Not sure where to stay in Kiev? Here are the best areas to stay in Ukraine’s capital!
Ukraine’s capital and largest city, Kiev is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe and one of the oldest centers of Christianity in the region. This gigantic city has a population of almost 2.9 million, spread over 800 km². Nicknamed « the mother of Eastern Slavic civilization », it is considered to be the cradle of Russia – which explains its cultural and historical richness.
Kiev is probably one of Europe’s most underrated cities. Thanks to its history, Kiev boasts many dazzling and magnificent monuments, some of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Saint Sophia Cathedral and the Kiev Caves. What’s more, it boasts a vibrant, lively nightlife and a fascinating culture, between West and East, that’s waiting to be discovered!
However, because it is so large and populous, the city is difficult to get to grips with. It’s essential to choose the right accommodation in Kiev to make sure you enjoy the city and its charms. Luckily for you, this article is here to help: here you’ll find the best places and neighborhoods to stay in Kiev!
Around Kreshchatyk Street & Maidan Nezalezhnosti
Photo credit: Wikimedia- ЯдвигаВереск
If you don’t know where to stay in Kiev and want a truly central location, we recommend you stay around Kreshchatyk Street and, above all, close to Independence Square or Maidan Nezalezhnosti (in Ukrainian). From here, you’ll have easy access to all the city’s tourist attractions and historic monuments, such as Saint Sophia Cathedral, the Golden Gate or the Mariyinsky Palace.
Around Kiev’s Golden Gate
Photo credit: Wikimedia- Håkan Henriksson
One of the best neighborhoods and places to stay in Kiev: the area around the Golden Gate is close to Kreshchatyk Street and Maidan Nezalezhnosti. In this area you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy yourself and have fun in the evening! You’re also just a stone’s throw from Saint Sophia Cathedral and many other monuments, as in the previous district. However, you may have to pay a little more for your accommodation in Kiev.
Podil: Kiev’s historic and beautiful place to stay
To the north of the Cathedral and the above-mentioned neighborhoods lies the Podil district. Close to the city center, this district is known for its old historic buildings. It’s also quieter, more pleasant and more comfortable than the eastern part of the vast Shevchenko district, where the Golden Gate and Independence Square are located.
Accommodation in Kiev’s beautiful Podil district also gives you easy access to the port area and the famous St. Andrew’s Descent – nicknamed the Montmartre of Kiev. Podil’s other advantage lies in its relaxing atmosphere and local life. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafés and local markets in Podil. So if you’d like to experience a bit more of Ukrainian local life and have a bit more peace and quiet, we recommend Podil for your accommodation in Kiev!
Pechersk district
To the south-west of the other districts mentioned above, you’ll find the Pechersk district. A very interesting area to stay in Kiev, as it’s home to the Kiev Cave Lavra, the Statue of the Motherland and the Botanical Garden. You’re also close to the city’s other tourist and historical attractions, as well as to the Dnieper – the river that runs through the city. What’s more, hotel prices are on average lower in this district – a great way to stay in Kiev on a budget!
Map of hotels and accommodation – Kiev,ua