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A cradle of ancient civilization, Kiev nurtures a perfect blend of history, architecture and culture. Over the years, the city has grabbed a special place in the hearts of explorers. Its beauty isn't confined to those rustic yet enigmatic boundaries. It is equally distributed across natural sites. And this is what makes Kiev city a wonder. There is the digitally advanced Kiev to appeal to your modern senses. On the other hand, there is the aged settlement to appease your old-world soul. Hence, the city succeeds in satisfying the wanderlust of millions of tourists. Take a dose of adventure in the streets of Kiev. Unleash your craziness and embrace the charm this city holds.

USEFUL INFO. ABOUT KIEV

OFFICIAL NAME: Kyiv

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Presidential-Parliamentary System of Government

POPULATION: 2.88 Million (As of 2017)

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE(S): Ukrainian

LANGUAGES SPOKEN: Ukrainian, Russian, English

ETHNICITY: Ukrainian 82.2%, Russian 13.1%, Jews 0.7%, Belarusians 0.6%, Poles 0.3%, Armenians 0.2%, Azerbaijanis 0.1%

CURRENCY: Ukrainian Hryvnia ₴ UAH

MAP REFERRED: Ukraine

AREA: 847.7 Sq Km

Average Elevation: 587 Ft

Boryspil International Airport | Kyiv International Airport (Zhuliany)

Network / Connectivity

Being the capital city of Ukraine, Kiev city has very strong connectivity. That's why tourists generally don't find any difficulty while getting connected to the internet or availing mobile services. You can make domestic as well as international calls easily from any place in the city. However, it is advisable to use web-based services to make a call. This way, you wouldn't have to pay anything extra for making calls.

The internet speed is quite good in the urban settlement of Kiev. Most of the hotels provide free Wi-Fi and payable phone services to their guests.

You can also use free internet in most of the cafes and restaurants in the city. But if you want to use the internet and phone services while on the go, then you must buy a local prepaid SIM card at the airport and get it recharged with a plan. It wouldn't cost you more than $5 including the plan.

If you don't desire to stand in a long queue, then you can purchase one in the city. You would find a lot of shops selling local SIM cards in places like Independence Square.

You can use any one of the following mobile operators - Vodafone, Kyivstar, Lifecell.

Since 1996, Ukrainian hryvnia is the legal currency of Kiev and is used for the exchange of goods and services. However, the city has also used Grivna during the era of the Kievan Rus' and Karbovanets for about 14 days during September 1996 before today's hryvnia came into effect. The currency is valid across the nation except for the controversial Crimea.

SYMBOL: ₴
Code: UAH

1 Ukrainian hryvnia: 100 kopiyok
1 Ukrainian hryvnia UAH = 0.15 United Arab Emirates Dirham (As of 21st January 2020)
Ukrainian hryvnia notes can be found in the denomination of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500
Ukrainian hryvnia coins can be found in the denomination of 1, 2, 5, 10 kopiyok, 25 kopiyok and 50 kopiyok

Notes:

Dollars, Rubles, Euros or any other kind of currency doesn't work in Kyiv. So, exchange it at the airport or at any bank or at any currency exchange store before you start exploring around.

Traveler's Cheques are not accepted at most of the places in Ukraine. So, avoid bringing them.

ATM machines are always around the corner in Kiev.

Though the modern city of Kiev is claimed to have been founded in the late 5th century, the place has a history that is far beyond the Common Era. As per archaeological excavations, the site where the city stands proudly once housed the Stone Age humans. This was the time when the culture in and around the present-day Kiev started flourishing.

During this period, local tribes indulged in farming and in the subsequent years, trading became a big industry in the region. However, as per ancient legends, the city was founded by Kyi, the leader of a Slavic tribe. This is where the city got its name and identity.

Moving forward and coming to the late 10th century, Kiev had become a Christian place after mass baptism occurred on the orders of the then Vladimir. Since then, the city has witnessed the continuous formation of churches and cathedrals. St. Sophia's Cathedral, Golden Gate, Pechersk Lavra Monastery and St. George Church - all were built by the end of the 11th century.

Later, Kiev was ruled under the states of Poland as well as Russia. It was also besieged by several international forces, including Mongols and Tartars. Meanwhile, the city developed exponentially and recorded tremendous growth in terms of trade, education, culture, and politics. In the year 1934, the city became the capital of Ukraine. Since then, it has been a significant center among tourists.

