Ukraine - Kiev City Break

Ukraine, an independent republic since 1991, is welcoming visitors with an increasingly strong sense of pride and cultural awareness. We have plenty to offer in Ukraine, below are a few ideas to whet your appetite.

DIFFERENT WAYS TO TRAVEL TO THE UKRAINE

KEY TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN THE COUNTRY

Kiev
The capital of Ukraine Kiev is located on the Dnieper River, one of the largest in Europe. Kiev, used to be called the Mother of Russian cities. The first Slavic state called Kiev Rus originated here. During 15 centuries of its existence (the city was mentioned for the first time in the chronicles of the 6th century) Kiev was involved in many historic events. Numerous monuments, the names of city streets and squares remind of them. Today Kiev is a city of wonderful architectural ensembles, new avenues and ancient cathedrals. It is especially attractive for the majestic Dniepr, picturesque high banks, numerous gardens and parks covering more than half of its area. One can get the most beautiful view of the city from its highest point, St.Vladimir Hill. Kiev's landmarks are famous all over the world, among them the Kiev-Pechersk Monastery of the 11-12th centuries, the first Christian monastery of Kiev Rus, St Sophia Cathedral with its unique collection of frescoes and mosaics, St Andrew Church, the creation of the great Bartolommeo Rastrelli.

Yalta
Yalta, the most popular resort in the Crimea, was founded by ancient Greeks on the Black Sea coast. The Greeks called the settlement Yalta from "Yalos", the Greek word for a "shore". Yalta is one of the resorts of the Crimean Peninsula where excellent climate and nature unfold before the traveler the scenes of striking and unique beauty. It is ideally located along the southern coast of the Crimea and well protected from northern winds by the Crimean Mountains. A mild subtropical climate, therapeutic effects of the air and a long bathing season attract a lot of tourists to Yalta. The average monthly temperature of the seawater in summer is +26°C. Historical, archaeological and architectural monuments supplement the magnificent beauty of exotic landscape. Among the most captivating attractions of Yalta is Livadia, the summer residence of the last Russian tsar, located 3 km from the city, with its Grand Palace, where the historical Crimean conference was held in 1945, the Alupka Palace of counts Vorontsov, Bakhchisarai, the former capital of the Tatar Khans and the famous castle called the Swallow's Nest (Lastochkino Gnezdo).

Odessa
Russian Field-Marshal Suvorov founded Odessa in 1794 on the site of the Turkish fortress Hadzhibey. Odessa is the pearl of Southern Ukraine. Many holiday makers admire its beautiful streets and architectural sites. The most famous of them are the Opera Theatre, Primorsky Boulevard as well as the Potemkin steps. Odessa is a famous Black Sea port with a unique climate, sun beaches and bays with medicinal muds.

Sevastopol
Sevastopol was founded in 1783 in the place of the ancient Greek town of Khersones Tavrichesky now lying in ruins. The city's Greek name means a town of glory and grandeur. Its history has proved more than once that Sevastopol fully justified its name. It is a Black Sea port and a military base of the two Navy fleets: that of Russia and of Ukraine. Sevastopol is also a cultural centre of long traditions.

Simferopol
Administrative and cultural centre of the Crimea, 852 km away from Kiev. Population is about 400,000. The city is the gateway to the Crimea as here is the main airport and railway station. it is the first port of call for travellers en-route to Crimean resorts.

Lvov
Lvov is one of the most beautiful Ukrainian cities. It is situated on Volinsko-Podolsky Hills. The city was founded in 1256 by Galitsko-Volynsky Prince Daniel and was named after his son. The symbol of the city is a lion, the king of animals. One can see the depiction of lions on the emblem of the city and on the facades of the buildings. Dozens of talented architects left their autographs in the architectural appearance of the city. Many buildings of the 14-16th centuries have come down to our times. Alongside with a beautiful Gothic cathedral one can see a splendid Baroque Catholic church and eclectic modern styles. The ancient city centre with a market square is a historical and architectural reserve.

WHICH OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS WOULD YOU RECOMMEND?

A city tour in each town where you city is a good idea for getting your bearings. In Kiev, a trip to Lavra Cave Monastery is essential and in the Crimea a visit to the Vorontsov's Palace is a great experience. We can also supply a day trip to Chernobyl to view the damage which the accident in 1986 caused to this area of Ukraine. Details can be found here. Please click here for a full list of optional tours which are available. Please find more information about excursions we offer on our Excursions - Ukraine page.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR VISAS?

For British and EU passport holders, if you are staying less than 90 days then you do not require a visa.

START & END OF THE HOLIDAY

Perhaps before or after the holiday you can catch the overnight train to Moscow to see this great city.

FLIGHTS

Intourist Limited can offer very competitive flights with British Airways and Ukraine International. Flights on British Airways fly from London Heathrow into Kiev. Flight costs start from around £216.00 plus Government and departure taxes. Ukraine International fly from London Heathrow and Gatwick direct to Kiev and then have an extenstive network of flights to regional cities in the Ukraine. Ukraine International flight costs start from around £165.00 plus Government and departure taxes. Please speak to one of our consutants to discuss flight options or costs.

For more information regarding any of these services and for a no obligation quote, please contact our reservations office.