Getting Around Kiev

General Overview

Getting around Kiev is an experience that you’ll find quite different from many other cities. Many visitors think that they can just hop on a bus or metro without a plan, but trust me, it pays to have some understanding before diving in.

Kiev’s public transport system is pretty efficient overall. You have a trio of main choices: the metro, buses, and trams. Personally, I swear by the metro. It opens at around 6 AM and runs until about 12 AM, and it’s relatively inexpensive—just 8 UAH (that’s about a quarter in USD). For comparison, that’s cheaper than most European capitals, making it a win for your wallet.

Oh, before I forget, a common tourist mistake is not getting an “evening” ticket for the metro, which only applies to the hours after 9 PM; it can save you some cash if you're out late. Speaking of saving money, I learned the hard way that using a taxi is significantly pricier. While it may seem convenient, prepare for a fare that could set you back around 150 UAH or more depending on traffic. Rideshares can be a bit better sense-wise, but still not the best value compared to public transit.

One thing that pleasantly surprised me was the cleanliness of the metro stations. Each one has its own vibe. I really love the Zoloti Vorota station, with its incredible architecture—it feels like stepping back in time!

But it’s not all sunshine. My first time navigating the bus system was a bit of a frustration. I mistakenly hopped on the wrong number—#24 instead of #14—leading me on a wild detour through parts of the city I didn’t mean to explore. A tip for busy times: avoid rush hour (typically between 8-9 AM and 5-6 PM), as the stations can get intensely packed. It can feel more like a game of sardines than a commute.

Oh, and when winter rolls around, watch out! It slips easily into icy delays, particularly in snowstorms. I once waited for a tram in -10°C weather, and trust me, the chill really hits after 10 minutes.

So whether you’re heading to Independence Square or soaking in some local flavor in Podil, my best local hack? Get a transport app. They’ve got real-time updates and can take the guesswork out of planning your route. It’s a travel companion you won’t want to miss. Happy exploring!