed as a Unesco World Heritage site for its grand Byzantine architecture. Picture a chalk-white building topped with green and gold domes and decorated with elaborate mosaics and gilt frescoes inside.

Mystetskyi Arsenal

If you’re looking for an art fix, head to Mystetskyi Arsenal, Kyiv’s national art and culture centre. The complex is one of the largest in the city and offers a blend of art exhibitions, theatre performances, festivals and concerts. Once a military factory, the centre now promotes Ukrainian culture, with new shows every month. Time your visit to coincide with events such as Ukrainian Fashion Week, the annual book fair or one of Mystetskyi’s contemporary art exhibitions.

Saint Andrew’s Church

Built on a hill, Saint Andrew’s Church overlooks the Podil neighbourhood and the glittering Dnieper River. The church is one of Kyiv’s most majestic baroque buildings, loved for its white-and-blue exterior embellished with emerald domes and golden details. Renowned Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli designed Saint Andrew’s in the mid-18th century, and it has survived centuries of conflict and two lightning strikes. Climb the steps for views from the base of the church, which is now a protected architectural landmark.

Mikhail Bulgakov Museum

Come to this small literary museum to learn about the famous Russian writer and doctor Mikhail Bulgakov. It’s set in his former home on historic Andreevsky Descent, where he lived with his family from 1906 to 1919. Take a guided tour for a fascinating glimpse into his life, where you’ll get to see personal artefacts, including the medical desk where he wrote books such as The White Guard (1925). Bulgakov even featured the house, which is now a national landmark, in this celebrated novel.

National Art Museum of Ukraine

The National Art Museum of Ukraine dates back to 1899 and is the oldest museum in the city. Visit to discover national artwork from the Kyivan Rus era, when a federation of East Slavic tribes ruled between the ninth and 13th centuries. You’ll find around 40,000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures and an outstanding collection of religious icons and statues. Sometimes called the “museum of lions” for its exterior sculptures, it lies in a neoclassical building in Podil.

Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra

Wander a labyrinth of eerie catacombs at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The Unesco World Heritage site is a practising Orthodox monastery that sits atop a network of caves where mummified monks have been laid to rest since the 11th century. The complex sprawls over 28ha (69 acres) on the hills above the Pechersk district and is dotted with golden-topped churches. Pilgrims come from all over Ukraine to visit this holy site, named one of the seven wonders in the country.

Mariyinsky Palace

This ornate palace is the official ceremonial residence of the president of Ukraine. Built in 1744 in the baroque style by architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the palace lies next door to the equally impressive Verkhovna Rada (Parliament) building. Explore it on a guided tour, where you’ll get to see the soaring ceremonial hall. It also hosts various events of national importance, such as political receptions, summits and awards, as well as meetings of official delegates from all over the world.

MM Hryshko National Botanical Garden

Enjoy a slice of tranquillity among Kyiv’s urban sprawl at the MM Hryshko National Botanical Garden. Stroll around 120ha (297 acres) of themed gardens home to more than 13,000 plant varieties. The gardens serve as a research facility for the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and make for a serene space with hidden viewpoints. Come in May to see the lilacs bloom, and visit the Trinity Monastery of St Jonas with its 19th-century frescoes. Swing by the greenhouse complex to see tropical flowers, cacti and palm trees.

Saint Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery

This stately Orthodox monastery is named for Kyiv’s patron saint and its cluster of shiny golden domes. The original building was constructed in 1108 but torn down by the Soviets in the 1930s. Thankfully, many of its mosaics were recovered, and the building has been painstakingly rebuilt to reflect its former glory. Head up the monastery’s bell tower, which houses a museum where you can learn about Saint Michael’s history and enjoy views over Kyiv from its perch on the riverbank.

National Opera of Ukraine

Catch a performance at the National Opera of Ukraine, one of the most prestigious ballet and opera centres in Europe, comparable to Moscow’s Bolshoi Theatre. Stepping inside the neo-renaissance building is a treat in itself, with its refurbished sculpted amphitheatre, originally opened in 1901. In addition to ballets and operas, it also hosts concerts. You’ll find the National Opera of Ukraine near the Golden Gate metro stop.

The Motherland Monument

Kyiv’s arresting, stainless-steel Motherland Monument towers 102m (335ft) over the city. Taller than the Statue of Liberty, it depicts a woman holding a sword and shield to celebrate victory over Nazi Germany and symbolise the strength of the Ukrainian people. The monument lies on the riverbank and is part of the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War. Notice the names of soldiers who fought in WWII carved into its base, then climb to the shield viewing platform for 180-degree skyline vistas.

National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War

Learn about Ukraine’s World War II history at this mammoth museum complex, which lies on the hills of Pechersk by the Dnieper River. Aside from its striking Motherland Monument, the museum has 18 different galleries that catalogue its torrid war history. Browse more than 300,000 items, ranging from official military documents and weapons to personal photographs and diaries belonging to soldiers. Outside, you can roam the museum’s collection of Soviet jets, tanks and sculptures from WWII and the Cold War era.

National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine

Pyrohiv, on the outskirts of Kyiv, is home to the National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine, tracing the history of the country’s rural population. As Europe’s largest outdoor museum, it displays a huge collection of architecture that dates back to the Middle Ages. Wander around various buildings that have been sourced from across Ukraine and carefully reconstructed on-site. You can also marvel at the museum’s selection of colourful folk costumes, period furniture and instruments. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with one of the folk festivals held here throughout the year.

Saint Volodymyr’s Cathedral

Saint Volodymyr’s Cathedral was built in honour of Prince Vladimir of Kyiv, who introduced Christianity to Kyivan Rus in 988CE. Constructed in 1882 in the city centre, the church marks 900 years of orthodox Christianity. The neo-Byzantine building stands out with its distinctive yellow colour and seven domes (six blue and one gold). The interior is just as lavish, painted with intricate murals by famous artists such as Mikhail Vrubel and Viktor Vasnetsov.

The Golden Gate

Once the imposing gateway to the city during the Kyivan Rus era, the Golden Gate is now one of the city’s Unesco-listed jewels. The ruins of the defensive structure date back to 1037. In the 1970s, a pavilion was built over the ruins, protecting the gates from further deterioration, and there’s now a tourist information centre and a small museum inside.

The Chocolate House

The Chocolate House is named for its brown, block-like architecture, which resembles a candy bar. This famous neo-renaissance mansion dates back to 1901 and lies in one of the city’s wealthiest districts, Lypky. Restored in 2009, it now houses an art gallery that’s part of the Kyiv National Museum of Russian Art. Tour the Chocolate House to discover opulent interiors with chandeliers and carved Moorish ceilings. Rooms are named after architectural styles, including Byzantine, art nouveau and renaissance.

Expocenter of Ukraine

The Expocenter of Ukraine is an exhibition complex that hosts fairs, events and concerts throughout the year, including Ukraine’s biggest music festival, Atlas Weekend. Amble among 180 Soviet, neo-baroque buildings spread over the 286ha (706-acre) site – 20 of the structures are listed as historical and cultural monuments. Be sure to photograph Pavilion Number 1 for an example of Stalinist Empire architecture, as well as the mural of Margaret Thatcher, who visited the centre, titled Tea Time with the Iron Lady .

Saint Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral

The Saint Nicholas Roman Catholic Cathedral is considered a gothic-style architectural masterpiece. Built between 1899 and 1909, the church boasts two 60m (197ft) towers with spires that puncture Kyiv’s skyline. The building is the second-oldest Roman Catholic church in the city and served as the Ukrainian security service headquarters for a period before being restored in the late 1970s. Today, you can attend Mass at the church or a concert hosted by the House of Organ and Chamber Music.

Feofaniya Park

Take a break from city sightseeing to relax in Kyiv’s most peaceful green space, Feofaniya Park. On the outskirts of the city, this beautifully landscaped park is perfect for a day of picnicking on the lawns. You can also follow paths to sparkling lakes and take in views of the Cathedral of St Panteleimon and its storybook domes – it stands on a hill overlooking the park.

PinchukArtCentre

The PinchukArtCentre is Ukraine’s top contemporary art centre. Financed by billionaire Victor Pinchuk, the six-storey building highlights a selection of rotating artwork from local and European artists. There’s always something new to discover, with seasonal exhibitions from names such as Antony Gormley and Damien Hirst. Talk to one of the gallery’s guides to learn more about the pieces currently featured. On the sixth floor, you can take a break at the popular One Love Espresso Bar, a local favourite.

Lysa Hora, otherwise known as Bald Mountain, is a popular hiking destination with a peculiar past. It’s linked to stories of the occult, featuring in Slavic folklore as a mystical mountain where witches and paranormal creatures gathered. Do a little exploring today, and you might find carved statues of pagan deities.

Kim Gregory contributed additional reporting to this article .

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This story was published before war came to Ukraine and suspended all travel there.

Saint Sophia Cathedral is one of many stunning churches in Kiev, Ukraine.

Discover the Best of Kiev

Explore this Eastern European capital with these top 10 tips.

Kiev was once a city with an identity crisis, but its enlivening spirit and perseverance throughout its recent history and current events have launched it into international recognition as a city with unprecedented tourism potential.

National Park

Holosiivskyi National Nature Park is a protected forest and natural reserve in Kiev and a must-visit for those who love the outdoors and being away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a bit. The forest is teeming with wildlife and plants. The park sits on 140 acres and contains four lakes that locals love to visit year-round. There are several pathways that visitors can cycle, run, or walk on. Children will also enjoy the Nature Park as it has playgrounds, paddle boats, and carnival rides.

UNESCO Site

Kiev has two UNESCO World Heritage sites that fall under the same category—the Kiev Pechersk Lavra and the Saint Sophia Cathedral. Both are Orthodox Christianity icons of the city. Kiev Pechersk Lavra is a cave monastery that dates back to 1051. The Saint Sophia Cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is one of the most famous sights in Kiev.

Cultural Sites

“Golden domes” are often what come to mind when someone thinks of Kiev and rightfully so. The city is home to an abundance of churches and cathedrals and many are worth your time. Saint Sophia Cathedral, Saint Michael’s, and Saint Andrew’s are among the most popular.

Best Day Trip

There are several cities to see outside of Kiev on a day trip but a city that is very deserving of a visit is Chernihiv, just to the north of Kiev. Chernihiv is a city of around 290,000 residents and is home to a popular square and green space called Dytynets Park that houses several churches. Another popular day trip is taking a tour to Chernobyl and Pripyat, which must be done through a pre-arranged tour.

