Kiev, Ukraine 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Exploring Kiev, Ukraine

Day 1: City Center and Historical Sites

Places to Go:

  1. Maidan Nezalezhnosti - Independence Square, the heart of Kiev and a significant location in Ukrainian history.
  2. St. Sophia’s Cathedral - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing outstanding mosaics, frescoes, and architectural details from the 11th century.
  3. Mikhailivsky Cathedral - A neoclassical cathedral with beautiful golden domes, housing an interesting museum of Ukrainian art.
  4. Golden Gate - The ancient main entrance to the city, dating back to the 10th century.
  5. Andrew’s Descent (Volodymyrska Street) - A charming street with many shops, galleries, and cafes, leading down to the Podil district.

Activities:

  • Take a stroll along the Dnipro River promenade.
  • Visit the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War.

Where to Eat:

  1. Kanalo - For traditional Ukrainian cuisine with a modern twist.
  2. Kryvka - A cozy underground restaurant offering affordable and delicious dishes.
  3. Dakh - A unique restaurant located on the roof of an abandoned Soviet television tower, offering panoramic views of Kiev.

Where to Stay:

  1. Leonardo Hotel Kiev - Centrally located, offers comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities.
  2. Lviv Handmade Chocolates Hotel - A boutique hotel with unique chocolate-themed design elements.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Ukrainian, but many people also speak Russian. English is less common.
  • Kiev uses the Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH). It’s best to exchange money at banks or authorized exchange offices rather than street vendors.
  • Tipping is not customary in restaurants, as a service charge is usually included in the bill.

Day 2: Museums and Parks

Places to Go:

  1. National Museum of Ukraine - Covers Ukrainian history from prehistoric times to the present day.
  2. Parkovyi Tsentr - A large park with a variety of attractions, including an aquarium, planetarium, and art museum.
  3. Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine - A beautiful green space featuring over 14,000 plant species.

Activities:

  • Take a boat tour on the Dnipro River.
  • Visit the Pechersk Lavra monastery complex, including its catacombs and bell tower.

Where to Eat:

  1. Taras Bulba - Offers traditional Ukrainian dishes in a cozy, rustic setting.
  2. Kontraktova Ploshcha - A bustling food market offering a variety of local and international foods.

Day 3: Modern Kiev and Nightlife

Places to Go:

  1. Khreschatyk Street - The main street in Kiev, filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  2. Bessarabsky Market - A vibrant market offering food, drink, and souvenirs.
  3. Olympic Stadium - Visit the stadium where the 1980 Olympics were held or take a tour of the National Museum of Football.

Activities:

  • Explore the creative quarter, “ArtZavod Platforma.”
  • Take a stroll around the picturesque area of Kiev-Pechersk Lavra at night.

Where to Eat:

  1. Salt & Pepper - A trendy restaurant offering international cuisine with a focus on seafood.
  2. Café 44 - A popular spot for brunch and coffee.

Where to Party:

  1. Club Karpa - A large, popular club playing a mix of electronic music.
  2. Barbara - A cozy bar with a wide selection of cocktails and craft beers.

Day 4: Day Trip to Chernobyl

Places to Go:

  • Visit the site of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and the abandoned city of Pripyat.

Activities:

  • Take a guided tour to ensure safety and learn about the history of the disaster and its aftermath.

Things to Know:

  • Advance booking is required for Chernobyl tours, as they are limited in size and availability.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour involves walking outdoors for several hours.
  • Bring water, snacks, and any necessary medication with you, as there may be no opportunities to purchase these items on site.

Transportation:

  1. Kiev Metro - The most convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
  2. Trolleybuses and trams - Another affordable option for getting around Kiev.
  3. Taxi services - Uber and other taxi services are available in Kiev, but be aware of potential scams. Use reputable companies or negotiate prices before entering the vehicle.