And it is located in the northern part of Ukraine. The national authorities are concentrated in Kyiv. There are also headquarters of foreign embassies here. The length of Kyiv from north to south is 50 km, from west to east - 56 km.

origin of name

According to an old legend of the 12th century, the name of the city of Kyiv comes from the name of one of the three brothers, one of the founders of the city. There is also another version, according to which the city of Kyiv was named according to the name of the workers - the Kiyans, who were the first to populate the city and were engaged in serving the crossing across the Dnieper. This crossing was served by wooden stakes (cues) driven into the bottom of the river and wooden flooring.

Since Kyiv was part of Russia for a long time, its name was translated into other languages ​​according to the Russian name: Kyiv - Kiev (English), Kiew (German). After the formation of independent Ukraine, transliteration appears more and more often in official foreign documents. Ukrainian name Kyiv.

History

Initially, Kyiv was the capital of the ancient glades. Then Kievan Rus and the Kiev principality. In connection with the historical past, Kyiv is called the "Mother of Russian Cities". Since 1918 - Kyiv, the capital of the Ukrainian People's Republic. Since 1991 Kyiv has been the capital of Ukraine.

The first settlements of the "Kievites" were discovered about 2000 years ago. Early development Kyiv can be divided into three stages, which are characterized by the Belogrudov culture, the Zarubinets culture, the Chernyakhiv archaeological culture.

Kyiv was founded as the capital of the Polan tribe by three brothers around the 6th century. In the 9th century, the Vikings of Rurik, the Vikings Askold and Dir, reigned in Kyiv. In 882, Kyiv was headed by a relative of Rurik, Prince Oleg of Novgorod, who proclaimed Kyiv a Russian city. From this moment Kyiv becomes the capital of the new state - Kievan Rus.

Emperor of Byzantium Constantine Porphyrogenitus in his chronicles indicates that Kyiv had a second name Samvatas. In Jewish and European writings Kyiv is called Mankerman.

In Kievan Rus, the throne belonged to the eldest in the princely family. Kyiv remained an active economic and political center until the death of Mstislav the Great. Throughout the existence of Kievan Rus, Kyiv was the center of civil strife among the princes.

Central square of Kyiv. Until the end of the 10th century, this area, like Khreshchatyk, was called Perevesishche and was a forest thicket. A little higher, there were the Lyadsky Gates, which led to the Upper City. On the territory of modern Independence Square in the XVIII century. stone fortress Pechersk gates were built, which existed until 1833. water Mill. In the 30s. the first wooden ones appeared here, and in the 50s. - stone buildings. The first large brick building was built in 1851 (architect A.V. Beretti, it contains up to October revolution housed the provincial noble assembly). In 1976-81. the area has been renovated.

Monument in honor of the Independence of Ukraine

The monument was opened for the celebration of the 10th anniversary of Independence of Ukraine in 2001. This is a 52-meter column, which is crowned by a figure of a woman with a viburnum branch in her hands. The sculpture of a woman - the symbol of Ukraine - has an impressive height - nine meters and a weight of over 20 tons.

Formed in the middle of the 19th century. It owes its name to the proximity to St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery. There are also buildings of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Mikhailovskaya sq. 1) former First real school (ul. B. Zhitomirskaya, 2), a monument to Princess Olga.

Monument to Princess Olga At the beginning of the twentieth century. The Kiev branch of the Imperial Russian Military Historical Society proposed to equip along Sofiyivska and Mikhailovskaya squares. an alley of statues reflecting the centuries-old heritage of Kyiv. However, only the first step was taken - in front of the facade of the Real School, a monument was erected to Princess Olga, surrounded by the Apostle Andrew and St. Cyril and Methodius (sculptor I. Kavaleridze). The opening of the monument took place in September 1911. The statues were made of concrete with marble chips. During the years of Soviet power, the monument was removed.

In 1996, after excavations on the square, parts of the broken figure of Princess Olga were found, with the exception of the head. The monument was restored - this time the figures were carved from white marble and installed on a pedestal of pink granite. The monumental ensemble to Princess Olga was solemnly opened on May 25, 1996 on the Day of Kyiv.
This sculptural group is located on Mikhailovskaya Square opposite Mikhailovsky Cathedral. In the center stands Grand Duchess Olga (the first and so far the only woman head of state in the history of Ukraine), enlighteners sit to her right Slavic peoples Cyril and Methodius, on the left - the Apostle Andrew the First-Called, pointing to the "holy mountains of Kiev."

Princess Olga ruled Kiev in the middle of the 10th century - she cruelly avenged the death of her husband, received an impeccable historical reputation as "wise and strong" and went down in history as the first ruler of Kyiv who converted to Christianity! However, she could not lead all her people to the new faith - her follower did - Grand Duke Vladimir.

The Grand Duchess of Kyiv, the wife of Prince Igor, significantly expanded the zemstvo possessions of the Kiev Grand Duke's House, led the defense of Kyiv from the Pechenegs. One of the first in Russia, she converted to Christianity, having gone to Constantinople in 955 for this, which undoubtedly influenced the choice of her grandson, Prince Vladimir, who converted all of Russia to Christianity. The Orthodox Russian Church canonized her as a saint.

On September 4, 1911, a monument to the Old Russian Princess Olga was opened on Mikhailovskaya Square in Kyiv. The monument was designed as one of a series of monuments called " historical path"- a series of monuments to the first Russian princes: Oleg, Igor and Svyatoslav. This alley was supposed to stretch from Sofia to Mikhailovskaya Square. The monument was approved by Tsar Nicholas II himself, having allocated 10 thousand rubles for it.