Off the Beaten Path

Kiev is more diverse than meets the eye. If you head over to the Islamic Cultural Center off Starozhytomyrskyi Lane on Fridays from noon to 6 p.m., you will find a food market that will engage your senses in the best way possible. Visitors will find everything from Uzbek plov to meat vendors from Northern Africa to sweets from Turkey and the Middle East. Many people speak English and would love to share a tea with you while you devour a plate of delicious plov. This food market is definitely one of the hidden gems of Kiev.

Most Iconic Place

The Motherland Monument stands tall over Kiev at 102 meters (335 feet) high and weighing nine tons. She stands with a sword in her right hand, but it is the shield she is holding—with an emblem representing the Soviet Union—that has raised a bit of controversy in recent years due to the decommunization laws that were put in place in 2015. All World War II statues and monuments are exempt from the decommunization laws, but not without inevitable controversy. The statue commemorates the soldiers who perished during WWII and there is a museum close to the statue called the Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II. Regardless of your interest in the war and Soviet history, this area is a must-visit as the views of the river are gorgeous and its monuments are larger than life.

You can find a party and nightlife anywhere in Kiev. The craft beer scene is booming and you can support the entrepreneurs making the trend so popular by visiting one of the many craft beer bars spread throughout the city. Start with a drink in Podil and end up across the river and drink with the locals. You never know what kind of hidden gem you may stumble upon.

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Historic Site

Babi Yar , a ravine where Jews were killed during the German occupation, is easily one of the most somber sights in Kiev. There were an estimated 100,000 to 150,000 Jews murdered here and the ravine was also home to several other massacres during Soviet occupation. In September 1941, more than 33,000 Jews were killed there during a two-day period. This mass killing is said to be the largest of any single massacre during the Holocaust.

Local Quirk

You will likely hear two different languages in Kiev. The first is the national language of Ukrainian and the second is Russian, which is still widely spoken today. Depending on where you are in Ukraine, you will hear one more than the other, but Kiev is becoming more and more Ukrainian presently and you will notice it in the language. Kiev is the Russian spelling of the city and Kyiv is the Ukrainian spelling of the city. The country is also called “Ukraine,” not “The Ukraine,” as was announced by the government in 1993. Kiev locals will be extremely impressed if you have a few words of Ukrainian up your sleeve, but don’t be surprised if you hear them speaking Russian as their first language.

Neighborhood to Explore

Podilskyi, or Podil , is one of Kiev’s hippest neighborhoods. Podil is situated close to the Dnieper and is home to vibrant street art, quirky cafes, and some of the coolest bars in Kiev. Kiev’s city center can be a bit ostentatious for some, but Podil is intimate and charm radiates from every street corner in the district.

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Must-see attractions in Kyiv

St Sophia's Cathedral

The interior is the most astounding aspect of Kyiv's oldest standing church. Many of the mosaics and frescoes are original, dating back to 1017–31, when…

Kyevo-Pecherska Lavra

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Maidan Nezalezhnosti

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St Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery

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Skvorechnik

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Khreshchatyk

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Andriyivsky Uzviz

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St Andrew's Church

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Pyrohiv Museum of Folk Architecture

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Chornobyl Museum

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House of Chimeras

Many of the 'chimeras' that adorn the awning of Kyiv's weirdest building are depictions of architect Władysław Horodecki's hunting trophies – antelope,…

Great Patriotic War Museum

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National Museum of Ukrainian History

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Bulgakov Museum

The much-loved author of The Master and Margarita lived in this house between 1906 and 1919 – long before writing his most famous book. The house became…

Zoloti Vorota

Part of Kyiv's fortifications during the rule of Yaroslav the Wise, the famous Zoloti Vorota was erected in 1037. Modelled on Constantinople's Golden Gate…

National Art Museum

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Holodomor Victims Memorial

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Hryshko Botanical Gardens

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Museum of Microminiature

Beneath the Great Bell Tower on the south side of the Upper Lavra, the Museum of Microminiature provides something even for atheists within this holiest…

Vydubytsky Monastery

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Museum of One Street

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Historical Treasures Museum

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Mystetsky Arsenal

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Aviation Museum

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Kyiv National Museum of Russian Art

With 2000 paintings, only a fraction of which are on display at any one time, this museum, set in an impressive tsar-era mansion, has the largest…

Florivsky Monastery

This 15th-century women's convent remained open during the communist era. Pass through the bell tower to the peaceful grounds, which contain several…

Mid-Dnipro Museum of Folk Architecture and Life

This brilliant outdoor museum in Pereyaslav-Khmelnytsky, 90km southeast of Kyiv, has around 70 heritage wooden buildings brought here from nearby villages…

St Volodymyr's Cathedral

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Peyzazhna aleya

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Fomin Botanical Gardens

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Desyatynna Church Ruins

Prince Volodymyr ordered the Desyatynna Church built in 989 and devoted 10% of his income to it, hence the name (desyatyn means 'one-tenth'). The church…

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St Michael's Monastery Museum

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National Museum of Literature of Ukraine

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Plan Your Trip to Kyiv: Best of Kyiv Tourism

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Kyiv travel guide

Kyiv tourism | kyiv guide, you're going to love kyiv.

Kiev (or Kyiv) is the capital of Ukraine and the country's largest city, with a population of three million. Sitting on the banks of the Dnieper River, it is one of the most ancient cities in Europe, dating back to at least 500 AD.

The city's long history has resulted in a fascinating mix of architectural styles, creating a city center skyline that is all it own. The people of Kiev are also friendly, funny, and fiercely proud of their city and their nation.

Tourist numbers in Kiev are still small, and this means that you can experience the Ukrainian capital without hordes of visitors; it's an easy place to meet people and make new friends.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Kyiv

1. the nightlife.

Kiev comes alive at night, with a huge variety of pubs and clubs. You can choose between typical Ukrainian bars or stylish cosmopolitan lounges. The club scene gets started around midnight and carries on until dawn. Forsage is one of the most popular clubs, with three floors pumping out different music styles.

2. The Street Life

Kiev is full of pop-up bars and cafes, often serving their fare from converted cars. It makes just hanging around on the streets of Kiev a real pleasure and you're never quite sure what is around the next corner. There are also markets everywhere, especially in the underground areas beneath the major streets, creating an electric atmosphere.

3. The Architecture

With 1,500 years of history, you will find architectural styles to suit any taste, from gold-covered domes and soviet tower blocks. One of the best-known sites is the Kyevo-Pecherskaya Lavra, or Monastery, dating back 1,000 years and with fascinating underground catacombs.

4. Chernobyl

It is now possible to take a day trip to the city of Chernobyl, site of one of the world's worst nuclear disasters. The full-day tour includes a two-hour coach trip to the site, during which you will be shown a fascinating documentary on the incident. Visitors are able to get quite close to the site of the reactors and experience some of the sights.

5. The Mother Motherland Monument

The Mother Motherland Monument - built to commemorate the Soviet Union defeating the Nazis - at the Museum of the Great Patriotic War is quite a sight. Turn up early in the morning and get a private guide to take you to the top, where you can take in some stunning views.

What to do in Kyiv

1. st. michael's golden-domed monastery: take in the beauty.

This is a must-see for any trip to Kiev. Sitting on the bank of the Dnieper River, the historic monastery includes a large Cathedral, a refectory and a bell tower. Boasting an architectural style that won't be found anywhere in the west, the complex's cathedral and refectory display both Byzantine and Baroque influences. Walk through the interior and take in a five-tier icon screen as well as the stunning examples of medieval art. Despite the building's destruction by the Soviets, its original decorations, mosaics and frescoes have been recently restored.

2. Motherland Monument: An Awe-Inspiring Sight

"Monumental" hardly does it justice. The massive 200-foot stainless steel statue weighs 560 tons and commands an imposing vista over the city. Part of the Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II, the incredible memorial stands in tribute to over 11,500 soldiers awarded the Hero of the Soviet Union title during the war - in other words, it's a history buff's dream. The statue is also incredible without taking any of that into account, as it stands over the countryside like something from a science fiction film. Visit, and you can journey up to the top of the shield and take in the cityscape from the observation deck.

3. Independence Square: The Finger on Kiev's Pulse

The largest square in the city leaves nothing to be desired. From monumental art to ceaseless activity, Independence Square is a whirlwind of energy. The calendar brings numerous festivals, parades, markets and protests to this meeting place. When you visit, be sure to notice the column topped by a statue of the Archangel Michael, the patron saint of Kiev.

4. A.V. Fomin Botanical Garden: Escape From the Concrete

Renowned for its collection of succulents -- the largest in Eastern Europe -- this botanical wonder is the perfect place to relax after a few days of urban exploration. Massive in size, the park has plenty of places to picnic, rest and practice yoga. Calm and quiet walkways take visitors past over 8,000 plants, with many recognized as rare specimens. It's a popular place for locals to visit and relax in.

5. National Opera of Ukraine: Catch a Premier

If you're into incredible theater -- and incredible theaters -- this is an absolute must during your stay in Kiev. Home to the national opera, this magnificent building is known for its large size, warm acoustics and rousing performances of both classic and modern dance, theater and opera. The lavish design and opulence of the interior belie the affordability of the tickets. Even if you don't choose to stay for a show, it's well worth it to visit the building simply for its stunning architecture.

Where to Eat in Kyiv

Puzata Hata on Sahaidachnoho Street is a cafe selling traditional Ukrainian food from ₴15-30 for mains. Specials include Borscht and the local Kvas, fermented bread drink. Kureni on Parkova Doroga is a more upscale Ukrainian restaurant, with specials such as the famous Chicken Kiev. A four course meal will cost around ₴800.

When to visit Kyiv

Kiev has a humid continental climate, with damp, hot summers and cold winters. The peak tourist season is in July and August, but May, June, and September are also good months to visit the city.

How to Get to Kyiv

Kiev's main airport is Boryspil International Airport (KBP), which is 22 miles to the southeast of the city center. Most of the international flights connect to other Eastern European cities and to Turkey, but there is a direct service to New York City. The SkyBus will take you into the city from the airport, charging ₴60. You can also take the bus to the Kharkivska subway station for ₴35 and then buy a subway ticket into the city center for ₴4. This is cheaper and quicker during traffic rush hours. Taxis into the city center cost from ₴250. A second airport, Zhuliany Airport (IEV), is just five miles southwest of the city center. This is used by regional budget airlines like Wizz Air. Taxis into the city from this airport cost around ₴60 and the bus costs just ₴5.

