Christmas Kyiv 2025/26: how to plan a trip taking into account alarms and curfews

During the winter season, Kyiv remains one of the most interesting destinations for Christmas travel: festive locations, cozy markets and a rich atmosphere create a special mood even during the period of martial law. The city has adapted its infrastructure so that tourists can move around safely and enjoy the holidays, taking into account the alerts and curfews. Find out more about how to prepare for your trip and spend a comfortable Christmas in the capital

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Christmas Kyiv welcomes tourists with warmth even in the most difficult times. Despite the war, the capital retains its festive atmosphere: bright illumination, traditional fairs, winter performances, and Christmas routes that attract travelers from different countries every year. At the same time, traveling now requires a special approach, taking into account curfews, possible air raids, and changes in the operation of transport and facilities.

In this article, we have collected everything that will help you plan a safe and comfortable trip: from choosing a transfer and accommodation to tips on how to act during a siren and where to find the nearest shelter. You will learn how Kyiv's festive locations will work in winter, how to keep all the necessary services at hand, and why Visit Ukraine will be your best travel assistant.

If you're thinking about where to go for Christmas, Kyiv is one of the most atmospheric and at the same time the most adaptable options. Below you will find detailed recommendations, proven safety rules, and practical life hacks that will make your trip calm and truly festive.

Earlier, we told you that despite the war, Kyiv received a record tourist tax in 2025.

Detailed information that will be useful when planning a trip to Ukraine can be found here:

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– Studying in Ukraine.

– Travelling to Ukraine by car.

– Popular destinations in Ukraine.

– Support Ukraine.

Why should you go to Kyiv for Christmas in 2025/26?

Christmas in Kyiv is a combination of ancient traditions, festive atmosphere, and infrastructure adapted to military conditions, which makes tourists feel comfortable. Every year, the capital prepares themed routes, winter fairs, light installations, and many events that create a mood even in such a difficult time.

For many visitors, Kyiv has become a city where you can feel the true spirit of the holidays: with warm lights in the center, carols, Ukrainian Christmas traditions and a special atmosphere of winter streets.

In December and January, Kyiv transforms into a festive capital: the main Christmas tree appears on St. Sophia Square, the streets are decorated with winter illumination, and Christmas photo zones are set up in the center. Even with the restrictions, the city retains the coziness and magic of the winter holidays.

Kyiv celebrates two Christmas dates at once: December 25 and January 6-7. Thanks to this, tourists can choose the most convenient time for a trip and see different traditions: nativity scenes, festive concerts, caroling, and charity events.

The most popular locations: Sofiiska and Kontraktova Squares, Podil, Landscape Alley, Velyka Vasylkivska, and Shevchenko Park. Christmas markets, themed houses, skating rinks, and festive routes adapted to current safety rules are usually open here.

Winter holidays are traditionally one of the most popular times to travel to Kyiv. Hotels and apartments are quickly booked, and festive events and excursion programs are available. Demand among tourists is growing even during martial law, as the capital remains the cultural and Christmas center of Ukraine.

In our previous article, we told you that the Ukrainian capital officially received the title of UNESCO City of Music and became part of the Creative Cities Network.

Important rules: curfews and air raids

Traveling to Kyiv in the winter of 2025/26 requires careful planning, as the capital is subject to restrictions related to martial law. The most important thing is to take into account the curfew schedule and know how to act during air raids. This will help you build the right routes, choose the right time for walks, and think about options for evening trips, visits to cafes or museums in advance.

What is the curfew in Kyiv in winter 2025/26?

In Kyiv, as in other cities of Ukraine, curfews can be adjusted depending on the situation. Currently, it lasts daily from 00:00 to 05:00. During this time, it is forbidden to be on the street and in public places, as well as to travel by public transport without a special permit. Tourists should plan their return to the hotel in advance to avoid travel restrictions.

How curfews affect your route:

- Evening walks should be completed earlier;

- Restaurants and cafes accept guests until a certain time;

- Public transportation stops before the curfew starts;

- Moving around the city after the curfew starts is prohibited.

Plan your movements so that you arrive at your accommodation at least 30-40 minutes before the curfew starts.

How do restaurants and establishments work during the curfew?

Kyiv establishments adapt their schedules to security restrictions. This means that opening hours may vary, but most cafes, bars, and restaurants manage to serve guests until the evening.

Things to consider:

- The last boarding usually takes place 1-1.5 hours before the curfew;

- Food delivery operates on a limited basis and often finishes taking orders earlier;

- Some establishments may close in case of a prolonged alarm.

The best thing to do is to book tables in advance and check the opening hours on the day of your visit.

What to do during an air raid?

Air raid alerts are a key safety signal that even tourists should take seriously. Kyiv has a warning system in place, and dozens of shelters are available in the center.

In the center of Kyiv, you can hide in metro stations (the safest and most accessible 24/7), in underground passages, shopping malls' parking lots, and some establishments that have shelters and are marked with appropriate signs.