The sculptor Ivan Kavaleridze won the competition for the creation of the monument, he fashioned the central figure of the princess and the side ones - Saints Cyril and Methodius. The statue of the Apostle Andrew, which is located to the left of the princess, was made by the sculptor Peter Snitkin, a classmate of Kavaleridze at the Kiev Art School. They made a sculptural composition from a material that was fashionable at that time - concrete. It was also planned to install high reliefs with images of Olga's deeds, but then it turned out that it was impossible to make them from concrete. Signs were installed on the pedestal: "This is the first in the form of the Kingdom of Heaven from Russia, this is more praised by the Russian sons as a boss," and below another inscription: "The gift of the Sovereign Emperor to the city of Kiev."

However, the monument did not last long. In 1919, after the Bolshevik revolution, it was destroyed - first they broke it into pieces and buried a statue of Princess Olga nearby, and later in 1923 other figures were dismantled, and after a while a square was laid out on this site.

Address: Mikhailovskaya Square

Sofiyivska square

It arose during the construction of St. Sophia Cathedral. Since ancient times, it has played a prominent role in the social and political life of Kyiv. In modern borders, it was formed after the construction of the Offices.

Present places. Stronghold of bureaucracy in pre-revolutionary Kyiv. It housed the provincial, county, and city governments. The building was built in the 1850s. Prior to that, "state presence" were in Pechersk. During the XIX-XX centuries. The complex has been expanded and rebuilt several times. Now it is occupied by law enforcement agencies of Ukraine.

This is one of the most famous city monuments, a kind of emblem of Kyiv. The monument was unveiled on June 23, 1888 on Sophia Square. Here in December 1648, the people of Kiev met Hetman B. Khmelnitsky, who entered Kyiv with the Cossack regiments through the Golden Gate after the victory over the Polish-gentry army. The monument was built on voluntary donations. Due to lack of funds, in 1879 in St. Petersburg at the Berg factory only the figure of a horseman was cast. In 1888, it was installed on a granite pedestal (architect V.N. Nikolaev) in the center of the square. The total height of the monument is 10.85 m.

Contract area

The main square of Podol, and in the XIV-XVII centuries. - all of Kyiv. Since the time of Kievan Rus, it has been the main center of trade in the city. In the XVI-XIX centuries. here was the town hall of Kiev-Podil, which hosted an important part of the Magdeburg ceremonies with parades of the magistrate's army. Current name comes from the famous Contracts - the winter agricultural fair, which was held here from the end of the 18th to the beginning of the 20th centuries.

There are a number of attractions on the square: Assumption (Virgin Pirogoshcha) Church, Gostiny Dvor, fountain "Samson"

Gostiny Dvor It was designed by the St. Petersburg architect L. Ruski as a two-story building in the classicism style. In 1809, construction began, but after a fire in 1811, only the first floor was restored. The building took the form of a rectangle with six gates. It has been rebuilt several times. Subsequently, the drawings of L. Ruska were found, and in 1980 Gostiny Dvor was rebuilt exactly as the architect had designed it.

Fountain "Samson" Monument of architecture and hydrotechnical art. Built in 1749 (architect I.G. Grigorovich-Barsky) on Kontraktova Square. It was the central part of the first water pipeline in Kyiv. It was an arched, round in plan pavilion, called "Felician", covered with a baroque dome with a gilded copper statue of the Apostle Andrew at the top. The front pillars were decorated with double Corinthian columns. In the 80s. 18th century teacher of the Kiev Academy Broulion installed a sundial on the fronts. In 1809 for the centenary Battle of Poltava, the fountain was supplemented with a naive wooden sculpture of Samson tearing apart the mouth of a lion. In the 30s of the XX century. the fountain was destroyed. In 1982, it was restored according to the original project under the guidance of architect V. Shevchenko. Inside the pavilion there is now a concrete copy of the statue.

Postal area

The square owes its name to the Postal Station. From the complex of postal buildings of the 1850-60s. only the main building (Postovaya pl., 2) has been preserved. Nearby rises the Church of the Nativity of Christ - the most noticeable building of the square. There is a funicular station across the road, and near the embankment there is the River Station - the successor to the moorings, which has existed here since ancient Russian veremn.

Funicular. This inclined railway connects Podil's Postal Square with Mikhailovskaya Upper Town. Built according to the project of engineers N. Pyatnitsky and N. Baryshnikov. The funicular was opened on May 7, 1905. The length of the rail track was 200 m, and in 1928 it was extended by 38 m. The car journey lasts 2.5-3 minutes. The panorama of Podil opens from the carriage.

Ivan Franko Square

Monument to the comedian of the Ukrainian theater and cinema, known for the role of Prokop (Prony's father in the film "Chasing Two Hares") - Nikolay Yakovchenko. The old artist is sitting on a bench, and his favorite dog, the dachshund Fan-Fan, is located at his feet.

The monument to Nikolai Yakovchenko was created in 2000 on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of his birth. It was installed in the park, which is located on the square in front of the Ivan Franko Theater, on the stage of which he has been playing since 1928.

The people of Kiev fell in love with the monument - the back of the dog and the knee of the bronze Yakovchenko have already been wiped to a shine; children sit astride a dog or climb on the shoulders of the figure of the artist, and young girls are attached on their knees, who are photographed by their boyfriends. Nikolai Fedorovich would certainly have liked the monument, because he loved it when life was in full swing around him.

Yakovchenko Mykola Fedorovich (1900-1976), comedian of the Ukrainian theater and cinema. The actor made his film debut in 1952 with the role of Weevil in the film "In the Steppes of Ukraine." Other film roles by Nikolai Yakovchenko include: Voight ("Stolen Happiness"), Kondrat Perepelitsa ("Maxim Perepelitsa"), Shovel ("Queen of the Gas Station"), Father ( "Chasing Two Hares"), Patsyuk ("Evenings on a Farm near Dikanka"), Spirid ("Viy").