The main train station is Kiev Passazhyrskyi, in the city center. There are services to all major Ukrainian cities and international routes to Prague, Warsaw, Bucharest, Budapest, and Belgrade. A single to Prague will cost around ₴950 and domestic routes range from ₴90-120.

The main road from the west is Route 4 from Poland. Once in Ukraine, this becomes the E40 and runs all the way from Lviv to Kiev. Care is needed when driving in Ukraine, as even this main road is in a poor condition.

International buses from all over Europe arrive at Kiev Central Bus Station on Moskovska Square. Fares vary widely but a single from Prague can cost around ₴675.

Airports near Kyiv

Where to stay in kyiv.

The Podolski Hotel provides good, clean, safe budget accommodation in a central location. The Staro Hotel is a good mid-range hotel. It's a little outside the city center, but it is modern and in a quiet neighborhood. For a luxurious stay, try the Premier Palace, which has a gym, sauna, pool, and a superb central location.

Popular Neighborhoods in Kiev

Pechersk - this is a central neighborhood housing the Verkhovna Rada Parliament building and the pretty Mariinskyi Park. Pechersk is the city's central business district and is bordered by the Dnieper River. It is also home to the Pechersk Lavra monastery.

Podil - Podil is Kiev's oldest neighborhood and has some beautiful buildings and good restaurants. It's close to the major tourist attractions and has a good street market on Sagaydachnogo Street.

Shevchenko - this is a neighborhood of quiet, upscale streets and green open spaces. It is home to the National Opera of Ukraine and Taras Shevchenko University. It is also the area with most of the big, international hotels, such as InterContinental Kiev, Hilton Kyiv, Radisson Blu, Hyatt Regency, and Premier Palace.

Where to stay in popular areas of Kyiv

Most booked hotels in kyiv, how to get around kyiv, public transportation.

Kiev's public transportation system includes buses, trolley buses, and trams. The network can be crowded but it is very cheap. You buy your tickets on board and then validate them by punching them in a machine. Tickets cost ₴3. A second, and often faster and more comfortable option, is the subway. Tickets cost ₴4.

Unofficial taxis are widespread and cheap, costing around ₴55 for a city center journey and up to ₴100 to travel from one side of the city to the other. Official taxis will cost around ₴100 and ₴180 for the same journeys.

The roads within Kiev are in better condition than those outside the city, and traffic is not unusually heavy. Look out for faded road markings and traffic lights that don't always work, or are dimly lit. Car rental is available from around ₴1,600 per day, and there is a Budget outlet in town.

The Cost of Living in Kyiv

Shopping streets.

For traditional goods and souvenirs, try the market at Andrew's Descent. It's open every day but Saturdays and Sundays are best. The main shopping malls are at Ocean Plaza, which has 400 stores, a cinema, and restaurants, and Gulliver in the Downtown area, which has everything from groceries to beauty salons. Mandarin Plaza is the place for upscale fashion boutiques.

Groceries and Other

A quart of milk in Kiev will cost around ₴17, while 12 large eggs cost ₴29. Major supermarkets include Velyka Kyshenya, with branches across the city, and Billa, on Gryshko Street.

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15 reasons to visit Kyiv – the amazing capital of Ukraine

With the current situation in Ukraine, with a heavy heart, I strongly advise not visiting the country. This is the older, pre-war article and you can use it for future inspiration and information to plan a trip when it’s safe to visit Ukraine again.

I’ve just returned from yet another trip to Kyiv, Ukraine.

I honestly can’t count now how many times I’ve been there – recently it became one of my most frequently visited cities in Europe.

And I really don’t mind that at all as every time I visit Kyiv it’s a treat!

Quick Kyiv cheat sheet

Are you looking for the airport transfer directly to your hotel in Kyiv? Click here for the details!

Where to stay in Kyiv:

• DREAM Hostel Kyiv (budget)
• Summit Apart Hotel (mid-range)
• 11 Mirrors Design Hotel (luxury)

Best Kyiv tours:

• Urbex Underground and Bunker Tour
• Private Tour of Kiev Pechersk Lavra
• 3-Hour City Tour by Foot or Private Vehicle

Table of Contents

Reasons to visit Kyiv, Ukraine

If you’re wondering if Kyiv is worth visiting there’s a simple answer to that question – definitely yes!

There are so many reasons to visit Kyiv, from amazing architecture to interesting history and vibrant atmosphere and each of them is already a good excuse to plan the trip to the capital of Ukraine.

I remember how, before my first trip in 2012, I knew next to nothing about the place and how quickly I fell for it.

The city really has it all and now more than ever is a good time to visit Kyiv.

Long and interesting history

You might remember disturbing pictures from the center of Kyiv a few years ago when the revolution took over the streets and the president Viktor Yanukovych resigned .

You can still see remnants of these tragic events on the streets of Kyiv, especially around Maidan Nezalezhnosti area where the pictures of those who lost their lives are displayed.

But Kyiv has much, much longer history!

In fact, this is one of the oldest and most important cities in Eastern Europe that had a huge impact on the area.

It was founded at the beginning of the 5th century and over four centuries later it became the center of Kievan Rus – the Federation of East Slavic tribes that is considered the cultural ancestor of modern Russia , Belarus and Ukraine .

From the year 1363 on Kyiv was part of Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, Cossack Hetmanate, Russian Empire, Ukrainian People’s Republic, Soviet Union and finally, in 1991 it became the capital of the independent state.

Over the centuries it always played an important role and you can see the remnants of the great times all over the city. It’s fascinating to track down the history when you visit Kyiv!

Beautiful golden dome churches

Golden dome churches are somehow the symbol of Eastern Europe and there is no better place to admire them than Kyiv.

There are so many beautiful churches in the capital of Ukraine it’s hard to pick the most amazing one.

Pechersk Lavra complex, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, since the foundation in 11th century has been one of the most important places for the Orthodox Christians.

Another UNESCO place – Saint Sophia Cathedral – and especially its interior takes a breath away (when you’re there be sure to climb to the bell tower for one of the best views of Kyiv!).

But my three favorite churches, all looking like straight from the fairy-tale, are St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, St Andrew’s Church and St Volodymyr’s Cathedral.

If you like shiny places you’re in for a treat!

If you have time I definitely recommend taking a tour at Pechersk Lavra as this place is really fascinating! Click here for more details and current prices!

Impressive Soviet architecture

Everyone knows I’m a big fan of Soviet architecture so Kyiv is like a huge playground for me (and, with almost 3 million inhabitants, I mean really huge!).

Most of the visitors will admire Khreschatyk street – the main avenue in the center that over the weekends turns into pedestrian zone.

But Kyiv has so much more to offer when it comes to the Soviet architecture.

If you’re into it too jump into the blue metro line and go to Expo center (Vystavkovyi tsentr) – I was literally walking around with jaw dropped, that’s how many awesomeness I’ve seen around!

On the other side of the street, you will find part of the university that you’d like to check out too for the concrete bas-reliefs.

Other spots that should interest you are State Scientific-Technical Library (near the Lybidska metro station), crematorium at Baikove Cemetery or Hotel Salute, just to name few.

There’s a Soviet Kyiv tour that you might be interested in joining – click here for more details!

The Motherland Monument

This itself is a very solid reason to visit Kyiv and one of the best things to see in the city! An enormous Motherland Monument gives me a “wtf?” reaction every single time I see it.

The first time I visited the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War (until 2015 known as Museum of the Great Patriotic War) it was even crazier – the old war songs were played loud from the speakers around, giving the place even more surreal feel.

You walk through the tunnel with enormous Soviet bas-reliefs and at the end, you are greeted by even more enormous statue – try to beat that!

Well, with a height of 102 meters you can see the statue from far away but combined with the tunnel it makes your jaw drop.

You can go up the statue, either to the pedestal or to the shield – either option offers great views but the second one is definitely more thrilling!

Beautiful architecture

So yes, the churches in Kyiv are spectacular, the Soviet buildings are pretty amazing.

But that’s not all the architectonic wonders you can find in the Ukrainian capital! There’s so much beauty in the center of Kyiv, so many random houses that catch the eye!

But of them all, I’ve found the prettiest buildings in the back of Khreschatyk, along Arkhitektora Horodetskoho street or to Yaroslaviv Val street close to Zoloty Vorota.

The most famous one is definitely House with Chimeras – too bad these days you can’t get very close as it’s such a beauty!

Recently Kyiv has become the capital of street art in Eastern Europe. It’s impossible to see all the amazing works there over the weekend only, there’re so many of them.

But you can try to find some and a great online map will definitely help you with that – you can check it here.

The biggest influence on Kyiv’s street art has recent politic events and Ukrainian identity.

You can see works by some of the world-famous artists on the walls of Kyiv, including Fintan Magee, ROA or Vhils.

Be sure to check my friends Kirsty and Mark’s post about street art in Kyiv too!

You might also want to join the street art tour in Kyiv – click here for more details!

Food and cafe scene

Ukrainian food, even if a bit heavy, is really delicious.

I can live on various kinds of vareniki, sirinki and just salads for a week and still enjoy every meal (been there, done that!).

But in Kyiv not only you will find Ukrainian food, but there are also numerous international restaurants that are really affordable and with good quality of dishes.

If you’re looking for Georgian, Italian or just about any other kind of food – you can easily find it in Kyiv!

As I’m really into cafes Kyiv wins my heart on this field too.

There are so many of them, they are so cool and the prices are extremely cheap! By now I even have a loyalty card to some of them.

If I ever decide to become a digital nomad (which I highly doubt) Kyiv will be very high on the list of places I’d like as a base and that’s mostly because of the cafes.

If you’d like to find the best places check out the list of best cafes in Kyiv by my friend and fellow blogger Megan!

Speaking of food – there’s one more reason why Kyiv is amazing and that’s markets.

While most of the people go to Besarabsky Market I prefer Zhitniy Market in Podil area.

It’s much more authentic, so much is going on there, you can buy so many amazing products there and the building itself is another gem.

If you’d like to learn more about Ukrainian cuisine you should join the gastro tour! Click here for more details!

Diverse city

One of the reasons why I enjoy Kyiv so much is its diversity. You literally have everything in there and the city never gets boring.

After so many visits I still have lots of areas and angles to discover in Kyiv and each new trip there makes me super excited.

I don’t think I know any other capital that has so much to offer!

Before my first visit I’ve thought the weekend will be enough to get to know Kyiv, now I can see how naive I was. Kyiv really has it all!

Kyiv is diverse not only when it comes to architecture but also in vibe.

You can feel the good, old times only to enter a few minutes later the very much hip and trendy place: what happens for example when you go to Artzavod Platform and need to go through Lisova market.