Today, the city stands strong as an industrial, technological and cultural center. On account of its legendary past, people from all over the world visit it and learn about its yesteryears. Over the years, it has become a hub of historians and architecture enthusiasts.

Plan a trip now and watch history coming alive through age-old corridors. Get an insight into the not-so-popular culture of Ukraine.

Surrounded by beautiful hills and blessed with the presence of ravines, ponds, and rivers, Kiev forms a wonderful landscape. The city is located on the borders of the natural region of Polesia and that's the reason, it has been successful in alluring nature lovers from different countries.

Dnieper River flowing through the city bisects it into two parts. However, the original or the oldest settlement lies only on the right bank of the river. The river is also responsible for the change in the elevation of the city. Today, the city sits at a height of about 587 feet and is one of the highest cities in the country.

Spread over an area of 847.7 sq Km, Kiev is the largest urban center in Ukraine. It engulfs every kind of natural body. It has forests, water bodies, hills and plains within its boundaries. Being a landlocked country, Kiev doesn't have any coastline. However, it surely has river shores extending for a few kilometers.

The Kievan Slavs, who were the original inhabitants of the country several centuries ago, had their own values and system and nurtured East Slavic civilization to its full glory. However, one can find the traditions of Christianity in their ethics today. It is because of the mass Christianization of Kievan Slavs which happened in the 10th century. Since then, the culture of Kiev has been a mix of several cultures from European and Asian countries.

Art and Music
Kiev has been a center of traditional art for centuries. The presence of numerous art galleries and exhibition centers where you come across great masterpieces surely proves the city's involvement in the rise of folk art. Explore the markets of Kiev and witness surprising artworks on display.

And when it comes to music, Kiev is popular for traditional as well as western elements. Here, you would find people performing folk music and, events that attract the audience of pop music. On one hand, you have people playing Bandura and Spoilka, which are the two most popular traditional music instruments in Kiev. And on the other hand, you have youngsters lost in the melodies of Piano and Guitar.

Hospitality
The people of Kiev are generous and helpful. They respect their guests and that's why the city is considered one of the safest places in Ukraine for tourists. One can find people welcoming tourists with a large smile everywhere in and around Kiev. And if you bump into any local, be prepared to get invited for supper or snacks. That's how they show their love for their city's guests.

Food and Drink
Ukrainian Cuisine which is loved across the country finds its home in Kiev. The traditional dishes and beverages of Kiev are so popular that they are savored across nations. Tourists come to Kiev from different places just to enjoy lip-smacking borscht, a locally prepared soup and the national dish of Ukraine.

Once you are out in the streets, you would be amazed to know that most of the restaurants in the city serve all the major traditional dishes of Ukraine. The locals here also love savoring their favorite sweet and sour non-alcoholic Kvass and alcoholic Horilka. The drinks have become popular amongst tourists too.

Must-try Delicacies Borscht, Potato Pancakes, Vareniki, Salo, Okroshka, Syrniki, Holodets and Banush
Must-try drinks Horilka, Varenukha, Kysil, Uzvar, Kvass and Spotykach

Explore the UNESCO wonders of Pechersk Lavra Cave Monastery and St. Sophia's Cathedral.

Turn back time and get acquainted with the past of Eastern Europe at ancient sites.

Watch nature whispering tales of calmness and tranquility in colorful gardens.

Go on the Chernobyl tour and learn in detail about the worst nuclear disaster in the history of mankind.

Take a stroll through the streets of Kiev to watch art coming alive through commendable murals and portraits.

Relish Ukrainian crafted beer and revive the party lover in you.

Savor the melody of the beautiful Dnieper river as you cruise down its soothing waters.

Go on a culinary tour and devour on some of the best traditional dishes of Ukraine.

Indulge in photographing picture-perfect architecture and marvel at world-class craftsmanship.

Shop unique souvenirs and bring home the essence and taste of Ukraine.

Talk to locals and learn age-old value still thriving in the wave of modernism.

Romance your partner at some of the most beautiful places in Europe.

Look through telescopes and admire detailed art at the Micro-miniature museum.

Discover hundreds of untold forgotten trails leading to wondrous worlds filled with surprises.

