Kyiv Ukraine 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center

Morning

  • Start at Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square), the heart of Kyiv’s historic center
  • Visit the nearby Kiev City Hall, a beautiful example of Ukrainian Baroque architecture
  • Walk to St. Sophia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks

Afternoon

  • Explore the Golden Gate, a historic gate that dates back to the 11th century
  • Visit the National Museum of Ukrainian History, which offers insight into Ukraine’s rich history

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Ukrainian cuisine at Varenychna Korchma, a cozy restaurant in the historic center
  • Stay at Hotel Ukraine, a comfortable hotel with great views of the city

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August)
  • Learn some basic Ukrainian phrases, such as “hello” (Здравствуйте - Zdravstvuyte) and “thank you” (Дякую - Dyakuyu)

Transportation

  • Use the Kyiv Metro, a convenient and affordable way to get around the city
  • Taxis are also widely available, but be sure to agree on a price before you start your journey

Tips

  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas
  • Try to avoid exchanging money at airports or train stations, as rates may not be favorable

Day 2: Kyiv’s Religious Heritage

Morning

  • Visit St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, a beautiful example of Ukrainian Orthodox architecture
  • Explore the nearby St. Andrew’s Church, another iconic landmark in Kyiv

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the peaceful Botanical Garden, which offers great views of the city
  • Visit the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, a historic monastery complex that dates back to the 11th century

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Ostannya Barykada, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Ukrainian dishes
  • Stay at Hotel Riviera, a comfortable hotel with great views of the Dnipro River

Things to Know

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Be prepared for uneven terrain and stairs at some attractions

Transportation

  • Use the Kyiv Funicular, a historic funicular that connects the upper and lower parts of the city

Tips

  • Try to attend a service or concert at one of Kyiv’s many churches or cathedrals
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions

Day 3: Modern Kyiv

Morning

  • Visit Museum of Contemporary Ukrainian Art, which showcases the works of modern Ukrainian artists
  • Explore the trendy Vozdvyzhenska Street, known for its street art, cafes, and boutiques

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Mariinsky Park, which offers great views of the city
  • Visit the National Opera House of Ukraine, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Mafia, a popular restaurant serving modern Ukrainian cuisine
  • Stay at Hotel 11 Mirrors, a stylish hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August)

Transportation

  • Use the Kyiv Bus, a convenient way to get around the city

Tips

  • Try to attend a performance or concert at the National Opera House
  • Explore some of Kyiv’s many markets, such as the Kyiv Market or Petrașivka Market

Day 4: Day Trip to Chernobyl

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, a unique and haunting experience
  • Visit the nearby Pripyat, a abandoned city that was evacuated after the nuclear disaster

Afternoon

  • Return to Kyiv and explore the Chernobyl Museum, which offers insight into the disaster and its aftermath

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Kryivokol, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Ukrainian dishes
  • Stay at Hotel Podol Plaza, a comfortable hotel with great views of the city

Things to Know

  • Be sure to book a guided tour in advance, as independent travel is not allowed in the Exclusion Zone
  • Follow all safety instructions and guidelines during the tour

Transportation

  • Use a reputable tour company that offers transportation from Kyiv to Chernobyl

Tips

  • Be respectful of the site and its history
  • Take plenty of photos, but avoid taking souvenirs or disturbing the environment

Day 5: Last Day in Kyiv

Morning

  • Visit Andriyivskyy Descent, a historic street known for its beautiful architecture and souvenir shops
  • Explore the nearby St. Andrew’s Slope, which offers great views of the city

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the peaceful Hydropark, a popular recreational area
  • Visit the Kyiv Water Museum, which showcases the city’s water supply system

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Shulyava, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Ukrainian dishes
  • Depart from Boryspil International Airport or continue your journey to other parts of Ukraine

Things to Know

  • Be sure to check out of your hotel and arrange for transportation to the airport in advance
  • Exchange any remaining hryvnia (UAH) before departing Ukraine

Transportation

  • Use a reputable taxi company or book a private transfer to the airport

Tips

  • Try to visit some of Kyiv’s many markets, such as the Kyiv Market or Petrașivka Market, for last-minute souvenir shopping
  • Take plenty of photos and memories with you as you depart Ukraine