Kiev’s parks and green spaces are a great way to see the city. They will take you past some of the best churches, give you some outstanding views and lead you to some of the most popular attractions in Kiev.
Khreshchatyi Park
People’s Friendship Arch
Khreshchatyi Park, the best of Kiev’s parks, looks out over the Dnieper River and was completed in 1982 to celebrate 60 years of the Soviet Union. There is also an amphitheatre to the side of the arch which hosts outdoor concerts and other events.
Museum of Water
The Water Museum is housed in an old and extremely handsome water tower and seems very popular with local families. Tours are available in English.
Puppets Theatre
Khreshchatyi Park’s Puppet Theatre is very popular with families and has some fun and playful statues outside it, making for a wonderful photo opportunity.
Bridge of Lovers
Lovers Bridge links Khreshchatyi Park to City Garden. The bridge is decorated with engraved padlocks and the occasional poesy of flowers. It also offers quite a romantic view of the Dnieper River and the beaches of the Gidropark.
Toad Monument
Legend has it that if you make a wish and pop your penny in his mouth you could be the lucky one to win the infamous jackpot waiting inside!
Kiev’s Parks – Mariyinsky Park
Mariyinsky Palace
Mariyinsky Park is most importantly home to Mariinsky Palace, the beautifully blue and impressively grand ceremonial home to the president of Ukraine.
If the President is in the vicinity you will quickly know as armed guards will be posted every 20 meters around the perimeter, and they aren’t exactly the friendliest looking bunch.
Dynamo Kiev Stadium
The stadium is nestled down into Mariyinsky Park opposite Mariinsky Palace. Because of its lowered position you can get a great view of the pitch as you walk past it and match days must offer great views!
The Director Statue and Observation Deck
Around the left hand side of the Palace there is an observation point offering remarkable views out on to the Dnieper River and the wider city. This is a popular spot to take a photo with The Director Statue or just take in the vista.
Pechersk Hills
Askold’s Grave
Askold’s Grave has been surrounded by many myths and legends. It is thought to be the burial ground of Prince Askold who was killed in 882 for his place on the throne. Due to his popularity with the people of Kiev, a church was erected on the site in his memory. The churches were then rebuilt many times into what exists today.
It has also been a cemetery where many well known Ukrainian’s were laid to rest, but was ultimately turned into a park in 1935.
Kiev’s Cenotaph and Monument to the Unknown Solider
Beautiful, impressive, imposing and memorable. The cenotaph looms over the entrance to the park and is a great place to take in yet another incredible view over the river.
Holodomor Genicide Museum 1932-33
Kiev’s parks is also home to the Holodomor Genicide monument which is fascinating because of its intricate iron work crosses. The museum is actually underneath it and it really is one not to be missed! For more information on Holodomor Genicide Museum click here.
Entrance to Pechersk Lavra and views of The Motherland Monument
Just around the corner from the Holodomor Genicide Museum is the entrance to Pechersk Lavra, the number one tourist destination for people travelling to Kiev. To find you more about Pechersk Lavra click here.
It’s from here you can also experience some great views of The Motherland Monument. The Motherland Monument was to commemorate the Soviet Union defeating Nazi Germany. It is made of titanium and stands 62 meters high, making it the 24th tallest statue in the world.
Volodymyrska Hill – Kiev’s Parks
St Michael’s Monastery
Volodymyrska Hill gives direct access to the back of St Michael’s Monastery after you have taken in some more breathtaking views over greater Kiev. Then leave from the front entrance under the bell tower and take a stroll over to St Sophia’s too! To find out more about Kiev’s amazing churches, cathedrals and monasteries click here!
Openwork Gazebo
The Openwork Gazebo provides rest bite from the rain and the sun and makes a great spot to look out onto the Left Bank from the highest of Kiev’s parks.
Volodymyrska Hill was the first free of charge public park in Kiev and is best known for the monument to St. Volodymyr of Kiev.
Verkhnia Stantsiia – Kiev’s Funicular
Verkhnia Stantsiia is one of only two funicular’s in the Ukraine and links the Podil district to the city centre. It first opened in 1905 and is located behind St Michael’s Monastery.
Taras Shevchenko Park
The National University of Taras Shevchenko is hard to miss. With its bright red facade and its location in front of an impressive statue of it’s name sake, Taras Shevchenko – a famous Ukrainian poet, writer and political figure.
Park of Benches
Taras Shevchenko Park is full of different shaped parked benches. You can make quite the game out of sitting in and finding all the different seats!
St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral
Exploring Taras Shevchenko Park is a great way to edge your way closer to St Volodymyr’s Cathedral. It’s one of the most lovely and intriguing churches to visit in the city. If you want to know more click here!
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Awesome post! We are really hoping to travel to Kiev int he next couple of years to visit family. It is such a beautiful city!
What a great place to visit – looks like tons of awesome sights to see!
Wow these look like some great parks to visit while there!
Looks like a great place to visit, even in the Winter. Awesome tips!