Movies and Books Set in Kiev

If you’re a film enthusiast with a passion for travel, Kiev, the vibrant capital of Ukraine, should definitely be on your bucket list. Known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and diverse culture, Kiev has served as the backdrop for many famous films and TV shows. This comprehensive guide will take you on a cinematic journey through this charming city, revealing its most iconic filming locations, literary landmarks, and hidden gems. So grab your camera, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the cinematic landscape of Kiev.

7 Famous Films Shot in Kiev

Kiev’s picturesque cityscape and historic landmarks have made it a popular filming location for both local and international productions. Here are seven famous films that were shot in Kiev, each capturing a unique aspect of the city’s character:

1. “Everything is Illuminated” (2005) – This film, starring Elijah Wood, explores the tragic history of the Holocaust in Ukraine, with many scenes shot in Kiev and the surrounding countryside.
2. “The White Guard” (2012) – Based on the novel by Mikhail Bulgakov, this film captures the tumultuous period of the Russian Civil War, with Kiev serving as the main setting.
3. “Cyborgs: Heroes Never Die” (2017) – This war film, based on true events, was shot in various locations around Kiev, showcasing the city’s modern architecture and urban landscapes.
4. “The Rising Hawk” (2019) – Set in the 13th century, this historical drama was filmed in the picturesque Carpathian Mountains near Kiev.
5. “Mr Jones” (2019) – This film, which tells the story of a Welsh journalist who exposed the Soviet famine in Ukraine, was shot in various locations around Kiev.
6. “The Earth Is Blue as an Orange” (2020) – This documentary, which follows a family living in the warzone of Donbas, was filmed in Kiev.
7. “Atlantis” (2020) – Set in Eastern Ukraine in the near future, this film was shot in the industrial areas of Kiev.

These films not only showcase the diverse beauty of Kiev, but also reflect Ukraine’s complex history and cultural identity.

5 TV Shows Set in Kiev

Beyond the big screen, Kiev has also been the setting for numerous television shows. Here are five series that have brought the city’s charm and character to the small screen:

1. “Servant of the People” (2015-2019) – This popular comedy series, which stars current Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, was filmed in various locations around Kiev.
2. “The Sniffer” (2013-2017) – This crime drama series, set in Kiev, follows a man with an extraordinary sense of smell who helps solve crimes.
3. “Hide and Seek” (2019) – This crime thriller, set in a small town near Kiev, was filmed in various locations around the city.
4. “Love in Chains” (2019-2020) – This historical drama series, set in the 19th century, was shot in several historic mansions and palaces in and around Kiev.
5. “The Pulse” (2020-present) – This medical drama, set in a hospital in Kiev, showcases the city’s modern urban landscapes.

These series not only offer a glimpse into different aspects of Ukrainian society, but also highlight Kiev’s versatility as a filming location.

3 Animated Films Set in Kiev

Kiev’s captivating landscapes and rich folklore have also inspired several animated films. Here are a few notable examples:

1. “The Dragon Spell” (2016) – This animated film, set in the magical landscapes of ancient Ukraine, features several scenes inspired by Kiev’s historic landmarks.
2. “Mavka. The Forest Song” (2022) – This upcoming animated film, based on a Ukrainian folk tale, draws inspiration from the country’s natural beauty and traditional art forms.
3. “The Stolen Princess” (2018) – This animated film, set in a fantasy version of Kiev, features several landmarks from the city, including the Golden Gate and Andrew’s Descent.

These animated films showcase the creative potential of Kiev’s landscapes and cultural heritage, offering younger audiences a fun and engaging way to explore the city.

Famous Books Set in Kiev: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

Kiev’s rich history and vibrant culture have inspired many authors, both local and international. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Kiev that will transport you to the heart of this enchanting city:

Classic:

1. “The White Guard” by Mikhail Bulgakov – This novel, set in Kiev during the Russian Civil War, offers a vivid portrayal of the city’s tumultuous history.
2. “Death and the Penguin” by Andrey Kurkov – This darkly comic novel, set in post-Soviet Ukraine, captures the absurdities and contradictions of Kiev’s transition to capitalism.
3. “Everything is Illuminated” by Jonathan Safran Foer – This novel, partly set in Ukraine, explores the country’s tragic past through a young American’s journey to find the woman who saved his grandfather from the Nazis.