Kyiv experiences hot summers and chilly winters due to its humid continental climate. Though the daily mean temperature is in the range of 15 to 20 degrees during the summer season, the climate is comfortable. During the winter season when the average temperature is in the range of -3.5 to 1.8, the climate is freezing and windy. That's the reason, most of the tourists do not prefer visiting the city between November and March.

June, July, and August are the hottest months and December, January and February are the coldest months in a year in Kyiv.

July to September
This is the best time to visit Kyiv in a year. During this period, the climatic conditions are optimum and hence, favorable. One can roam around the city and explore its beauties comfortably. However, you would also find popular places packed with tourists during these months.

October to February
This is the time when you would find tourist sites less crowded and hotel and resorts offering great off-season deals. If you do not wish to encounter a tourist crowd on your trip to Kyiv, then visit the city during this period. You would be able to explore places without any disturbance. You would also be able to get amazing discounts on your stay.

Visit Kiev with Family

Explore the majesty of Pechersk Lavra Cave Monastery

Go picnicking at beautiful Feofaniya Park

Take family selfies at the towering Motherland Monument

Visit the Kiev Zoo and witness diverse wildlife

Take a culinary tour and savor traditional dishes

Visit Kiev as a Couple

Sit by the extensive Dnieper River and enjoy romantic surroundings

Enjoy pristine views of Kiev at Volodymyr Hill Park

Rekindle passion for each other at Lover's Bridge

Make a wish at the Fountain of Desires and turn your dreams into realities

Hold each other and capture colorful sunset landscape alleys together

Catch a wonderful show at Kiev Opera House

Visit Kiev with friends

Learn about the political history of Kiev at Independence Square

Shop your styles at Khreshchatyk Street

Go on a thrilling Chernobyl tour

Take wonderful pictures of the breathtaking St. Sophia's Cathedral

Loiter in and around the colorful neighborhood of Podil

Relish Kiev nightlife with Ukrainian-produced beer at lively bars and pubs

Visit Kiev with Kids

Break free from the history of Kiev and relax in Mariyinsky Park

Visit software and computer museum and let kids learn the history of the digital world

Explore micro-miniature objects at Miniature Museum

Spend a day at water and amusement parks with kids

Let children get lost in fairy tales at Puppet Theatre

What to Buy?

Ukrainian ceramics

Lviv chocolate

Hand-woven rugs

Wooden bracelets and beaded necklace

Horilka (local beverage)

Pysanky (Colorful Wooden eggs)

Embroidered shirts and blouses

Handmade lacquered boxes

Floral wreaths

Pechersk Lavra Cave Monastery
The crown of Kiev tourism, Pechersk Lavra Cave Monastery is a beautiful complex that cannot be ignored by any traveler. Built-in the 11th century, this orthodox Christian monastery is touted as one of the seven wonders of Ukraine. And the influx of tourists in millions every year surely proves its popularity across the globe. It is noted for age-old history as well as incredible architecture. The golden domes and intricate patterns all over walls and ceiling are the show-stealers here. Plan a tour of this cultural attraction and unravel the mysteries Kiev harbors.
Best time to visit: 06:00 am to 08:00 pm (Open every day)
Entrance Fee: $ 1 per person

St. Sophia's Cathedral
St. Sophia's Cathedral is an exemplary model of old-world architecture and hence, together with Pechersk Lavra Monastery, it has been inscribed to the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is the reason it has gained the attention of explorers worldwide. It is one of the oldest monuments in the city and is a must-visit for those who love digging out history. Visit the cathedral at night to watch it decorated with colorful lights.
Timings:
10:00 am to 06:00 pm
10:00 am to 05:00 pm on Wednesdays
(Closed on Thursdays)
Entrance Fee
$ 2 for adults
$1 for students

National Art Museum of Ukraine
One of the best places to see in Kiev, the National Art Museum deserves to be on the top of your Kiev itinerary if art is something you are closely attached to. If you can see beyond the naked eyes, you would find this historical building a perfect retreat to spend time with incredible masterpieces. Housing a beautiful collection, National Art Museum delivers happiness in the form of ancient portraits and reliefs. Be it the 12th-century Saint George or the Cossacks in the Steppe from the 1990s, every single work of art would take you to a completely different world.
Timings: 11:00 am to 07:00 pm on Saturdays
10:00 am to 06:00 pm on Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
12:00 pm to 08:00 pm on Fridays
(Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Entrance Fee:
$ 1.6 for adults
$ 0.5 for children

