The Former Prosperity and Beauty!A 4-Day Walking Tour in Kyiv, Ukraine

I remember the end of 2016 when the Ukrainian Hryvnia 💰 plummeted, and I specially flew ✈️ there for a trip. Everything was so cheap that I didn’t even need to check prices 😆. Today, I’m reminiscing about that time. I arrived just two days before New Year’s 🎉, and the whole country was immersed in a festive atmosphere. I joined a small group of backpackers 🎒 who were there at the same time, and together, as broke students, we embarked on an adventure 🌍. There are many hotels near Independence Square in the city center, and with the prices back then, you could practically choose any place without thinking twice 😎. I stayed at the InterContinental Hotel, just a 5-minute walk away, which was super convenient 🏨. For sightseeing, there are several must-visit spots, especially for first-timers: Saint Sophia’s Cathedral ⛪: Located in the heart of Kyiv, this 11th-century cathedral is one of Ukraine’s most famous historical landmarks. A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, it’s renowned for its frescoes and mosaics 🎨. You can also enjoy a panoramic view of Kyiv from the top 🌆. St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery ✨: Founded in the 12th century, its golden domes and blue walls make it one of Kyiv’s most iconic skyline features. Andriyivsky Descent 🎨: The most artistic street, lined with galleries, handicraft shops, restaurants, and bars �. It’s the perfect place to buy unique Ukrainian souvenirs 🛍️. Independence Square 🏛️: The political and cultural center of Kyiv, this square has witnessed many significant events in Ukrainian history. It’s surrounded by historical buildings and modern commercial facilities. Chernobyl Museum ☢️: Dedicated to documenting and commemorating the history of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Motherland Monument 🗽: Standing at 102 meters, this is Ukraine’s tallest statue and a Kyiv landmark. There’s also a war museum nearby 🪖. Food Recommendations 🍴: Borscht 🥣: Ukraine’s most iconic dish, made with beets, potatoes, carrots, onions, and cabbage. Best enjoyed with sour cream and bread 🥖. Salo (Pork Stew with Potatoes) 🥘: A hearty dish made with pork, potatoes, onions, and garlic. Served with traditional black bread and pickled vegetables 🥒. Varenyky (Cheese Dumplings) 🥟: Similar to Chinese dumplings, filled with potatoes, cheese, or jam 🍓. Deruny (Chicken and Potato Bake) 🍗: A crispy yet tender dish made with potatoes and chicken, usually served with sour cream 🥄. I hope to visit Ukraine again someday, perhaps driving across the country to explore more 🚗. Above all, I wish for world peace 🙏. #Ukraine #Kyiv #EasternEuropeTravel #EasternEuropeCuisine #HiddenGemDestinations #OffTheBeatenPath #TheWorldIsAmazing