The Eurovision Song Contest has a busy schedule, so fans may not have much time to explore this year’s host city.
But even if visitors only manage to snatch one free day for sightseeing, there’s a lot that can be seen and done in that time. The Kyiv Post has put together a guide to help guests see and experience as much of the city as possible in just one day.
Golden Gate
11 a. m.
Located in the heart of the Old Town, the famous Zoloti Vorota (Golden Gate) was a part of Kyiv’s fortifications during the rule of one of the early Kyivan Rus Christian-era princes, Yaroslav the Wise. Erected in 1037 and modeled on Constantinople’s Golden Gate, this was the main entrance into the city, with ramparts stretching out from both sides. The original gate was largely destroyed in the 1240 Mongol sacking of Kyiv, and reconstructed later. To learn more about the Kyivan Rus times and the construction, visit the museum inside the gate.
To fuel oneself up before a long day of exploring, follow Yaroslaviv Val Street right next to the Golden Gates and check out one of the numerous cafes on both sides of the street. Don’t miss Yaroslava — it’s a five-minute walk from Zoloti Vorota metro station and one of the favorite places of locals. The plain-looking cafe serves eastern European food and its interior is designed in Old Slavonic style, including the staff’s outfits. There’s also a little bakery right there — try a cinnamon bun and wash it down with hot chocolate. For a classier breakfast, go across the street to Paul, a French bakery.
Zoloti Vorota. 40A Volodymyrska St. — right next to the entrance to Zoloti Vorota metro station. Museum open on weekdays 10 a. m. — 6 p. m.
Yaroslava. 13 Yaroslaviv Val St., 9 a. m. — 10 p. m.
Paul. 26 Yaroslaviv Val St., 8 a. m. — 10 p. m.
Don’t forget: sunglasses and a camera
Andriyivskyy Descent
1 p. m.
At the beginning of the 20th century, when the present city center was just being formed, Andriyivskyy Descent (Uzviz) was situated in one of the poorest districts, and accommodated artists, writers, and students. Often referred to as Kyiv Montmartre, it’s now one of the most prestigious and lively places to live or renting a studio. Every building on Andriyivskyy is a work of art itself. Walk its cobbled streets, where artists sell their work, and then have a glass of wine in one of its cafes.
Don’t forget: to shop for souvenirs and check out St. Andrew’s Church
Peizazhna Alley
2 p. m.
This is a favorite spot for many Kyivans. Unlike the touristy Khreshchatyk, Peizazhna Alley, located on Old Kyiv Hill, which used to be the center of ancient Kyiv, is always full of locals and families with children. The alley is decorated with stylish benches, sculptures and mosaics. One of the benches is designed like a bed with a pillow — one can spot it by the people lining up to be photographed “taking a nap.”
Don’t forget: to grab a coffee and check out all the sculptures
Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Cave Monastery)
4 p. m.
A must-visit for Orthodox Pilgrims, Kyiv Pechersk Lavra is located on the picturesque hills overlooking the Dnipro River. The complex is home to some 40 buildings, including libraries, gold-domed churches, cathedrals, catacombs and museums. Don’t miss the chance to explore the underground labyrinths — narrow caves with living quarters and underground chapels where mummified monks are buried.
Kyiv Pechersk Lavra. 15 Lavrska St. 9 a. m. — 7 p. m. Hr 20
Don’t forget: to wear comfy shoes
Central Botanical Gardens
7 p. m.
There are two botanical gardens in the capital and both are worth visiting. The “small botanical garden,” as it’s dubbed by Kyivans, or as it goes officially — Fomin Botanical Garden, is located to the rear of Taras Shevchenko National University.
Its manicured grounds are crisscrossed by a network of paths leading to hidden viewpoints. It’s always crowded in May when lilac is blooming. To get there, take the metro to Universytet station.
The other one — Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Science Academy in Ukraine — is a bit tricky to reach by public transport. Take trolleybus No. 14 from Palats Sportu metro to the final stop. It’s located on some 120 hectares of historical Pechersk Hills. It’s also a must-see for orchid lovers: there are about 350 species of orchids there.
Gryshko Botanical Garden. 1 Tymiryazevska St. 8:30 a. m. — 9 p. m. Hr 40
Fomin Botanical Garden. 1 Symona Petlyury St. Free
Don’t forget: to bring a camera and a blanket to enjoy the sunset sitting on the hills overlooking the Dnipro River
Obolon embankment
9 p. m.
Tired of the din of the city? Head over to a quiet and picturesque 4-kilometer Obolon embankment for a stroll in the fresh air. There’s a two-level pedestrian area here and it’s dotted with restaurants and pubs to suit any taste.
To get there by public transport, take the metro to Heroiv Dnipra station and a bus to the final stop, Heroiv Stalinhrada. That’s where the embankment starts.
Don’t forget: to order a glass of wine and enjoy the view of the Dnipro River.
