Kyiv Travel Guide
If you have not been to Kyiv, this city will surprise you. One of the most underrated European cities, Kyiv is a mix of architectural masterpieces, amazing food, bustling nightlife, and modern art.
This Kyiv travel guide just scrapes the surface of what can be found in the vibrant city!
What to See in Kyiv
Kyiv is one of the largest and oldest cities in Europe, boasting cultural and historical landmarks of global significance. With our Kyiv travel guide, you have access to all the iconic attractions of the Ukrainian capital.
Khreshchatyk
The Ukrainian capital boasts the shortest and widest main street in Europe. Kyiv’s Khreshchatyk is 1.3 kilometers long, connecting European Square and Bessarabska Square. Its development began only in the 19th century, as the area was previously a forested area with swamps known as Khreshchatyi Yar. Hence the name. Later, the street saw the construction of the first theater and skyscraper in Kyiv, and it witnessed the introduction of the first electric tram in the Russian Empire and the second in Europe. Most of the current Khreshchatyk architecture was executed in the Stalinist Empire style as part of the post-war reconstruction project for the center of the capital of the Ukrainian SSR.
Andriivskyi Descent or Uzviz
This is one of the oldest streets in the city and in Europe. Its upper part existed during the times of Kyivan Rus . The street is believed to have received its name in the 18th century when the Andriyivska Church was built here. Along with the church, the Uzviz is home to several landmarks, including Richard’s Castle. Over 20 buildings on the Uzviz are recognized as architectural and historical monuments. Andriyivsky Uzviz is often referred to as Kyiv’s Montmartre because artists frequently showcase their works here. The street is lined with souvenir shops, antique stores, galleries, cafes, and restaurants.
An observation platform around the church provide an incredible panoramic view of the city.
Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra
The National Kyiv-Pechersk Historical and Cultural Preserve is the largest museum complex in Ukraine, featuring 144 structures, 122 of which are historical and cultural landmarks. Among them are two unique underground complexes, churches, architectural monuments from the 11th to the 19th centuries, and numerous exhibition spaces. The preserve also encompasses the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, an outstanding monument not only of Ukrainian and Slavic culture but also of global heritage. The UNESCO International Committee in 1990 included the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra in the “List of World Cultural Heritage of UNESCO.”
Sophia Kyivska
The most magnificent structure in the National Reserve Sophia Kyivska is the Saint Sophia Cathedral – a globally renowned architectural and monumental art monument from the 11th century. In 1990, the cathedral, along with the ensemble of monastery buildings within its courtyard, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Saint Sophia Cathedral houses the world’s largest ensemble of unique mosaics and frescoes from the first quarter of the 11th century – 260 square meters of mosaics and 3,000 square meters of frescoes. A valuable relic within the cathedral is the marble sarcophagus of Yaroslav the Wise, containing the remains of the prince. The 6-ton sarcophagus is adorned with elaborate carvings.
Mariynsky Palace
The Mariyinsky Palace, also known as the Presidential Palace, is Ukraine’s state residence. Typically, it hosts ceremonial events of national importance, meetings with foreign dignitaries, official receptions, and more.
The Mariyinsky Palace is open for guided tours. To participate in a tour of the Mariyinsky Palace, it is necessary to pre-book the visit time through the official website. Tickets can be purchased directly before the tour begins.
Kontraktova Square
Kontraktova Square is the oldest squares that originated in the Podil area during the times of Kyivan Rus. Currently, the square is home to the Old Academic Building of NaUKMA, the Kyiv Magistrate Building, the Kyiv Municipal Academic Opera and Ballet Theater for Children and Youth, the “Samson” fountain, monuments to H. Skovoroda and Hetman P. Sahaidachny, the Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God (Pirohoshcha), and the city’s tallest observation wheel. Since 2017, the square has been designated as a pedestrian zone. Nowadays, it frequently hosts concerts, fairs, and other events.
Pedestrian-Cycling bridge
The bridge across Volodymyrskyi Uzviz is the youngest bridge in Kyiv, measuring 216 meters in length and connecting Khreshchatyi Park and Volodymyrska Hill. Approximately 90% of the materials used in its construction are of domestic origin, including metal produced at the renowned Azovstal plant in Mariupol.
Pedestrian-cycling bridge features observation platforms with glass inserts in the floor, providing breathtaking views of the Dnipro River and the Left Bank. It has become one of the best spots in the capital to witness sunrises.
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What to See in Kyiv Region
Lavender Fields
Dobropark
The field is located in Motyzhin, Makarovsky district, 29 km from Kyiv.
poradiv.park
The lavender park in the village of Poradovka is 40 km from Kyiv. The park is open daily from June 30.
