Navigating in Kyiv is not always easy, especially for tourists. Therefore, Kyiv Post has compiled a list of the top free mobile phone apps which will assist one in exploring this beautiful city with ease.
Android apps:
Map of Kyiv Offline (4.2* rating)
The best starting point for one’s trip is an updated, good quality map. This app does not require Wi-Fi and allows to easily categorize what one is looking for, whether it is a restaurant, shop or the nearest metro station, this app lists all points of interest.
In addition, there is an address search option and all buildings on the map are numbered, which is very useful for Kyiv’s lengthy streets – of which there are many.
The only downside to this app is that some titles and street names are only in Cyrillic and do not give a Latin transliteration making it difficult for those unable to read the Cyrillic alphabet. Furthermore, you are required to download a Cyrillic keyboard, in order to use the address search feature.
Metro Kiev Free (4.3* rating)
One of the quickest ways to travel around the city is by using the regular metro service. This app does not require Wi-Fi making it perfect to use underground when GPS signal is unobtainable. The app shows the full metro map including all lines and stations with Latin transliteration, making it user-friendly for non-Cyrillic alphabet readers.
The best feature of this app is that it allows setting a route from the current metro station to the desired station, informing whether one needs to change lines. In addition, the app gives you an ETA, stating the duration time spent on both the metro and escalators.
Travel Ukraine Visit Kiev 2016 (3.6* rating)
An app which is updated monthly, it not only has all the necessary information about Kyiv but also has additional information that helps prepare the visit, such as visa requirements, immigration regulations, communication information (Internet and mobile sim-cards) and calculating the average cost of one’s trip.
Helpful options for when one arrive’s in Kyiv include: a currency converter, useful phone numbers and a phrasebook.
Learn Ukrainian Free (4.7* rating)
Learning some basic Ukrainian when one comes to Kyiv is a good idea since the number of people able to speak English is significantly lower than in other European capitals.
This app is rated No. 1 free Ukrainian language learning app and uses fun, interactive and easy methods to learn core vocabulary and useful everyday phrases.
The app includes several languages, making it accessible to speakers from different countries.
It focuses on practicing phrases that are necessary for real situations, such as ordering in a restaurant or buying something in a shop.
The app offers six free lessons worth of vocabulary and phrases per topic and a leader board to compare one’s progress with other app users.
The only negative point is that one must pay to unlock all the lessons. However, lessons containing the basic, most useful language are provided free.
Radio Ukraine (4.7* rating)
This app gives access to over 20 Ukrainian radio stations. It helps one to keep updated on the latest Ukrainian news and listen to all genres of music without the need for WiFi. Radio Ukraine can aid one in improving their language skills as well as immersing further into Ukrainian culture through hearing the sounds of Ukraine.
iOs apps:
Kiev Map (4+ rating)
An offline car, bike, pedestrian and subway navigation system. As well as guiding one to their destination, planning a subway route and finding nearby points of interest, the app also offers a 2D/3D switchable map display and compass function.
The map displays street names in both Cyrillic and Latin script.
Kiev Metro Guide (4+ rating)
One of the quickest ways to travel around the city is by using the regular metro service. This app does not require WiFi, making it perfect to use underground when GPS signal is unobtainable.
The app can set a route from the current metro station to one’s desired station destination, informing one where to change lines. The app also counts an estimated time of arrival, stating the duration time spent on the metro and escalators, as well as prices and payment options.
Awesome Kyiv (4+ rating)
Awesome Kyiv provides one with the list of exciting events happening nearby, the city’s hidden gems and the best places to eat.
Additionally, one can browse through their illustrated articles which give an insight into the city’s rich culture and history, with references to major historical events, famous residents, arts, sport and Ukrainian traditions.
The full version of the app costs $2.99.
Learn Ukrainian – Free WordPower (4+ rating)
The language learning app aimed at those who don’t really have time to learn a new language. The app uses innovative, quick and easy methods.
The course begins with learning the Top 100 most used words and even helps you perfect your pronunciation with the accessible native speaker voice recorder.
The full version of the app costs $9.99.
Ukraine Radio Live Player (4+ rating)
An iOs version of Android’s Radio Ukraine, this app gives one access to over 20 Ukrainian radio stations. It helps one to keep updated on the latest Ukrainian news and listen to all genres of music.
The best feature is that the app supports multitasking/background mode.
