Kiev Ukraine 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Center

  • Start your day at Maidan Nezalezhnosti, the heart of Kiev. Visit the National Museum of the History of Ukraine for an overview of Ukrainian history.

  • Walk towards Saint Sophia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its Byzantine architecture.

  • Lunch at Varenyky Na Khmel’nitskoho (Вареники на Хмельницького), famous for traditional Ukrainian dumplings.

  • In the afternoon, visit Mikhail Bulgakov Museum to learn about the life and works of this renowned author.

  • Evening visit to St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, another UNESCO site, for stunning views of Kiev.

  • Dinner at Ochki Restaurant (Очки), offering contemporary Ukrainian cuisine with a modern twist.

  • Stay at the Fairmont Grand Hotel Kyiv or Crowne Plaza Kiev City Centre, centrally located and offering comfort and convenience.

Day 2: Historical Sites and Green Spaces

  • Begin at Kiev-Pechersk Lavra, a historic Orthodox monastery complex with catacombs and beautiful churches.

  • Lunch at Taras Bulba, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Ukrainian food.

  • Afternoon at Park of Culture and Leisure (SCC “Olympiyskiy”), where you can visit the National Museum of the Great Patriotic War or enjoy a leisurely walk.

  • Dinner at Karavai (Каравай), known for its creative take on Ukrainian cuisine in a rustic, cozy atmosphere.

Day 3: Art and Modern Kiev

  • Morning at the PinchukArtCentre, showcasing contemporary art from Ukraine and around the world.

  • Lunch at Klitsko Coffee House, offering delicious sandwiches and coffee in a charming setting.

  • Afternoon at Andriyivskyy Descent (Андріївський узвіз), known for its vibrant arts scene, antique shops, and cafes.

  • Dinner at Vinnyans’ka Hirka (Віннянська Гірка), a charming restaurant serving traditional Ukrainian dishes in a rustic setting.

Day 4: Day Trip to Chernobyl

  • Book a guided tour to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Remember, you must have valid documents (passport) to enter.

  • Lunch is provided during the tour.

  • Return to Kiev in the evening and rest.

Day 5: Relax and Shop

  • Spend your last day shopping at Bessarabsky Market or Passage Shopping Mall.

  • Lunch at Café Le Sirop, offering a variety of dishes in a stylish setting.

  • In the afternoon, relax at one of Kiev’s many saunas or spas, such as Bikram Yoga Kyiv or Public Sauna.

  • Farewell dinner at Dakha Restaurant, offering a unique dining experience with live Ukrainian folk music.

Things to Know:

  • Kiev’s public transportation is efficient and affordable, with trams, buses, and the metro available. Consider getting a Kyiv Card for unlimited travel during your stay.

  • English is not widely spoken in Ukraine, so learning a few phrases or having a translation app can be helpful.

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Tips:

  • Explore the city’s street art scene by following the Kiev Street Art Map.

  • Try Ukrainian vodka, horilka, but beware of its strength!

  • For a unique experience, attend a traditional Ukrainian borsch-making class.