General information about Kyiv

Kyiv is the capital of Ukraine, one of the biggest cities in Europe. It is administrative, economic, scientific, cultural and educational center. This scenic city with population of over 3 million people is located on the banks of the Dnepr River.

Money

The Ukrainian national currency is Hryvnia.

Cash

It is preferable to bring either US dollars or European euros with you. These can be changed at exchange points around the city. Make sure your foreign currency bills are crisp and new looking. Rumpled, torn and written-on bills are usually rejected. Avoid changing money with private individuals.

Credit

Personal checks do not exist in Ukraine, but many places in Kiev accept major credit cards. Travellers’ checks can be cashed in a number of banks. However, do not rely solely on credit or travellers’ checks. Cash is preferred

Safety: Radiation

Radiation levels in Kyiv and most of Ukraine are considered safe and normal by
the U.S. Embassy and others official bodies.

Electricity

The standard electric voltage in Ukraine is 220 volts. If  you bring electric appliances, be sure to take a plug adapter and a sure protector.

History

The name Kyiv is said to derive from the name of Kyi, one of four legendary founders of the city (brothers Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv and sister Lybid'). Kyiv is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe with more than 1500 years history. In the tenth to twelfth centuries Kyiv was a political and cultural capital of Kyivan Rus', a medieval East Slavic state and is considered to be "the mother of Russian cities", the cradle of modern East Slavic civilization.

Kyiv is a city of invaluable historical and cultural monuments, that are on the list of World Heritage . The most renowned landmarks include: Cathedral of St. Sophia with outstanding mosaics and frescoes dating back to the 11th century; Kyivo-Percherskaya Lavra featuring several monasteries and cathedrals; Golden Gate of Kyiv, which date back to 1037; Andrew’ descent, the first street of the ancient Kyiv with the Baroque Church of St. Andrew; the magnificent 19th-century Cathedral of St. Vladimir; and many other attractions.

One more interesting fact about Kyiv, it is truly regarded as one of the greenest cities in Europe. It is said that one can walk from one end of Kyiv to the other in the summertime without leaving the shade of its many trees. Kyiv’s beautiful landscapes, parks and gardens charm and captivate. Take a walk through the ancient streets of this scenic city, feel its unique beauty and the spirit of its past and hospitable citizens will be delighted to introduce Slavic culture to their foreign guests.
For sure your stay in Kyiv will become one of your most memorable experiences.