Let’s explore the unusual and untold corner of Kiev. Best Things to Do in Kiev Ukraine as a whole has many things to offer. Ultra-luxurious with epic views over Kiev, a gorgeous rooftop bar with views over St. Michael’s, spacious clean white rooms, enormous bathrooms I’d happily consider an apartment in NYC — it’s the most luxurious place in town. A lot of the recent history of Kiev can be found in Maidan Square, a place you likely saw on the news during the Euromaidan Revolution. Through this story, we are going to reveal some of the best things to do in Kiev. It’ll kill any stereotypes you ever had about traveling Ukraine – this place is like the Whole Foods of Eastern Europe, without the obnoxious price tags. The list includes Feofaniya Park and Holosiivsky National Nature Park. Pro-Tip: You would be able to capture great panoramas of the city from the river. Riding in a vintage car around the city. Today, the residence serves as a museum and showcases his rich lifestyle. The church narrowly avoided damage during the Soviet era, and in fact it was  one of the very few places in the USSR where tourists were permitted to visit a working Orthodox church. I idiotically managed to get bit by a stray cat in Odessa and spent most of my time in Kiev getting rabies shots (side bar: the American Medical Center in Kiev is A+)…. I personally stayed in an Airbnb in Podil for my two weeks. This narrow street remains busy throughout the day and makes for an amazing spot for street photographers. Kiev is a young city. Pro-Tip: Stay for a day or two to completely explore the beauty of Podil. Pro-Tip: The best time when Kiev conducts a lot of opera shows is from October to December. It’s not one of my top things to do in Kiev, but it’s worth a quick stop by if you are in the area (and you likely will be). Jan 29, 2019 - Within minutes of stepping foot in Kiev, I knew I had discovered one of my new favorite cities. There really was nothing much but school life. Pro-Tip: Book a sightseeing bus tour online to get discounts. Kiev is claimed to be one of the oldest settlements in Eastern Europe. Unusual Attractions in Kyiv. From St Michael’s Monastery, turn left to take the funicular that runs down the steep hill towards Podil.The funicular gives great views that look out over the river and given the almost vertical descent, feels like the most fun method of public transport that you have ever taken! It was constructed in the year 1902 and is a presidential residence for national ceremonies. But in the last few decades, its tourism industry has grown extensively. I think too many travelers hear the word Ukraine and their mind instantly goes to tragedy or instability. Pro-Tip: You need to book a guided tour to enter the house. Sightseeing and walking around the city are the best things to do in Kiev for tourists and newcomers. You can follow his every narcissistic word on Facebook or Twitter. It is beautiful, has a long history of its name and is quite vibrant. From places to go in Kiev to romantic things to do in Kiev, you would know everything with the help of this self-guided walking tour. In two short years between 1932 and 1933, somewhere in between 3.5 and 10 million Ukrainians were starved to death in a man-made famine orchestrated by the Soviet Union. If you want to go for a History’s worst nuclear disaster site, then read this article on the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Recommended For: Art lovers, curious tourists, Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm (Closed on Tuesdays). Today, the city stands alone in seclusion and is a mere site for history lovers. Pro-Tip: Make sure you have a government ID with you. Kiev has a great range of accommodation options, from super budget-friendly to luxury. Whether you are visiting the city with your friends or your partner, you are served a number of interesting spots. All of the unusual things to do in Kiev, much like Prague. In fact, I felt quite the opposite: Kiev to me feels like a city on the rise, improving rapidly. The city has a long history of almost 2000 years from numerous mixes of civilization, and culture. Let’s get down to business. The city of Kiev looks picturesque as if it is taking you to another time. A functioning monastery, this blue-toned church was actually demolished by Soviets in the 1930s, but was restored in 1999, 8 years after Ukraine’s independence. Location: Shevchenkivskyi, Pecherskyi, Podilskyi. 15+ Soul-Soothing Things to do in Indonesia. I had a feeling I would like Kiev – after all, I did book myself two weeks there, with the intention of getting to know the city under its skin a bit. The market is still used by locals today, even though it is rather upscale compared to other smaller markets you’ll find dotting the streets of Kiev. After that, you’ll have to pay separate admission to the museum, an additional 50 hryvnia. You can also visit midnight restaurants and enjoy a lip-smacking meal. Also known of the Kiev Monastery of the Caves, the Pechersk Lavra is... Marvel at the Microminiature Museum. These services are given until 05:30 pm every day. Similar to St. Andrew’s, St. Michael’s exterior is done in a Baroque style, but what I find even more interesting is the reconstructed yet traditional Byzantine interior including gold-plated mosaics of beloved Orthodox icons. Interested in learning how to cook like a Ukrainian? Discover 22 hidden attractions, cool sights, and unusual things to do in Kyiv, Ukraine from Ukrainian National Chernobyl Museum to One Street Museum Death Mask Collection. I wasn’t about to climb the steps up to Volodymyrska Hill in 90 F/ 32 C temperatures, to be honest, but those who visit when the funicular