Central Kiev is a unique holiday spot worth visiting. Here are some of the highlights you can enjoy in the capital of Ukraine.
Kiev has a rich 1,500-year history and has evolved into one of Europe’s most captivating tourist destinations. If you’re considering a trip to Kiev, continue reading to uncover some of the remarkable attractions that await you in this enchanting city.
Exploring Old Kiev
No amount of reading can truly capture the sheer beauty of Kiev. The architecture in the oldest part of the city is a blend of styles ranging from lavish turn-of-the-20th-century structures to grand Soviet-style buildings. The central area is adorned with red tiled roofs, golden domes, public buildings, tree-lined streets, boulevards, and the majestic Dnipro river flowing through it. This area houses some of Kiev’s top attractions and finest accommodations.
Staying at Kyiv Podil Hotel in the heart of this district offers a convenient base for exploring the fascinating locations nearby. Here are five must-see spots during your visit:
- Kviy-Pecherska Lavra: This UNESCO-listed monastery is a significant Eastern Orthodox center and boasts beautiful church buildings with golden domes. Beneath the surface, you’ll find a network of churches and catacombs housing perfectly preserved bodies of monks from centuries ago.
These underground wonders make the monastery the most visited attraction in the city.
- Mystetskyi Arsenal: Adjacent to the monastery is the massive art museum, Mystetskyi Arsenal. This former weapons store now holds a breathtaking collection of Ukrainian and Eastern European art spanning from medieval to contemporary times.
The museum is undergoing expansion to become the largest in Europe by 2014.
- Khreshchatyk Street: Known as Kiev’s most famous and bustling boulevard, Khreshchatyk Street was reconstructed after WWII to become a vibrant center of the city filled with bars, restaurants, and a lively social scene.
During public events, the street closes to traffic, attracting crowds and street performers.
- Chernobyl Museum: This poignant museum commemorates the tragic Chernobyl disaster and its global impact. The museum offers audio-guides with detailed descriptions of the events.
- Maidan Nezalezhnosti: Also known as Freedom Square, this square played a significant role in the Orange Revolution in 2004 and continues to be a vibrant meeting place for locals and tourists.
It’s a central location perfect for relaxing, socializing, and planning your next destination in Kiev.
