Summer is over and autumn has arrived, but luckily Kyiv is charming at this time of year as it’s not so hot outside, making long walks more than enjoyable. To tell you the truth, there’s a lot to do in Kyiv year-round, with a growing number of entertainment options available to the budget traveller. Our local ambassador Yanna shares her top 10 things to do and see for free in the Ukrainian capital.

1. Visit St. Andrew’s Church

This beautiful baroque-style Orthodox church was designed by the famous architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in honour of St. Andrew. It’s located in a historical area known as the Upper Town. Newlyweds often have their photos taken on the stairs leading up to the church. Remember that the church is still active, so please remain silent inside.

Photo credit: Antony Stanley

2. Take a walk along Andriivskyi Descent

This is one of the oldest streets in the city, located in the so-called Montmartre of Kyiv. In the past Andriivskyi Descent was an important connection between the Upper Town, which was full of rich citizens, and the Lower Town, which was inhabited by craftsmen. Nowadays the street is flooded with shops selling ethnic clothes, national souvenirs and handicrafts. It’s also home to several theatres and the mystical Bulgakov Museum (note that these attractions are not free).

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

3. Get tech savvy at iHUB

As you can probably guess, this place has one of the highest concentrations of geeks in the city. Most of the IT-related and technology events such as Startup Grind, Startup Party and Scrum masterclasses happen here, and most of them are free. You just need to register on the iHUB website for free access.

Photo credit: ihub.com.ua

4. Feel the student vibe at KPI Tower

KPI is an old tower (it’s more than 100 years old) that stands beside the main National Technical University forming its left wing. It was renovated with the help of students and is now a popular creative space where students come to listen to music, read, sit on the windowsills and chat with friends. Note that the opening hours may be affected by the general working hours of the university.

5. Admire the NSC Olimpiyskiy stadium

The Olympic Stadium is open to visitors every day. You can visit it on your own, but guided tours are available for a token fee of around €2 (book via email: excursion@nsc-olimpiyskiy.com.ua). The stadium has a complicated history – it opened in 1923 following a solemn ceremony, endured several name changes, survived WWII and finally reopened its doors following a huge renovation for the Euro 2012 Championship.

Photo credit: Rob

6. See the deserted area of Vozdvizhenka

Vozdvizhenka is full of exclusive newly constructed houses that resemble historical European buildings. The area is not famous for its residents, but for their absence! It’s the most unexplained investment and the most deserted place in Kyiv right now. Nevertheless, it’s famous among Instagram enthusiasts. Vozdvizhenka is situated alongside Andriivskyi Descent, so be sure to check it out when you’re in the neighbourhood!

Photo credit: Polina Bogdanova

7. Be amazed at PinchukArtCentre

This is a hotspot for modern art lovers. Here you can see a mix of exciting, interesting and shocking exhibitions. The contemporary Ukrainian and European artists displayed will broaden your mental outlook and awaken your imagination. Admission is obviously free.

8. Meet fairytale characters at Landscape Alley

Have you ever stepped into a fairytale? Never? After finishing your walk along Andriivskyi Descent, don’t forget to turn right and discover Kyiv’s very own Alice in Wonderland! Here you’ll find the White Rabbit drinking tea from a fountain, Alice sitting on a bench and Le Petit Prince waiting for you. Landscape Alley is basically a huge playground and a true paradise for children, but it also appeals to those young at heart.

Photo credit: Polina Bogdanova

9. Relax at Mariinsky Park

This is the oldest and most beautiful park in Kyiv. It offers nice views of the banks of the Dnipro River, and its cosy alleys and retro-style surroundings guarantee a relaxing atmosphere. Many events take place in the park during the summer season. If you come here with your partner, don’t forget to check out the Bridge of Lovers.

Photo credit: Jennifer Boyer

10. Make a wish by the Vladislav Gorodetsky monument

There’s a passage with a bronze monument of the famous Ukrainian architect Vladislav Gorodetsky. You’ll see him sitting at a table at an outdoor café with a cup of coffee in his hand. Legend has it that Vladislav Gorodetsky can fulfil your desires when it comes to property acquisition – you simply have to make a wish and walk around the monument three times. Just a few minutes’ walk from the passage you can admire one of his most famous works – the House with Chimeras.

Photo credit: Polina Bogdavnova

For more local recommendations read:
What locals like to do in Kyiv
Where locals like to eat in Kyiv
Where locals like to party in Kyiv

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