Expect a beautiful cityscape when you book a flight to Kyiv. This picturesque eastern European destination is one of the oldest cities on the continent, illustrated by its dazzling collection of historical treasures. With lush hillsides, the glittering Dnipro River and hundreds of spires, Kyiv is bursting with fairy tale magic and charm.
Embrace Kyiv’s colourful architecture
Discover the capital’s distinctive architecture at Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, the jewel in the city’s crown. A cluster of gold-domed churches mark this important monastery, nestled on a hillside high above Dnipro River. Explore its intriguing complex of churches and descend into the subterranean caves, catching glimpses of mummified saints and monks laid to rest in glass coffins. Head for St Michael’s, a blue-hued church that demonstrates Byzantine design at its best. Wander the exterior and be amazed by the 13 pear-shaped golden cupolas of this re-built landmark building - the original was torn down in 1937. Don’t miss St Andrews off your itinerary, found along Andriyivskyy Descent. Gold-studded green domes and towering Corinthian columns have sealed the 18th century Baroque masterpiece’s status as the most beautiful church in Kyiv.
Get lost in a haze of culture
Catch a performance at Taras Shevchenko National Opera Theatre while in the city. Watch as international ballet stars take to the stage in the beautiful Neo-Renaissance venue. There are museums aplenty in Kyiv – you’ll find an impressive collection of European art at the Bohdan & Varvara Khanenko Museum of Arts. For an alternative cultural experience, embrace architectural beauty at the open-air Pyrohovo Museum of Folk Architecture.
Enjoy natural beauty
Take time out from sightseeing to walk through Kyiv’s Central Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a serene stroll through the manicured grounds and take in the views of the city below. For even more beautiful vistas, cruise down the Dnipro River on a sunny summer’s day and soak up the capital’s magnificent architecture.
Devour rustic Ukrainian dishes
Eat like a local at one of the cafes or restaurants along Andriyivskyy Descent, sampling beetroot soup, dumplings with wild boar or the world famous chicken Kyiv. If it’s an authentic fast food experience you’re after, sample the city’s version of the hot dog, a mouth-watering sausage wrapped in fried dough. If you get the chance, stop off for pancakes in Shevchenka Park and choose from every topping you could think of, from caviar to pumpkin.