The Motherland Monument
Undoubtedly, the Motherland Monument is one of the most recognized structures in Kiev. Standing at a height of about 203 feet, the gigantic statue is made of steel and is located inside World War II Museum. Take selfies in front of this man-made wonder and, indulge in learning about the history of World War II at the museum. The place attracts every kind of traveler, from couples to families. And to your surprise, the Motherland Monument is taller than the Statue of Liberty. Well, that makes it a must-visit site in Kiev.
Timings:
10:00 am to 06:00 pm
(10:00 am to 07:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays)
Average Price: $ 3 - $ 5 per person

Mariyinsky Palace and Garden
Mariyinsky Palace was constructed in the late 18th century and it is a popular tourist attraction in the city. As it is the ceremonial residence of the president of Kiev, the place remains heavily guarded. However, private tours are available that would allow you to catch a glimpse of the inside of the palace. If not, you can still enjoy its beautiful lush green park and have a great time with family and friends. It is a great getaway for picnickers.
Best time to visit: Open 24 Hours
Entrance Fee: $7 per tour

St. Andrew's Church
Known amongst tourists for its wondrous structural formation, St. Andrew's Church is a marvel that enhances the charm of Kiev. From wonderfully decorated domes to exceptionally embellished walls, the church reflects sheer artistry. Hence, exploring it is surely one of the best things to do in Kiev. Over the years, the site has become a great getaway for history buffs and architecture lovers. However, it also attracts families, couples and every other kind of traveler for nurturing peaceful ambiance and housing a beauteous environment.
Best time to visit: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm
Entrance Fee: $ 1 - $ 2

Feofaniya Park
Nothing is better than lazing out in the open under the sun and savoring greenery in an urban center. That's the reason, you must add Feofaniya Park to your Kiev itinerary. The beautiful park at the edge of the city harbors raw natural beauties and provides calmness to its visitors. Though it is mostly visited by families and kids, it is a great site for explorers too due to the presence of the beautiful St. Panteleimon's Convent. Lurking from behind tall trees, this awe-inspiring church is a center of attraction for photographers.
Timings: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm
Average Price: US$ 1

Independence Square
Also known as Maidan Nezalezhnosti, Independence Square has been a witness to the legendary past of Kiev. It is the place where several protests and campaigns happened and gave birth to several revolutions in the past. Independence Square has also been a great stage for non-political events and shows. It also hosts New Year and Christmas celebrations with great zeal and zest. That's why the place is considered a site of political, cultural and historical importance. Hence, no traveler must miss visiting it.
Best time to visit: Anytime
(Visit it during the evening time, between 05:00 am to 8:00 pm to capture liveliness at its best)
Entrance Fee: No entrance fee

National Opera House
One of the oldest opera houses in Ukraine, the National Opera House located in Kiev was established in the late 19th century. Since then, it has been delivering wonderful shows filled with thrill and excitement. Catch talented dancers performing with a live orchestra. Watch musicians delivering soothing music. And get an insight into the culture of Kiev. National Opera House is an amazing place to spend a wonderful evening and enjoy breathtaking performances.
Timings0:
There are no fixed timings. However, the shows usually happen at 02:00 pm and 05:00 pm.
Price Range:
$ 5 - $ 10 (Completely depends upon the kind of show)

Golden Gate
An important architectural and historical landmark, the Golden Gate was the gateway to the fort of Kiev back in the 11th century. However, the current building that stands strong with a church above the passage was constructed in the late 20th century. The gate also houses a small museum that would provide you with details of the gate, ranging from its origin to destruction. It is a great place to visit in Kiev as it subtly holds a fragment of the city's history.
Timings:
10:00 am to 06:00 pm
10:00 am to 05:00 pm on Tuesdays
(Closed on Mondays)
Entrance Fee: $ 1

Other Important Places to Visit in Kiev

Chernobyl Museum

Besarabsky Market

Micro-miniature Museum<

St. Volodymyr's Cathedral

House with Chimaeras

Palace of Corruption

Arsenalna Metro Station (Deepest Metro Station)

