Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, is a city with a rich history and culture. From its stunning architecture to its delicious food, Kiev is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive itinerary for a 3-day trip to Kiev, including tips on what to see, where to stay, where to eat, and free tours to take advantage of. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Kiev.
Day 1: Exploring Kiev’s Historic Sites
- St. Sophia’s Cathedral: Start your day by visiting one of Kiev’s most iconic landmarks, St. Sophia’s Cathedral. This beautiful cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery: After visiting St. Sophia’s Cathedral, head over to St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery. This stunning monastery was originally built in the 12th century, but was destroyed and later rebuilt in the 18th century.
- Andriyivsky Descent: Take a stroll down Andriyivsky Descent, a picturesque street that’s home to a variety of souvenir shops, art galleries, and cafes. This street is also known as Kiev’s «Montmartre.»
- Maidan Nezalezhnosti: End your day at Maidan Nezalezhnosti, Kiev’s central square. This square has played a pivotal role in Ukraine’s recent history and is a great place to people-watch and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Day 2: Discovering Kiev’s Cultural Treasures
- Kiev Pechersk Lavra: Start your day by visiting Kiev Pechersk Lavra, also known as the Kiev Monastery of the Caves. This historic monastery dates back to the 11th century and is another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- National Museum of Ukrainian History: After visiting the monastery, head over to the National Museum of Ukrainian History. This museum has a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Ukraine’s rich history and culture.
- Independence Square: Take a stroll around Independence Square, one of Kiev’s most famous landmarks. This square is home to several notable buildings, including the Ukrainian National Opera and the iconic Independence Monument.
- Podil: End your day in Podil, one of Kiev’s oldest neighborhoods. This area is known for its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and trendy cafes and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Kontraktova Square and the River Port for some stunning views of the Dnipro River.
Day 3: Exploring Kiev’s Modern Side
- Ocean Plaza: Start your day by visiting Ocean Plaza, one of Kiev’s biggest shopping malls. This mall has over 400 stores, a cinema, and plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
- Pinchuk Art Centre: After shopping, head over to the Pinchuk Art Centre. This contemporary art museum features works by some of Ukraine’s most talented artists as well as international artists.
- Khreshchatyk Street: Take a stroll down Khreshchatyk Street, Kiev’s main shopping street. This street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and is a great place to soak up the city’s modern vibe.
- Podilskyi District: End your day in the Podilskyi District, one of Kiev’s most trendy neighborhoods. This area is known for its street art, hip cafes and bars, and vibrant nightlife.
Where to Stay in Kiev
Kiev has a variety of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular areas to stay in Kiev include:
- Podil: This historic neighborhood is a great choice for those who want to be close to Kiev’s top attractions, cafes, and restaurants.
- Shevchenkivskyi District: This central neighborhood is home to many of Kiev’s most famous landmarks, making it a great choice for first-time visitors.
- Pechersk: This upscale neighborhood is known for its stunning architecture and proximity to Kiev’s best shopping and dining options.
Some recommended hotels in Kiev include:
- Hilton Kyiv
- 11 Mirrors Hotel
- Fairmont Grand Hotel Kyiv
Where to Eat in Kiev
Kiev has a vibrant culinary scene, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Some of the best places to eat in Kiev include:
- Puzata Hata: This popular chain of restaurants serves up traditional Ukrainian cuisine at affordable prices.
- Ostannya Barykada: This trendy restaurant is known for its modern take on traditional Ukrainian dishes.
- Maidan Market: This food market is a great place to sample a variety of Ukrainian dishes, including pierogi, borscht, and varenyky.
- Kanapa: This upscale restaurant serves up modern Ukrainian cuisine in a chic and stylish setting.
Free Tours in Kiev
Kiev has a variety of free tours available that are a great way to explore the city with a knowledgeable local guide. Some of the best free tours in Kiev include:
- Free Walking Tours Kiev: This tour covers the main landmarks of Kiev’s historic center and is a great way to get a feel for the city’s rich history and culture.
- Podil Tour: This tour explores the charming Podil neighborhood and includes stops at some of Kiev’s top attractions, including the Kontraktova Square and the River Port.
- Street Art Tour: This tour takes you through some of Kiev’s most colorful neighborhoods to explore the city’s vibrant street art scene.
FAQs
What’s the best time to visit Kiev?
The best time to visit Kiev is during the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
Do I need a visa to visit Kiev?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries, including the US, Canada, and most EU countries, can visit Ukraine for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it’s always best to check with your local embassy or consulate to make sure.
Is Kiev a safe city?
Kiev is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s always important to take precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
