Weekend a Kyiv: cosa vedere per i turisti in 2 giorni

Stai pianificando un weekend a Kyiv e vuoi sfruttare al massimo il tuo tempo? Scopri cosa vedere a Kyiv in 2 giorni, dove soggiornare, quali luoghi gastronomici vale la pena visitare e come rimanere al sicuro

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Are you planning a short trip and wondering what to see in Kyiv in just two days? The capital of Ukraine is ideal for a weekend: you can see ancient temples, stroll along picturesque streets, discover modern museums and enjoy gastronomic discoveries.

In this material, we have prepared a ready-made weekend itinerary in Kyiv with practical tips on how to conveniently organize a trip.

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

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Why should you choose Kyiv for a weekend in 2025?

Kyiv for tourists is a unique combination of a modern European capital and an ancient city with over 1,500 years of history. Medieval cathedrals, 20th-century architecture and futuristic business centers are harmoniously intertwined here. A weekend in Kyiv is a great opportunity to discover the capital of Ukraine for yourself even in a short time.

Another reason why Kyiv in 2025 is worth attention is that it continues to remain open to tourists despite difficult times. Traveling here is a way to support Ukraine, discover its culture and feel the atmosphere of a city that lives, develops and inspires.

The city is ideal for short-term trips to Ukraine - regular trains and buses from many European countries and Ukrainian cities make it easy to get to Kyiv. For the convenience of foreigners, there are online services where you can buy tickets in advance and plan your weekend itinerary in Kyiv without any hassle.

You can buy train and bus tickets online on the Visit Ukraine platform. A reliable service that will help you save time and avoid queues.

Day 1: Historic Kyiv and the main attractions

The first day in Kyiv should be devoted to getting to know the historical center of the capital. It is here that the most famous and interesting places in Kyiv for foreigners are concentrated. The weekend itinerary in Kyiv can be easily covered on foot or with short metro transfers.

Khreshchatyk and Independence Square

Start your day on the main street of the capital - Khreshchatyk. Life is always bustling here: street musicians, modern shops, historical buildings and cozy cafes. Be sure to stop at Independence Square - the central square of Kyiv, which is a symbol of freedom and the modern history of Ukraine. 40-60 minutes is enough for a tour.

Few people know that an underground river flows under Khreshchatyk itself. It was she who formed the valley, which later grew into the central street of Kyiv. Once a full-flowing river, it witnessed many historical events, which it has preserved and reliably hides to this day. After all, everyone knows that water has a memory, and it can tell its stories only to those daredevils who dare to visit it - underground. You can learn more details during the excursion "Underground Khreshchatyk".

St. Nicholas Church

St. Nicholas Church is a Gothic church from the early 20th century, which immediately attracts the attention of tourists with its tall spires and majestic architecture. It is located not far from Khreshchatyk, so it is easy to combine a visit to the church with a walk through the central part of Kyiv.

Inside, the church impresses with carved wooden altars and stained glass windows, which create a fabulous atmosphere. This place is especially interesting for those who are fond of architecture and photography. You can visit it independently or during organized excursions through the historical center. Plan about 20–30 minutes for a tour.

St. Sophia Cathedral and the Golden Gate

Next, head to St. Sophia Cathedral – one of the oldest shrines in Eastern Europe, included in the UNESCO list. Nearby are the Golden Gate – a reconstructed gate from the times of Kyivan Rus.

These attractions are a 15-minute walk from Maidan. Plan at least 1.5 hours to visit both locations.

Andriyivskyi Uzviz and Podil

One of the most atmospheric streets of the capital is Andriyivskyi Uzviz. It is a real open-air art gallery with souvenir shops, artists' studios and ancient buildings. At the bottom of the Uzviz is Podil - an area with narrow streets, modern bars and museums. We recommend finding time to visit the Museum of One Street or the lesser-known Bulgakov Museum.

A tour of Kyiv from Visit Ukraine ideally combines visits to the main attractions of Kyiv - Volodymyr's Cathedral, the Golden Gates, St. Sophia Cathedral, Andriyivskyi Uzviz, St. Andrew's Church, the City Center, Independence Square, Khreshchatyk. Discover all the secrets of Kyiv accompanied by an experienced guide.

