Top 7 Things to Do in Kyiv

Top 7 Things to Do in Kyiv

Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, is a city of stunning beauty that draws visitors from around the globe. Despite the challenging times Ukraine is facing, tourists continue to come, captivated by Kyiv’s charm and the rich essence of Ukrainian culture.

Kyiv is a city full of surprises—unexpectedly diverse and filled with soul. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been here many times, there’s always something new to discover. To help you explore, I’ve put together a list of seven must-do experiences that capture the essence of Kyiv.

1. Admire the marvelous St.Andrew’s Church

Stroll along Andriyivskyy Descent and take in the breathtaking St. Andrew’s Church, a masterpiece of 18th-century Ukrainian Baroque architecture. Commissioned by Russian Empress Elizabeth as part of a royal residence, this stunning church stands as a symbol of Kyiv’s rich history. Recognized globally, St. Andrew’s Church has been featured in the prestigious catalog 1000 Wonders of the World and Masterpieces of Humanity of the Five Continents, showcasing its significance as an architectural treasure.

2. Get on top of the Great Lavra Bell Tower

A visit to the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra Caves and Monastery complex is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you walk through the narrow, dimly lit caves, you’ll encounter glass cases holding the relics of monks and saints who dedicated their lives to this sacred site. Watching Orthodox pilgrims quietly pray and reverently kiss the cases adds to the profound atmosphere of devotion.

After exploring the caves, make your way to the top of the Great Lavra Bell Tower, the tallest in Kyiv, standing at 100 meters. The panoramic view of the city from the top is nothing short of breathtaking, offering a perspective of Kyiv that will leave you in awe.

3. The bravest are welcome to climb up the Statue of Motherland

The iconic Statue of Motherland (“Rodina Mat”), a must-see Kyiv landmark, is awe-inspiring from every angle. Towering above the Kyiv World War II Museum, this massive monument can be seen from afar, but up close, its sheer size and grandeur are even more striking. For the ultimate experience, take the exhilarating climb to the shield, located 92 meters high. The view from this vantage point is unparalleled, offering a thrilling sense of height and sweeping panoramas of the city—a perfect spot for adrenaline and unforgettable photos.

4. Grab a coffee from the red tram in Taras Shevchenko Park

Experience a wonderful atmosphere in a beautifully maintained Taras Shevchenko Park right in the middle of the city. Opposite the park is the all-red Kyiv Shevchenko University with its impressive architecture. Relax on one of the many unusual benches or lounge chairs at the fountain. Dive into the Kyiv city life. Before you relax, be sure to grab a coffee from the famous red tram café, a local favorite. Whether it’s a rich latte, creamy cappuccino, or smooth macchiato, this iconic spot will fuel your perfect park stroll.

5. Experience a majestic aura of 1000-years in St.Sophia Cathedral

It would be a true regret to visit Kyiv without exploring the magnificent St. Sophia’s Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Beyond its historical significance, the cathedral exudes a majestic aura shaped by over a thousand years of history. Having survived through numerous epochs, its interior is adorned with stunning 11th-century mosaics and frescoes that transport you to a different era. I highly recommend stepping inside to fully experience the timeless beauty of this architectural masterpiece.

6. Have a ride in the deepest metro station in the world – “Arsenalna”

After taking in the panoramic views of Kyiv from the 100-meter-high Statue of Motherland, it’s time to descend into the depths of the city’s underground. Arsenalna Metro Station, the deepest in the world, plunges 105.5 meters below the Dnipro River, and the seemingly endless escalator ride is an adventure in itself. For another unique journey, hop on the Kyiv funicular. Though shorter, this charming ride connects the historic upper town to the vibrant lower Podil district, offering breathtaking views of Kyiv’s scenic hills and the majestic Dnipro River along the way—an absolute must for any visitor.

7. Taste and smell Kyiv in the oldest covered Bessarabka market

Head to the iconic Bessarabka Market, located at the end of bustling Khreschatyk Street, where you can truly taste, smell, and experience the essence of Kyiv. This vibrant indoor market is not only the ideal spot to stock up on fresh produce and local delicacies for your stay, but also offers an authentic slice of Ukrainian life. Friendly Ukrainian vendors enthusiastically offer samples of their goods, making it easy to enjoy a variety of flavors as you explore. By the time you’ve wandered through the market, you might not even need lunch!

A good idea will be to read the Ukraine travel guide book  – “Insane Ukraine” before your trip to Ukraine to get exclusive local insights and tips. Do not hesitate! Come and discover amazing Kyiv!

About the author:

Dear Reader! My name is Victoria. I’m a local guide to the vibrant heart of Ukraine—Kyiv—and the fingers and lens behind this blog. You can also check out the blog on my website, www.bestkievguide.com, for more interesting posts.