is open or are less exercise-averse than I am will surely enjoy this beautiful view. Feb 26, 2019 - Within minutes of stepping foot in Kiev, I knew I had discovered one of my new favorite cities. I’ll go hang out in Brighton Beach before I’ll go back there We primarily used the metro in Kiev, and went to many of the places you mentioned, including the Arsenalna- which may be 4.5 meters short of the deepest metro, but it was worth it just to see how good a subway can be. Being an example of neo-classical structure, it grabs the attention of architecture enthusiasts too. While I wanted to put this first, the Microminiature Museum is located inside the Pechersk Lavra complex so you’ll have to pay for an admission ticket in order to even get into the area in which you’ll find the museum. It is one amongst the fun things to do in Kiev and hence, shouldn’t be missed. The museum is small and can be seen in approximately 20 minutes, but it’s the best thing to do in Kiev in my opinion. Kiev coffee shops are now a common sight on central Kiev’s shopping districts, side-streets, and back-alleys. Pro-Tip: Do create a walking tour of Kiev online. Top 10 Things To Do… Kiev is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, dating back to the 5th century and the capital and largest city of Ukraine. Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine, is definitely worth visiting. I had a feeling I would like Kiev – after all, I did book myself two weeks there, with the intention of getting to know the city under its skin a bit. Formed in the 11th century, Pechersk Lavra is one of the Seven Wonders of Ukraine. Pro-Tip: Keep Kiev map in your hand or device to locate these properties easily. As the war has largely dropped out of mainstream media, but is still felt quite acutely by Ukrainians, it was important to visit this museum and understand the ongoing impact of the war in the East. Pro-Tip: Book your tour online for a comforting experience. If there is one building more beautiful than all the others in Kiev, it’s St. Andrew’s. That’s quite intriguing! I just love it when men explain to me basic things, like that 110 meters is deeper than 105.5 meters… I never would have known that without your help! As the name suggests, the museum provides you with information related to toilet history. During your time in Kiev, it’s almost inevitable that you’ll catch a glimpse of Rodina Mat, otherwise known as Mother Motherland. With the launching of a new patrol police you can easily be fined for that if caught. Copyright ©2015 Travelwings.com. Come here, take selfies and update your social media profiles. What to see in Kyiv: TOP 10 Kyiv attractions. Riding in a... 3. Do visit its observation deck to catch some aerial views of the city. I did manage to visit Blue Cup on one of the rare days I pulled myself away from First Point and wasn’t disappointed either. Recommended For: History lovers, families, Average Price: $100 – $150 (Online booking prices). 11.08.2019 - Note: This post may contain affiliate links. It would also help you learn the local language to some extent. Being the capital city of Ukraine, Kiev has a lot of recreational and entertainment centers where you would find your kids enjoying the best of their time. The city hosts hundreds of coffee shops that offer a variety of this addictive beverage. Pro-Tip: Book a class online to get hotel pick-up and drop-off services. There are new businesses opening up on every corner, catering to a new generation of Kiev locals who are more upwardly mobile than generations past and more excited for their country’s future. Hot air balloon ride. Oct 8, 2019 - Within minutes of stepping foot in Kiev, I knew I had discovered one of my new favorite cities. Aug 20, 2019 - Within minutes of stepping foot in Kiev, I knew I had discovered one of my new favorite cities. There are no exact images of the previous gate to reference for authenticity. Timings: No fixed timings, usually shows happen at 02:00 pm and 05:00 pm. Who knows you might end up making a friend for a lifetime! The Pyongyang Metro is the deepest in the world at 110 meters. However, it is also visited by those who love wandering offroad. Don’t forget to check it out. Whereas many Orthodox churches are a bit round and plain for my taste, I love the gaudiness and ostentation of St. Andrew’s Church, which looks almost a bit like a crown on the top of Kiev’s Andriyivska hill. People queuing from early morning to late at night for the perepichka is a fascinating... Have a picnic at Lysa Hora. Prices are very reasonable for Ukraine – not the cheapest, but definitely a very good deal. As a Digital Nomad, I based myself in Kiev for 10 days because I needed to get my head down and do a little work, but you can see most of what the city has to offer in a day or two. And the major reason why you must visit the shopping malls in Kiev is that you would find a lot of things at a cheaper cost. Most of the guides and articles about the top things to see in Kiev will show you the most popular tourist destinations downtown (Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, Khreshchatyk Street, etc. But I haven’t gotten to the most interesting part of the Lavra yet: the labyrinthine cave monastery located further down the hill, which was built in 1051. Kyiv is a city of ancient temples, unusual architecture, rich history and talented people. Read my privacy policy and disclaimer here. Many believe that Stalin was the architect of this famine, targeting ethnic Ukrainians in order to quelch the rumblings of an uprising — something that certainly wouldn’t be out of character for a man like Joseph Stalin. My wife is from Tiraspol in Transnistria (formally Moldova), and we just got back from vacation there. But the kind of Soviet architecture the city has, it cannot be found elsewhere in Ukraine. Pro-Tip: The Arena-city Trade Complex is the best place to savor late-night meals. So, when you are offered so many places, how can you be reluctant and not explore the city? You can stroll on its banks, laze by the waters and feel tranquillity. Which is a shame, because I actually really love opera and ballet…. Isn’t it? Pickled herring: Also delicious on bread as an appetizer. 