Found in the northern center of Ukraine is its historic capital city, Kiev. It’s the densest city in the country and is filled with beautiful sites rich in history and culture. It is best to do a tour of its many monuments, cathedrals, and historic hubs that any traveler can learn much from. Kiev has also become a hotspot for creativity, with its street art, hole-in-the-wall coffee shops, and bustling nightlife scene. Check this list for the best things to do in Kiev!
This magnificent cathedral is one of Ukraine’s most iconic structures and one of the most famous Kiev tourist attractions. Designed with white, green, and gold exteriors, St. Sophia’s Cathedral was built in the 11th century and is filled with religious, medieval mosaics and frescoes that are beautiful to behold. Travelers ought to climb the bell tower for a stunning view of the city as well as the square below. The cathedral is Ukraine’s world heritage site and can be found along Volodymyrska St.
The Kiev Pechersk Lavra (known as the Kiev Monastery of the Caves) is quite the sight to behold. This golden-domed structure is an Orthodox Christian monastery that has a long and rich history. The complex itself is huge and houses multiple caves, as well as a folk and art museum. When travelers visit this attraction, they should remember to purchase a candle to walk through the caves and catacombs as they could get quite dark. Again, its bell tower offers grand views of Kiev itself.
The medieval Golden Gate is among the oldest structures found in Kiev. This rust-colored gate lies on the corner of Volodymyr and Yaroslaviv Val streets and was the main gate of the city back in the 11th century. Travelers can head to the humble museum around the area to learn about its long history or take a rest at the cafes surrounding it. The monument looks particularly lovely in the afternoon or at sunset, where its fiery color stands out.
The Independence Square is situated right at the heart of Kiev, and was the site of a large number of political rallies, protests, and events. It saw many important historical events of the city and is surrounded by notable buildings, such as the noble assembly and the city council. The square is also a place for events and displays that aren’t political. Visitors can drop by this wide and beautiful open space along Khreshchatyk Street in the Shevchenko Raion.
This long main street, stretching a length of 1.2 kilometers, is the most prominent road in Kiev. The street runs through the European, Independent, and Bessarabska Squares and multiple historic structures and establishments are lined up here. Tourists may stroll through important places like the Main Post Office, the Kiev City Council, the Central Department Store, and many more! There are also a number of upscale boutique stores here for those shopaholics out there.
St. Andrew’s Church is among the most prominent religious establishments in Kiev, highly recognized for its beautiful turquoise, blue, and green colors. Built in the 1700s and designed by famed architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the church is adorned in classic Baroque architecture. The interiors are now open to the public after 10 years of renovation and travelers may now tour both inside and outside the church. You can find St. Andrew’s Church at Andriivs'kyi descent.
The Motherland Monument is a famous sculpture of Kiev’s, and it pays tribute to those who fought and participated in World Wars 1 and 2. Located on top of a hill (visitors need to do a climb to see its scenic views), the monument is also close to a museum that can educate travelers on various facts and history about World War 2. This attraction is found along Zapecherna Street.
Found on the banks of Dnieper River is St. Michael’s Golden Domed Monastery, characterized by its blue exteriors and yes, bright golden domes. Constructed during the middle ages, the monastery is among Kiev’s oldest buildings and carries the richest history. Visitors can behold medieval frescoes or head to its bell tower for beautiful panoramic views. There is also a park beside the church to take a breather if it’s too crowded with tourists.
One of the best things to do in Kiev, Ukraine is to stroll down the historic street of Andriivs'kyi descent. The descent runs through the Upper Town neighborhood, down to Podil. There are plenty of beautiful, colorful buildings that make for stunning pictures. Lots of stalls, shops, and coffee shops can be found here as well. This descent is fondly called the Montmartre of Kiev. St. Andrew’s Church is also around the area.
A major landmark of Ukraine, as well as the mother church of the Ukranian Kiev Patriarchy, St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral, is characterized by its unique yellow exteriors. As per usual, it has a history that travelers can educate themselves on when they visit it. There are also plenty of paintings and fresco art that creatives will adore. It is found beside a quaint botanical garden.
Kiev is best known for being a center of culture and history in Ukraine and eastern Europe in general. It has many stunning cathedrals, old buildings, and monuments, as well as picturesque alleys. Famous attractions include St. Sophia’s Cathedral, Khreschatyk Street, and The Motherland Monument. Travelers won’t run out of attractions to visit in Kiev.
If you want to avoid peak season and brave some cold winter weather, head from January to March. For the best warm weather, May to September is an ideal time. Some events and festivals to take note of are Victory Day (May), the Kiev International Short Film Festival (April), and Molodist (October), the city’s international film festival.
For those looking for a more modern touch, Podil is a hip district filled with galleries, fashionable clothing stores, history museums, and others. Old Kiev is also a good location for the more traditional; St. Andrew’s and Sophia’s cathedrals are found here as well as some public art installations at outdoor parks. Expensive restaurants can also be spotted at Old Kiev.