Founded in the 5th century, Kyiv is the mother city of Ukraine, Russia and Belarus. All three descend from Kyivan Rus, the Slavic super-state that existed from the 9th to the 11th centuries. Kyiv has survived Mongol invasions, devastating fires, communist urban planning and the destruction of WWII.
KIEV
● When To Go
The best time to go to Ukraine is in spring (late April to early June), when
perfumed chestnut trees bloom and people the country over rejoice in
throwing off heavy winter coats. The Orthodox rituals surrounding Easter are
fabulous, plus there's a sense of reawakening as cafes begin to set out
outdoor seating again and hikers retake the heights of the Carpathian and
Crimean Mountains. Attractions are less crowded and rainfall is lighter than
in summer.
During the sometimes stiflingly hot summer (July-August), things get
relatively busy as locals head en masse for Crimea, the Black Sea Coast and
the Carpathians. Everything is focused on the great outdoors and most
theatres close. Autumn is almost as inviting as spring, as the crowds
dissipate and the mercury drops to a more comfortable level.
In December and January it's bitingly cold inland, particularly in the east.
But this is a good time to head to the Carpathian Mountains, Ukraine's
skiing district. Travellers should be prepared to don thick wool sweaters
and eat their vegetables pickled. It's wise to book ahead during the public
holidays in the first weeks of January and May.