Transportation in Kiev
Running the length of the left bank of the River Dnieper, Kiev is a leafy, compact city, best explored on foot.Most attractions are clustered in the historic Verkhny Gorod (Upper City or Old Town), a short and fun funicular ride from Poshtova Plosha.Main street Kreshchatyk divides the city, with the Old Town and the former commercial Podil district in the north. South of Kreshchatyk, the historic architecture of Lypky and the ancient sites of Pechersk give way to the many parks lining the river.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Metro
Kiev's Metro reaches most of the main sights, and is often the quickest way to get around. Tickets are cheap, and services run from 6am to midnight. Buy one smart card (available for up to 100 rides) which should cover the whole of your trip.
Minibus
Marshrutki are private minibuses, stopping wherever you flag them down and dropping you off anywhere en route. Services mushroomed after the collapse of Communism and while they now follow fixed routes (and can be a godsend for reaching certain sights) they remain somewhat anarchic affairs.
Taxi
Another post-Soviet phenomenon, it is common (and legal) to flag down private cars (gypsy cabs) and negotiate a fare. A risk in other cities perhaps, but Kiev drivers will get you where you want to go, and fast. Have your destination written down in Ukrainian or Russian, and be ready to haggle.
Foot
Be prepared for steep slopes, and icy conditions at times, but with sturdy footwear, this is the perfect way to see the city, even in winter. Take the funicular to the top of the Old Town and slowly work your way down.
Rent your car
Kiev’s roads aren’t in the best condition and driving is often at high speed, so you need to watch for both holes and oncoming traffic. Some car hire companies limit the area you can visit but you can often hire a chauffeur, which will ease stress of navigating your way around the city.
Special Transportation
Funicular
Forget the views from the new western hotels - Kiev's funicular has given riders the best views of the city since 1905. Catch it at Poshtova Plosha and ride straight up to St Michael's Gold Domed Cathedral.
