5 Great Things You Should Enjoy in Kiev

by Neeta · Published August 5, 2017 · Updated August 24, 2017

Want an offbeat destination this vacation? Why not visit Kiev? Once you visit the Ukrainian capital, you are definitely going to repent about why you didn’t visit it before. Kiev, also spelled as Kyiv, is a hidden gem of Eastern Europe. Well, you are certainly going to feel that you have entered an altogether different world, but a pleasant one. Kiev has an excellent mixture of old and new as well as East and West.

What you will be impressed with first is the characteristic architecture and sculptures in the city. Kiev is characterized by huge governmental buildings, cathedrals with beautiful golden domes, spacious squares spread around a central monument and lovely statues. As such, there is an endless list of what you should see and do in Kiev. Here are only a few.

1. Parks

A major credit of Kiev’s beauty goes to its numerous parks which you should visit and enjoy the nature’s beauty. Khreshchatyj and Mariyinksky are the favorites of locals and tourists alike. Both these are located just near the majestic Dnieper river of Kiev and are full of interesting landmarks including Kyiv Academic Puppet Theater, Mariyinsky Palace and Lover’s Bridge, popular mainly among newlyweds.

2. National Chernobyl Museum

If you don’t have the chance to visit the site of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear tragedy, learn about it more at the National Chernobyl Museum, the most interesting and charming museum of Kiev.

3. Andriyivsky Descent and Museum of One Street

Andriyivsky Descent is a small downhill road that connected the Upper Kyiv to the commercial district of Podil standing ashore Dnieper River. The road is full of historical attractions, including the 18th century St. Andrew Church, the Castle of Richard the Lionheart and the home of the legendary author Mikhail Bulgakov. The road is also a must-visit for its art galleries, local artisans and crafts shops. And don’t forget to visit the interesting Museum of One Street where you can learn about Kiev’s rich history and the story of Andriyivsky Descent.

4. St. Sophia Cathedral

A UNESCO World Heritage site, St. Sophia Cathedral is certainly a must-visit in Kiev, for its outstanding architecture, serenity and peace. It has 11th century mosaics, a bell tower offering breathtaking views of the city and a lovely interior with amazing paintings that are more than 1000 years old.

5. Kiev Nightlife

Kiev may seem orthodox on the face of it; but it’s equally colorful with a rich nightlife. Top places to enjoy Kiev nightlife are Arena City, Podil, and more. Here you will get a number of bars, clubs and pubs with enchanting music and top drinks. However, it’s advisable to be careful and not to let anyone fool you.