Kiev, Ukraine-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

Morning

  • Arrive at Boryspil International Airport (KBP) or Kyiv International Airport (IEV)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your accommodation in the city center
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as the Hotel Ukraine or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit the Independence Square (Майдан Незалежності), the heart of Kiev’s protests and revolutions
  • Explore the surrounding streets, including Khreshchatyk Street, a popular shopping and dining area
  • Stop by the Kiev City Council building, a stunning example of Ukrainian architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Ukrainian cuisine at Restaurant Olimpiyskiy or similar
  • Take a stroll along the Dnipro River and enjoy the city views

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and protests in the city center
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am, 4-6 pm) due to traffic congestion
  • Download the Google Translate app to help with language barriers

Day 2: Kiev’s Historical Landmarks

Morning

  • Visit the Kiev Pechersk Lavra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous monasteries in Ukraine
  • Explore the caves and underground tunnels of the monastery
  • Marvel at the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens

Afternoon

  • Stop by the National Museum of Ukrainian History, which offers insight into the country’s rich history
  • Visit the St. Sophia Cathedral, another iconic Kiev landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Ukrainian dinner at Restaurant Pervak or similar
  • Take in a stunning view of the city from one of the many rooftop bars

Transportation

  • Use public transportation, such as buses or trams, to get around the city ( approx. 10 UAH / $0.40 per ride)
  • Alternatively, take a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt

Day 3: Art and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the National Art Museum of Ukraine, which features an impressive collection of Ukrainian art
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Podil, known for its street art, cafes, and boutiques

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Kiev Opera House, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture
  • Attend a performance or take a guided tour of the building

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Mama Carolla, which serves Italian-Ukrainian fusion cuisine
  • Visit the Kiev Night Market (Київський нічний ринок) for some late-night shopping and snacking

Tips

  • Be respectful of Ukraine’s complex history and cultural heritage
  • Try to learn a few basic Ukrainian phrases, such as “Дякую” (thank you) and “Привіт” (hello)

Day 4: Day Trip to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, a unique and haunting experience
  • Visit the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Reactor 4, and the abandoned city of Pripyat

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Chernobyl Museum in Kiev for more insight into the disaster
  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Varenychna 12, which serves traditional Ukrainian cuisine

Evening

  • Return to your accommodation and rest after a long day

Things to Know

  • Book your Chernobyl tour in advance, as it’s a popular activity
  • Be prepared for a long day ( approx. 12 hours) and dress accordingly

Day 5: Last Day in Kiev

Morning

  • Visit the Andriivskyi Descent, a historic street lined with souvenir shops and cafes
  • Stop by the St. Andrew’s Church, a stunning example of Ukrainian Baroque architecture

Afternoon

  • Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring local markets
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Restaurant Ostannya Barykada, which serves modern Ukrainian cuisine

Evening

  • Take a stroll along the Dnipro River and reflect on your time in Kiev
  • Depart for the airport and head home

Transportation

  • Book your taxi or transfer service to the airport in advance
  • Be prepared for potential traffic congestion during peak hours