Kiev Travel Guide

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Kiev Travel Guide Overview

Kiev (Kyiv to the locals) is the capital and largest city in Ukraine, and dates back to the 5th Century. This city of over 3 million residents is modernizing quickly, but Soviet rule left it somewhat gray and broken down so it has a long way to go yet. English isn’t widely spoken so visiting can be a bit of a challenge if you don’t speak Russian or a related language, but the locals tend to be as helpful as they can be.

What To Do

St. Sophia’s Cathedral is Kiev’s oldest church, dating back to the 11th Century. The interior in particular is fascinating and something not to be missed. Pecherska Lavra is a famous cave monastery set on a nearby hill that also dates back to the 11th Century. It is still used for worship, but also available for touring by visitors. There is a museum and other displays, but you’ll only get in if you dress modestly.

The Chernyoble Museum may not sound like a barrel of laughs, but it’s an interesting visit to see in depth really what went on during and after the infamous meltdown. There are no signs in English, but if you arrange in advance you can get an English-speaking guide.

Getting There

If you are already in the neighborhood it’s possible to reach Kiev by train, but Ukraine is not known for super-efficient train service and the journeys getting here tend to be very long. Most will be best off booking a flight into Boryspil International Airport (code: KBP). There are buses that go from the airport into the center, but it takes about an hour. Taxis aren’t terribly expensive, but you might have to negotiate if they ask for a high price at first.

Where To Stay

There are several hostels and other affordable places in Kiev. There is also the normal array of hotels in Kiev, but prices aren’t as affordable as you might think so it pays to shop around a bit and book a place in advance once your plans are confirmed.