Exploring Kiev, Ukraine

Spending a weekend in Kiev, Ukraine, was one of the best things I’ve done recently. Combining leisure with work, I explored the diversified culture and art scene of Kiev. On the top of my list were all the trendy bohemian and hipster places around. The capital of Ukraine has a lot of interesting places to offer enriched by the number of young people moving there from all over the country and bringing their unique spirit and vision along.

The Highlight

My Kiev highlight would be the golden dome churches. The most notorious of which are St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral, St. Andrew’s Church, Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, St. Sophia’s Monastery. If you pinpoint them as your main destinations, you will witness a lot of Soviet architecture along the way. Kiev center is very walkable, so no need to take a taxi or use public transport. Everything important is half an hour away.

Kiev Sights and Food Spots

For a tour around the more modern places, check out the famous Maidan Square and its singing fountains at night. There is also a big shopping center right under it. PinchukArtCentre is for the lovers of contemporary art. Its last floor offers a great stop by location for the coffee enthusiasts who appreciate a good view. Right across the modern art center is a colorful indoor market where you can get anything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices, meats, and cheeses to Asian food and hipster vegan burgers. If you feel like something a bit fancier than a street sandwich, you can stop by restaurant Mimosa and enjoy their delicious rose wines. If you like cocktails, there’s a newly open bar called Pink Freud which would surprise you with its cozy mellow atmosphere, delicious drinks, and aromatic shisha.

Useful tips

You’d probably be happy to hear that there is Uber in Kiev. Airbnb or Booking will help you get a nice place for a reasonable price, and whatever you might need, you will find it even in the latest hours. Kiev is beautiful in its own way, being the home of many intelligent and adventurous people, creating and living the latest trends. Definitely a must-see spot for a short break!