Things to see & do in Kyiv

The Ukrainian capital and one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, Kiev’s prominence may have ebbed and waned over the centuries but the idea of a great civilisation on the hills above the River Dnipro has stood the test of time – it has been entirely rebuilt at least twice, the first time after being sacked by the Mongols, the second after having been heavily damaged during World War II. It has survived absorption into the Duchy of Lithuania, the Kingdom of Poland, the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union; famine, war, the Bolshevik Revolution and Stalinist purges. Kiev is not without scars, but they serve only to enhance its appeal.

Kiev is spread across both banks of the Dnipro, with most visitor attractions situated on the right bank. The city’s main street, Kreschatyk, pre-dates the creation of both Russia and Ukraine, and many of the country’s most treasured landmarks are to be found here. It is an essential stop on historical and cultural tours of Eastern Europe, and its proximity to the Chernobyl power plant means the two can easily be visited together, often followed by an overnight train journey to the equally magnificent city of Lviv.

The last remaining vestige of the city’s 11th century fortifications and once the main entrance to Kiev, a Triumphal Arch, the Golden Gate actually fell into ruins centuries ago, but was ‘restored’ by the Soviet authorities in the 1980s, an immensely controversial decision. Yet while not original, the gate remains one of the most iconic structures in Kiev and is worth a visit if you’re in the area.

Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the Lavra Monastery, St. Sophia is the most recognisable landmark in Kiev, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and art. Among the most distinctive features are its golden cupolas, many excellent murals and frescoes, and ornamental walls.