Brodsky Choral Synagogue

One Street Museum

Kiev Day
One of the most popular festivals in the city is Kiev Day. It is observed across the city and is celebrated with musical nights, street performances and firework shows. Musicians and actors from across the country flock the city for street shows. Fireworks start in the evening and last for several hours. The entire city seems lost in joy. People also go to bars and pubs and enjoy the night with their favorite drinks.
Date: In 2020, May 31 (Generally, during the last weekend of May)

Victory Day
The day when Nazi Germany gave up and surrendered during World War II is celebrated as Victory Day across Ukraine. It is an important holiday in Kiev and across the country. However, the kind of enthusiasm one witnesses in the streets of Kiev is surely awe-inspiring. The day is commemorated with great fervor as people enjoy military parades, mock battles and other events based on the patriotic theme.
Date: May 9

Kiev Summer Music Festival
Kiev Summer Music Festival is one of the most awaited festivals in Kiev. Open-air concerts take place in the city and music-lovers revel in traditional as well as modern performances. Music fans go crazy about the day as it provides them with great opportunities to listen to Jazz and Pop music. One can also find musicians playing classical instruments like Bandura.
Date: Between May and July

Independence Day
Undoubtedly, a day that is close to the heart of every Ukrainian! It is the day when Ukraine was declared an independent country and regained its freedom from the USSR. Independence Day is celebrated with wonderful firework shows and military parades. Several events happen across Kiev and people participate in them with great interests. Places like Independence Square become stages for entertaining performances.
Date: August 24

The land where one finds the history of Eastern Europe and unpolluted nature merge to form a beautiful canvas, Kiev is a dream destination for many. Though its ancient sites are more popular than its natural places, it is frequented by travelers of all kinds. But one would need a tourist visa to get within the boundaries of Kiev and explore its wonders. Hence, below given is all the information you need to learn about the Ukraine tourist Visa.

A Ukrainian tourist visa would allow you to stay in Kiev or any other place in Ukraine for a maximum period of 30 days.

However, if you belong to a visa-exempt country, then you can visit Kiev or any other place in Ukraine anytime without any visa. Below given is the list of all the countries that can enter Ukraine without any visa and stay for an indefinite time:
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Georgia
Uzbekistan
Moldova

Below given is the list of all the countries that can enter Ukraine without any visa but can stay only for a maximum period of 90 days:
EU countries, Albania, Israel, Russia, Andorra, Japan, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Kazakhstan, San Marino, Argentina, Kyrgyzstan, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Belarus, Monaco, Switzerland, Brazil, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Brunei, Montenegro, Turkey, Canada, North Macedonia, UAE, Chile, Norway, USA, Dominica, Paraguay, Uruguay, Hong Kong, Panama, Vatican City, Iceland, Qatar

If you do not belong to visa-exempt countries, then you can apply for a visa-on-arrival. Below given is the list of the countries that are eligible to get Ukraine visa-on-arrival. Australia, Haiti, New Zealand, Tuvalu, Bahamas, Honduras, Nicaragua, Vanuatu, Bahrain, Indonesia, Oman, Barbados, Jamaica, Palau, Belize, Kiribati, Peru, Bolivia, Kuwait, Saint Lucia, Bhutan, Laos, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Cambodia, Macau, Samoa, China, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Maldives, Seychelles, Costa Rica, Marshall Islands, Singapore, Dominican Republic, Mauritius, Solomon Islands, Ecuador, Mexico, Suriname, El Salvador, Micronesia, Taiwan, Fiji, Myanmar, Thailand, Grenada, Nauru, Timor-Leste, Guatemala, Nepal, Trinidad, and Tobago

However, you must have the following documents to get it:

A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from the travel date

Visa on arrival application form

Two-way air ticket confirming your excursion out of the country

Adequate amount in your account to finance your stay in Ukraine

Hotel/resort booking receipts

Metro
Undoubtedly, the metro is one of the most convenient means of transport in Kiev. With 52 stations, it connects every popular tourist destination and hence, a perfect way of getting around in the city. The Kiev metro runs on three lines:
Sviatoshynsko - Brovarska Line
Obolonsko - Teremkivska Line
Syretsko - Pecherska Line
And if not for commutation, you can use the Kiev metro to visit the Arenalana Station, which is the deepest metro station in the world at a depth of about 346 feet.

Taxis
You can also use taxis/cabs to commute within the city. Uber and Uklon are the two most popular online taxi services operating in Kiev. However, you can also use offline taxis which are available at almost every tourist place in Kiev. Unarguably, it is the most convenient means of transport in the city.