Address: Ivan Franko Square, opposite the Theater. Ivan Franko

Kyiv is the best city in the world. That was Bulgakov's opinion. Fascinating Dnieper steeps, delicious Kyiv cake, borscht, donuts with garlic and bacon, dumplings with cherries! Yes, unless this is the only thing - you can feel like an important gentleman by riding a britzka along the central avenue of the capital of Ukraine - Khreshchatyk, visit the oldest cathedral built by Yaroslav the Wise (Sophia), Kiev-Pechersk Lavra (UNESCO heritage), St. Vladimir's Church, galleries, museums and many other attractions. Tourists from all over the world come here to touch a piece of the history of Kievan Rus and pay tribute to the memory of great people.

Geography

Kyiv is one of the largest cities in Europe, the capital of Ukraine. The city is located in the north of the country, on both sides of the Dnieper River (in its middle course). The hero city has a special status and is not subject to the regional leadership. Kyiv was cultural, socio-economic, political, educational center even among the Eastern Slavs, Kievan Rus, the Kievan Principality, the Ukrainian People's Republic, the Ukrainian People's Republic of Soviets, the Ukrainian state, the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, Ukraine. “Mother of Russian Cities” is a name that is fully justified for the city. Kyiv is divided into 10 districts, including:

• Desnyansky
• Darnitsky
• Obolonsky
• Goloseevsky
• Dneprovskiy
• Pechersky
• Podolsky
• Solomensky
• Svyatoshinsky
• Shevchenkovskiy

City coordinates: 50°27′00″ N and 30°30′00″ E, the altitude is 187 m. The time zone is UTC/GMT +2 in winter and UTC/GMT +3 in summer. Kyiv area - 836 sq. km, more than half of the city - green spaces, parks, ponds, arrays, 42.3% - buildings.

Climate

The climate of Kyiv is considered moderately continental, summers are warm and winters are quite mild. Due to the shift in climate, it now looks more like a sea. The highest temperature reaches in July, the coldest in January, the annual average is + 8.4 ° C. Since the capital of Ukraine is located on 7 hills, there are significant elevation differences between the upper and lower points. It is a little cooler on the outskirts of the city than in the center - this is due to the close development. In winter, cold air descends into the valleys, thereby lowering the temperature in the rivers. In Kyiv, the humidity is quite high (an indicator equals 75% per year). Winter lasts from 90 to 120 days (mid-November - end of March). But even here there is a trend of climate change, it can be quite warm until January and the cold can last until early March. Spring is the shortest period, starting on average from mid-March and ending in May. During this period, frosts are possible, which basically stop by the beginning of the month - sometimes they can last longer. Summer often starts in mid/late May and ends in mid-September. With climate change, summer is gradually shifting towards April. On average, in summer the temperature does not fall below +18 degrees, the maximum increase is possible up to +40 in the shade. Humidity in summer period sufficient (up to 65%). Autumn is the period when the air temperature drops below 10 °C. From late September to mid-October, the weather is quite warm and dry, and from the second half of the month and by November-December it is wet, rainy, cloudy, cold.

It is best to go to Kyiv in the warm season, when you have the opportunity to walk along the city streets, visit numerous museums, sights under open sky. May is popular with tourists, when chestnuts begin to bloom. Khreshchatyk at this time is irresistible - starting from Independence Square and ending with the Bessarabsky market, the street is dotted with lush trees with snow-white color.

History

Within the territory of modern Kyiv 15-25 thousand years ago there were human settlements. This is evidenced archaeological excavations. During the period of the so-called Copper Age, the Trypillian culture prevailed, which was replaced by Belogrudovskaya in the Bronze Age. Zhelezny at an early stage is represented by the Zarubinets, and later by the Chernyakhovsk archaeological culture. There is a legend according to which 3 brothers (Kiy, Khoriv, ​​Shchek) and sister Lybid became the founders of the city. According to archaeological data, there are 2 concepts of the formation of the city. According to the first, already in the 6th-7th centuries, the settlement on the right bank of the Dnieper was considered urban. However, there is another opinion on this matter - Kyiv was formed later, in the 8th-10th centuries, when several settlements were combined into one. When Kyiv was conquered by Rurik's relative Oleg in 882, from that moment it became known as the capital of Kievan Rus. From that moment on, the city has always been the object of a struggle between strong princes. In 1203, Kyiv suffered heavy losses as a result of the attack of Rurik Rostislavovich. In 1240, the city was awaited by the Mongol-Tatar invasion, defeat, robbery and destruction. The Kiev principality continued to exist, but already under the command of the Mongol-Tatars, around 1324, it became a vassal of Lithuania. Mindovg Golshansky became the founder of a new dynasty. 1362-1569 years - Kyiv is considered part of the Great Principality of Lithuania, and in 1654 (up to the anti-Polish uprising) - the Crown of the Polish Commonwealth. After that (since 1667) Kyiv passes into the hands of the Moscow Tsar, over time, a separate Kyiv province was even allocated.

Since 1917, Kyiv has been subordinate to the Provisional Government of Russia, and after the October Revolution, it has been subordinate to the Provisional Workers' and Peasants' Government. Since this period, power has been constantly changing, Kyiv also passed from hand to hand. 1934 - Kyiv becomes the capital of the Ukrainian SSR (before that there was the city of Kharkov). Every effort was made to strengthen Polish-Soviet border, from 1936 to 1941, railway tunnels were actively built under the river, but the war interrupted this process. In the future, the surviving sections and materials became the basis for metro stations. September 19, 1941 entered the city German troops, the defense held out for more than 70 days. In November 1943, the troops of the Red Army liberated the city from the invaders. In 1960, the Kyiv Metro began its work. In 1965, Kiev was awarded the title of "Hero City", was awarded the "Honorary Star". Since 1991 Kyiv has been the capital independent state Ukraine.

Sights of Kyiv

• One of the main attractions of Kyiv is the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra, founded in the 11th century by Anthony of the Caves. Here lie the remains of Ilya Muromets - a hero, glorified by epics. Tourists are recommended to visit the outstanding architectural masterpieces (located on the territory of the Lavra) - the Assumption Cathedral and the Great Lavra Bell Tower (the highest point of the city). You should also see the Near and Far Caves, where the relics of the founders of the monastery are kept. Women should enter temples and caves only in skirts below the knees and with their heads covered. Skirts can be rented at the entrance to the caves. There are many museums in the Lavra where you can buy various souvenirs.

