Kyiv Kyiv City, Ukraine Travel Guide
Land transportation serves as the only entry and exit method for international travelers to Kyiv. This requires careful planning and awareness of border procedures. Main land border crossings from Poland include Medyka-Shehyni, Korczowa-Krakovets, Dorohusk-Yahodyn, and Hrebenne-Rava-Ruska.
Expect potentially long queue times at border crossings, especially for private vehicles or during peak periods. Required documentation: your passport, visa (if applicable), proof of travel insurance (especially war-risk coverage if obtained), and proof of purpose of travel (e.g., humanitarian work, journalism, family visits).
Ukrzaliznytsia (Ukrainian Railways) operates international train routes from neighboring countries. Common departure cities include Warsaw, Chełm, and Przemysl in Poland; Chisinau in Moldova; Kosice in Slovakia; and Budapest in Hungary. These are often overnight trains.
International bus services operate from various European cities to Kyiv. Major companies FlixBus, Eurolines, and a lot of local Ukrainian operators. Buses typically arrive at Kyiv's central bus station (Kyiv Avtovokzal) or other smaller stations. Buses offer an economical option.
Self-driving is not recommended for tourists due to war risks, road conditions, security situations, and checkpoints. If driving for essential reasons, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed alongside a national driving license.
Ukrzaliznytsia tickets sell out quickly for popular routes. Booking online via their web page or app, or at stations, is recommended.
Buses are an economical option but may offer less comfort as opposed to trains for long journeys. Plan accordingly for longer trips.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed if you plan to drive. Road conditions vary; major highways are generally better.
Historically, Kyiv was served by Boryspil International Airport (KBP) and Kyiv International Airport (Zhuliany) (IEV). These airports are currently closed for civilian operations. No commercial flights operate.
No commercial airline service currently operates to or from Kyiv. Historically, many airlines served Kyiv. Travelers to Ukraine typically fly into neighboring countries (e.g., Poland, Moldova, Romania) and then proceed by land.
All civilian airspace over Ukraine is currently closed due to the ongoing full-scale invasion, making air travel to Kyiv impossible.
International travelers must rely on land directions to enter and exit the country, often flying to nearby nations and continuing by bus or train.
Careful planning is needed for land entry, including awareness of border procedures, required documents, and potential wait times. Advance booking for trains or buses is advised.
Kyiv is landlocked, so direct international sea or river arrivals are not applicable for tourism. The Dnieper River is not an international entry point for tourism for ferry travel or cruise ships.
Pleasure cruises on the Dnieper River were available pre-war. Their current status is highly restricted or suspended due to security concerns. No specific immigration procedures at seaports for Kyiv.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply for travelers departing from Ukraine by land. This simplifies departure budgeting.
For train or bus, arrive at the station with enough time for security checks and to navigate crowds. Delays are possible.
Land departure border crossing times are unpredictable. Allow significant buffer time, especially for onward international connections.
For land travel, especially by train, tickets often book up rapidly for popular routes. Booking reserving tickets ahead of time is highly recommended to secure your passage. Always check current travel advisories.