Landscape Alley

Landscape Alley is one of the brightest and most beloved places among tourists and residents of the capital. This is a modern open-air art space, known for its mosaic sculptures, fairy-tale benches and fantasy-style playgrounds. The alley appeared on the site of ancient fortifications and is now part of the creative cultural Kyiv.

From here, magnificent panoramas of Podil and the Dnieper open up, so be sure to grab your camera. Tourists love to spend time here thanks to the combination of art, nature and incredible views. You can get there on foot from St. Sophia Cathedral or Andriyivskyi Uzviz in 10–15 minutes. Plan approximately 30–40 minutes for a walk.

Top 13 mystical and dangerous places in Kyiv that are worth visiting only with a guide here.

National Opera of Ukraine

The National Opera of Ukraine is one of the most beautiful buildings in Kyiv, built in the Neo-Renaissance style at the end of the 19th century. The facade of the theater is impressive in its grandeur, and the interiors are decorated with marble staircases, chandeliers and stucco. Even a short tour inside allows you to feel the atmosphere of classical Europe.

In the evenings, performances, ballets and concerts are held here, so this is a great option to end your first day in the capital. Tickets can be purchased in advance online to guarantee comfortable seats. The building is easy to reach on foot from Khreshchatyk in 10 minutes or by metro (Teatralna station).

An evening at a restaurant with Ukrainian cuisine

End the day at a restaurant serving traditional Ukrainian cuisine. Borsch with pampushki, varenyky, deruny and uzvar will leave pleasant impressions and emotions. For those who want to experience the culture more deeply, gastronomic tours of Kyiv are available, where you can try authentic dishes accompanied by a guide. This is not just a restaurant tour. This is a walk where each dish has a history, and each location has a character.

Day 2: Museums, modern Kyiv and relaxation on the Dnieper

The second day in Kyiv should be devoted to getting to know the cultural heritage, museums and modern locations of the capital. This will allow you to experience the combination of history, art and modern life of the capital.

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra is one of the most famous shrines of Ukraine and a UNESCO site. The monastery complex includes majestic cathedrals, bell towers and caves with historical relics. We recommend planning at least 2-3 hours to walk around the territory to visit the Assumption Cathedral, the bell tower and underground caves. You can get there by metro (Arsenalna station) or by taxi.

Holodomor Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art

The next stop on the route will be the Holodomor Museum - a place of memory of one of the most tragic pages of Ukrainian history. The exposition is moving and helps to better understand the culture and resilience of Ukrainians.

For connoisseurs of modern art, it is worth visiting the National Museum of Modern Art or the PinchukArtCentre, where works of Ukrainian and international artists are presented. Together, these locations give a complete idea of ​​the culture and history of the country.

7 mysterious facts and locations of extraordinary Kyiv here.

Walk along the Dnieper River Embankment

After the museums, we recommend a walk along the Dnieper River Embankment. This is a great opportunity to relax, enjoy the panoramas of the river and Kyiv. You can rent a boat or join an organized water tour to see the city from a new perspective. There are many cafes and relaxation areas on the embankment, so it is an ideal place for lunch or a snack.

Panoramic platforms and evening Kyiv

Finish the second day with a visit to one of the panoramic platforms - for example, Volodymyrska gorka or the observation deck on the Arch of Friendship of Peoples. From here you can enjoy incredible views of Podil, Dnieper and Khreshchatyk. Evening Kyiv is magical thanks to the illumination of the architecture and the calm atmosphere. This is the perfect moment for photos and enjoying the city before the end of the trip.

You can see the main sights of the Ukrainian capital during one of the sightseeing tours of Kiev – Ancient Kyiv Tour or Invincible Kyiv.

Practical tips for your trip to Kyiv

Planning can help make your trip to Kyiv enjoyable, comfortable and unforgettable. Here are some practical things that everyone visiting the city for the first time should know.

Where to stay?