Another place with the old-fashioned atmosphere is Hidropark with an amusement park that could as well has been in the 1990s or the seniors having open-air dance classes with the old school music.

Vibrant atmosphere

No matter which season I’m in Kyiv the atmosphere is always vibrant, making the city inviting.

People are out on the streets, enjoying the outdoor attractions (there always seems to be something happening, especially between St. Sophia’s and St. Michael’s churches).

In the warm weekend evenings, Khreschatyk is buzzing with life and is just the best place for people watching.

And all over the city, you will find numerous outdoor bars, restaurants, and cafes bursting at the seams.

People of Kyiv love to spend their time outside and this vibe is definitely addictive!

Relax in the park

For such a huge city Kyiv can be relaxing too.

You can take a rest at the sandy beaches at the shore of Dnieper river (fun fact: it used to be possible take the zip line across the river!) – I don’t know many European capitals where you can do that, actually now that I think of it only Warsaw comes to my mind.

But my favorite place to relax in Kyiv is Shevchenko Park, located in the very center close to the main university building.

I spent hours there, chilling on the funky benches, watching people, reading or napping. When I have nothing else to do in Kyiv I just head to Shevchenko Park and chill there, such a pleasant place it is!

Alternative, quirky Kyiv

But Kyiv isn’t only this cute capital. It has the edgy, alternative and quirky side too.

You already know about street art, brutalism architecture or countless cafes and bars (some of them hidden in the gates or located in the garage).

But there’s more!

Besarabski Market, besides being a decent place to shop for the local produce, is also a meeting place for hipsters, dining in the local restaurants.

Close to the fairytale-like St. Andrew’s church you will find the lane full of crazy sculptures, including clearly overdosed Alice in Wonderland.

Cross the river and you’ll be in a completely different world, the concrete jungle with enormous blocks of flats so high you lost the track when counting the floors.

Among them, you can find little parks, lakes or gems like Art Zavod Platforma – the biggest creative and cultural center in Ukraine.

Kyiv is also home to the funky funicular that goes up from the Podil area (next to Poshtova Ploshcha metro station) to the St. Michael’s Monastery.

It looks like from some futuristic movie and, even if it’s part of the public transport system, you’re encouraged to take pictures of it (such a nice change from so many of the post-Soviet countries)!

If you’d like to get to know the alternative side of Kyiv you can join the pub crawl tour – click here for more details!

The deepest metro station in the world

I’m a huge fan of metro systems just about everywhere and while the one in Kyiv doesn’t really make my heart beat faster (unlike metro in Kharkiv , Moscow or, recently, in Baku and Tashkent) there are few stations that I certainly appreciate, like Zoloti Vorota.

But the most famous one is, with no doubts, Arsenalna station.

With the location 105 meters underground it holds the title of the deepest metro station in the world.

Once I checked how much time it takes from the moment you leave the train till the moment you make it outside – it was a bit over 6 minutes, and escalators in Kyiv’s metro are crazy fast, so fast you need to jump on them when you’re still not used.

If like me, you’re interested in the metro system and its history you should join the metro tour! Click here for more details!

Kyiv is safe

There’s this stereotype that Eastern Europe is unsafe. With the recent war in Ukraine Kyiv is considered by many to be a super dangerous place.

Even before the recent revolution I got worried comments and looks from my closest family and friends, asking what I’m getting myself into with the idea of traveling to Kyiv.

Well, this couldn’t be farther from the true.

While every now and then we get news of some incidents happening in Kyiv (don’t they happen just about everywhere?) I feel very safe in the city and there wasn’t even one situation when I felt something is wrong.

Of course, you need to be careful, like everywhere else, it’s a big city after all. But I don’t think there’re any major threats or issues you need to be aware of.

I wrote the whole article about safety in Ukraine – you can read it here!

Kyiv is really affordable

Already before the revolution in 2014 Kyiv was a very affordable capital but after those events, the value of Ukrainian hryvnia dropped a lot, like three times.

Now Kyiv is among the cheapest cities in Europe and the quality you get for so little money is outstanding.

Accommodation, food, going out, cultural events and any other expenses won’t drain your budget really.

Another reason why it’s worth to visit Kyiv now is helping the economy, and especially local people. While it’s crazy cheap for us it’s not for the residents and by spending money you support them.

Getaway to Chernobyl and the rest of Ukraine

The most popular day trip from Kyiv is the Chernobyl tour . The exclusion zone and the place of the most tragic and best known nuclear disaster in 1986 are only one hour away from Kyiv.

I visited Chernobyl and Pripyat and while before the trip I was slightly skeptical I really loved it and I can recommend it to everyone! It’s such a somber yet fascinating experience!

Kyiv is also a great getaway to Ukraine!

With numerous train connections just about everywhere it’s easy to explore this beautiful country. There are buses too but I definitely recommend trains.

They are cheap, efficient, of a decent standard and you can buy the ticket online in advance. You can also meet or just observe fellow passengers and get a good insight into the local life.

Now that I think of it I took bus only once in Ukraine, between Kamianets Podilskyi and Chernivtsi – all my other journeys were by train.

Visit Kyiv – practical information

How to get to kyiv + how to get to the center.

If you’re flying to Kyiv you have two airports to choose from: Zhuliany (for low-cost airlines mostly) and Borispol. I think this is the only city where the low-cost airport is actually much more convenient than the regular one.

Zhuliany is located in the city, you have the public transport stop 3 minutes walking from the terminal (you need to go straight from the building and shortly you will see the stop on your left side, next to the main road) and for as little as 5 UAH you can be in the center.

Trolleybus no 9 takes you directly to the center (Lev Tolstoy Square), passing the train station and University metro station along the way.

There’re also other minibusses and trolleys going to Shulyavska metro station from where you can easily go everywhere.

If you land in the evening you can take Uber for 120 UAH (at least that’s what I paid once on Friday evening from Zhuliany to Arsenalna metro station), there is free wifi at the airport so you can arrange everything easily. From what I’ve heard from fellow passengers taxis charge around 500 UAH…

If you don’t want to deal with all the hassle after arriving just book the private transfer to the center – click here for more details!

Borispol, the main airport, is located some 40 minutes away from the city.

You can get the Sky Bus for 100 UAH all the way to the main train station (the stop is on the other side of the tracks than the main hall and metro station). The buses depart every 15 minutes.

There is also a direct train from Borispol to the central train station but the schedule is a bit chaotic.

You can also book the private transfer to the center and enjoy a hassle-free ride. Click here for the details!

If you arrive in Kyiv by train you need to take the metro to get to the center.

There’s a metro stop Vokzalna next to the train station. When you exit the main hall you need to go left to the round building some 50 meters away (or just follow the people and look for the M sign).

3 metro stops and you’re at Maydan Nezalezhnosti, the main square in Kyiv.

Where to stay in Kyiv, Ukraine

This is the question I get the most often – where to stay in Kyiv.

Personally, my favorite area is around Zolote Vorota metro station as the location is just perfect and the neighborhood itself is really lovely.

It’s close everywhere and you have two metro lines crossing there, and another one just short walk away at Khreschatyk/Maidan Nezalezhnosti.

Kyiv (and Ukraine in general) offers a great quality/price ratio (it’s the only country where I feel stupid for paying so little for such a good service). And accommodation is no different here.

You can find a place to stay for every kind of traveler and it won’t drain your pocket. Here are few of my types:

• Hostel Veselka – Key2Gates (rating on Booking 8.7/10) – I stayed there once and can definitely recommend it for budget travelers. The hostel was really clean and quiet during my stay and the location is just the best – next door from Zoloty Vorota metro station! Click here to check the reviews and current rates!
• Globe Runner Hotel & Hostel Kyiv City Center (9.2/10) – located near the Golden Gate, this hostele is highly rated for the location, cleanliness and comfort. Click here to see more details and check current rates!
• Theatre Boutique Apart-Hotel (8.1/10 on Booking) – Near Teatralna metro station, hidden in the quiet street this hotel is valued for the comfort, good wi-fi and the location. Click here to see more details and check current rates!
• Live.Here.Hotel (9.2/10 on Booking) – Located half way between St. Michael’s Church and Maiden Nezalezhnosti the hotel is highly valued especially for comfort, staff and cleanliness. Click here to check reviews and see current rates!

Luxury hotels:

• 11 Mirrors Design Hotel (9.4/10 on Booking) – Hidden just behind the Opera the hotel has a beautiful interior and gets high notes in just about every aspect! Click here to see more details and check current deals!
• Hyatt Regency Kiev (9.0/10 on Booking) – 5* hotel located right next to St. Sophia Cathedral, known for the comfort and cleanliness. Click here to see the details and current deals!

How to travel around Kyiv

The core of Kyiv public transport is the metro system with three lines.

They can easily take you to all the city’s highlights: Maidan Nezalezhnosti, Khreschatyk (stations with the same name), St. Sophia’s, St. Michael’s, Zolote Vorota (station Teatralna/Zolote Vorota), Podil area (stations Poshtova Ploschta or Kontraktova Ploschta), Lavra and Motherland Monument (Arsenalna and a bit of walking).

All three lines cross in the center making it easy to change between them.

One ride costs 8 hryvnias and you can get a token either in the ticket office or in the machine, you can also use your Mastercard to enter the metro.

There’s also a big network of buses, minibusses, trams, and trolleybuses.

You pay for the ride inside, either to the person who collects the money and sells a ticket or directly to the driver.

Insurance for Ukraine

I never travel without the insurance as you never know what might happen on the road and better safe than sorry ( I’ve learnt my lesson ).

I can recommend SafetyWing that offer the insurance dedicated to travelers just like you and me.

Click here to get the insurance policy for Ukraine here.

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Ukraine too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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43 Comments

John Campbell

Kami, This is an great article and the Ukraine is definitely a place I want to visit once I get over there. But I have another question for you now. I am an American who wants to retire in Poland next Spring or Summer. I have been looking at many cities and would like to narrow down my choices to just a few that I will check out once I get there. One city that seems interesting and inexpensive, but that I can find little about is Kielce, can you give me your opinions about it? Also looking at Katowice & Gdansk, and half a dozen others. Can you make any suggestions to help me narrow it down? But, is Kielce a possibility or should I cross it off my list? I love your insights and way of looking at all the places you’ve spent time, so especially regarding your home country of Poland I’m hoping you have a few words of wisdom? Thank you so much in advance.