• Andrew's Descent - the historic street of the city, which connects Podil with the so-called Upper city. The street is paved with stone, one-story and two-story houses predominate here. At the top of the descent is St. Andrew's Church. There are many restaurants, cafes, jewelry stores, art galleries on this street. Andreevsky Descent is also known for what is sold here the largest number souvenirs in the city.
• Another attraction of Kyiv can safely be called the Grishko National Botanical Garden, located on an area of ​​approximately 130 hectares. Plants from all parts of Ukraine are presented in the garden. In the greenhouse of the garden you can find various tropical exotic plants. The botanical garden is especially popular in April and May, when lilacs begin to bloom.
• An important sight of Kyiv is " National Museum history of the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945", which was built in the early 50s of the 20th century on the Pechersk Hills above the Dnieper. The statue of the Motherland is striking in its size, the height of which reaches more than 60 meters (with a pedestal - more than 100 meters). The exhibition of military equipment and weapons from the times of the Great Patriotic War deserves attention.
• In Kyiv, it is also recommended to visit Independence Square, Kontraktova Square, the main street of the city - Khreshchatyk, in Opera House, Golden Gates, the Museum of Water, see the monuments to Bohdan Khmelnitsky, Prince Vladimir, the Memorial to the Victims of the Holodomor, Mamaev Sloboda and Kreshchaty (Merchant) Park.

Events and festivals

Kyiv is a city with a lot of sights and places where you can spend time interestingly and profitably. Various fairs, festivals, quests, exhibitions, concerts, humorous and sporting events, performances, tournaments are constantly held in the capital of Ukraine.

• New Year and Christmas fairs, festivals, of course, are waiting for everyone on the eve of the holidays. From mid-December, a winter amusement park begins to operate with a New Year's zoo, a skating rink, snow entertainment, a spherical cinema, games and quests with Santa Claus. A Christmas tree is solemnly lit on Sofia Square. Before Lent, it is customary to celebrate Shrovetide (the last day of the Cheese Week), it can be the end of February or the middle of March. You are waiting for mass street festivities, food courts, master classes in making pancakes.
• In the spring, children's entertainment festivals are very often held, where you can learn a lot about the possibilities of organizing children's leisure during the holidays. The International Day/Night of Museums also touched Kyiv - on this day all the museums of the world (including the capitals) open their doors to those who wish to learn a lot of interesting things. Held in May. Kyiv celebrates its founding day on the last weekend of May. First started celebrating given event in 1982.
• In summer, numerous outdoor events are held. The best DJs and musicians perform, films are shown. In July (6th day) the holiday of Ivan Kupala is celebrated - numerous rituals are performed, round dances are held, performances are held, master classes in weaving a wide variety of wreaths. On August 24, the Independence Day of Ukraine is celebrated - a concert with popular artists, mass thematic locations, scientific shows and entertainment programs are held.
• In autumn, festivals are often held both in the city itself and on its outskirts (family, children's, general entertainment, street food, interactive games, body art, etc.), open-air classical music evenings, car and air festivals, exotic massage festivals, flower fairs, exhibitions different cultures(Japanese, Georgian cuisine). In October, the Intercession and the Day of the Defender of Ukraine are celebrated, which are held in Ancient Kyiv (historical park "Kievskaya Rus"). Theatrical performances, mystical performances about the Magi, interesting performances vigilantes with swords, stuntmen, horse archery tournaments. November 11 is Student's Day - great discounts, flash mobs, quests are held. As you can see, no matter what time you visit the capital of Ukraine, you will always have places to go and interesting things to do.

Restaurants and cafes

Cafe and restaurant owners pay Special attention not only the quality of the dishes served, but also the very concept of the establishments, service, and design. A tourist goes to Kyiv for vivid impressions - so let them accompany him everywhere, even over a morning cup of coffee, in a pleasant environment. Those wishing to taste traditional Ukrainian cuisine can visit Tsarskoye Selo (42/1 Ivan Mazepa St.), Dikanka (4a Andriy Malyshko St.), Chasing Two Hares (34 Andreevsky Spusk St.), Puzata Khata ( 24 Sahaydachnogo St.), Chervona Kalina (Generala Vatutin Ave., Druzhby Narodiv Park), Fortetsya (21 Gongadze Ave.), Babushkin Garden (Kyiv-Svyatoshinsky District, Mriya village, Sadovaya St., 2), Verkhovyna (Ave. . Victory, 135), the Fisherman's Hut (Revutsky St., 2), etc. You definitely need to taste dishes from bacon, honey, pickles, garlic. We offer you to pay attention to some bright establishments that will definitely make you visit them again:

• Fellini restaurant at st. Architect Gorodetsky, 5 is distinguished by its pathos. Here you should definitely try juicy duck breast with wine pear, delicious okroshka from quail eggs and turkey, made on the basis of kvass or kefir. Try cocote eggs with a variety of fillings, fluffy pancakes, delicious desserts - everything that the soul and stomach of a hungry tourist desires.
• Restaurant Atmosfera, which operates both an open summer terrace and a closed room. A strict but pleasant interior prevails here, delicious dishes are served. You will have an incredible view of Khreshchatyk, Bessarabska Square and the stadium. The institution is located at Shevchenko Boulevard / Pushkinskaya Street, 5-7/29.
• Restaurant-bar "Korka". This is an interesting establishment of a completely new format, you should definitely stop by here to try Danish fish soup, veal steak with parmesan and arugula, Hot Brown sandwich. Do you want to visit among the incredible "mix of interior items"? Then you on the street. Big Zhytomyr, house 25/2.
• Restaurant "Mom, I'm at Home" (Dmitrievskaya St., 62/20). Here everyone will feel at home, warm and comfortable. The restaurant serves signature dishes. You will not forget the bright taste of the Black Sea rapans with tomatoes, tobiko caviar, capers on a toast of rye bread, salad with goat cheese, sweet sauce, peaches and blueberries.
• Bar Hitchcook (Sportivnaya Square, 1a). Atmosphere - " golden age» Hollywood. Staff attire, menu, bar map, service - the concept "sounds" in everything.
• The Logger Head bar at 1 Taras Shevchenko Boulevard will surprise even the most sophisticated cocktail lovers.
• The ONE LOVE Coffee coffee house, located in the very center, on the top floor of the Pinchuk Art Center, will impress with its perfectly white interior and an unforgettable panorama of the city. In fact, a place where you can eat deliciously is easy to find on every corner of the capital - you will not stay hungry.

