After Ukraine won the Eurovision song contest earlier this year Kiev has appeared on plenty of travel plan lists. But even music aside it has many wonderful sightseeing spots worth your attention. Let’s have a sneak peek!
Kiev (or Kyiv, it depends on transcription) – the capital of Ukraine, one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe. It was founded in 482 AD and nowadays still has some historic places that are evidences for the early Middle Ages history. Among them: ruins of Desiatynna church (dated to 989 AD), Golden Gates of Kiev (1017 AD), St. Sophia Cathedral (11 century).
Kiev historic
Want to know more about Medieval history and traditional Orthodox Christian architecture? You definitely need to visit Kiev Pechersk Lavra – one of the oldest cave monasteries in Europe! Not only is it full of picturesque spots and several hundred years old domes and cathedrals – you will have a chance to explore caves part of the Monastery that is open for general public: Near and Far Caves are still the home for some Orthodox monks and their place of final resting. The incorrupt relics of the Saints and Martyrs are being exhibited there. Thrilling!
Tip: Go up to the observation deck on Great Lavra Belltower to have one of the best views of Kiev downtown.
Kiev extreme
Have some fun flying above Dnipro river on 50 miles an hour speed! The trolley across Dnipro is the longest in Europe. It will take you from observation deck on European Place to Trukhaniv island and along with its speed you will enjoy the magnificent views of Dnipro banks – of course if you will manage to look around when flying at a breathtaking height of hundred something feet.
Tip: There are some more trolleys in Hydro Park in Kiev. And for sure you can have an observation tour on helicopter if one minute flight over the river is not enough for you!
Kiev rural
To have a sight of traditional life of Ukrainian villagers of XVI-XIX centuries you can take a day off at Pirogovo National Museum of Arcitecture and History. Especially interesting it gets during state holidays such as Independence Day (August, the 24th), Day of Kiev (last weekend in May) or Orthodox Easter. Guests can experience national cuisine, see traditional games and dances, and buy a lot of souvenirs to take home.
Tip: Talking of souvenirs, Ukraine is famous for its embroideries, pottery, and so-called motanka dolls made of straw and threads. During Easter holidays, you will find innumerous types of “pysanka” eggs painted with traditional motives.
Kiev post-apocalyptic
Ukrainian word “Chernobyl” has become synonym of nuclear disaster after the explosion in 1986. Now Pripyat area is not closed for tourists – but you will need to join official tour with professional guide who will take care of your safety and health. There are 1-, 2- and more day tours to Chernobyl, and air tours for those of you who want to explore the site but still is afraid of pollution.
Tip: If you will be lucky enough, you will see wild animals that massively return to abandoned by people area.
Kiev political
In 2013-2014 the whole world was watching the Euromaidan – wave of civil protests in Kiev and Ukraine which resulted in change of government in the country and the escape of ex-President Yanukovych. The next day after this happened, his residence in Mezhyhirya was open for admission by general public. Now you still can attend the park and premises there with its clubhouse of unique architecture, collection of vintage cars, zoo, and golf course.
Tip: Governmental buildings in Kiev are quite impressive. It might be interesting to explore House with Chimaeras (Art Nouveau presidential residence for official and diplomatic ceremonies at Bankova street), Mariyinsky Palace (another ceremonial residence of the President of Ukraine built in Baroque style), Budynok Uryadu (Government Building constructed in so-called Soviet Classicism style).
Travel preparation
Kiev is situated in temperate continental climate zone so the best season to visit Kiev is early autumn or late spring when weather is warm and possibility of rain (and gloom) is not high.
The US Embassy to Ukraine contact information: Sikorsky str., 4, Kiev, Ukraine. +38-044-521-5000. Website: US Embassy in Ukraine.
Citizens of the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom do not require tourist visa to Ukraine for a stay up to 90 days. Traveler will need a passport valid for at least 90 days following the departure date from Ukraine. For other nationalities you can check visa requirements here: Ukraine visa: application requirements
How to get to Kiev: there are direct flights from New York John F. Kennedy international airport to Kiev Borispol international airport operated by Ukraine Intl Airlines. Also SkyScanner gives options for KLM and AirFrance connected flights.
Where to stay in Kiev: wide range of hotels are offering their services to the guests of Ukrainian capital. Booking.com shows more than 500 accommodation options throughout the city, but to experience the most of Kiev’s downtown we would advise you on choosing Shevchenkivskyj or Pecherskyj district: Kiev hotels.