Thank you for your comment John! To be honest I don’t really like Kielce as there’s not all that much to see and do. I think Katowice or Gdańsk would be good choices, depending if you prefer mountains or see. If you’re after culture then maybe Lublin or Poznań would be good, or Wrocław (then you’d be also close to Germany and Czech Republic, and mountains). Or Warsaw as you’re centrally located then :) Maybe asking me wasn’t such a good option after all, I gave you more ideas than I should have ;)

Thank you very much for your reply! I do think it’s helpful! As a reader of your blog for a while, I’ve always loved the way you can (usually) find something interesting to appreciate about almost every place you visit! In fact, it would be hard to decide based your descriptions, as everywhere you go sounds wonderful in some way or another! Not surprisingly, those cities you named were also on my list, along with Krakow and Bydgoszcz. Katowice tops my list mostly because of your piece on it, where you called it the most underrated city in Poland. Many have said, it’s best to go and spend the first few months traveling around seeing the different cities in Poland, as it’s a diverse country with something for everyone. I like it all, sea, mountains, cultural activities & events, so it’s about the best compromise for me. Thank you again for responding and thank you for all the info you provide about your travels!

Thank you so much for your nice comment John! I always try to focus on positives and I believe every place has something interesting to offer so I always find beauty where others can’t see it. And Poland really is diverse so you will definitely be busy here :) if you have any questions about Poland feel free to ask!

Chris Baumgart

Lublin old town us fun & lovely but I don’t remember many people speaking English. Would you recommend Slovenia or Ukraine for a visit this summer? Thanks

It’s hard to compare these two countries really, depends what you are looking for. Ukraine will be definitely cheaper.

In my opinion (I’m from Poland): Warsaw. Krakow. Gdansk. Lodz. Wroclaw. Katowice

Libbie Griffin

Thank you for all this good information and for your fine photographs. I plan to spend a few days in Kiev in 2019 and this blog will be saved today and read often as the time of my visit nears. Kiev appears to be a beautiful and exciting city. I look forward to reading about Lviv on your blog. Have you been to Minsk? I think I’ll go there as well. Libbie Griffin

Hi Libbie, thank you for your comment! Kiev is amazing and I’m sure you will enjoy it. The city is so diverse, with so much to see and do that you just can’t be bored there. I’ve recently published a post about Lviv, you’re more than welcome to take a look! Yes, I’ve been to Minsk few years ago and really enjoyed it. There’s a post about it here as well. I’m going again next March as I’m sure it has changed a bit over the time.

Kavleen Kaur [email protected]

hey! I have read your blog it was amazing. thank you for sharing such a useful blog.

Carl Muncher

Such a wonderful review Kami, Kyiv is a wonderful city, would be great if you spelt the capital as ‘Kyiv’ instead of ‘Kiev’ though, ‘Kiev’ is the Russian translation into English whereas ‘Kyiv’ is from Ukrainian. Just imagine if a tourist agent did a review on “warschau”, can you imagine?? Also the historical legacy of Kyivan Rus is highly controversial, most historians dont consider it to be “the cultural ancestor of Russia” rather the cultural ancestor of Russia is more the Grand Duchy of Moscow or “Muscovy” as it was known then. Have to agree with you that this is the best time to travel to Kyiv. Since 2014 the city has absolutely lifted off, it even feels more free and democratic than before, they are finally shacking off the shackles of Moscow. Also can’t agree with you more varenyky and syrnyki they are by far the best things to eat there. haha i know Poles think pierogis are theres but rumour has it Saint Hyacinth of Poland brought them from back from a trip to Kyiv. Also must agree with the you about the architecture, the churches are the best, most of the good ones like Pecherska Lavra were built during the Ukrainian Cossack Hetmenate or Cossack-Ukraine. Would love to get some tips from you about visiting Gdansk (Danzig). I have heard it is such a beautiful city, many of my German friends recommend going and say it used to be theres haha.

Thank you Carl for your nice comment. I did write in the post that I know the correct name of the city is “Kyiv” but I use “Kiev” on purpose as more people use it when searching for information about the city and we all want to spread the word about Kyiv. You must have missed this part of the article :) And to be honest, as much as I love pierogi I prefer varenyky a bit more ;) But don’t tell it to anyone. Gdansk is great and you should definitely visit it if you have a chance. There’s a lot to see and do there, I think you will enjoy it! Just don’t tell anyone it’s a German city, there were short periods of time when Gdańsk was under the German rule but that’s it.

Hi kame, i am male solo tourist going to europe in may , i am not a sex tourist but i would love to know some ukranien womens, friends , whaever , my question will be wich city you think has better plaes for that, maybe nightlife , or parks , or the people is more open to the tourist , Kiev o Lviv , i can visit just one, ..many thans for any info

I’m sorry but I can’t really help you with your question. Both cities are great and worth a visit.

Hi, I would advise to try Kyiv first. This city is full of great places, as well as great people. Bright nightlife, a lot of youth, comfortable infrastructure, and a bunch of different pubs, bars and cafes, also there are beautiful sightseeing and so on. The article is really good, and it is worth to feel the atmosphere :)

I’ve been living here for 9 years, and love this city so much.

Next you could try Lviv or Odessa. A little bit different culture

I couldn’t agree more. Thanks!

Kami, thank you for such a good article. I’m from Kyiv and it is very pleasant to read your impression.

Thank you Olena! I’m really glad you enjoyed it :)

Sorry, but I have to report a bug in the text. The correct name is Kyiv( not Kiev). “Kyiv” is the right version as decided by UNCSGN (United Nations Conferences on the Standardization of Geographical Names) and UNGEGN (United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names).

if you read the article carefully you would see that I mentioned that and I explained why I’m using “Kiev” instead of “Kyiv”.

Matius Teguh Nugroho

Hi, Kami. Greeting from Indonesia! Glad I found your blog.

I’ve been thinking to visit Kiev recently for my Europe trip in a year or two. Ukraine is one of few European countries where Indonesians are permitted to enter without a visa. The other are Serbia and Belarus. But I think Kiev suits me best! Just like you, I’m a fan of architecture and metro systems. I ride the metro in any Asian cities I’ve visited, then review them on my blog. I see Kiev has many things to see, to do, to learn.

I think you definitely should visit Kiev when you can, it’s such a fascinating city. I’m sure you would enjoy it!

Thank you for this wonderful post (and for your wonderful blog in general–such a great find!). I am thinking of adding a few days in Ukraine to my upcoming trip to Poland and I love walking tours, especially history-oriented ones, or food/pub tours. I’ve noticed, though, that a lot of Ukrainian tours are either for private groups or charge a higher rate for only one person. Do you know of any tours or companies that offer mainly small-group tours that anybody can join?

Thanks! Caroline

Hi Caroline, unfortunately I don’t know any of such tours but why don’t you join my Facebook group about traveling in Eastern Europe and ask there? I’m sure some of the members will be able to help you! Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/121053081614593/ All the best and happy travels!

Ukraine is truly a beautiful country with Kiev having some of the most beautiful cathedrals.I truly enjoyed my trip .I would highly recommend this city .

I’m hapoy to hear that. All the best and safe travels!

Kami, I must say you have outdone yourself in this description of Kiev / Kyiv. All of your travelogues are animatedly descriptive and interesting but reading this one has made me feel I have experienced the city without having been there and I feel most compelled to get there asap. So I have been trying to interest a group of friends to chose Kiev as our next destination for a retreat and they were convinced the minute I shared your piece with them.

Thank you for your lovely comment. I’m glad you managed to convience your friends to visit Kiev too. Have a great trip!

Victoria@TheBritishBerliner

Yes! Yes! Yes! This is such a cool article about Ukraine. I’m quite the expert at East European countries myself but I do believe that you’re the top blogger when it comes to countries from the former USSR!

Well done Kami! :D

Thank you for your article. My name is Alexandra and I am from Kiev. It was so nice to read about it. My husband and I are going there in a few weeks. Can’t wait.:)

Thank you again for such a positive article. Safe travels!!!

I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the article, Alexandra. Have a wonderful time in Kiev!

Arsenalna Station isn’t the deepest in the world. The Pyongyang Metro is deeper. Arsenalna Station has a depth of 346 feet (105.5 meters) The Pyongyang Metro has a depth of 360 feet (109 meters). Therefore the Pyongyang Metro is the deepest metro in the world. Arsenalna is the second deepest.

Thank you for your comment, I’ve always heard Kyiv has the deepest metro station in the world, guess Ukraine has better marketing for that than North Korea.

Dear Kami. I am a non Ukraine born Ukrainian who speaks the language fluently. My 20 year daughter and I just came back from a a two week trip, one of those weeks spent in Kyiv, the other in Lviv where I have family Your post about Kyiv was a wonderful starting point, as this was my first time visiting outside of the more familiar to me western Ukraine. Unfortunately the funicular was out of order, but the subway escalators definitely give a thrill. We were there over Independence Day celebrations which were amazing. I have one wish, and that is that you would put labels on your photos so that the spots are easier to identify! Also…. I would actually recommend that people visit Lviv first. It is more intimate, more compact and has less “grunge” than Kyiv. While there is no subway, the trams are from the 50’s and 60’s and provide us westerners with an extraordinary view of how a vibrant city can carry on without the newest in travel technology. I was there 7 years ago and by now the tourist cafe and restaurant environment is extraordinary. Lots of street musicians. The Opera is beautiful and the best tickets are extremely cheap by Western standards.

I adore Lviv too, it’s such a charming city too and I try to visit it as often as I go to Kyiv! I’m glad you enjoyed Kyiv during your last trip to Ukraine! As for the pictures – it’s a bug I keep working on but I will try to add descriptions again here.

Basil Galarnyk

Hi Kami, We are planning our first trip to Ukraine in the spring, Kyiv, Lviv, Bratislava & Vienna. Loved this article about Kyiv and wait to share it with my wife.

This sounds like a great plan! I’m sure you will have a wonderful trip! :)

John caroline

Thank you for your article

you’re welcome!

Thanks, great article! Have you been to Kyiv after the Russian invasion of Ukraine? What do you think about the war?

No, unfortunately I haven’t been to Ukraine since the war has started, I don’t think now is the right time to travel there for tourism, although I really miss the place.

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What to see in Kyiv: TOP 10 Kyiv attractions

Kyiv is a city of ancient temples, unusual architecture, rich history and talented people. Monuments, sculptures, and ancient buildings are almost everywhere, as the capital of Ukraine is full of sights. We have prepared TOP 10 most important, beautiful, interesting and original places in Kyiv for you.

Top 10 Kiev attractions

1. Kiev-Pechersk Lavra

One of the oldest monasteries in Ukraine (11th century). There are cathedrals, churches, galleries, museums, and caves with the relics of saints on the territory of the Lavra. You can see them all and even more on Kyiv city tours .