Buses/Trolleybuses/Trams
Though most of the areas are covered by the underground metro, there are still certain places deep inside the city where the metro doesn't operate. In such cases, you can use bus/trolleybus services for getting around. It is cheap as well as convenient. However, be prepared for traffic if you are using these services during rush hours (08:00 am to 10:00 am and 05:30 pm to 07:30 pm).

Via Air Route
Kiev is served by two international airports, namely Borispil International Airport and Zhulyany Airport (Also called Kiev International Airport). Hence, the city is greatly connected to all the major countries of the world by air.

Zhulyany Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country and is located at about 10 km from the city center. On the other hand, Borispil International Airport is located about 32 km from the city center.

Once you have reached the airport, you can either hire a direct cab or take a bus to Kiev Station and then from there a metro to reach your hotel.

Via Rail Route
Reaching Kiev by train is quite easy and convenient when you are traveling from nearby countries, such as Russia and Poland. Kiev Railway Station is one of the largest stations in the country and serves more than 170,000 passengers every day.

The railway station is well connected to all the major parts of Kiev via the metro. Hence, upon reaching the railway station, you can take either a cab or a metro to reach your destination.

Via Road Route
One of the most affordable ways to travel to Kiev can be via road route. The Central Bus Station of Kiev has domestic as well as international buses running to all the nearby urban centers. Whether you live in Moscow or Warsaw, you have got buses that directly connect Kiev.

TRAVEL TIPS

It is always better to hire a guide if you don't want to miss out on something important in the city

Though Kiev is a safe place for tourists, pickpocketing is quite common in crowded places. So, keep your valuables at the hotel or resort. Do not bring them along on your excursions.

Do not rely on the internet everywhere. Always keep a city map handy to avoid getting lost.

Use metro services as much as possible. It is the best way to commute within the city.

Visit popular places like Pechersk Lavra Monastery either during the mornings or the evenings if you desire to avoid the tourist crowds.

Avoid visiting Crimea and nearby locations. The place is controversial and isn't completely within the boundaries of Ukraine.

Do not smoke in public places unless you desire to attract a fine. It is banned in the country. There are dedicated smoking areas across the city. Use those.

Do visit Ocean Plaza if you are in Kiev with your kids. Exploring the mall is a great pastime for families here.

The best and most convenient way to reach your hotel from the airport is by taxi. However, you can also use Sky Bus services to reach the railway station and then from there, you can take a metro.

To mingle with locals easily, attend concerts and go for opera and ballet shows.

SAFETY TIPS

Always carry a copy of your passport or your hotel card while exploring in and around the city. They would be helpful in case of emergencies.

Keep yourself away from dark or poorly lit streets while walking at night

Women should avoid walking late at night. Though the city is safe, one should always be careful.

Drive under the speed limit. Drive slowly while passing through narrow streets.

Do not carry lots of cash with you while visiting places in and around the city.

Do not get inside unregistered taxis/cabs. Avoid them at any cost.

Do not flaunt your valuables or money in the public. Thieves might tail you if they get to know you have lots of cash.

Do not get into an argument with locals. Be polite and respectful wherever you go.

HEALTH

Avoid drinking tap water and always go for bottled water. You can use pump-rooms located in parks for purified drinking water.

State hospitals in Kiev are in bad condition. So, make sure your travel insurance compensation covers private hospitals too.

Keep a first aid box with you. Check the weather conditions of the city beforehand and pack your bags accordingly to avoid health issues.

Kyiv's air is unhealthy. So, use an air-pollution mask whenever and wherever necessary.

Before you fly to Kiev, check with your doctor whether you would need to take a travel vaccine.

WHAT TO PACK?

Scarves

Walking shoes

Flip flops

Hand sanitizer

Mosquito repellent cream

Travel documents

Passport and travel tickets

Fanny bag

Goggles

Toiletries

First aid kit

Laptop/phone/camera chargers

Full-sleeve shirts and full pants (Chernobyl Tour)

DRESS CODE & ETIQUETTE

Women should cover their heads and shoulders before entering any religious place.

Men should take their hats off while entering the premises of orthodox churches.

Do not forget to bring a gift if you are visiting a local's house upon invitation.

Whistling indoors is considered superstitious in Kiev. As per their beliefs, it brings bad luck.

