Kyiv , Ukraine

Kyiv Urbex Adventure and History Tour

Active

(162 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

During exploration of the another side of Kiev with experienced guide you will go throw the tunnel system under streets, visit one of the forgotten cold war nuclear bunkers and climb on the rooftop of abandoned building to see panorama city view.

This tour takes approximately 3 hours of your lifetime in active adventure.

Available options

Join the group

It's Join the group option

Private

Private tour option

What's included

You will be provided with:

transfer between objects are included

gloves

rubber high boots (from Soviet military protective wear set)

torches

Detailed itinerary

Guide will meet you on metro station "Dnipro" or if you want you will be picked up from your place.

For passing underground route you need to wear comfortable shoes and clothes which you will be not upset to make a little bit dirty and wet - you are going to real underground tunnels. Be ready for adventures!

Pants must be with belt, or take belt with you separately.The temperature underground is about + 12 °, regardless of the temperature on the surface.

Don't take massive backpacks and bags. Better not to take bags at all, or take a smaller one. It is not comfortable to move in tunnels with big bags full of massive camera gear.

You will be provided with:
• torches
• gloves
• rubber high boots (from Soviet military protective wear set)
• transfer between objects are included

PART 1. Depending on a season first part of the combo UrbEx tour is a visit to drain tunnel system or underground river. This part takes 1,5 - 3 hours of walking through underground tunnels. We will give you torches and special gum boots which you will wear over shoes to keep feet clean and soft. With experienced guide you will:
• walk 1,5-3 kilometers through the tunnels
• know out everything about Kiev's underground world
• feel how is it to be in absolute darkness
• get totally new experience about cityTransfer between objects are included t tour price.

PART 2. Explore one of the abandoned Cold War bunkers forgotten since USSR times. Bunker expedition is chance to turn out behind massive Soviet hermetic blast door in abandoned fallout shelter. The major idea of visiting this object is to feel yourself in a time when all people have been living in a fear of nuclear attack. Guided tour usually takes near one hour. You will:
• touch one of the hidden pages of Ukrainian history
• see real civil equipment frozen in time
• explore how to survive after nuclear war

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected)

You need to take belt with you

take on some comfortable clothes which you won’t be upset to make a little bit dirty or wet

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

161 reviews

5★

150

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Minimum age is 18 years

The tour is NOT RECOMMENDED:

people suffering from claustrophobia

people who can not get into the usual manhole

people suffering from low back pain or back problems

people have excess weight or heart disease

take on some comfortable clothes which you won’t be upset to make a little bit dirty or wet. Pants should be with a belt.

Meeting point

Departure Point: Metro station "Dnipro" - your guide will wait for you on the exit, near ticket office. There is only one exit so it's not possible to get lost.

Important notes

For passing underground route you need to wear comfortable shoes and clothes which you will be not upset to make a little bit dirty and wet - you are going to real underground tunnels. Be ready for adventures!

Pants must be with belt, or take belt with you separately.The temperature underground is about + 12 °, regardless of the temperature on the surface.

Don't take massive backpacks and bags. Better not to take bags at all, or take a smaller one. It is not comfortable to move in tunnels with big bags full of massive camera gear.

You will be provided with:
• torches
• gloves
• rubber high boots (from Soviet military protective wear set)
• transfer between objects are included
• Don't take massive backpacks with you! (part of the route goes through the tunnels, which are narrow or/and have low-ceiling (1,6 m high))
• Put on a cap or something on your head!
• Put on comfortable clothes you are not afraid to make a little dirty. No tuxedo and high heels! :)
• If you are interested in Photography take with you tripod

About Kyiv

Kyiv, the capital and largest city of Ukraine, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern culture. Known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and lively arts scene, Kyiv offers a unique travel experience with its medieval cathedrals, golden-domed churches, and bustling modern districts.

Top Attractions

Saint Sophia Cathedral

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 11th-century cathedral is one of the oldest churches in Kyiv and features stunning mosaics and frescoes.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours 100 UAH

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Kyiv Monastery of the Caves)

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic Orthodox Christian monastery is famous for its underground caves and golden-domed churches.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Free (some areas require tickets)

Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti)

The central square of Kyiv, known for its political significance and vibrant atmosphere. It's a hub for cultural events and protests.

Historical/Cultural 30 minutes to a few hours Free

Golden Gate of Kyiv

A reconstructed ancient gateway that once served as the main entrance to the city. It's a symbol of Kyiv's rich history and medieval architecture.

Historical 30-60 minutes 20 UAH

Andriyivsky Descent

A historic street with cobblestone steps, lined with art galleries, cafes, and souvenir shops. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Free (shopping and dining vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Borscht

A traditional beetroot soup, often served with sour cream and fresh bread. It can be made with or without meat.

Soup Vegetarian options available

Varenyky

Dumplings filled with various ingredients like potatoes, cheese, cabbage, or meat. They are often served with sour cream and onions.

Main Course/Snack Vegetarian options available

Holubtsi

Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of rice and minced meat, usually served with a tomato-based sauce.

Main Course Vegetarian options available

Deruny

Potato pancakes, often served with sour cream or mushroom sauce. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Side Dish/Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Boating Guided tours of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone Spa treatments River cruises Park picnics Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals. It's ideal for exploring the city's parks, riverside areas, and historical sites.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Ukrainian
Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts

Currency

Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)

Time Zone

EET (UTC+2), EEST (UTC+3) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kyiv is generally safe for tourists, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transportation. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or app-based services

Getting there

By air

Boryspil International Airport • 36 km from city center
Kyiv International Airport (Zhuliany) • 7 km from city center

By train

Kyiv Central Station, Kyiv-Pasazhyrsky Station

By bus

Kyiv Central Bus Station (TzUM), South Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Kyiv Metro is efficient, clean, and affordable, with three lines connecting major parts of the city. It's the fastest way to get around during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uklon, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Podil Pechersk Pechersk Lypky Obolon

Day trips

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

130 km from Kyiv • Full day

A guided tour of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, offering a unique and sobering look at the site of the 1986 nuclear disaster.

Mezhygirya

20 km from Kyiv • Half day

A historic estate and park known for its beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and cultural significance.

Kaniv

130 km from Kyiv • Full day

A scenic town on the Dnipro River, known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and cultural significance.

Festivals

Kyiv Day • Last Sunday in May Kyiv International Film Festival • Late May to early June Wizz Air Kyiv City Jazz Festival • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Ukrainian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Use the metro for fast and efficient transportation around the city
Try local street food and traditional dishes for an authentic taste of Ukrainian cuisine
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore beyond the city center to discover hidden gems and local experiences