2. Sophia Kyivska National Reserve

The reserve’s main object, St. Sophia Cathedral, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It features the largest collection of 11th century frescoes and mosaics. Want more history? Welcome to our Historical Kyiv walking tour.

3. Andreevsky Descent

The oldest, brightest and most creative city street, known as the “Kiev’s Montmartre”. It’s home for artists and souvenir dealers. Moreover, it is a very mystical place. Why? Ask the guide during our  Secrets & Mysteries of Kyiv thematic tour.

 4. Mikhail Bulgakov Museum

It’s a writer’s house-museum: Mikhail Bulgakov, the author of the novel “The Master and Margarita” used to live here. How about taking a walk in the museum after its closure, when the crowds of tourists are gone? It is possible on our unique  Night at the Mikhail Bulgakov Museum tour, choose it if you looking for interesting things to do in Kyiv .

5. Golden Gate

The gate, built in 1164, is one of the Kiev’s symbols. Ten years ago it was restored; the museum exposition and part of the ancient wall are exhibited inside. Also, you can have a look at the city center from its top.

6. Motherland Monument

One of the world’s highest sculptures which is 102 meters high! It is taller than the Statue of Liberty in the USA. You can see the panoramas of Kiev from its observation point.  When the weather is fine, you can come up to the Motherland shield (90 m). The sculpture was built in 1981 in the USSR times. It is one of the objects of our Back in the USSR sightseeing tour.

7. Mariinsky Park

It is located on the hills along the Dnieper River. There is an observation platform in the park, and the building of the Ukrainian parliament and the Mariinsky Palace are located nearby. You can see the city and breathe in some fresh air on our Kyiv Parks walking tour.

 8. Dnieper Quay

A new walking zone along the Dnieper River. We recommend you to walk along the river, drop into a cafe overlooking Trukhanov Island or go on our  Dnieper River Cruise on the riverboat .

9. Mamaeva Sloboda

It’s a reconstruction of the 18th century Cossack settlement. About a hundred buildings recreate the authentic architecture and way of life. You will enjoy tasty Ukrainian cuisine and learn about Cossack traditions here. Hospitality is guaranteed on our  Mamaeva Sloboda Tour .

10. Microminiatures Museum

Have you seen a shod flea or a portrait on a poppy seed? A unique collection of the smallest things in the world is exhibited in the Microminiatures Museum (there is a similar museum in Andorra). All of them are made by the same master Nikolai Syadristy. Microminiatures Museum Tour is very popular with tourists.

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ukraine

Written by Alison Abbott Dec 30, 2019

As the largest country in Europe, Ukraine offers many attractions for tourists, including festivals celebrating its rich culture and a handsome selection of centuries-old architecture . From the rolling countryside to the cobblestone streets of old city centers, Ukraine's people are just as diverse as its landscape, and they are some of the most hospitable folks in Europe.

The word "Ukraina" literally means borderland, and the country has been prime invasion territory since its earliest beginnings. At different periods, the land has been shared by Russia, Poland, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Romania.

Today, you'll find an undiscovered Eastern European gem in search of its own identity and making a unique mark in the world of tourism. When you visit, make sure to chat with a local at one of the many delectable eateries or markets. Old recipes are being reinterpreted with modern flair. Everyone wants to practice their English, so when conversations happen, use the opportunity to gain a local's perspective on the best Ukraine has to offer.

For sightseeing ideas, see our list of the top attractions and things to do in Ukraine.

1. Chernobyl

2. st. sophia's cathedral, 3. visit l'viv's historic center, a unesco world heritage site, 4. eat borscht, 5. visit a sunflower field, 6. take a cooking class and eat dumplings, 7. kamenets podolsky castle, 8. mezhyhirya: former presidential palace, kiev, 9. odessa opera and ballet, 10. visit a local outdoor market, 11. tarakaniv fort, dubno, 12. tunnel of love, klevlan, 13. odessa catacombs, 14. visit an experience restaurant, map of attractions & things to do in ukraine.

Are you familiar with the term Dark Tourism? It refers to travel to places associated with death and tragic occurrences. The 9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero in New York City, Alcatraz in San Francisco, Pearl Harbor , Pompeii , and The Killing Fields of Cambodia are all popular examples. Visitors to Ukraine can add the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant , ground zero for the disaster, to the list.

The explosion, which took place in 1989, is located in the town of Pripyat in the Northern Ukraine. The sight has recently been open to the public—but you must visit with an authorized tour company. If you are worried about radiation, tests conducted disclose that travelers receive more exposure on a transatlantic flight than they receive during a visit to Chernobyl.

Close to 65 miles from Kiev, it's an easy, full-day trip from the capital with a Chernobyl Tour. Tour operators can pick up visitors at their hotel and drop them off after the tour. During the transport, you will see an informative video about the disaster. Narration and actual footage bring the incident into reality and prepare visitors for what lies ahead.

The tour takes visitors through many buildings, some looking like a stage set. It is an incredibly moving experience, one that will stay with you long after you leave.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since the 1980s, St. Sophia's Cathedral (also called Saint Sophia Cathedral) is a favorite of visitors. With an elaborate Baroque exterior consisting of 13 golden domes, this cathedral stands out among the other historic buildings. Its beauty draws you into a jaw-dropping interior.

Inside, you'll find the space filled with beautiful murals, ancient mosaics, and frescoes that are centuries old. Take a tour or sit through a service to get the full experience.

Named for Hagia Sophia, St. Sophia's is one of Kiev's most noted landmarks since its construction in 1037. One of the best views in Kiev is from the bell tower—it's well worth the hike to the top!

Address: Volodymyrska St, 24, Kyiv

• Top-Rated Attractions and Things to Do in Kiev

One of the most charming and well-preserved Ukrainian destinations for visitors is the city of L'viv. The entire historic center has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status , and tourists will love walking the cobbled streets taking in the sights.

Often called " the Paris of Ukraine ," the old city has a very traditional European feel, with the addition of modern conveniences and excellent restaurants. Coffee lovers will find the café scene hard to beat. This is an area that takes its caffeine in all forms very seriously.

For a bird's-eye view of the town, climb the 1,000-plus stairs of the bell tower. The landscape in all directions is breathtaking.

With the explosion of gastronomic tourism of late, many feel there's no better way to dig deep into a new culture than through their food. Traditional Ukrainian borscht can be found in restaurants all over the country. Available either hot or cold, it's a perfect example of the citizens stretching ingredients when times were tough, and if you're lucky, the very best versions will inspire you to find a recipe to make once you're back home.

Sunflower oil is one of Ukraine's largest exports; as a matter of fact, the country is the 2 nd largest producer of the oil in the world. Tourists will find enormous fields of the flowers all over the country. With shades ranging from buttercup to golden orange, these platter-size beauties thrive in the area's soil and climate.

While setting up the perfect location for that Instagram selfie, just make sure to stay close to the edge of the field. The flowers are enormous, and those that get carried away wandering off might find themselves soon lost in a sea of yellow and green.

Do a bit of research before your trip and find a restaurant that also offers cooking lessons of the famous Ukrainian dumplings, vareniki. They are available in many varieties, both sweet and savory, and foodies can find meat, potatoes, and cabbage, as well as sweet cherry and other local fruit flavors.

It's great fun to learn to carefully pinch the dough closed, have the restaurant cook them for you, and then indulge in a feast of traditional dishes after all the hard work you've performed.

Located in Kamianets-Podilskyi, a short walk from the old town, Kamenets Podolsky Castle is a striking landmark. This fortress, which has been in existence since before the 14th century, is the perfect place in the canyon to take pictures and explore. It's reminiscent of a fairy-tale castle.

Take a tour around the inside with all of its passageways and marvel at the manicured grounds. Even though this castle is centuries old, it has modern amenities like bathrooms and a café to make sure you enjoy your visit. The castle is especially beautiful at night when it's illuminated.

After spending the day exploring, take the short trip into the old town and grab a bite to eat at one of the many diverse restaurants.

Address: Zamkowa St, 1, Kam'yanets'-Podil's'kyi, Khmelnytskyi

Mezhyhirya is situated on the banks of the beautiful Dnieper River and is the former residence of ex-president of the Ukraine, Viktor Yanukovych. There is no shortage of things to do here, and it may be the most interesting and over-the-top place you have ever visited.

Today, in all its glory, the extravagant building is a symbol and reminder of institutional greed and corruption. Within its gated walls, there are tennis courts, a shooting range, an equestrian club, helicopter pad, ostrich farm, dog kennel, golf course, and hunting grounds.

Be sure to check out the auto museum that houses Yanukovich's former exotic cars; head to the main mansion, nicknamed "Honka;" or explore the grounds with heated lakes. Excess is the theme here, and some attractions are more ridiculous than others, from the exotic animals at the president's farm to the restaurant in the form of a Spanish galleon.

Address: Novi Petrivtsi, Kyiv Oblast

The Odessa Opera and Ballet is located in a historic building in the center of town and is the oldest theater in Odessa, opening in 1810. Visitors can take in shows like Swan Lake or Madame Butterfly , all for about the price of a cup of coffee here in the United States. The unique horseshoe hall allows for excellent acoustics and gives the audience a full view of the performers on the stage.

If you are here when they are offering tours, this is a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at this magnificent piece of architecture. If you are lucky enough to be in town during the holidays, even better. The Christmas Festival is not to be missed.

Address: Chaikovs'koho Ln, 1, Odesa, Odes'ka oblast

Although there is much debate about the origin of the famous nesting "Russian" dolls , there's no denying the talented skill of the craftspeople making them. Visit a market and find a wide variety of handicrafts highlighting traditional arts in the country. Textiles are many, especially the traditionally embroidered blouses, called vyshyvanka, and hand towels used in many homes around the country.

Another favorite of visitors are the many vintage war items found at these flea market locations along with fun floral headpieces used for festival celebrations.

Grab your flashlight or headlamp and head to the Tarakaniv Fort, located just outside the village of Dubno and about two hours from Lviv, near the Ikva River in the west of Ukraine. It was originally built to protect the Lviv-Kiev railroad route, and visiting it is a one-of-a-kind experience.

This ruin has a tunnel entrance and is not for those with claustrophobia. Dating back to Imperial Russia, there are centuries-old tunnels and passages to explore.

Visitors will want to get here early to access the attraction before the groups. It's a great place for photographers, history buffs, and adventurers, but be sure to wear good shoes and watch out for the sometimes treacherous terrain.

Getting here is easy—take a cab from Dubno. There are many tours on offer as well.