Choosing a good place to stay is very important during your first trip to Kyiv. To stay closer to the center of events, look for accommodation in:

- City Center (Shevchenkivskyi District) – ideal for walking to the main attractions such as Khreshchatyk, Maidan and St. Sophia Cathedral.

- Podil – a charming historical district, full of atmosphere, cozy cafes and walking routes, ideal for culture lovers.

- Pechersk – a quieter and more picturesque residential area, with embassies, green parks and high-class hotels.

Looking for a safe and reliable place to stay? Use the Visit Ukraine booking platform to find hotels and apartments that suit your budget and preferences.

How to get to Kyiv?

Kyiv is well connected to many cities, both in Ukraine and Europe, and you can get here:

- By trains and buses from major Ukrainian and European cities (such as Krakow, Przemysl, Budapest).

- By private transfers, especially from cities in Poland, Slovakia, Austria, Hungary or Moldova.

For a hassle-free arrival and departure, book a transfer to Kyiv in advance through Visit Ukraine. It is safe, convenient and ideal for travelers who are not familiar with the region.

- By your own car – many tourists prefer to travel to Kyiv by their own car.

For additional peace of mind when traveling to Kyiv in your own car, we recommend taking out a Mini Casco insurance policy - this is a special policy that covers the same basic risks as the Green Card, and also allows you to feel more protected on the roads of Ukraine, including in wartime.

A detailed route on how to get to Kyiv from abroad in this article.

How to use public transport in Kyiv?

Kyiv has an efficient and accessible public transport system, which includes the metro, buses, trams and trolleybuses.

The Kyiv Metro is the fastest and easiest way to get around: signs are in English, and trains run from 6:00 to midnight. Buses and trams cover the areas behind the metro lines.

You can pay with contactless cards, QR codes or using the Kyiv Digital application.

During an air raid, public transport may be temporarily suspended, and metro stations are used as bomb shelters. Always follow the announcements (usually bilingual) and, if necessary, wait underground until the alarm is lifted. Locals are ready to help, so don’t hesitate to ask someone nearby if you don’t know what to do.

When is the best time to visit?

The most comfortable period for a weekend in Kyiv is spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the city is especially beautiful. Summer is suitable for walks on the Dnieper embankment and participation in festivals, while the winter months offer a festive atmosphere and fairs.

How will Visit Ukraine help foreign tourists?

When planning a trip to Kyiv, it is worth using services that make the trip easier and make it safe and comfortable. Visit Ukraine offers tourists assistance in organizing the perfect trip to Kyiv:

- Excursions and tours in Kyiv in Ukrainian and English. You can book individual or group tours, including non-standard routes and little-known locations.

- Online bus and train tickets. It is convenient to purchase transport tickets before arrival, planning your route without stress.

- Transfers and car rental. Book a meeting at airports in European countries, city trips or a transfer to suburban locations without unnecessary hassle. You can also rent a car for convenient transportation.

- Booking safe hotels. Choose accommodation with a proven reputation and comfortable conditions so that your trip is calm and enjoyable.

- Insurance for travel to Ukraine. For a safe trip, medical insurance with war risk coverage and a mini-casco option for a car are available - so that your trip is calm even in unforeseen situations.

All services on the Visit Ukraine platform are designed to make your trip to Kyiv as comfortable, safe and enjoyable as possible. They allow you to organize the perfect trip without worrying about logistics, booking or unforeseen situations, and to fully focus on the impressions of the city.

Kyiv in 2 days is a great opportunity to combine history, culture and modern life of the capital of Ukraine. A weekend in Kyiv allows you to see the main sights, stroll along the picturesque streets, visit museums and enjoy gastronomic discoveries.

Don’t delay – plan your weekend in Kyiv today and discover the beauty and energy of the Ukrainian capital!

Let us remind you! Want a change of scenery, but don't have time for a long vacation? Weekend tours from Kyiv, Lviv or Odessa are a great opportunity to quickly recharge, see new places and gain impressions without complicated planning. We have already told you about the best offers for short trips in Ukraine – from the peaceful Bakota to the water adventures in Bukovel.

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Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

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