Kiev, Ukraine-2-day-itinerary

Two-Day Itinerary for Kyiv, Ukraine

Welcome to Kyiv! This vibrant city offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and modern life. Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your two days:

Day 1: Exploring Historical Kyiv

  • Morning:

    • Breakfast: Start your day at French Bakery (вул. Велика Житомирська, 6) for delicious pastries and coffee.
    • St. Sophia’s Cathedral & Bell Tower: Immerse yourself in Byzantine architecture and breathtaking mosaics at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Monastery of the Caves): Explore this historic monastery complex with its underground caves, churches, and museums.

  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Ukrainian cuisine at Puzata Hata (multiple locations), known for its affordable and tasty dishes.

  • Afternoon:

    • Golden Gate: Discover the ruins of Kyiv’s ancient fortifications and imagine its medieval past.
    • Andriyivskyy Descent: Stroll down this charming cobblestone street lined with art galleries, souvenir shops, and cafes.

  • Dinner: Experience fine dining with a modern twist at 1001 Night (вул. Жилянська, 51) known for its unique atmosphere and delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

  • Evening: Enjoy a performance at the National Opera of Ukraine (вул. Володимирська, 48) or relax with live music at one of the many bars in Podil district.

Day 2: Modern Kyiv & Beyond

  • Morning:

    • Breakfast: Fuel up for the day with a hearty Ukrainian breakfast at Cafe Drova (вул. Ярославів Вал, 15).
    • National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War: Reflect on the nation’s past and learn about its resilience during WWII.
    • Motherland Monument: Admire this colossal statue overlooking the city from atop a hill and take panoramic photos.

  • Lunch: Indulge in street food delights at Besarabsky Market (вул. Басейна, 1/3) with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings.

    • Afternoon:

      • Hydropark: Take a refreshing break from sightseeing with a relaxing walk along the Dnipro River or enjoy water sports activities.

  • Dinner: Savor modern Ukrainian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients at Kanapa (вул. Трьохсвятительська, 3) known for its stylish ambiance and creative dishes.

  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell drink at one of the rooftop bars in the city center offering stunning views of Kyiv’s skyline.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Premier Palace Hotel, Fairmont Grand Hotel Kyiv
  • Mid-Range: Hyatt Regency Kyiv, Opera Hotel
  • Budget: Dream House Hostel, City Center Hostel

Transportation:

  • The Kyiv Metro is efficient and affordable for navigating the city.
  • Taxis are readily available through apps like Uber or Bolt.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)
  • Language: Ukrainian, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Ukrainian phrases.
  • Download a translation app for easier communication.
  • Bargain for souvenirs at markets.
  • Be aware of scams and pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Try traditional Ukrainian dishes like borscht, varenyky (dumplings), and holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls).

Other Things of Interest:

  • Chernobyl Exclusion Zone: Take a guided tour to this fascinating and eerie site.
  • Pyrohiv Open-Air Museum: Explore traditional Ukrainian village life through historical reconstructions.
  • Mariinsky Palace: Admire the grand residence of the President of Ukraine.

Enjoy your time in Kyiv!