Kyiv is the capital and most populous city of Ukraine. It is in north-central Ukraine along the Dnipro River. Kyiv is an important industrial, scientific, educational, and cultural center of Eastern Europe. It is home to many high-tech industries, higher education institutions, and historical landmarks. The city has an extensive system of public transport and infrastructure, including the Kyiv Metro.
Warnings & Dangers in Kyiv
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Kyiv is a relatively safe city. Use common sense, don't walk around town late at night, leave things unattended, and keep an eye on your surroundings.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport and taxis are well developed and safe. On the subway, keep an eye on your wallets and bags - pickpocketing is possible. Use only licensed taxi services and miss a car from the street.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Pickpocketing happens just like everywhere else - in the area of train stations, in the main squares, and in places where tourists gather. Always keep track of your belongings, do not leave your wallet and phone unattended.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
Kyiv is not exposed to any serious risks of natural disasters.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Kyiv. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Kyiv. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
The most common scam in Kyiv involves fundraising or signing petitions. Under the guise of good intentions, scammers are actually deceiving tourists and collecting donations in their pockets.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone in Kyiv should avoid late-night walks and be very discreet on the city streets. Heightened precautions won't hurt.
How Safe Is Kyiv for Tourists?
Kyiv is a relatively safe city to travel to.
The crime index here ranges from low to medium.
The main problems are related to corruption, petty theft, and vandalism.
The most common thing that can happen in Kyiv is pickpocketing and fraud.
This happens especially often in crowded places, in tourist areas, in bars and nightclubs, and on public transport.
Serious attacks and robberies are improbable, especially if you are only in the center and tourist areas.
On public transport, especially on the metro, you should be very careful and watch out for your pockets.
Racial violence and harassment can occur without local government action.
Kyiv is generally an open and friendly city, and in most areas, it stays busy until at least 23:00.
After dark, you should be careful not to walk alone in the city – especially if you are a girl.
Use a taxi to return to your home.
People are very tolerant and friendly; many especially young people, speak English well.
Behave here just like in your hometown and everything will be fine.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Kyiv?
Visitors to Ukraine must obtain a visa from one of the Ukrainian diplomatic missions or online unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Kyiv?
The hryvnia, hryvna, or sometimes hryvnya has been the national currency of Ukraine since 2 September 1996. The hryvnia is subdivided into 100 kopiyok.
How's the Weather like in Kyiv?
In Kyiv, the summers are comfortable and partly cloudy, and the winters are long, freezing, dry, windy, and mostly cloudy. Months of April , May, June, September, and October are usually months of the best weather in Kyiv.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Kyiv?
Boryspil International Airport is the largest airport in Ukraine and the main airport serving the capital city, Kyiv. The airport is located 29km southeast of central Kyiv near the city of Boryspil.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Kyiv?
The city is famous for monuments of religious architecture and historical museums. The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra of the 11th century is a monastery and a center of pilgrimage. Several churches crowned with golden domes rise on its territory. This architectural complex is famous for its underground passages leading to the tombs of Orthodox monks and its collection of golden objects from Scythian times.
Is the Water in Kyiv Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not potable. You can use bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Kyiv?
There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day and the distance traveled.