How to quickly find a shelter for a tourist:

- Install the Air Alert app;

- Use interactive maps of shelters in Kyiv;

- Save the address of the nearest shelter near your hotel;

- Focus on Google Maps navigation - most shelters are marked.

During the alert, it is important to stay in a safe place until the official “Stand Down” signal.

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Transportation: how to plan your trip to Kyiv taking into account the restrictions

Traveling to Kyiv in winter 2025/26 requires careful planning, as curfews and possible air raids affect the transportation schedule. The best thing to do is to choose your flights in advance, allow time for transfers, and check for updates on traffic changes.

Trains and buses

Rail and bus transportation is stable, but there may be schedule adjustments in the evening. Some buses arrive earlier to allow passengers to get to their neighborhoods before the curfew.

What to consider when planning:

- Choose flights arriving in Kyiv in the morning or early evening;

- In winter, there may be delays due to weather conditions or air traffic alerts;

- Make connections between flights with a 1-2 hour margin;

- If necessary, check the schedule on the day of departure, it can be adjusted.

The advantage of trains is that they are the most stable during prolonged alarms: traffic stops, but the flight will definitely continue after the alarm.

Taxis and transfers

Taxis in Kyiv work even in the evening, but it is forbidden to make trips during the curfew. Therefore, you can call a car only before it starts.

Book a transfer in advance, especially if you are coming from the train station or from a long-distance flight. If the flight arrives late, it is better to postpone the morning or choose another option. During the holiday season, demand increases, so waiting for a taxi may be longer.Always check the route: some streets may be closed during events or in case of blackouts.

An alternative for foreigners and travelers from abroad is to arrive in Ukraine via neighboring countries and take an intercity transfer or a direct bus to Kyiv. This allows you to avoid overnight arrivals and better plan your travels.

For travelers who want to arrive in Kyiv without unnecessary risks and overnight travel, Visit Ukraine offers convenient transfers from Poland, Slovakia, Romania, and other neighboring countries. You can choose the route, time, and type of transport: from comfortable buses to private cars. All flights are adapted to military restrictions and help you get to the capital safely without being tied to curfews.

Ordering a transfer is very simple. You just need to follow these steps:

1. Go to the Visit Ukraine website and select the ‘Transfer’ section.

2. Specify the route, date, time and number of passengers.

3. Select the class of car that suits your needs (economy, comfort, business, minivan).

4. Pay for the service online.

5. After payment, you will receive an order confirmation with all the details of the trip.

Book your transfer online and travel in comfort and safety!

Where to stay in the capital during the winter holidays?

During the Christmas season, Kyiv attracts tourists with its most striking locations, so you should choose your accommodation in advance. Demand increases during the holidays, and hotels and apartments are quickly booked, especially in the central areas. It is also important to consider safety aspects: the availability of a shelter nearby, proximity to metro stations, and the ability to quickly return to your home before the curfew.

The most convenient for tourists in winter are:

-  The Center and Podil - proximity to fairs, St. Sophia Square, Podil locations, and the subway.

-  Pechersk is a quiet part of the center with good infrastructure and many cafes.

-  Shevchenkivskyi district is close to museums, parks, and convenient transportation.

All these areas have a well-developed infrastructure and quick access to shelters.

How to choose housing with close access to a shelter?

When planning, pay attention to the following:

- Availability of your own shelter or the nearest underground parking lot;

- Distance to metro stations - these are the most reliable shelters in Kyiv;

- The ability to stay in the facility during an alarm (some hotels have equipped shelters inside the building);

- Quick access to major transportation routes to avoid evening delays.

During the holiday season, hotels often update their work schedules and the list of services, so you should check with your chosen accommodation before you travel.

Why is it important to book in advance?

December-January sees the largest tourist influx in the capital, so prices rise closer to the holidays. Popular hotels near the main locations are booked in a few weeks. Apartments with good conditions and shelter are the first to be booked. Planning will help you avoid overnight arrivals and unnecessary risks.

For stress-free booking, use the Visit Ukraine hotel booking service. You will get access to exclusive offers and proven accommodation in the safest areas of the city.

In the previous article, we told you what to see in Kyiv in 2 days and how to plan a weekend in the capital as efficiently as possible.

What to see: holiday locations that work even under restrictions

Despite the war and the current curfew, Kyiv retains a festive atmosphere and offers routes adapted to security conditions. Most of the main locations are open during daylight hours, and the organizers plan the schedule of events and entertainment in advance so that tourists can enjoy them without risk.

Christmas market

Christmas markets in Kyiv are traditionally located on St. Sophia Square, Kontraktova Square, and Podil. There are usually houses with hot drinks, holiday souvenirs, Ukrainian dishes and themed entertainment.

Features of fairs during martial law:

- Work during the daytime or until early evening;

- Adapted schedule in case of prolonged alarms;

- Safe routes to the nearest shelters;

- Most locations are equipped with information points for tourists.

Therefore, fairs remain one of the best options for winter recreation in the capital, despite the restrictions.