shopping

Brand boutiques are concentrated in the very center of the city. At Sanahant you will find the collections of Stela McCartney, Prada, Judith Leiber, Donna Karan, Alexander McQueen. But even here you can find things at incredible discounts - seasonal sales allow 70%! The chain of stores Helen Malen Group is also popular, which are mainly focused on the youth audience. Discounts are also possible here, they start at 20% and end at 50%. Spazio is located in Pechersk. Here are items from the latest collections of popular brands, as well as Elma stock.
Lovers of brands Kyiv pleases not only with boutiques, but also with outlets. For the middle class, a lot of interesting things are presented from the ARGO, Mango, Benetton, Promod, Miss Sixty, Castro chains. There is also a stock Rest of Best store. Get yourself something to remember from Ukrainian designers - Vika Gres, Lilia Pustovit, Andre Tan, Diana Dorozhkina, Alexander Gapchuk. In "Alta Center" you will find accessories of European fashion houses Back Stage, vintage shoes. The shopping and entertainment centers also have a lot of interesting things for tourists: in the Globus, Gulliver, Ocean Plaza and Dream Town shopping centers. Here you can find multi-brand wardrobe items and accessories, but you can also make more economical purchases. Be sure to bring rare varieties of vodka from the capital of Ukraine, vyshyvanka, something authentic from the Bessarabian market (the same pickles, lard) and a fresh Kyiv cake.

How to get to Kyiv?

Kyiv can be reached both by plane and by train, bus or private transport. You cannot fly from St. Petersburg, Moscow to Kyiv by a direct flight, only with a transfer in Minsk. The journey will take about 3.5 hours (a / c "Belavia"). You will arrive at the international airport of the capital Zhuliany, from where trolleybuses, buses, taxis follow to the center. A direct train No. 005Я "Ukraine" goes to Kyiv, as well as passing ones (Moscow-Lviv, Moscow-Odessa, Moscow-Khmelnitsky, Moscow-Chisinau), the trip will take 12-13 hours. Train No. 053A "Lybid" follows from St. Petersburg, it takes 22.5 hours. You can also come to Kyiv by bus from Moscow and St. Petersburg (the route lasts from 16 to 18 hours). If you decide to save on a ticket, you can choose a route with a transfer in Moscow. But then the road will increase in time (by 28-36 hours). If you go by car from Moscow to Kyiv, you will have to cover a distance of 820 km, which is 10 hours. From St. Petersburg, the road is 1200 km, in time - about 16 hours (plus lay the customs time on the way).

Transport

The most convenient way to travel in Kyiv is by metro. It is affordable, fast and you can get to the most remote parts of the city. The subway has 3 branches and 3 transfer hubs- trains start running at 5:30 and finish at midnight. The ticket price is 5 hryvnia, you can additionally purchase transport card for 12 hryvnia, replenish it with the required amount and do not waste time buying a token before each trip. It is in the Kiev metro that the deepest station is Arsenalnaya, located at a depth of 105 meters. You can also use buses, fixed-route taxis, trolleybuses, trams, funicular (operate under the guidance of the Kyivpasstrans company). Tickets can be purchased from the driver, conductor, and at the bus stop. If you try to drive a “hare”, a fine of 80 UAH is possible. The city train runs in the capital, along the ring. The interval of movement varies from 10 to 30 minutes, it starts its work from 5:50 am to 21:40 pm. Minibuses run in more than 200 directions. The fare will depend on the characteristics of the route itself (from 4 to 6 hryvnia). On the main street and the embankment you can rent a bike - in Kyiv there is a network of 14 bike rental stations. Ride costs from 75 UAH/hour to 200 UAH/day. But you will need a deposit - a passport or 7000 UAH. Before renting a car, do not forget about traffic jams. In the capital of Ukraine it common occurrence on weekdays at the beginning and end of the working day. By purchasing tourist map Kyiv City Card, you will get the opportunity to visit museums, galleries, exhibitions and other sights of Kyiv for free. To find out more, you will need to contact the city information centers.

Accommodation

Kyiv - modern capital where tourists constantly visit. Therefore, the hotel chain is well developed here. Cheap hostels, spa hotels, luxury hotels and even hotels on the water - in the capital, everyone will find an option that suits their needs and finances. A budget tourist can stay in Kyiv Lodging, Apricot, Dream House. Some of the hostels periodically offer free city tours. Cheaper, economical hotels in 2-3 stars are removed from the center:

• Meridian;
• Zhuliany;
• Alenka;
• At Valentina;
• Barberry.

International hotels and expensive apartments are represented by:

• Inter Continental (Inter Continental);
• Opera Hotel;
• Hilton;
• Premier Palace;
• Fairmont Grand Hotel.

Luxury hotels in the capital are not inferior in service to world-famous hotels. During the high tourist season (the chestnut blossom season is especially in demand), it can be quite difficult to find free rooms in popular hotels. Therefore, it is better to book places in advance. As an option - you can rent an apartment, which is very important for families or friendly companies.

