Kyiv is a big megalopolis, a destination for tourists who like to research old history and explore modern life. As some tourists said: “I love your city, it’s very lively”. “It’s unique and not similar to other cities”. “There are so many great panoramic views”. We’ve chosen top places must see in Kyiv and feel the spirit of our city. All recommendations are based on the experience of many travelers.

Maidan Square and Khreshchatyk Street

This is downtown that keeps the city’s lively spirit of freedom and youth and hosts numerous shops, restaurants, live music, and street musicians. Local people like to stroll along the street on weekends when the traffic stop moving. Maidan (Independence Square) is known for three revolutions in 1990, 2004, and 2014. Memorial sites are reminiscent of people who were killed during the Revolution of Dignity (EuroMaidan) in 2014. There are four places for observing nice panoramic views and taking a picture. The first place is located on the top floor of TSUM (Central Department Store) in a restaurant. The second one is on the pedestrian bridge near hotel Ukraine (Україна) at Maidan. The third one is on the adress of Khreshchtyk street, 25. The fourth place is located in the Museum of EuroMaidan Revolution on the first floor. Maidan is a busy area during the day so if you want to take pictures without crowds of peoplem it is better to visit it early morning or at night.

Saint Sophia Cathedral

1000 year old cathedral is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as it keeps a unique collection of 11th-century mosaics and frescoes. This is a masterpeace of Medieval architecture, history, and art. The belfry is a good observation deck for an amazing picture of St. Sophia and St. Michael squares. The museum working hours are from 10.00 to 18.00.

Saint Michael Monastery of Golden Domes

It is one the oldest active monastery founded in the 12th century. It bears a name of Archangel Michael, a heavenly patron of Kyiv. Unfortunately, now we can see a replica because the monastery was ruined by the Soviet atheist regime in 1935 and rebuild again in 2000. On the right side to the entrance, there is a long wall with the pictures of Ukrainian soldiers who died in theRussian-Ukrainian war which started in 2014 and still going on. Electric lighting makes a Cathedral magic at night.

Saint Andrew’s church

The Italian Baroque style church stands on a top hill over the Dnipro River. It works as a museum now. You can buy a ticket and go upstairs admiting a beautiful panoramic view. On the right side there is a stair leading to Artist Alley.

Andrew’s Descent

Andrew’s Descent is one of the oldest streets in Kyiv, connecting the upper and lower city. It preserves an atmosphere of antiquity and art. A stroll along Andriyivskyy Descent leaves a lasting impression, and if you wish, you can relax in cozy cafes and restaurants. The descent also features a souvenir market. Discover a vibrant display of paintings by talented Ukrainian artists along the street. Immerse yourself in the rich culture by visiting museums and theaters.

Kyiv Pechersk (Caves) Lavra Monastery

Founded in the 11th century, Lavra was a place of pilgrimages for Orthodox believers for ages. Now it is divided on two parts – a state museum included in UNESCO World Heritage Site List and an active monastery where worshipers visit the catacombs and bow the relics of saint monks. It is possible to spend a whole day on the terristory of Lavra as the museums and monastery occupy 26 hectares. There you can explore the old history in the Museum of micro-miniatures and the Museum of Historical Treasures. Big Lavra Belfry is a good place to see a panoramic view of the city the Dnipro River.

Ukraine-Motherland Statue

A big statue 96 meters high is located at the territory of the Museum of History of Ukraine in World War II. Originally built in 1981 as a symbol of victory of the Soviet Union in WWII, now it has changed the meaning and significance if Ukrainian history. There are two observation decks on the statue – 36 meters and 91 meters high. The first observation deck is located on top of the base of Motherland Statue, the second one is behind its shield. You can also see an exhibition of weapon and military technique as well as Russian-Ukrainian war (2014-now).

Post Square (Poshtova)

A river port is a popular place to spend a weekend among the locals. This is a start point for boat river trips along the Dnipro River. Enter the river port, look at some modern art drawings, and enjoy a panoramic view of the river.

Contract Square (Kontraktova)

It is tourist area closed for traffec, a lovely place to walk around, visit Kyiv Mohyla Academy University, sit at an open terrace, have a local drink in a bar, enjoy delicious food in a restaurant and have some fun. Museum lovers can visit the Museum of One Street or Chornobyl museum.

National Opera of Ukraine

Immerse yourself in breathtaking architecture and world-class opera and ballet performances. No need to plan months ahead – tickets can be purchased just a few days before the show. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the finest opera and ballet, and take a tour of the magnificent Opera building.

Read more about cultural places The Best Cathedrals to Visit in Kyiv

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