Just outside of the town of Klevan, the Tunnel of Love is another popular spot to visit in Ukraine. For lovers and singles alike, the Tunnel of Love is a two-mile stretch of private railway that gives the illusion of a never-ending tunnel. A canopy of trees over the tracks are actually what makes the "tunnel."

Bridal parties and romantics head here to make a wish or take a romantic stroll. Legend says that for couples who make a wish together here, if the love is real, the wish will come true. It's also one of the most photographed spots in Ukraine .

If you want to see the city of Odessa in another light, be sure to check out the Catacombs. These subterranean tunnels, originally formed from mining of a rock called coquina, a soft off-white limestone, are rumored to be larger than the underground passageways of both Rome and Paris.

Giving tourists access to Odessa's underworld, there's a network of basements, bunkers, storm drains, and drainage tunnels, forming what feels like the ruins of an underground city. It's one of the world's largest urban labyrinths , with over 1,600 miles of tunnels.

The history of the tunnels is just as intriguing as the tunnels themselves. During the invasions of World War II, the people of Odessa took to the catacombs for planning and executing their counter attacks.

Proof positive that Ukraine doesn't take itself too seriously are the many Experience Restaurants found in the larger cities. All offer a bit of humor with a modern take on some piece of the country's historical past. Almost all need a secret password to enter. A bit of Google research should grant you the code, however you might need to work on the pronunciation!

There's a spot where you can sing for your supper and get a reduced bill. Another, buried deep in the underground, offers the chance to pose on vintage motorcycles and experience the life of a solider.

Coffee lovers will enjoy the cave that fires up a caramel crust on their lattes with a blowtorch in L'viv. It's all in good fun and part of the experience of a culture in the midst of establishing its own independent identity.

Useful tips and how to travel to Ukraine (2024)

By Joan Torres 10 Comments Last updated on May 8, 2024

Bordering Russia to the east and the EU to the west, Ukraine is a massive piece of land barely discovered by the average traveler.

Intrepid adventurers will travel to Ukraine for visiting Kiev , and then pay a short visit to other big cities such as Lviv or Odesa, but the rest of the country remains pretty unknown to most of us.

However, Ukraine has a lot to offer and after spending 45 days roaming around the country, discovering everything from intriguing medieval castles to a nuclear missile launch facility, this is the best travel guide available on the internet, containing everything  you need to know for traveling to Ukraine , from transportation tips to top experiences, cultural facts, visas, safety and much more!

Interested in Belarus as well? Read my useful tips and how to travel to Belarus

In this Ukraine travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Best time to visit
• Top experiences
• Travel insurance
• Ukraine and Russia
• Culture, language, and religion
• Transportation
• More information

our recommended travel insurance for Ukraine

IATI Insurance is the most versatile insurance for any destination, including Ukraine.

Introduction: why travel to Ukraine?

Traveling in Ukraine is a unique experience, like nowhere else.

Do you know why?

Because here, you could spend weeks admiring dreamy, Medieval castles and fortresses and perfectly-shaped, cute old towns and, at the same time, you could discover the most offbeat places in Europe, ranging from a nuclear missile launch facility to the ghost city of Prypiat , and a vast range of Soviet and Communist heritage.

There isn’t another single country in Europe where you can do so much of the above in one single trip.

And the best of it is that, except for a few places, most of the country remains raw, authentic and very, very Ukrainian.

Traveling in Ukraine can be a real offbeat European adventure, like nowhere else on the continent.

🪪 How to get a visa for traveling to Ukraine

Remember that Ukraine is in neither EU nor the Schengen area, so different visa rules apply.

Typically, most nationalities can get a 90-day free visa on arrival.

However, WATCH OUT! Because there are a couple of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico whose citizens, unexpectedly, will need to pre-arrange an e-visa.

I traveled to Ukraine with my Mexican girlfriend and, since Mexicans can get a free visa on arrival in absolutely every country in Europe, we just assumed that she wouldn’t need one for visiting Ukraine but apparently, she did and, on our arrival, she was deported.

We traveled to Moldova to apply and wait for her visa which, by the way, took almost two weeks, plus she had to submit a lot of documents, from travel insurance to the flight or train ticket out of the country.

Anyways, here you have more information about this painful process.

⛅ Best time to visit Ukraine

Visiting ukraine in winter.

Winters in Ukraine are deadly – as you already know – but if you are just planning to visit Kiev , Lviv or any other big city, as long as you wear proper clothes, you should be fine. In any case, traveling in Ukraine, in winter, onboard a Soviet train can be a unique experience.

Visiting Ukraine in summer

I traveled in Ukraine during the last two weeks of August and, whereas Lviv was mostly all right, the countryside was utterly hot, with temperatures around 30-35ºC.

Visiting Ukraine in spring and autumn

The best seasons to visit Ukraine. Not so hot, not so cold. I spent the whole month of October in the country and colors were at their very best, absolutely beautiful.

Traveling in Ukraine by marshrutka in summer Most marshrutkas don’t have AC and, for some incomprehensible reason, old women – and they have full authority to do it – will always close the windows because they feel cold, even when it’s 40ºC inside the minivan, and funnily enough, nobody will complain. If you are backpacking in Ukraine in summer, be aware of that.

📚 Best books for independent travel in Ukraine

Ukraine travel guide by bradt.

The best guide book is, by far, the one written by Bradt, as they provide so many details about each and every region in the country, including many mentions of real offbeat gems and deep and useful travel tips for Ukraine.

Ukraine travel guide by Lonely Planet

A good purchase as well, but I prefer Bradt, as the Lonely Planet doesn’t get that deep into the different destinations.

Voices from Chernobyl by Svetlana Alexievich

If you are visiting Ukraine, it means that you may visit Chernobyl as well and, for that, I recommend you get this book, written by a Nobel prize winning author, a compilation of testimonies directly related to the disaster. A useful book for anyone wanting to empathize with all victims.

Why visit Ukraine: Top 5 experiences

Just a small glimpse of some of the things you can do when you travel to Ukraine:

1 – Explore one of the greatest cities in Europe

Kiev is an amazing city with loads to see, loads to do and so much going on.

I spent two weeks in the capital and they were the best days of my trip.

From epic churches to bizarre Soviet places and great nightlife, Kiev is a city which you will want to return to.

Read my guide: How to spend 4 days in Kiev

2 – Wander around remote mountain villages in the Carpathians

If you want to visit and check out authentic rural life in Ukraine, head to the Carpathians and spend a few days hiking from village to village.

The mountains are pretty and the region has never had much exposure to the outside world, not even during the USSR, as these remote lands were difficult to control.

3 – Check out the dreamy castles & cute old towns in Western Ukraine

Most of Western Ukraine used to belong to the Austro-Hungarian Empire and then to Poland, so it is easy to understand why they have so many castles, and the different towns and villages have Central European-like architecture.

4 – Pay your respects to the victims in Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

You already know about Chernobyl, so I won’t go into details, but the exclusion zone is 150km north of Kiev and, even though it is becoming too popular and kind of touristy, it is good to go and see with your own eyes the consequences of one of the worst human disaster in our history.

Read my guide: How to visit Chernobyl responsibly

5 – Visit a nuclear missile launch facility

An old Soviet nuclear missile launch facility has been turned into an awesome museum where, besides checking out all the military nuclear arsenal, you can go into one of the silos and the underground control room.

Read: Offbeat places to visit in Belarus

🛫 How to travel to Ukraine

By air – Both Lviv and Kiev have daily flights to pretty much any country in Europe and it’s not difficult to find a budget flight.

By land – Ukraine shares a border with:

• European Union: Hungary, Romania, Poland and Slovakia. Crossing these borders should be very easy, with no secret procedures.
• Belarus : You can cross the border but be aware that the visa on arrival (for Belarus) is only available if you fly in & out from Minsk so, if you want to enter/exit Ukraine via Belarus, you need to apply for a Belarussian visa at the embassy.
• Moldova: Countless borders to choose from but most people seem to prefer taking the train from Odesa to Chisinau. I personally entered Ukraine from the northern Moldovan border, near Chernivtsi, on my way to the Carpathians. Read my Moldova travel guide .
• Russia: Despite the ongoing conflict, the border is open. Check this report to find out how to do it.

By sea – There is the possibility of traveling to Ukraine by ferry from Batumi (Georgia) to Odesa. There are two companies offering this service, Ukrferry , and Ferrysped , and detailed schedules may be found on their websites. A ticket costs around 100USD. Read my travel guide to Georgia .

🚑 Travel insurance for Ukraine

For Ukraine, get IATI Insurance because:

• All types of plans: from families to backpackers
• Covers both short-term trips and up to 1-year long trips.
• Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount .

Ukraine and Russia: What the hell is going on

CRITICAL INFORMATION FOR YOU TO KNOW WHEN YOU TRAVEL IN UKRAINE Ukraine is not Russia!

Ukraine is not Russia the same way that Canada is not the USA or New Zealand is not Australia.

Sure, they share a good piece of history and some cultural aspects, but you don’t need to spend much time in the country to realize that they are indeed very different, especially when you travel in Western Ukraine, which wasn’t part of the USSR until the end of WWII.

Ukrainians are particularly sensitive on this topic, to the extent that they even get offended when you write Kiev instead of Kyiv, as Kiev is the direct Russian transliteration, even though both terms are accepted in English.

The Ukraine-Russia war

Today, as you may know, there is an ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

It is an actual war.

In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea to themselves and yes, Crimea isn’t part of Ukraine anymore.

Their map has changed and whatever Ukrainian map in which you see Crimea, is already outdated – unfortunately .

Nowadays, the ongoing conflict is happening in another region named Donbas, a historical region in eastern Ukraine, today covering Donetsk and Lugansk provinces (oblasts).

Most people living in these provinces are ethnically Russian and, after Crimea was annexed to Russia, these pro-Russian people declared their independence from Ukraine and the problem arose when Russia decided to support the rebels.

I don’t know what the end of this will be of this but Ukraine’s map might be altered again in the next few years.

These are reasons why, in the rest of Ukraine, especially in the West, the people absolutely despise the Russian Government and don’t like it when foreigners identify Ukrainian culture as a mere variant or extension of Russian, so be aware of that.

Culture, people, language, and religion

Modern Ukraine as it is known today, with its current borders had never existed before the country got its independence in 1991.

Over the centuries, different parts of the country have been ruled by different civilizations, from the Kievan Rus – a federation found by Slavic people which Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus claim their cultural ancestors come from – to the Kingdom of Galicia-Volhynia – which used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and then Poland and it was only annexed to the USSR after WWII .

