For those who are tired of all the old, well-trodden city tours, the Kyiv Post has explored some unusual and intriguing adventures that show the Ukrainian capital from fresh angles. The following excursions will be of interest to both long-term residents and newcomers to the city.
Exploring catacombs
Those who like risks and tingling nerves will like the city’s underground tours. Roaming mysterious neglected catacombs, walking along the Klov, Kyiv’s most beautiful underground river, and discovering unfinished Kyiv subway stations – through which trains pass every day without stopping – will give you a break from everyday routines and provide some fresh experiences. English-speaking tour guides are available, and cost a modest Hr 200-250 per person. Tourists can also hire waders to help keep dry while underground.
For more information visit: www.another.kiev.ua
Riding in a tram-café
A leisurely trip in an old tram conjures up the atmosphere of the city in late 19th century, with tourists enjoying the most picturesque Kyiv streets from the tram’s windows and listening to a tour guide’s amusing stories about the capital’s history and the past lives of its inhabitants. During the two-hour trip you can order chocolate, fruit, and pastries, as well as cognac and champagne – right on the tram! City tours in English or German take place on weekdays only. The price of a ticket is Hr 100 per person, while a tour guide service costs an additional Hr 500. You can even hire the whole tram (with seating for 21 persons) for Hr 1,250.
For more information visit: tramvaj-kafe.kiev.ua
Kyiv Night Tour
Night owls will appreciate an evening walking tour that delves into the secrets of Podil, one of Kyiv’s oldest and colorful districts. Tourists will have the chance to learn all of the legends and myths of some little-known spots in the neighborhood. The tour also includes a picnic and city quests in the middle of the night. The journeys start at 10.30 p.m. and end at dawn. It costs Hr 150-200 per person to join a group tour. Individual night tours are available for Hr 1,500.
For more information visit: kiev-code.com.ua
Fortress cycling tour
A breathtaking cycling tour of the Kyiv’s 19th century city fortress, the biggest earthen fortification building in Europe, is sure to leave you with lasting impressions. During the seven-hour tour, sightseers will learn of the fortress’s history and its architectural features. Visits to its museum, prison, towers and caponiers (fortified walls with firing positions) will please even the most curious of tourists. The tour costs Hr 300–350 per person.
For more information visit: www.interesniy.kiev.ua
