The most scenic viewpoints in Kyiv

St. Sophia Cathedral bell tower

St. Sophia Cathedral is not only the oldest preserved church in Kyiv, but also one of the best places to take in sweeping views of the city. From a height of 76 meters, you’ll see a picturesque panorama of Sofiiska Square, St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, and Kyiv’s left bank. In winter evenings, the scene feels especially magical, with the capital’s main Christmas tree glowing below.

Address: 24 Volodymyrska Street

Ticket price: adults – 80 UAH, children – 30 UAH

Hryshko National Botanical Garden

The Hryshko Botanical Garden is Kyiv’s largest botanical garden and a place where rare plant collections meet spectacular city views. From here, you can see the Dnipro River, Vydubychi Monastery, and the Left Bank. In spring, during lilac season, the garden becomes one of the city’s most popular sunrise spots, with locals and tourists arriving as early as 5 a.m. to watch the city wake up among blooming hillsides.

Address: 1 Sadovo-Botanichna Street

Ticket price: adults – 150 UAH, children – 100 UAH

Volodymyrska Hill

Volodymyrska Hill Park is one of the most peaceful places for a walk, offering some of the city’s most charming views. From here, you can see historic Podil, Kontraktova Square, Trukhaniv Island, Obolon, and residential neighborhoods stretching along the river. The park features gazebos, benches, and winding paths that lead to scenic viewpoints ideal for photos.

Address: 1 Volodymyrskyi Descent

Admission: free

Zamkova Hora (Castle Hill)

After climbing the metal stairs from Andriivskyi Descent, you’ll reach a quiet hilltop that offers one of Kyiv’s best viewpoints. From here, you can see St. Andrew’s Church, the old streets of Podil, Shchekavytsia Hill, and the Dnipro River stretching beyond the city.

Address: 20B Andriivskyi Descent

Admission: free

Milk Bar at TSUM

On the top floor of the TSUM department store, the popular café-patisserie Milk Bar features a terrace with a beautiful view over Khreshchatyk. It’s a great place to take photos, enjoy well-loved desserts and dishes, and spend time in a relaxed setting overlooking Kyiv’s main street.

Address: 38 Khreshchatyk Street

Admission: free

Motherland Monument

The Motherland Monument is the tallest in Kyiv. It has two observation decks: one at the base of the statue and another on the shield. The lower deck, at 36 meters, is equipped with binoculars, allowing visitors to take a closer look at the city panorama, green hills, the Dnipro River, and historic streets. For those seeking a more intense experience, it’s possible to climb higher to the shield, where Kyiv unfolds below like a map.

Address: 27 Lavrska Street

Ticket price: lower deck – 150 UAH; shield ascent – 1,000 UAH

Wave of Azov Bridge

This modern bridge connects the Obolon Embankment with Natalka Park. Its curved lines resemble a sea wave, and a walk across it offers scenic views of the Dnipro’s bays and the city skyline. It’s an especially popular spot for sunset photos. Crossing the bridge brings you to Obolon Island, where you can stroll along paths or swim at the equipped beach in summer.

Address: The Azov Wave Bridge

Admission: free

Podgorsky House (Baron’s Castle)

This mysterious building on Yaroslaviv Val is known not only for its legends, but also for its views over the Golden Gate from the top of its tower. Visitors can join a guided tour to learn about the building’s unusual history and book a tea service to fully enjoy the views of old Kyiv from the tower windows.

Address: 1 Yaroslaviv Val Street

Admission: please inquire by phone (+380 50 448 33 41)

B-hush lounge bar

B-hush is a panoramic rooftop lounge bar located atop the InterContinental hotel. Its windows and terrace offer sweeping views of the city, from Sofiiska Square to St. Andrew’s Church. The terrace features an elegant bar counter with high stools, making it an ideal place to enjoy signature cocktails while watching the sunset or the city lights at night. European and Asian dishes are also served, which is why B-hush is a perfect spot for a relaxed dinner with views of evening Kyiv during the warmer months.

Viewpoint near October Palace

After climbing the stairs toward October Palace, you’ll reach a viewpoint overlooking Independence Square and the Independence Monument — a favorite area for walks and photos. The view is especially beautiful at sunset, when the evening light gives the square a truly magical atmosphere.

Address: 1 Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred Alley

Admission: free