While gifting flowers to someone make sure the number of flowers in the bouquet is not in odd numbers.

Do not point your finger at anyone. It is considered rude and impolite.

Odessa (475 Km)
One of the oldest and important cities in Ukraine, Odesa has history and nature in terms of beauty. The city is settled on the shore of the Black Sea and hence, engulfs a few places that cater to the penchant of nature lovers. Climb up the historical Potemkin Stairs or stroll through the ancient Derybasivska Street to understand the city's past. Contemplate the beautiful Opera and Ballet Theatre or capture the extensive seaport.

Lviv (540 Km)
Another city of Ukraine in the vicinity of Kiev that can turn a journey into an unforgettable excursion! Lviv is a perfect weekend escape to spend time learning the history of the country. The Old Town of Lviv is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has its every corner whispering the chronicles of the ancient Lviv.

Belarus (543 Km)
A beautiful landlocked country located in the north of Ukraine, Belarus hosts lots of marvelous castles and palaces straight out of fairytales. It is also popular for its lush green hills, dense forests, and beautiful waters. Indulge in exploring national parks. Get a taste of adventure as you kayak down the Stracha and Saryanka rivers. Savor authentic Belarusian cuisine. There are a lot of other things one can enjoy while in Belarus.

Moscow (865 Km)
The capital city of Russia, Moscow is a world-renowned tourist destination for housing incredible masterpieces. One gets to experience the majesty of the exceptional St. Basil's Cathedral, the historic Red Square, the ancient complex of the Kremlin and the intriguing Lenin's Mausoleum. The city is also known for its great shopping complexes where one can find everything. The presence of Losiny Ostrov National Park gives a natural touch to the city.

Poland (935 Km)
Flourishing on the shore of the Baltic Sea, Poland is a European country that spans across hills, grasslands, historical sites, beaches, rivers and forests. That's the reason the country is explored by every kind of traveler. Savor the capital city of Warsaw through its ancient monuments. Relish mouth-watering Polish food. Frame the panoramas of Gdansk and Sopot.

Distance Between Kiev and Nearby Places of Importance
Kiev to Odesa: 475 Km
Kiev to Minsk: 575 Km
Kiev to Warsaw: 786 Km
Moscow to Kiev: 865 Km
Kiev to Lviv: 540 Km
Kiev to Krakow: 864 Km
Prague to Kiev: 1400 Km

Arsenalna, located in Kiev, is the deepest metro station in the world at a depth of about 345 feet. The station was inaugurated in the year 1960.

The McDonald's restaurant located near the railway station of Kiev is one of the most popular fast-food restaurants in the world. It is the most visited one in the country receiving an average of about 2 Million orders every year.

The stainless-steel statue of Motherland Monument located in Kiev is taller than the Statue of Liberty. It stands at a height of about 203 feet, while the latter is 151 feet high.

With more than 100 parks and 50 gardens, the historic Kiev is also one of the top 10 greenest cities in Europe.

Located within the boundaries of Kiev, St. Sophia's Cathedral and Pechersk Lavra Cave Monastery are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are frequented by tourists in millions every year.

Bells have a significant place in the Church as they are used for several religious ceremonies. They are important parts of Christian traditions. But, located in Kiev, the beautiful St. Andrew's Church has no bell.

If archaeologists are to be believed, then Kiev is one of the oldest inhabited places on the planet. The first-ever settlement occurred more than 10,000 years ago.

The popular Chernobyl disaster happened about 100 km from Kiev.

Kiev is unique in many ways. It has a museum where one would find several micro-miniature objects on display, ranging from ships to chessboards. Each object is a masterpiece.

Kiev serves its visitors with a wide variety of dishes. Here, you would find every traditional Ukrainian dish with some twist in its flavor.

Kiev is digitally advanced and hence, one can use debit or credit card at most of the supermarkets and restaurants for payments.

Most of the public toilets in Kiev are squat toilets. However, in restaurants and cafes, you can expect normal washrooms and toilets.

Khreshchatyk Street in Kiev is one of the topmost expensive shopping streets in Europe. It is also the widest and shortest main street in the city.

The first-ever trolleybus system in Ukraine was set up in Kiev. It was established in the year 1935.

Paton Bridge across the beautiful Dnieper River is the first all-welded bridge in the world. It was built in the year 1953.

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