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HydrangeasKyiv can be a noisy metropolis — or a quiet, cosy and very romantic city. Even locals don't always know every corner that is perfect for a walk for two. Here are 10 romantic places in the capital for dates, walks and photos, from Lovers' Bridge to the lilac grove in the Botanical Garden.
Before you go, check that the locations are open, and follow safety rules during air-raid alerts.
1. Lovers' Bridge in Mariinskyi Park
This small footbridge, built in the early 20th century to a design by Yevhen Paton, has long been known to locals as Lovers' Bridge. Couples tie ribbons and hang padlocks with their names on its railings and throw away the key as a sign of fidelity. Nearby stands a monument to Italian Luigi Pedutto and Ukrainian Mokryna Yurzuk, who were separated by the Second World War and met again only decades later.
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2. The kissing bench
Special benches for couples have appeared in Khreshchatyi and Mariinskyi parks. The rule is simple: find the bench, sit on it together and kiss while friends take a photo for your album. They are especially popular on 6 July, International Kissing Day.
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3. Landscape Alley
One of the city's favourite places for a stroll: mosaic sculptures of cats, rabbits and birds, an "Alice in Wonderland" playground and viewpoints over Podil. For couples there is a fountain of two zebras in a tender embrace — a traditional spot for a photo together.
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4. The loving lanterns
A playful modern sculpture of two street lamps leaning against each other is another popular photo spot for couples in the city centre.
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5. Kokorev gazebo
This cosy viewing gazebo on Andriivska Hill has a romantic history: it was built in the 19th century with money from businessman Vasyl Kokorev, who was captivated by the view of the Dnipro. It offers a wonderful panorama of Podil — perfect at sunset.
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6. The wishing fountain at St Michael's
According to local legend, a couple should hold hands and press a coin to the fountain by St Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery together. If it "sticks", their wish will come true.
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7. Castle Hill
One of Kyiv's most mysterious places: a green hillside above Podil wrapped in legends. The top offers views of Podil and the Dnipro, and the paths among the trees are made for unhurried walks for two.
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8. The Tree of Happiness on the embankment
The wrought-iron Tree of Happiness on Naberezhne Highway is where newlyweds and couples come to tie a ribbon on a branch for luck and a long life together. After your photo, stay to watch the sunset over the Dnipro.
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9. The old linden by the Tithe Church
Next to the foundations of the Tithe Church grows a spreading linden more than 400 years old. According to tradition, to make a wish come true you should greet the tree and walk around it clockwise seven times. It is also said to help quarrelling couples make up.
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10. Hryshko Botanical Garden
In spring this is one of the most romantic places in the city: magnolias bloom in April and a huge lilac grove in May. It also offers views of Vydubychi Monastery and the Dnipro. Remember that picking flowers in the garden isn't allowed — give your loved one a bouquet instead.
How to make a date even better
- Plan your route within one neighbourhood so you walk more and travel less.
- For photos, choose the morning or the golden hour before sunset.
- Bring a flask, a blanket and a small bouquet — tulips, gerberas or a single rose are perfect for a first date.
FAQ
What is the most romantic place in Kyiv for a date?
The best known is Lovers' Bridge in Mariinskyi Park, and in spring the Botanical Garden with its magnolias and lilacs.
Where can a couple go in Kyiv for free?
Landscape Alley, Castle Hill, Andriivskyi Descent, the parks above the Dnipro and the embankment.
Add flowers to your walk: order roses or another bouquet with UFL delivery in Kyiv.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