110 meters is deeper than 105.5 meters. I had a feeling I would like Kiev – after all, I did book myself two weeks there, with the intention of getting to know the city un… Isn’t it one of the cool things to do in Kyiv? And I am so glad I … If you want to go for a History’s worst nuclear disaster site, then read this article on the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Willing to go beyond exploring the beauties and wonders of Kiev? Things to do in Kiev: Visit the museums in Kiev Andriyivskyy Descent is also home to another cool place – One Street Museum . Covering 22.5 hectares of land, the garden is a treat for anyone who wants to retreat into a quiet and relaxing world of greenery and exotic plants. Stay awake at the Arch of Diversity and welcome the sun with open hands. Ukraine’s capital is ancient and modern. You come to this wonderful city and you become witness to charming architecture, family-friendly destinations, colorful gardens and of course, historic trails. Hanging out on Trukhaniv Island is one of the best things to do in Kyiv, hands-down. The bedroom decor is super modern and spacious, with great leather detailing, comfortable beds, amenities like a desk you can easily work from, etc. 3,734 reviews It’s also home to a strange collection of death masks, apparently, but when I visited in July 2018 these were no longer on display (perhaps on loan to another museum?). Things to do in Kyiv (Kiev) The complete guide to the capital of Ukraine. Avail top-notch services and savor luscious meals as you sail down marvelous waters. And if you are keen to learn everything about it, ranging from how it happened to its consequences, then this museum is a perfect place for you. For native Kyivans, these places won’t be a discovery: they have surely heard about them. Like most museums in Kiev, it is small, easily manageable to see in under 30 minutes, and affordable (about the equivalent of $1 USD). Well, you need not worry. Recommended For: Art lovers, photographers, Location: Kostyantynivka Street, Spaska Street, Voloska Street. Check prices, reviews, and availability here. To get from the bottom of Arsenalna takes an ear-popping (yes, literally – for me, at least!) Click this link to read full guide on Best Things to Do in Kiev City Tour. That’s why, you must go hunting all the significant structures that have a touch of constructivist and Stalinist architecture. Kyiv has a small network of trams, mostly travelling through the city, but this one is very different in that it’ll take you through the forest to a quiet neighbourhood called Pushcha-Voditsa. If traveling with family and kids, then picnicking is the best thing to do in Kiev. It’s a city equally loyal to ‘babushka’s and newly-rich oligarchs on fancy jeeps, to quiet idyllic parks and bustling highways, to top-notch supermarkets and farmers’ bazaars, and to any traveler who approaches it with an open mind and a heart for adventures. As the name suggests, it is a museum about a single street. Ukraine is so, so wonderful – I’m already looking forward to a return trip as it’s so huge and there’s so much more I want to see! Podil is located on the outskirts of Kiev and makes for a great place for those who want to take a short break from the Kiev city. It is long and wide and has helped shape and mold the development of Ukraine throughout history. I had mouth-wateringly delicious (and eye-wateringly expensive) Thai curry at San Tori and outrageously delicious Korean food at Pyan-Se Bar. Here’s the best-rated day tour of Chernobyl – you can check for reviews & availability here, 2-day tour of Chernoybl including an overnight stay. The coffee scene in Kiev is simply amazing and luckily my friend Megan has already navigated it in great detail in her excellent Kiev coffee guide. Such a fantastic city! Exploring them is an important part of Kiev sightseeing. Kiev has ample places that remain open throughout the night and are perfect to witness the city’s nightlife closely. Here are a few of my can’t-miss dishes: I ate traditional Ukranian food at a few different restaurants during my stay, but my favorites were Varenichnaya Katyusha nearby Bessarabsky Rynok and Kupidon near Khreshchatyk Avenue. Click this link to read full guide on Best Things to Do in Kiev City Tour. There are several churches within the Pechersk Lavra complex, but one of the most interesting is the Dormition Cathedral, which was built in the 11th century but completely destroyed in World War II. Here, you can learn more about the history of the area and see various historic items that total to more than 7,000 pieces. It is home to about 100 monks. Pro-Tip: Do not forget to laze in the nearby beautiful park. As the name purports, the museum is primarily dedicated to the history of World War II and its impact on Ukraine, but the ground floor at the moment is dedicated to a not-so-temporary exhibit about the ongoing struggle in Eastern Ukraine (Donbass) between Ukraine and Russia. By now, it’s common for European cities to have street art, but what I find so impressive about Kiev’s street art scene is the sheer scale of it. 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