Kyiv

Kyiv is the capital and largest city of Ukraine, and an important industrial, scientific, educational, and cultural center of Eastern Europe.

Kyiv is known for its beautiful religious architecture, reflecting its heritage as a holy center for Eastern Orthodox Christianity. The Saint Sophia Cathedral and Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Monastery of the Caves), together listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, each feature gold-domed churches and are significant religious and historical sites. Kyiv’s history goes back at least 1,400 years and it is now a city where old and new coexist, with a large range of museums (including a History of Toilets museum).

The city has changed significantly since Ukraine gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, with new Western-style residential complexes, classy restaurants and modern nightclubs opening in the city center. As well as its noted architectural and historical landmarks, Kyiv is considered one of the greenest cities in Europe, with two botanical gardens and various large and small parks.

Kyiv also has a diverse cultural scene and nightlife, with an impressive range of theaters to suit all tastes, plus cinemas and exhibition centers. As one student, commenting in our student survey, told us: “It's a big city and you can find a lot of things to do here. As it's the capital of Ukraine, it's the center of cultural, sport and art events.”

Kyiv is home to a large number of higher education institutions, including the second-highest ranked in Ukraine, Taras Schevchenko National University of Kyiv.

The city is ranked 20^th in the affordability category of the Best Student Cities index, with much lower living costs than many other European cities. English-taught courses are available, but you’ll still need to practice your Ukrainian in order to navigate daily life in the city!

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