WHAT’S COOL IN KIEV?
When it comes to a weekend away, the Ukraine might not exactly be the first place that comes to mind. Yet for thousands of football fans from England and Spain, there’s simply nowhere else to be this weekend.
The Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex hosts the Champions League Final
If you are heading to Kiev for the Champions League Final, then there’s a lot more to see than just the Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex. Madrid may be favourites for the cup and for travellers, but as we saw recently, Liverpool can hold many hidden surprises if you know where to look, and Kiev is much the same.
Over 80,000 Brits visit Kiev every year. Cheap and cheerful Ryanair flights from Stansted facilitate the opportunity for Brits to take in the culture, arts and atmosphere of one of Europe’s lesser known capitals. It’s fairly cheap when you get there, too. Kiev has with surprisingly affordable food and drink, as compared to other European capitals. And you can get around quickly and easily on the Metro, which operates on a one-ticket-per-ride system; this saves you the trouble of having to try your pidgin-Ukrainian at the ticket booth.
Where to party
Kiev is known for its nightlife, and there is a huge range of clubs to choose from, whether you are celebrating Champions League success or drowning your sorrows. The top end clubs are especially impressive, with places like D-Lux, Faberge and Club Forsage competing for the smart set. However, those in the know will head for Patipa, which is a little less skin deep and way cooler.
Where to drink
The Buddha Bar is a name to trust for chilled out vibes anywhere in the world, and Buddha Bar Kiev is no exception. Effortlessly cool, it has the longest bar in the city, so there’s plenty of space to pull up a stool and enjoy your 50p beer. Alternatively, for a drink with a view, check out Concord, which is high up on the Dombass Centre roof. Just remember that drinking on the streets is against the law, and even if you see the locals doing it, you risk a face-off with the local police, which could leave you seriously out-of-pocket in fines (or worse).
Where to eat
For an authentic taste of Ukrainian food, head for Kanapa, Pervak or Shoti, all of which are within easy walking distance of the football stadium. If you’re feeling homesick, head for Whisky Corner for traditional British and Scottish cuisine.
Art is all around you
Despite the grey reputation of the Ukraine, Kiev is a beautiful city with stunning architecture at every turn. The gold-domed churches glinting in the sun are sights that are worth the trip on their own. There’s also a huge underground art scene, so keep a look out for flyers and bill postings for the coolest contemporary shows that are regularly popping up in the city’s 134 museums and art galleries.