Contemporary:

1. “A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian” by Marina Lewycka – This humorous and poignant novel, set in modern Ukraine and England, explores themes of immigration, identity, and family ties.
2. “Sweet Darusya: A Tale of Two Villages” by Maria Matios – This novel, set in rural Ukraine during and after World War II, offers a poignant exploration of the country’s traumatic history.
3. “The Orphanage” by Serhiy Zhadan – This novel, set in war-torn Eastern Ukraine, captures the harsh realities of life in a conflict zone.

These books not only offer a literary journey through Kiev’s multifaceted persona, but also provide valuable insights into Ukraine’s complex history and contemporary issues.

Exploring Kiev’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

If you’re eager to tread the paths of movie stars and soak up the cinematic history of Kiev, here are some essential filming locations in the city you must visit:

1. Saint Sophia’s Cathedral – Featured in “The White Guard,” this iconic landmark is one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Kiev.
2. Andriyivskyy Descent – Known as Kiev’s Montmartre, this historic street, featured in “Love in Chains,” offers stunning views of the city and the Dnipro River.
3. Landscape Alley – Featured in “Servant of the People,” this colorful and whimsical park is one of Kiev’s most Instagrammable spots.
4. Kiev Pechersk Lavra – This historic Orthodox Christian monastery, featured in “The Sniffer,” offers a glimpse into Kiev’s spiritual heritage.
5. House with Chimaeras – This unique Art Nouveau building, featured in “The Rising Hawk,” is known for its distinctive animal-themed decorations.

Exploring these filming locations offers a unique blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing you to engage with Kiev’s film heritage while enjoying its many cultural and historical attractions.

Where to Sleep in Kiev: From Budget to Luxury

Kiev, known for its vibrant culture and nightlife, offers a diverse array of accommodations, from the ultra-luxurious to the charmingly affordable. Here are three budget options and three luxury hotels for your stay in Kiev:

Budget:

1. Dream House Hostel – Located in the historic Podil district, this budget-friendly hostel offers comfortable dormitory-style rooms and private apartments.
2. Kiev Central Station – This affordable guesthouse, located near the city center, offers a range of room options, from dormitories to private suites.
3. Ibis Kiev City Center – This budget-friendly hotel, located in the heart of Kiev, offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location.

Luxury:

1. Fairmont Grand Hotel – This luxury hotel, located on the banks of the Dnipro River, offers elegant rooms, a spa, and several fine dining options.
2. Hyatt Regency Kiev – This five-star hotel, located near Saint Sophia’s Cathedral, offers luxurious rooms, a fitness center, and a high-end restaurant.
3. InterContinental Kyiv – This upscale hotel, located near the historic district, offers luxurious rooms, a rooftop lounge, and a spa.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a luxury hotel, Kiev offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every travel style.

A Taste of Kiev: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Kiev offers a wide array of dining options, from traditional Ukrainian cuisine to international fare. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury restaurants to try during your visit:

Budget:

1. Puzata Hata – This popular cafeteria-style restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Ukrainian dishes at affordable prices.
2. Veterano Pizza – Founded by a veteran of the recent war in Eastern Ukraine, this pizzeria offers delicious pizzas and supports veteran causes.
3. Yaroslava – This cozy café, located in the Podil district, offers a variety of Ukrainian and European dishes at reasonable prices.

Luxury:

1. Kanapa – This high-end restaurant on Andriyivskyy Descent offers innovative takes on traditional Ukrainian dishes.
2. Whisky Corner – This upscale restaurant and whisky bar offers a wide selection of whiskies from around the world and a menu of European and Scottish dishes.
3. BAO – This trendy restaurant, located in the city center, offers modern Asian cuisine in a stylish setting.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet connoisseur, Kiev offers a wealth of culinary experiences to explore.

Exploring Kiev’s Filming Locations: A Detailed Itinerary

Experience the cinematic charm of Kiev with this five-day itinerary, discovering famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history:

Day 1: Kiev – Historic Landmarks

Start your tour at Saint Sophia’s Cathedral, the most iconic landmark in Kiev, featured in “The White Guard.” Visit the Golden Gate, a historic city gate that has been featured in several films. End your day at Andriyivskyy Descent, a historic street that offers stunning views of the city.

