Kiev Ukraine 7 Day Itinerary

Kiev, Ukraine 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City Center

  • Arrival: Arrive at Boryspil International Airport (KBP) or Kyiv International Airport (IEV)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as the Hotel Ukraine or the Premier Palace Hotel
  • Lunch: Try traditional Ukrainian cuisine at Kanapa Restaurant or Opanas Restaurant
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti) and take a stroll around the nearby streets to get a feel for the city
    • Explore the Kyiv City Council building, a beautiful example of Soviet-era architecture
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Ukrainian dinner at Varenychna №1 or Shvydkyi Kut Restaurant

Day 2: Kiev’s Historical Landmarks

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Kiev Pechersk Lavra (Kiev Monastery of the Caves), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest and most important Orthodox monasteries in Ukraine
    • Explore the nearby Museum of Ukrainian History in WWII
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes on Volodymyrska Street, such as Cafe Klichko or Cafe 11 Mirrors
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit St. Sophia Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kiev’s most iconic landmarks
    • Explore the Golden Gate, a historic gateway to the city
  • Evening: Enjoy a scenic walk along the Dnipro River and take in the views of the city

Day 3: Museums and Galleries

  • Morning:
    • Visit the National Museum of Ukrainian History, which offers a comprehensive look at Ukraine’s history and culture
    • Explore the Taras Shevchenko National Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Ukraine’s national poet
  • Lunch: Try some modern Ukrainian cuisine at Decadence or Buhara Bar & Kitchen
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Kiev National Art Gallery, which features an impressive collection of Ukrainian and European art
    • Explore the PinchukArtCentre, a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits
  • Evening: Enjoy a drink at one of Kiev’s trendy bars, such as Parovoz or Loggerhead

Day 4: Day Trip to Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

  • Morning: Take a guided tour to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, including the nearby Pripyat city
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch near the exclusion zone
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the abandoned city of Pripyat and see the remnants of the nuclear disaster
    • Visit the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and learn about the history of the disaster
  • Evening: Return to Kiev and reflect on the day’s experiences

Day 5: More of Kiev’s Hidden Gems

  • Morning:
    • Visit the One Street Museum, a unique museum showcasing Ukrainian art and culture
    • Explore the Kiev Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes on Andriivskyi Descent, such as Cafe Kava or Cafe Lyubchyk
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral, a beautiful example of Ukrainian Baroque architecture
    • Explore the nearby Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, one of Ukraine’s oldest and most prestigious universities
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Ukrainian dinner at Hryshko’s Restaurant or Restaurant Kiev

Day 6: Markets and Shopping

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Besarabsky Market, a bustling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs
    • Explore the nearby Petrivka Market, offering a wide range of goods and services
  • Lunch: Try some street food at one of the many markets or cafes in the area
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Globus Shopping Mall, one of Kiev’s largest and most modern shopping centers
    • Explore the nearby Ocean Plaza Shopping Center, offering a range of international brands and restaurants
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Kiev’s top-rated restaurants, such as Misto or Vino e Cucina

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Departure: Head to the airport and depart from Kiev

Things to Know

  • Ukraine uses the hryvnia (UAH) as its currency. You can exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs.
  • Ukrainian is the official language, but many people in Kiev speak some English, especially among younger generations and those in the service industry.
  • Kiev has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. You can buy tickets at kiosks or from the driver.
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, with cold winters and warm summers.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Ukrainian phrases, such as “hello” (Здравствуйте - Zdravstvuyte), “thank you” (Дякую - Dyakuyu), and “goodbye” (До побачення - Do pobachennya).
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak rush hour times (7-9 am and 4-6 pm) to avoid heavy traffic.

Transportation

  • Kiev has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. You can buy tickets at kiosks or from the driver.
  • Taxis are widely available, but be sure to agree on the price beforehand.
  • Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt are also popular in Kiev.

Other Things of Interest

  • Kiev has a thriving nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.
  • The city hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Kiev International Film Festival and the Ukraine Jazz Festival.
  • Consider taking a day trip to the nearby Mezhyhirya Residence, a former presidential residence turned museum.

I hope you enjoy your time in Kiev!