The city's main Christmas tree and other locations

Kyiv's main Christmas tree is usually set up on St. Sophia Square. In different years, it is complemented by themed installations, festive photo zones, and light decorations.

Other popular locations:

- Landscape Alley;

- Podil winter routes;

- Shevchenko Park and central streets;

- Festive areas near shopping malls and cultural centers.

All of them are open during the daytime and provide an opportunity to walk around the city without violating safety rules.

Themed museums and coffee shops

Kyiv's winter museums, galleries, and coffee shops adapt their opening hours to the curfew. Most establishments are open until the early evening, and on days of high tourist demand, according to a special schedule.

What to visit:

- Museums with interactive winter exhibitions;

- Contemporary art galleries open during the day;

- Coffee shops with atmospheric Christmas menus;

- Themed spaces with local products.

Before you go, you should check the opening hours of the establishments: they may change due to prolonged alarms or blackouts. However, in general, most winter locations remain accessible to tourists and create the same festive mood that makes it worth visiting the capital.

To learn more about the TOP 7 mysterious locations in Kyiv, follow the link.

Discover the city in a new way, plan a weekend with Visit Ukraine and enjoy your trip without unnecessary worries, with comfort and support at every step.

How to keep safe while traveling?

When traveling to Kyiv in the winter of 2025/26, it is important to have access to up-to-date information about the security situation. This will allow you to plan your routes properly, avoid risky areas, and respond in a timely manner to air raid alerts or possible blackouts. Tourists are advised to use official apps, follow local authorities' notifications, and keep the addresses of the nearest shelters handy.

Apps and official channels

For tracking air alerts and operational messages:

- Air Alert is an official app that instantly notifies you of a threat;

- Kyiv Digital - provides access to a map of shelters and local alerts;

- Telegram channels of the Kyiv City Military Administration;

- Official pages of the SES and the police.

It is recommended that you enable notifications and check the geolocation.

How do I receive alerts?

Tourists should set up permissions for push notifications, volume and vibration on their smartphones, and alternative channels (Telegram, radio, signals on the street). If you have a foreign SIM card, you can also use Wi-Fi notifications or eSIM, which is easy to activate in Kyiv.

What to do in case of blackout?

Although large-scale power outages are less common, tourists should be prepared for short-term restrictions. Always have a power bank and downloaded offline maps. Check the operation of facilities on the day of your visit. Keep the addresses of shelters near your hotel. Have cash - not all terminals work during a blackout. In the event of a blackout, the subway remains the most stable shelter and transportation hub.

Visit Ukraine services for safe travel

Visit Ukraine is the main platform that helps tourists plan trips to Ukraine during the war. Here you can buy tickets, take out insurance, check entry rules, get live advice, and track updates on security, transportation, and restrictions in the capital. All services are available online, so preparing for your trip becomes much faster and easier.

Tickets for Ukraine and abroad in one click

On Visit Ukraine, you can buy tickets for trains in Ukraine, intercity buses, and international flights from European countries. This is especially convenient when you need to choose a daytime flight, avoid arriving during curfew, or find the most comfortable travel option. All routes are collected in one service, which saves time and helps you not to miss important updates.

Travel insurance for foreigners

For foreign tourists, insurance is a mandatory document for entering Ukraine. Visit Ukraine offers policies that take into account modern requirements and military risks.

What does insurance with war risk coverage cover:

- Medical care during the trip;

- Insured events related to military threats;

- Assistance in case of evacuation or unforeseen circumstances;

- Expenses that may be incurred due to flight cancellation or force majeure.

The insurance can be taken out in a few minutes online, and the document is immediately sent to the mail.

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24/7 chat support while traveling

One of the main advantages of Visit Ukraine is quick help in any situation. The support team works around the clock and advises tourists online.

What can chat help you with:

- Advise on the current rules of entry and stay;

- Explain what to do in case of an alarm or transportation delay;

- Advise on a shelter or route;

- Help with documents or reservations.

For travelers during martial law, this service is a great advantage.

Information guides and news

Visit Ukraine provides regular updates:

- Guides to cities, locations, and events;

- News about transportation and border changes;

- Safety and travel recommendations during martial law;

- Rules of stay for foreigners and Ukrainians.

This allows you to plan your trip as informed as possible and be prepared for any changes that may occur in winter.

A winter trip to the capital can be safe and truly atmospheric if you plan your route in advance, take into account curfews and rules of behavior during alarms. Kyiv maintains a festive mood, offers many locations for recreation, and continues to adapt its infrastructure to the needs of tourists. To feel confident, plan your trip without stress, and respond quickly to changes, use Visit Ukraine services. This will help you spend the holidays comfortably and calmly, enjoying the winter atmosphere of the capital.

Book tours from Visit Ukraine online or get a consultation to plan the perfect winter vacation.

Your winter adventures start here - don't delay, choose your perfect tour today!

We remind you! Planning your first trip to Kyiv? Read more about the best things to do in Kyiv, places to visit, safe travel tips, and guided tours for first-time visitors. Discover the capital of Ukraine with confidence and inspiration.