Ukrainians claim that their modern culture directly derives from both the Kievan Rus and the Kingdom of Galicia, so their traditional culture is a mix of east and west – well, not that western but Central European – and their traditional clothes are named vyshyvanka , which are also worn in Belarus and are quite similar to Polish and Moldovan ones.

During the independence day, sometime at the end of August, I noticed that many Ukrainians were wearing the vyshyvanka.

The people: Ukrainians

Some travelers say that Ukrainians are serious, or that they can sometimes be unfriendly, but this is just a classic Soviet attitude, seen in other former Soviet countries as well.

Yes, some of them do look serious but, once you get to know them, Ukrainians are great people and are very hospitable as well, especially in the rural areas.

In the Carpathians, for example, we were randomly hosted by some locals who followed us on Instagram and their level of hospitality was comparable to that you experience when traveling in Iran 😉

Ukrainian is the official language and, in order to understand how it differs from Russian, take Spanish and Portuguese as examples.

Many Portuguese understand Spanish and vice-versa because both languages are very close but very different at the same time, same as with Ukrainian and Russian.

The Russian language, however, is widely spoken across the country and, in Donbas and the Crimea it is also recognized as an official language along with Ukrainian.

In Western Ukraine, Ukrainian is the language that prevails.

By the way, Ukrainians use the Cyrillic alphabet and if you can’t read it yet, I strongly recommend you do learn it, because it will be a real game-changer for traveling in Ukraine.

Most Ukrainians belong to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and they affirm that this is the original Church of ancient Kievan Rus .

Something that surprised me about Ukraine was that religion plays a very important role in their society, more than any other European country I have been to.

In smaller towns and cities, churches are packed with young people during Sunday services and in big cities such as Kiev or Lviv, while the young generation doesn’t really practice their religion, they do believe in God, generally speaking.

Visiting the endless churches and amazing Orthodox complexes will always be one of the highlights of any Ukraine travel guide and I highly recommend you go to Pochaiv, the second holiest monastery in the country, after Kiev Lavra, but the one in Pochaiv is nicer, for the simple reason that it is bigger and located in a rural, mystical area.

🍲 Food in Ukraine

Ukrainian cuisine isn’t the highlight of the country but it is all right, not bad at all.

Sometimes it is difficult to determine which dishes are Ukrainian and which ones are Russian, as you can find them in both countries but in any case, Ukrainian cuisine is hearty and made for feeding masses.

Some Ukrainian foods you are likely to taste during your trip

• Borsch – The national food which they are most proud of is borsch , a beetroot soup widely eaten across all the former USSR, but Ukrainians affirm and re-affirm it is originally from Ukraine, and I believe them, because borsch is nowhere else as available as on Ukrainian menus; well maybe in Belarus as well. Borsch is the way to go and it is traditionally served with sour cream and with something named salo .
• Salo – Slices of pork fat, very salty and very popular. Ukrainians find it a real delicacy but I don’t like it.
• Varenyky – When you don’t know what to order, you order varenyky , the classic dumplings available in many Slavic countries, but they always differ in shape, filling and have different names. Ukrainian varenyky are usually filled with brynza (local cheese) or potatoes.
• Syrniki – Typically eaten for breakfast or brunch, these are some small, thick, local pancakes filled with cottage cheese, but they can also contain apple and other ingredients.
• Chicken Kyiv – This was weird, and not my favorite, but it is very traditional. It consists of fried chicken filled with dairy butter and herbs. A real bomb.

And there’s more.

Local restaurants in big cities will have many other choices but, in the rural areas, the options will be limited to borsch and varenyky.

I once had borsch + varenyky for 4 days in a row!

Then, in the Western part of the country, since that area used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and then Poland, traditional dishes are more Central European, so you find things like goulash , whereas in the Carpathians, you find Moldovan and Romanian dishes such as banusz .

This blog is purely about Ukrainian food and has some really good information.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Ukraine?

Because of recent events, some people may perceive Ukraine as a dangerous destination to travel to but trust me, it is not.

Maidan protests (2014)

In 2014, Kiev witnessed a series of protests against the Government that lasted for more than 3 months, resulting in several peaceful demonstrators being murdered by the police.

It was crazy and such was the gravity of those protests and repression, that they were all over the international news for weeks.

During those 3 months, traveling to Kiev wasn’t recommended, of course, but this was a past episode that ended with the Prime Minister Yanukovych fleeing the country and the celebration of new elections

As we previously discussed, there is a conflict going on in Donetsk and Lugansk, in which according to the UN, more than 13,000 people have died as of 2019 .

The war, however, solely affects those two provinces, doesn’t go beyond them and, even if you wanted to go there, you couldn’t because foreigners aren’t allowed anymore.

Other than that, besides all the regular crime-related stuff, such as pickpocketing, that happens in any city – or the problem with Ukraine brides , but that’s another story – traveling in Ukraine is safe, very safe, and any Ukrainian will tell you that.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Ukraine

Ukraine has amazing 4G coverage and getting a SIM Card is very straightforward, as they didn’t even ask me for my passport.

I personally bought Lifecell, but Kyivstar seems to be the most popular one.

Prices are ridiculously cheap and I think I paid around 75UAH (3€) for a SIM Card packed with 4GB of data.

eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Ukraine

Basically, an eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical SIM card, with the added benefit that you can buy it from home before the beginning of your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it at your destination. 

With Holafly , you can get a SIM Card for a wide range of destinations, including Ukraine . 

Moreover, you can benefit from a 5% discount with the following code:  AGAINSTTHECOMPASS

Get a VPN for traveling in Ukraine

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Ukraine. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Money in Ukraine

In Ukraine, they use the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) and, approximately:

1 USD = 39.40 UAH

Credit cards are generally accepted anywhere and most banks will accept international cards, even though they tend to charge a small fee.

How much does it cost to travel in Ukraine?

As per costs, Ukraine is a cheap country to travel around, especially because their currency has devalued massively since the Crimea crisis, when 1€ used to be equal to 10UAH.

Backpacking budget for Ukraine:

Assuming you stay in dorms and eat in budget cafeterias, you can easily travel in Ukraine for 25€ a day .

Typical costs (approx.)

• Dorm in a budget hostel: 200 UAH
• Budget apartment in Kiev or Lviv: from 600 UAH
• Local meal in a cafeteria: 100UAH
• Local beer: 40UAH
• Night train from Lviv to Odesa economical class: 200 UAH

🛺 Transportation tips: How to travel around Ukraine

The country is big but the public transportation system is great, which makes traveling in Ukraine fairly easy.

Soviet trains at their best. Amazing way to see the vastness of the country.

If you have traveled in other Soviet countries such as Kazakhstan , Uzbekistan or Russia itself, their train system doesn’t vary much. In fact, it is the same.

You can get to pretty much any city but do book your tickets in advance, especially during high season, as the cheap ones run out quickly.

There are different types of carriages but the Soviet system has 3 classes:

• berth: no compartments but bunk beds are placed all over the carriage.
• compartment: 4-bed compartment.
• deluxe: 2-bed fancy compartment.

If you have never ridden a Soviet train, I recommend you travel in berth .

In case you are wondering, economical class in Ukraine (berth) isn’t like in India or Sri Lanka, not even close. They provide you with clean bed linen and the beds are relatively comfortable.

You can check prices, timings and book your ticket on this link (official governmental site).

By marshrutka

Marshrutka means minivan in Russian and you may use them when going to smaller towns.

If you count by kilometer, it is much more expensive than traveling by train and around 5 times more uncomfortable, but if you are getting deep into Ukraine, this might be your only choice more often than you think.

Apparently, buses also run between major cities but I don’t see a good reason for taking them, apart from when train tickets to your destination are sold out but in any case, for long distances, it is also recommended to book your ticket in advance.

Anyways, you can book your tickets on this website .

❗ More information for traveling to Ukraine

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Ukraine destination

• Travel Guide to Chernobyl
• Kiev Travel Guide
• Lviv Travel Guide
• Ukraine Itinerary

Travel guides to former Soviet countries

• Georgia Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Moldova
• Azerbaijan Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Kyrgyzstan
• Travel Guide to Tajikistan
• Uzbekistan Travel Guide
• Kazakhstan Travel Guide

I hope you enjoyed my Ukraine travel blog. Please, leave a comment for any questions you might have.

10 comments

Awesome guide on traveling Ukraine! As a Ukrainian, I can say that information you provided is useful and accurate. Keep on that track! 🙂

Thanks Irina, I am happy that you like this post as an Ukrainian 🙂

Una vez más, Joan, nos dejas con ganas de más.

It would be great if I could actually read the content on the site without the pop up! I

You mentioned in another guide that you see a lot of misery in Ukraine, but you didn’t mention it in this guide. I think it’d be interesting to include more information like that.

I want to travel to Odesa from Romania by car. How would I do that?

Excuse me, but the Donbas conflict wasn’t started because “Most people living in these provinces are ethnically Russian and […] declared their independence from Ukraine and the problem arose when Russia decided to support the rebels.” Russia started the rebellion itself, pretending it to be started by those Ukrainians, just as Russia did it with all other neighboring countries, where they have disputed areas. I have a lot of friends in all parts of Ukraine, and I know what I’m talking about. And it wasn’t Prime-Minister Yanukovych who fleed, he was the President.

This blog post is very outdates and in many sections factually wrong, I don’t know why google is recommending this as if it was recently updated, when it obviously isn’t keeping up with the latest developments in Ukraine.

Im jone ukraine diffens

The correct spelling is KYIV

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"They're building luxury hotels in Kiev while we don't have enough hands to concrete the front line"

General Michel Yakovleff, former NATO deputy chief of staff, was a guest of French news channel LCI to give his analysis of the Russian advance in recent days and the lack of Ukrainian resources to confront it.

"They are building expensive buildings in Kiev, the capital, and they are not digging trenches where they should be," the general stated.

"The exasperation, anger and indignation are starting to be felt among Ukrainian soldiers, it's coming out through social networks, they are asking: where are the trenches, where is the help?"

For the general, it is clear:

"They are denouncing corruption, maybe we paid for trenches that were not dug, that's also possible. It's not necessarily corruption, but just the choice to want to maintain a civilian economy, to keep making real estate in Kiev, because the country, in other respects, stays alive."

"You should mobilize all earth-moving and civil engineering workers to start digging trenches, and this should have been done a year ago."

(FVDV and FM for Tagtik/Source: LCI/Photo: Andrew 979 via Wikicommons under license Creative Commons CC BY 2.0 .)

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