Connection

Upon arrival in Ukraine, the tourist will need to provide feedback with relatives and friends. There are several operators in the country (Vodafone, Kyivstar, lifecell, U`Try from Utel), but if you call to Russia, it is more profitable to purchase a SIM card that is comparable to Russian operators (for example, Beeline). Anyone can purchase a card and replenish an account for it at a kiosk, supermarket, or a special mobile phone store. Ask what offers are available to the tourist from a particular operator. The presence of an Internet connection allows you to communicate without obstacles via Viber, WhatsApp, Skype.

1. Currency in Kyiv is best changed in the city center in institutions specially designed for this - banks or exchange offices. You should not change money at airports or train stations - the exchange rate is unfavorable here. Pay special attention to the fact that the exchange of currencies "on hand" is prohibited in the city - this is pursued by the legislation of Ukraine.
2. When walking around the capital of Ukraine, do not take large sums of money with you. It is recommended to take money only for necessary expenses - lunch, payment for excursions or tickets to museums, as well as for travel.
3. Taxi services in Kyiv are quite expensive. If you still need to use this type of service, then it is more profitable to call the car by phone, rather than stop it on the street. With a taxi call, you will be helped in a hotel, restaurant or cafe.
4. If you have a desire to shop in Kyiv, please note that on Mondays almost all city markets are closed.
5. On Fridays, especially in the evening, there are the biggest traffic jams on Kiev roads. Therefore, if you are going to travel around the city by car in a given period of time, then you need to make an adjustment for this factor.
6. The fastest public urban transport is the subway, which has a sufficient number of lines. With the help of the metro you can get to any part of the city. The fare here is approximately 0.2 euros. For convenience, you can purchase a contactless card with the possibility of replenishment.
7. If you need to call the Ministry of Emergency Situations, police or ambulance, dial numbers 101, 102 and 103, respectively, from a landline or mobile phone.
8. Do not leave personal belongings unattended even for a short time at train stations, airports or other in public places. Here, as, indeed, in most European capitals, they are active pickpockets. In case of theft of personal belongings, you must contact the nearest police station.
9. The period of time from 11 pm to 8 am is considered the time of rest here. Therefore, try not to make noise in apartments or hotel rooms at this time, because otherwise the neighbors or the hotel administration have the right to resort to the help of law enforcement agencies.

Kyiv on the map, panorama

The expression "Kyiv is the mother of Russian cities" is confirmed in historical and architectural monuments, which are located in the city center at almost every step. Thanks to this, the metropolis does not seem cold and alienated - an atmosphere of friendliness and cordiality reigns here, and all vacationers note positive energy.

Kyiv is a city of churches and cathedrals. There are objects unique in their cultural, historical and spiritual significance, for example, St. Sophia Kievskaya, St. Andrew's Church, St. Vladimir's Cathedral, St. Michael's Monastery, Holy Trinity Church, Pokrovsky Monastery, Voznesensky Frolovskiy Convent and many others. In the days of big church holidays the whole of Kyiv is resounded by the chime of bells - this sound will not leave anyone indifferent.

The heart of the city, a grandiose temple complex, which is part of the architectural and historical reserve - Kiev-Pechersk Lavra, is a place where every Christian should go. He is a little less than a thousand years old - ancient monastery was erected in 1051. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every year, pilgrims from all over the world come here to pray and ask for blessings from miraculous icons and saints, whose incorruptible remains are stored in dungeons.

Entrance to the reserve is paid, but the price is low. If tourists just want to visit one of the temples, climb the bell tower, you can go in for free - the entrance is a little to the side. There are strict rules, according to which the number of places where you can take pictures is limited; entrance to the temples is possible only in clothes befitting believers (shorts, tops are excluded; for women, the head must be covered, and for men, vice versa). It is advisable to allocate at least four hours for a visit - it is simply physically impossible to quickly inspect all the amazing riches of this place.

The Kiev-Pechersky Reserve is located at the address: st. Ivan Mazepa, 25. You can get here by bus or metro, but in the second case you will have to walk up from the Arsenalnaya station for 7-10 minutes. Leaving the monastery, you can go to the Motherland monument to look at the steeps of the Dnieper from a height. Rising to the top observation deck this grandiose sculpture, you can see Kyiv in all its diversity. The ticket will cost about 300 UAH. Entrance to the lower level is free.

Below is a museum dedicated to the events of the Second World War. Several halls house rich expositions that will be of interest to both adults and children. Before entering the museum as a reminder of terrible events the past are two tanks. They took part in the liberation of the city, but now they have changed their militant look to a more peaceful one: they were decorated in bright colours as confirmation that the people do not want war.

It will be most convenient to get to the monument by metro - the stations "Dnepr", "Pecherskaya" and "Friendship of Peoples".

Andreevsky Descent, which is also called the street-museum, is a place that should definitely be visited by everyone who is in the city for the first time. In ancient times it was an important trade route and now it connects historical territories. A special spirit reigns on this paved street - here you can have a delicious meal in cozy cafes, buy souvenirs, jewelry, designer clothes in the national style, art and antiques, and much more. Moving from one tray to another, it is important not to forget to look around - there are monuments of architecture and culture on Andreevsky Descent: the Bulgakov Museum, Richard's Castle and, of course, St. Andrew's Church.

Khreshchatyk is the central and most famous street in Kyiv. It is not the longest in Europe (only 1.2 km long), but one of the widest (from 75 to 100 m). Walking here and looking into the neighboring streets, you can see great amount sights of the city. Few people know, but under the street there is a river, more like a stream, driven underground with the development of the city.

Khreshchatyk is adjacent to Vladimirskaya Gorka, where there is a monument to the Baptist of Russia, nearby are European area and Khreshchaty park. Climbing up a bit, you can see amazing building Puppet theater, decorated with statues of famous fairytale heroes. In addition, Khreshchatyk passes through Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti), which is better known to the people simply as Maidan. You can get to the central street of the city by metro - the stations "Maidan Nezalezhnosti" and "Khreschatyk". You can also go down on foot from the National Reserve "Sofia Kievskaya" along Sofiyskaya Street.

