Kiev Ukraine 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Charm of Kyiv

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Premier Palace Hotel, Hyatt Regency Kyiv
  • Mid-Range: Opera Hotel, InterContinental Kyiv
  • Budget: Dream House Hostel, Kiev Apartment Rental

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable. Single ride tickets cost around 8 UAH. Buy a token at the station’s cashier or ticket machine. Download the “EasyWay” app for navigation assistance.
  • Taxis: Uber and Bolt are readily available. Prices are generally reasonable.
  • Walking: Kyiv is a very walkable city, especially the historic center.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH). Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange offices. ATMs are widely available.
  • Language: Ukrainian is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.
  • Safety: Kyiv is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of your surroundings and take usual precautions against pickpocketing.

Day 1: Historical Heartbeat

  • Morning: Start with a visit to St. Sophia’s Cathedral (Софійський собор), a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Києво-Печерська лавра), another UNESCO site, featuring underground caves, monasteries, and stunning views of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Ukrainian cuisine at “Puzata Hata” (Пузата Хата) or indulge in delicious dumplings at “Varvari” (Варяни).

Day 2: Artistic Inspirations & Modernity

  • Morning: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Andriyivskyy Descent (Андріївський узвіз), a charming historic district filled with art galleries, souvenir shops, and cafes.
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Art Museum of Ukraine (Національний художній музей України) to admire masterpieces by Ukrainian and European artists.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Kyiv Opera House (Київський національний академічний театр опери та балету імені Тараса Шевченка) or enjoy live music at “Caribbean Club” (Карибський клуб).

Day 3: Green Spaces & Soviet Legacy

  • Morning: Relax in Mariinsky Park (Маріїнський парк), a beautiful green space with fountains, sculptures, and a picturesque lake.
  • Afternoon: Learn about Ukraine’s Soviet past at the Museum of the History of Kyiv (Музей історії Києва) or visit the Motherland Monument (Батьківщина-мати), a colossal statue commemorating World War II.

Tips for Travellers:

  • Download an offline map of Kyiv for navigation.
  • Carry small bills and coins for public transportation and smaller purchases.
  • Learn basic Ukrainian phrases like “hello” (привіт - pryvit) and “thank you” (дякую - dyakuyu).
  • Embrace the local culture: try borscht (beetroot soup), varenyky (dumplings), and holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls).

Enjoy your journey through Kyiv!