Kyiv

Ukraine, Europe

Kyiv, the vibrant capital of Ukraine, boasts stunning architecture, rich history, and a lively arts scene. The city's highlights include the majestic St. Sophia Cathedral, the historic Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, and the bohemian Podil district. With a mix of beautiful parks and bustling markets, Kyiv offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The dynamic nightlife, delicious local cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere make it an appealing destination for young travelers seeking culture and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Zhuliany

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

14 Best Things to Do in Kyiv

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit St. Sophia's Cathedral

Explore this iconic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Maidan Nezalezhnosti

Experience the vibrant heart of Kyiv's social life.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the Chernobyl Museum

Learn about the famous nuclear disaster and its impact.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk through Andriyivskyy Descent

Discover Kyiv's artistic district with shops and galleries.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

Experience this historic monastery complex and its caves.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Enjoy a river cruise on the Dnipro River

Relax and enjoy stunning views of Kyiv from the water.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Borscht at a local restaurant

Savor the traditional Ukrainian beet soup in Kyiv.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Experience the National Opera of Ukraine

Catch a performance at this grand historic opera house.

Booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the 1st Kyiv Fortress

Visit this historical site with beautiful views.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the PinchukArtCentre

Discover contemporary art in this modern gallery.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax in Hydropark

Unwind at this recreational island park.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museum of Historical Treasures

See Ukraine's ancient artifacts and cultural heritage.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Taras Shevchenko Park

Enjoy a peaceful stroll in this beautiful park.

No booking required
14

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Golden Gate of Kyiv

Admire this ancient city gate and its history.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-2 (#64 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Hryvnia

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Ukrainian

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Borsch

Beet soup with vegetables and meat. (National dish)

Varenyky

V

Dumplings filled with potatoes or cheese.

Holubtsi

Stuffed cabbage rolls with rice and meat.

Salo

Cured pork fat, often served with bread.

Deruny

V

Potato pancakes, crispy and golden brown.

Phrases to learn

English

Ukrainian

Hello

Pryvit

(Pree-veet)

Yes/No

Tak / Ni

(Tahk / Nee)

Thank you

Dyakuyu

(Dyah-koo-yoo)

Excuse me

Vybachte

(Vee-bach-teh)

How much?

Skilky?

(Skeehl-kee)