Kiev Ukraine 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historic Kiev

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Varenichnaya 16, a local spot known for its traditional Ukrainian dishes.
  • Visit the Maidan Nezalezhnosti, Kiev’s main square, and learn about the city’s modern history.
  • Take a short walk to the National Museum of the History of Ukraine to gain insight into the country’s rich history.

Afternoon:

  • Head to St. Sophia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its stunning Byzantine architecture.
  • Next, visit the Museum of Ukrainian Baroque Art, showcasing works from the 17th to 18th centuries.
  • Explore the nearby Peoples’ Friendship Arch and enjoy the panoramic view of Kiev from the hill.

Evening:

  • Dine at Opanas, a popular restaurant offering modern Ukrainian cuisine with a great atmosphere.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along Andriivskyy Descent, known for its arts and crafts shops, galleries, and street performers.

Late Evening:

  • End your day at the iconic Golden Gate, where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the city lights.

Day 2: Discovering Modern Kiev

Morning:

  • Have breakfast at Vozdukh, a trendy cafe with a great selection of dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Visit the Kiev Funicular, which takes you up to the Upper Town area, where you can explore the Lybidska Square and St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the National Museum of the Great Patriotic War to learn about Ukraine’s role in World War II.
  • Take a stroll in Bessarabska Square, known for its vibrant market and street food.
  • Visit the Parkovyi Centre, Kiev’s modern exhibition complex, which often hosts various events and exhibitions.

Evening:

  • Dine at Molodist, a restaurant offering contemporary Ukrainian cuisine in a stylish setting.
  • End your day with a visit to the Andriyivskyy Uzvishshcha (Andrew’s Descent) neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere and nightlife.

Things to Know:

  • Kiev is a relatively safe city, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Ukrainian currency is the Hryvnia (UAH), but many places accept credit cards.
  • English is not widely spoken, so having a translation app or learning a few phrases can be helpful.

Transportation:

  • Kiev has an extensive public transportation system consisting of trams, trolleybuses, and the metro. Taxis are also readily available.
  • A day pass for public transport costs around 40 UAH (around $1.50 USD).

Tips:

  • Try local dishes such as borsch, varenyky, and holubtsi.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Enjoy your trip to Kiev! It’s a city rich in history, culture, and hospitality.