Kyiv, Ukraine Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Tourists in Kyiv, Ukraine

Before You Go

  • Visa requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter Ukraine. Citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
  • Language: While many Ukrainians speak some English, learning basic Ukrainian phrases like “дякую” (thank you) and “вибачте” (goodbye) will go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.
  • Currency: The Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices, or use ATMs.

Getting Around

  • Airport transfer: From Boryspil International Airport (KBP), take a taxi (around 200-300 UAH) or bus (30-50 UAH) to get to the city center.
  • Metro: Kyiv’s metro system is efficient and cheap (5 UAH per ride). You can buy tickets at stations or use a contactless payment card.
  • Walking tours: Explore Kyiv on foot with guided walking tours, which cover main attractions like Maidan Nezalezhnosti and St. Sophia Cathedral.

Must-See Attractions

  • Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square): The heart of Kyiv’s protests and celebrations.
  • St. Sophia Cathedral: A stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful mosaics and architecture.
  • Kiev Pechersk Lavra (Monastery of the Caves): A historic monastery complex with ornate churches and a museum.
  • Andriyivskyy Descent: A charming street lined with shops, cafes, and souvenir stalls.

Food and Drink

  • Try traditional Ukrainian cuisine: Borscht (beet soup), varenyky (dumplings), kovbasa (sausage), and chicken Kyiv-style.
  • Visit a local market: Like Besarabsky Market or Zhytniy Rynok, to sample fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.
  • Coffee culture: Kyiv is known for its coffee shops; try one like Café Kvitka or Osocorka.

Safety Tips

  • Be mindful of pickpocketing: In crowded areas and tourist hotspots, keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Avoid unlicensed taxis: Use reputable services like Uklon or Bolt to ensure a safe ride.
  • Respect local customs: Remove your hat when entering churches, and avoid public displays of affection.

Insider Tips

  • Get off the beaten path: Explore Kyiv’s lesser-known neighborhoods, like Podil or Odeska, for a more authentic experience.
  • Attend a cultural event: Catch an opera or ballet performance at the National Opera House or a concert at the Ukraine Palace.
  • Learn some Ukrainian history: Visit the National Museum of Ukrainian History or take a guided tour to appreciate the country’s complex past.

Enjoy your time in Kyiv, and слава Україні! (glory to Ukraine!)