Day 2: Kiev – Cultural Heritage

Visit the National Art Museum of Ukraine, home to the country’s most important art collection. Explore the Landscape Alley, a whimsical park featured in “Servant of the People.” End your day at the Kiev Opera House, a beautiful building that has served as a filming location for several productions.

Day 3: Kiev – Modern Cityscape

Visit the Kiev Pechersk Lavra, a historic Orthodox Christian monastery featured in “The Sniffer.” Explore the Podil district, known for its bohemian atmosphere and historic buildings. End your day at the House with Chimaeras, a unique Art Nouveau building featured in “The Rising Hawk.”

Day 4: Day Trip to Chernobyl

Take a guided tour to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, a unique and haunting site that has served as the backdrop for several films and TV shows, including the critically acclaimed HBO series “Chernobyl.”

Day 5: Kiev – Nightlife

Explore Kiev’s vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Visit the famous Caribbean Club, where several local films and TV shows have been filmed. End your night at the famous Besarabsky Market, a bustling food market that comes alive at night.

This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Kiev’s cinematic locations, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.

Mysterious Kiev: Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Beyond its cinematic charm, Kiev is also a land of mystery and legends. One of the most famous cryptids in Ukraine is the Black Bird of Chernobyl, a mysterious creature that was allegedly sighted in the days leading up to the Chernobyl disaster. The tale has inspired several films, books, and TV shows.

Another fascinating legend is that of the Kiev Golem, a mythical creature made of clay that is said to have protected the city’s Jewish community in the Middle Ages. The legend has been the subject of several local films and documentaries.

These legends and cryptids add an element of the mysterious to Kiev’s cinematic locations, offering a rich vein of inspiration for storytellers.

Hidden Gems in Kiev

While Kiev’s iconic landmarks are popular filming locations, the city also boasts numerous lesser-known locales that are cinematic gold. Here are a few hidden gems:

1. Landscape Alley – This whimsical park, filled with colorful mosaic sculptures, is one of Kiev’s most Instagrammable spots.
2. Vozdvyzhenka – Known as Kiev’s Montmartre, this historic neighborhood, with its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets, is a favorite among filmmakers.
3. Pyrohiv – This open-air museum, located on the outskirts of Kiev, showcases traditional Ukrainian architecture and has served as the backdrop for several historical films and TV shows.

Whether you’re a filmmaker seeking unique locations or a tourist looking for less-crowded spots, these hidden gems offer unique views and experiences.

What to Pack for a Trip to Kiev

Packing for a trip to Kiev requires consideration of the city’s climate and the activities you plan to do. Here are some essentials:

1. Comfortable footwear – You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
2. Versatile clothing – Pack layers to adjust to the changing weather. Include a mix of casual and smart outfits for different occasions.
3. Rain gear – A compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket is essential, as rain showers can occur unexpectedly in Kiev.
4. Camera – To capture your own cinematic memories.
5. Travel guide and map – For finding those filming locations and hidden gems.

By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for your cinematic journey through Kiev.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Kiev

Getting around Kiev can be relatively easy, thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation system. Here are some tips:

Metro – The Kiev Metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. It’s also one of the deepest subway systems in the world, with the Arsenalna station holding the record for the deepest station globally.

Bus – Buses and trolleybuses run throughout the city and are an affordable way to reach destinations not served by the Metro.

Taxi – Taxis are widely available in Kiev, but it’s recommended to use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt to avoid overcharging.

Foot – Many of Kiev’s main attractions are located within walking distance of each other, particularly in the city center, making walking a pleasant and practical option.

By familiarizing yourself with these transportation options, you can navigate Kiev with ease and comfort.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Kiev

When planning your trip to Kiev, it’s crucial to have the right travel documents:

1. Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from Ukraine.
2. Visa – Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Ukraine. Check the Ukrainian Embassy or Consulate website in your country for requirements.
3. Travel Insurance – It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit – If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your valid driver’s license.

Having these documents in order will help ensure a smooth journey to the heart of cinematic Kiev.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Kiev’s Cinematic Landscape

From the historic charm of Andriyivskyy Descent to the modern cityscape of the Kiev Pechersk Lavra, Kiev offers a cinematic journey like no other. Whether you’re a film buff, a TV series enthusiast, a book lover, or simply a traveler in search of unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Kiev’s cinematic landscape. So embark on a journey through Kiev’s famous films, TV shows, and books, and discover the hidden gems that make this city a filmmaker’s dream. Bon voyage!