Another must-see point is the village of Pirogovo, where the open-air ethnographic museum is located. Here are collected samples of architecture from all regions of the country, so in one day a tourist will literally visit all corners of Ukraine, go to the ancient wooden churches, get acquainted with the traditional decoration of huts. Arriving in Pirogovo, you can literally have breakfast in Slobozhanshchina, and have lunch in Galicia - all objects are divided into districts with the corresponding names. You can get here by bus (No. 496 from the Lukyanivska metro station and No. 156 from the Bessarabsky Market) or trolleybus (No. 11 from the Libidska metro station). Entrance to the museum is paid, the price is about 30 UAH, discounts are available for children and students.

All sights of Kyiv

How to get to the capital of Ukraine

Good transport connection Kyiv with other cities of Ukraine and abroad makes it easy to find profitable travel options. The best solution that will save time and reach your destination in a few hours is air travel. Thus, five daily direct flights of Aeroflot, LOT and airBaltic companies run from Sheremetyevo to Boryspil. From Domodedovo there are also several good options without transfers, including a couple of low-cost airlines. Shuttle buses run from the airport to any part of the city. If vacationers arrive early in the morning or at night, they will have to take a taxi. The average price to the center of Kyiv will be about 300 hryvnia, however, if you order a car in advance through a dispatcher, you can save money. You can choose the best option on the site http://www.kievtaxi.com.ua, which contains information about all taxi companies in the city.

Even with the reduction in the number of trains in this direction, rail transport remains one of the most popular among those who are going to visit this amazing city. You can get from the capital of Russia by trains "Moscow-Kyiv" (No. 001), "Moscow-Khmelnitsky" (055M), "Moscow-Chisinau" (No. 047b, 341F), "Moscow-Odessa" (No. 023M), " Moscow-Lvov" (No. 073A). The journey will take approximately 13 hours. Trains arrive at the main station, located almost in the center of Kyiv - from it to Khreshchatyk is 15 minutes on foot. It is important to take into account that in Kyiv one room connects two stations: Kyiv-Passenger and Yuzhny, so in order to easily get to a hotel or apartment by bus, you need to first clarify which one is better to go from. If the next journey will be by taxi or metro, both options will do.

Another rather profitable and popular option is to search for a car on the www.blablacar.com resource. If there are offers from drivers on the appointed dates, you can get to Kyiv with great comfort and at a low price.

Airfare low price calendar

Where to buy hryvnia

The national currency of Ukraine and the only one that can be used to pay for services and goods in this country is the hryvnia. You can change money at bank branches or at exchange offices. There are a lot of them around the city, and in almost every district and at stations you can find several options, so search favorable exchange rate won't be difficult. A pleasant nuance is that the value of the currency practically does not change depending on the proximity of tourist places, as is common in other European capitals.

It is advisable to buy a few hundred hryvnia upon arrival, since cash will be needed to pay for travel, buy a city map and for other small expenses. In all other cases, you can pay with bank cards. If a situation arises when the card is not accepted, money can be withdrawn at any terminal at the rate of the bank.

Where to live in Kyiv

The capital of Ukraine is a progressive European city, so finding housing here for any period of time will not be a problem. Already at the station, arrivals are greeted by colorful locals with advertisements for rental apartments. The competition here is quite strong, so you can always find the best deal. Of course, this option of renting an apartment is quite bold, because until the last moment the guest cannot be completely sure what kind of amenities he will be offered. However, for those who went on the road spontaneously and did not have time to think through all the details, this will be an excellent solution to the problem.

If the tourist approached the planning of the vacation thoroughly, he will have a much larger selection of offers. Most visitors to Kyiv decide to stay in hotels. There is a wide range of establishments with different amount stars. Wherein great attention is given to the quality of service, therefore, both in a small hotel and in a fashionable establishment, vacationers can count on European-level service.

Since most of the sights are concentrated in the city center, it is best to choose hotels in the area of ​​the Khreshchatyk, Golden Gate, Sports Palace, and Arsenalnaya metro stations. You can find and book a suitable room on our website.

One of the most popular hotels among tourists is Salut. It is located in a very convenient location - just a few minutes walk from it are the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra and the Dnieper embankment, as well as a cozy park. The hotel offers a large selection of rooms of various classes - from "economy" to "luxury". In addition, guests can use additional services: there is a restaurant, cafe, luggage storage, laundry, secure parking, night club, billiards and much more. You can also book a city tour or rent a bicycle at the hotel.

Another three-star hotel complex that constantly receives positive reviews guests from all over the world, - "Tourist". It offers cozy rooms and a large list of additional services that will make you feel as comfortable as at home even on vacation.

The pride of the Ukrainian capital is a five-star hotel located in the very center of the city - Premier Palace Hotel. All rooms in it are decorated with chic, on the territory there is a swimming pool, a beauty salon, restaurants and shops. The Fairmont Grand Hotel Kyiv does not lag behind in scope. It amazes with the richness of the interior of the rooms: such luxurious apartments are worthy of hosting world-class stars. Youth companies, for whom the comfort of living is not the main thing, can stay in one of the hostels located in the city center.

A real homely atmosphere reigns in the hostel "Belokorichi". The guests note the spacious comfortable rooms, the hospitality of the staff, a wide range of additional services, some rooms have plasma TVs with satellite TV.

A ten-minute walk from Khreshchatyk is Mini Hostel Kiev. Guests are offered double rooms or places in common rooms for 10 or 12 guests. In addition, clients have at their disposal a kitchen, a balcony, a library, individual safes, and a laundry.

Quite often, the whole family comes to Kyiv, and in this case, vacationers are looking for housing where they can get home comfort. The best option will rent an apartment. You can find and book a suitable option in advance on the sites http://kievarenda.kiev.ua, http://doba.ua. The search for housing without intermediaries is also offered by the site http://olx.ua.

