Currently, Kyiv is experiencing something of a boom. The city is constantly featured in the evening news and is awaiting its moment in the spotlight to welcome visitors. The capital of Ukraine and a major industrial centre, Kyiv is also a fantastic tourist destination despite its relatively low profile in Europe.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Kyiv
Take a stroll through the streets and stop in at some of the local establishments, eateries, attractions, and landmarks. Even though there are three million people living in the city, most areas still have a friendly, hometown feel.
The capital of Ukraine and the country’s economic and cultural centre, Kyiv has all you might want from a hidden jewel in Eastern Europe. Kyiv has something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for romance, history, or just a change of scenery.
There’s a lot to see and do in Kyiv, but we’ve compiled a list of the greatest attractions so you can maximise your time there.
1. St. Sophia’s Cathedral
St. Sophia’s Cathedral, or Saint Sophia Cathedral, is one of seven Ukrainian sites recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. It was dedicated to Hagia Sophia after its completion in 1037. It’s a popular spot for sightseers, so getting there early is suggested.
It is among the oldest and most breathtaking of Kyiv’s magnificent churches. The walls and ceilings are covered in stunning murals, mosaics, and frescoes. Over the years, other buildings have been added, but only one admission charge is required to see them all. Visit the bell tower and look out over the city. Guided tours are offered.
2. St. Andrew’s Church
The historic district of Podil is home to another of Kyiv’s must-see attractions. During Catherine the Great’s reign, it was constructed by the Russian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli. St. Andrew’s is an excellent example of a church that was built on a prominent hilltop so that it could be seen from afar.
The church is no longer used for religious purposes, although it does house a significant art collection. Kyiv has St. Andrew as its patron saint, and the city’s beautiful Baroque buildings are a tribute to him.
3. National Art Museum of Ukraine
The National Art Museum of Ukraine is a popular attraction. It was founded in 1897 by Bohdan Khanenko, a wealthy art lover who was keen to create the country’s first museum. He was ultimately successful, as the landmark structure now houses a priceless assortment of priceless sculptures, artwork, and icons.
Ukrainian artists both working in Ukraine and those who have left the country but are still actively creating art are featured. Contemporary art is also featured at the museum, which is widely regarded as an authoritative showcase of Eastern European art.
4. Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Monastery
The cave monks St. Anthony and St. Theodosius established this monastery complex. It’s incredible to believe that these structures, built above a network of caves excavated by the monks, date back to the 11th century.
Other structures in the complex continue to employ the Ukrainian Baroque style. Both “Near Caves” and “Far Caves” are common names for this landmark. There are hundreds of items can be found between the two locations.
Visit the underground crypts to see the bodies of monks preserved in glass. One of the most interesting attractions in the city also offers a glimpse into the past that is a little spooky and claustrophobic.
5. Mariyinsky Palace
The ceremonial residence of the President of Ukraine is located in this Baroque palace. After a fire in 1870 destroyed the original palace, Czar Alexander II had it rebuilt according to the original blueprints.
The exterior’s soft blue hue gives the impressive building a mystical air. Artwork by Ukrainian masters, along with other historical and cultural artefacts, can be found within. The beautifully planted gardens provide a tranquil setting for quiet thought.
6. Independence Square
The Orange Revolution of 2004 brought the world’s attention to Independence Square as the epicentre of people’s power in Ukraine. The town plaza is where most of the city’s celebrations and events take place.
There are six fountains, a waterfall, and a huge column there that together symbolise Ukrainian freedom. In the evenings, the colourful fountains put on a show to the accompaniment of lights and music, making for excellent people-watching.
Because of its proximity to the city’s most visited attractions, hotels in this neighbourhood are highly sought after by tourists.
7. Mezhyhirya Residence
Mezhyhirya enjoys a picturesque setting on the banks of the Dnieper River. The complex was a home to Viktor Yonukovych, the previous president of Ukraine. In a perfect world, your tour guide would be a costumed veteran of the resistance.
A fascinating hour of comments from the man tasked with safeguarding this prime example of political corruption and avarice. The level of grandeur on show will wow guests. The edifice, in all its splendour today, stands as a symbol of the excesses of the past and the avarice and corruption of today’s institutions.
Tennis courts, a shooting range, an equestrian club, a helicopter pad, an ostrich farm, a dog kennel, a golf course, and hunting grounds were constructed within its walled boundaries while the local populace battled to put food on the table.
The adjacent gardens are well-kept and make for a pleasant picnic while you think on the tour’s sights and sounds.
8. National Opera of Ukraine
The National Opera of Ukraine has been a staple of Kyiv’s cultural scene since its inception in 1867. After being destroyed by fire in the 1980s, the cultural institution’s spectacular building was reconstructed with modern conveniences and stunning architecture.
Millions of tourists over the last century have visited its halls to watch timeless performances like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, making it one of the city’s most prominent cultural destinations.
Seeing a show at the National Opera isn’t the only reason to visit. The patio is a great place to eat and watch the world go by. The outside features a waterfall sculpture, and there are several great dining options just across the street.
9. National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War
The Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II may be found on the banks of the Dnieper River, and it first opened to the public in 1981. Statues and relics honouring Ukraine’s contribution to the Allied victory in World War II may be seen throughout the complex, from personal items like letters and uniforms to major pieces of military hardware like aeroplanes and artillery.
Walking around outdoors, you can see some magnificent views of the city below, and even though most of the exhibits aren’t in English, you’ll still get a sense of what it was like to be a soldier during that period.
10. St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral
St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral, one of Kyiv’s most recognisable monuments, is also among the city’s most revered places of worship. One may argue that it is the most impressive. It is widely regarded as an essential part of the Ukrainian Orthodox framework.
Visitors are delighted by stunning Byzantine-style architecture and artwork as soon as they step foot inside. Embedded inside this sacred area are gilded murals, paintings, and hand-carved accents; the workmanship is beautiful and one-of-a-kind.
The grounds are just as lovely, situated as they are on a street lined with trees not far from Shevchenko University. Keep in mind that women must wear a headscarf and males must wear trousers and a shirt when visiting. Also, keep track of time. Daily services are held on a regular basis.
