Set on the banks of the Dneiper River in northern Ukraine Kiev, with its abundance of trees, parkland and gardens, is an impressively green city that is incredibly pleasing on the eye. The historic centre is very easy to get around with the many sights and attractions just a short walk from your accommodation in Kiev. When you start to get tired just hop on the metro and admire the lavish stations along the way.
As the economic heart of Ukraine, Kiev is an important des
tination for business travellers from all corners of the globe. With conveniently located apartments in Kiev city centre the major business areas are within easy reach and after a long day at the office your comfortable, inviting Kiev accommodation offers a relaxing retreat.
Business aside, there is no doubting that Kiev is an incredibly fascinating tourist destination with so much to offer. Take a stroll from your Kiev accommodation and wander Kreschatyk, marvel at St Sophia’s Cathedral or enjoy some authentic Ukrainian cuisine in a fashionable restaurant in the Podil area before returning to the comfort of your accommodation in Kiev.
Did You Know?
Thanks to its abundance of trees, two botanical gardens and numerous parks Kiev is said to be one of the greenest cities in the world with around 20 square metres of greenery per resident.
Climate/Weather
Kiev enjoys a continental humid climate with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average between 14-25°c (57.2-77°f) and average from -1°c (23°f) down to -5°c (30.2°f) in winter. Snow usually covers the city from mid November until the end of March.
Sightseeing
There is plenty to see and do in Kiev with something to suit every taste and timetable. Here are some of the highlights:
• St Sophia’s Cathedral – built in 1037 this glorious church of 13 golden cupolas and white towers is the city’s oldest and most iconic church.
• Kievo-Pecherska Lavra (Cave Monastery) – this World Heritage Site is a stunning complex of golden domed churches built on the grassy banks of the Dneiper. Venture into the underground labyrinth of glass coffin encased mummified monks.
• Kreschatyk – Kiev’s equivalent to London’s Oxford Street. Here you can shop, enjoy the entertainers or watch the world go by.
• Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square) – the city’s main square which is home to the towering golden Archangel Michael beaming down from a 50m (164ft) column.
• Podil – a popular district home to some of the best bars and restaurants in the city.
Getting Around
Kiev boasts a comprehensive transport network that makes it easy to get around the city.
• Metro – an extensive network covers most of the city and is the fastest, most convenient and affordable way to get around.
• Tram – services operate in a number of areas.
• Bus and trolleybus – routes cover in and around the city.
• Funicular – climbs the right bank of the Dneiper River and offers a scenic route to the Podil area.
• Marshrutky (mini vans) – serve a number of set routes across the city. Can be hailed from assigned bus stops all over.
Eat/Drink
There are a number of delicious local specialities that are well worth a try when visiting Kiev:
• Borscht – vegetable soup, usually beetroot, served with a dollop of sour cream.
• Mlynsti – crepes filled with numerous fillings such as caviar, cottage cheese, meat or fruit.
• Pyrohy – dumplings with a fruit or poppy seed filling either baked or fried.
• Varenyky – dumplings, usually filled with potatoes, cheese, cabbage or fruit, that are boiled then topped with butter and sugar or shkvarky (fried bits of pork fat, salo – pork belly, and onions) and accompanied with sour cream.
• Horika – Ukrainian vodka. Variations are often available that have been infused with fruit, spices or hot peppers.
• Mead – the fermented alcoholic drink made from honey is becoming popular once again.
• Kvas – a sweet and sour sparkling beverage brewed from bread is available from vendors all over the city.