Kiev souvenirs

It is simply impossible to come from the capital of Ukraine without souvenirs and gifts for relatives and friends. The first and most important thing to buy is the Kyiv cake. Airy meringue, crunchy nuts, delicate cream layer - it just melts in your mouth. It is made by several confectionery factories, but the products of the ROSHEN factory (Roshen) received the most positive feedback from the sweet tooth thanks to the use of a traditional recipe. It is widely represented in the company's branded stores, as well as in the relevant departments of supermarkets.

In addition, a delicious work of confectionery art can be ordered from the company, which is called “Kyiv Cake” - on the website http://kievtort.in.ua. It will be delivered to any address at a convenient time for the client.

The price of confectionery products depends on their weight. So for 0.5 kg of goodies, on average, you will have to pay 105 UAH, for 1 kg - 190-220 UAH, and for 1.5 kg. – from 300 UAH. Those who do not have time to stock up on sweet gifts in advance will be able to purchase them at the central station if the return trip is scheduled by train.

Having imbued with the Ukrainian national spirit on Andreevsky Descent, it is almost impossible to leave there without an embroidered shirt. Traditional shirts handmade they look very elegant and at the same time comfortable. They can be safely combined with business or casual clothes, thereby making the image original and interesting. Modern craftswomen offer models embroidered with satin stitch, cross stitch, and also beads. Each region of Ukraine has its own traditional ornaments and colors, so tourists will have the opportunity to choose from a wide variety of embroidered shirts.

Considering that such products are made entirely by hand, and sometimes craftswomen offer author's models and patterns, the shirt will not be cheap. The average price for women's and men's products is from 500 to 1000 UAH, and for children's - from 300 UAH. However, let tourists not be afraid of the high cost: a good embroidered shirt will last for decades, moreover, experts say that this is a kind of amulet that everyone should have.

Another option for a memorable gift from Kyiv is wooden or ceramic products of folk craftsmen. They can be purchased on Andreevsky Descent or in souvenir shops. A large selection of goods will allow even the most demanding customer to find exactly what suits him. It can be carved or painted dishes, caskets, jewelry, smoking pipes (cradles), bath utensils and much more. When making purchases on Andreevsky Descent, you should not miss the opportunity to bargain - there is a good chance to bring down the price.

In Kyiv, there are a lot of art galleries and salons where you can buy jewelry, antiques, paintings - and all this for quite a low prices. When purchasing such unique gifts, it is important not to forget to take an expert certificate so that there are no misunderstandings during customs clearance.

If, after walking around Kiev and visiting local restaurants, vacationers do not have much money left, do not be upset: you can buy a small souvenir with Ukrainian symbols. It can be an embroidered tie, a painted jug or an earthenware plate, and much more.

In Kyiv, almost everyone understands Russian, due to the fact that the older generation was educated in Soviet system. Foreigners here are treated with cordiality and are always ready to help. However, it is important to show respect for the country, people and national symbols if vacationers do not want to spoil their mood - such liberties are stopped here.

Dishes national cuisine you can try in colorful cafes, which are very common in the city center.

Upon arrival in Kyiv, be sure to buy a tourist map of the city. Alternatively, it can be printed from the Internet. The fact is that in the historical district the sights are located very close, and out of ignorance, you can miss something interesting.

Prices for such important little things as a bottle of water, napkins, batteries increase depending on the proximity of tourist sites. Therefore, in order to reduce costs, it is advisable to stock up on everything in advance. Subway crossings are a place where you can not only see a map of the city, but also make purchases and even have a bite to eat.

Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square) is the main square of Kyiv. It is crossed by the central city street Khreshchatyk. Sofiyskaya, Malaya Zhitomirskaya, Kostelnaya, Institutskaya and other streets also adjoin it.

The first structures in the form of defensive ramparts on the site of the now existing square appeared in the 11th century, during the time of Yaroslav the Wise. According to one version, the Lyadsky Gates were also located here as part of the defensive system of ancient Kyiv. In front of them was a rather deep abandoned reservoir, which is why this place was called the "Goat Swamp".

The area as such was formed in the 19th century, when the remains of defensive ramparts were demolished, and the wasteland that existed then began to be built up with wooden, and then stone houses. It received the name Khreschatytska because of the street of the same name adjoining it. A market was located here and festivities were held.

In 1876 the building of the City Duma was built on the square. During the Great Patriotic War almost all the buildings of Khreshchatyk and the square were destroyed, including the building of the Regional Committee of the Communist Party of Ukraine (the former City Duma). In 1944, the area was expanded at the expense of the territory of destroyed buildings, reconstructed and received the status main square cities.

The square was renamed many times: in 1876 it became Dumskaya, in 1919 - Sovetskaya, in 1935 - Kalinin Square, in 1977 - the October Revolution, and, finally, after Ukraine gained its independence in 1991, it acquired its own modern name.

In 2001 Maidan Nezalezhnosti was overhauled. In the place where the monument to Lenin stood, now there is a column, at the top of which is a girl with a viburnum branch in her hands - a symbol of Ukraine's independence. New monuments and fountains were built. Including a monument to the historically significant Lyadsky Gate. On their top is the figure of the Archangel Michael - the patron saint of the city of Kyiv. And under the square is the Globus shopping center, which comes to the surface in the form of a glass dome.

In the winter of 2000-2001, protests "Ukraine without Kuchma" took place on the Maidan.

In 2004, it became the center of the Orange Revolution.

In November 2013, thousands of Ukrainian citizens took part in protests on the Maidan against the failure to sign an association agreement between Ukraine and the EU, and subsequently the resignation of the government and President Vladimir Yanukovych. In January-February 2014, armed clashes took place between the participants of the Maidan and law enforcement. As a result of these clashes, Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych was removed from power, and a new government was formed in the country.