Kiev Apartment Types

As one of the oldest and largest cities in Eastern Europe, Kiev is an important cultural, economical and political hub attracting millions of business people and tourists alike.

History

Founded in the 5th century Kiev is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe. If the legend is to be believed, Kiev was founded by Slavic tribe leader Kyi, his brothers Shek and Khoriv and their sister Lybid with the name Kiev/Kyiv deriving from “belonging to Kyi”. During the 8th and 9th centuries Kiev was an outpost of the Khazar Empire and by the late 9th century the city was the centre of the Rus’ polity and thrived on river trade. During the late 10th century a stronger alliance between Kiev and Constantinople was formed through the marriage of the Kievan ruler Volodymyr and the Emperor’s daughter. Orthodox Christianity was also adopted Volodymyr at this time. In the early 11th century the city became a cultural and political centre of the Byzantine Empire under Yaroslav the Wise. By the late 13th century Kiev had become part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania then later the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth before becoming a protectorate of Russia in the mid 17th century. The city was completely annexed by the Russian Empire in 1775 and remained under Russian rule until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. During the Russian Industrial Revolution the city was a trade and transport hub of the Russian Empire. In 1921 the city was part of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist before becoming capital of the Soviet Ukraine in 1934 then later the capital of independent Ukraine in 1991. Kiev today is the capital of Ukraine and a cultural, educational and industrial centre of Eastern Europe.

Getting In & Getting Around

Boryspil Kiev Airport is the largest in Ukraine and charters flights to and from a number of major European and North American destinations. The airport is located some 29km (18 miles) east of Kiev and regular bus services connect the airport with the city centre. Kyiv-Passazhyrskyi railway station is the main station in the city and offers daily services to a range of domestic and European destinations including Austria, Germany and Poland. For getting around Kiev itself metro, trolleybus, bus and tram networks operate in and around the city centre. The funicular railway provides a scenic route along the right bank of the Dnieper River.

Culture, Sights & Attractions

Kiev has a fascinating history and rich culture and with it an impressive selection of sights and attractions to explore. Khreschatyk is the main thoroughfare in Kiev and is a great place to start. Pedestrianised on weekends, this major street is great for sightseeing, shopping and watching the world go by. Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square) is the major square in the centre of the city and is a definite must-visit on any trip to the Ukrainian capital. With its glistening golden domes, St Sophia’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in the city and cannot be missed. The Kievo-Pechersky Caves Monastery is an impressive complex of churches built on the banks of the river. This stunning World Heritage Site is one of the many highlights of the city. Kiev is home to a wide range of museums and galleries and the popular area of Podil boasts some of the finest restaurants and bars in the capital.

Eating Out

From international fast food chains to chic fusion restaurants a great range of cuisine is available in Kiev. Italian, Indian, Chinese, African and of course Ukrainian fare is on offer throughout the city ensuring there is something to cater every budget and taste.

Outside The City

Kiev provides an excellent base for exploring some of the other parts of Ukraine. Lviv, often regarded as the cultural centre of Ukraine, is a beautiful city within easy reach of Kiev. Here you can explore the World Heritage listed historic centre, tour museums, galleries and sights and also watch the ballet at the S.Krushelnytska Opera House. The popular city of Odessa is also easily accessible from Kiev. Located next to the Black Sea, Odessa offers great beaches, a pretty port and an excellent selection of cafés, bars and clubs. 

Click here to view our apartments in Kiev.