Military tour of Kyiv: Opportunity to see the traces of war in Kyiv with your own eyes

Kyiv is a city that preserves traces of important historical events that changed the course of not only Ukrainian but also world history. Military tours of Kyiv reveal unique locations and tell stories that have become part of the modern capital. Find out more about the most interesting places and how to organise a safe trip with Visit Ukraine

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Kyiv is not only a city with a rich cultural heritage and majestic architecture, but also an important historical centre that has been the scene of significant military events. From the beginning of the Second World War to the current challenges, the capital of Ukraine has gone through numerous trials.

A military tour of Kyiv gives you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in history, to see not only famous sights, but also places where important military events took place. This is a special trip that allows you to visit the key historical sites of Kyiv that are associated with the city's military history. It will be of interest to those who want to see Kyiv through the prism of the fighting and events that changed the course of history not only in Ukraine but also in the world. Whether you are a historical enthusiast, a military researcher, or just looking for a unique experience, a military tour will open up new facets of the capital for you.

The history of the war in Kyiv and its impact on the city helps to better understand the culture, identity and spirit of the capital. Visiting important places associated with major battles, destruction, liberation, and reconstruction allows you not only to gain new knowledge and see the traces of war in Kyiv, but also to feel the depth of the events that have become an important part of the modern capital.

Military history of Kyiv: from the Second World War to the present day

One of the most important parts of Kyiv's history is its role during the Second World War. The city became the scene of fierce battles, suffered a heavy occupation and was liberated during the Battle of Kyiv. During the occupation, Kyiv experienced terror, destruction and the destruction of a significant part of its architectural monuments. However, the city survived, and today you can take a tour of Kyiv's military sites.

After the Second World War, Kyiv became an important military and strategic centre for the Soviet army. In addition to Kyiv's famous military sites, such as barracks, munitions factories, and bunkers, many of them now open their doors to those who want to see the history of the Cold War.

One of the most dramatic moments in Kyiv's history was the 2014 Maidan. Kyiv became the epicentre of the struggle for democratic values. It was in the centre of the city, on Maidan Nezalezhnosti, that the most violent confrontations between protesters and security forces took place.

And in 2022, Kyiv became an important part of Ukraine's defence against the Russian invasion. The defence of the city in February and March 2022 became a symbol of the courage and unity of the Ukrainian people. It was a time of heroic deeds and huge sacrifices that changed the course of the war. Many locations in Kyiv still bear traces of the fighting and are worth seeing.

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The most interesting locations in Kyiv's military history: tours of the places of military glory

- National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War. This is one of the largest museums in Ukraine dedicated to the Second World War. Visitors can see exhibits that tell about the defence of Kyiv, its liberation and important events of the war. The museum includes the Motherland monument and an extensive exhibition of equipment that took part in the fighting.

- Chernobyl Museum. The museum, dedicated to the Chernobyl accident, also has a military aspect, as the liquidation of the accident required enormous efforts and the involvement of military forces. Studying this topic allows us to understand how war and disasters can change not only individual regions but the whole country.

- Heavenly Hundred Alley and Independence Square. Maidan is not only a symbol of the struggle for democracy, but also a place where many people died during the Revolution of Dignity. The Heavenly Hundred Alley is a monument to those who gave their lives for Ukraine's freedom.

- Destroyed and restored objects after shelling. Kyiv and its surroundings bear numerous traces of hostilities, including buildings that were destroyed by shelling during the Russian invasion in 2022. Important places to visit are locations such as Bucha, Irpin, Gostomel, Vorzel and Borodyanka, where fierce fighting took place and where the effects of the war remain evident today. These towns and villages were important stages in the defence of the capital, and their restoration is a symbol of Ukraine's resilience and fight for freedom. In 2022, the fighting in the Kyiv region covered not only peripheral areas, but also important strategic points. Irpin and Bucha became the epicentres of large-scale fighting, and Gostomel was the site of one of the first attacks on the airport, which was an important strategic facility. Most of these locations bear traces of the war, and it is these places that recreate the horrific images of the fighting, but also become symbols of recovery and the strength of the Ukrainian spirit.

- Fortifications of Kyiv. Kyiv has a rich set of fortifications that were used at different historical stages to defend the city. These are underground bunkers, fortifications, ancient walls and much more, which can be interesting for those who want to see military facilities.

If you want to get the most emotional experience of your trip and see the historical sights of Kyiv with your own eyes, a military tour is exactly what you need. With professional guides, you will be able to see not only iconic places, but also hear real stories from those who lived through these events.

What do you need to know if you want to visit Kyiv now?

Today, Kyiv is safe for tourists, especially if you choose organised tours with experienced guides. However, despite the absence of hostilities in the Kyiv region, it is worth remembering the safety rules, as the city repels attacks by drones and missiles from the russian federation almost every day.

How to travel in Kyiv during the war: safety rules

To ensure safe travel to Ukraine in 2025, follow these recommendations:

- Check official information. Read the recommendations of your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on travelling to Ukraine. Follow the messages on the websites of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine and local authorities.

- Plan your route taking into account security zones. Focus on the western and central regions, where the situation is relatively stable.

- Prepare your documents. Make sure that your passport is valid and that your visa (if required) is properly issued. Make copies of important documents (passport, insurance policy, visa) and save them digitally.

- Take care of your health insurance. Your policy should cover treatment in Ukraine, including possible emergencies, and it is advisable to have additional coverage for war-related risks.

- Keep an eye on air alerts. Install the Air Alert mobile application (App Store | Google Play) and learn the rules of behaviour during shelling. In case of an alarm, immediately go to the nearest shelter.

- Observe the curfew. Curfews may vary from region to region, so check with your local authorities for the latest schedule. During the curfew period, being outside is prohibited.

- Do not take pictures of military installations. Photographing checkpoints, military equipment, positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other strategic objects is prohibited.

- Be prepared for inspections. During wartime, law enforcement officers may check your documents. Always have them with you.

Why are organised tours of Kyiv the best option for foreigners?

Organised tours provide maximum comfort and safety for foreigners. Choosing such tours allows you to focus on learning about the history without unnecessary worries, as all the details, from the route to transport, are taken care of by professional guides.

Why choose a military tour from Visit Ukraine?

- Exclusive routes. Visit Ukraine offers unique routes that cover not only Kyiv, but also towns and villages on the outskirts that also experienced military events, such as Romanivka, Irpin, Bucha, Vorzel, Borodyanka, and Gostomel.

- Guides who know history not from textbooks, but from real events. Our guides are not only experienced historians, but also eyewitnesses of events. They will help you feel the atmosphere of that time and share real stories.

- Safety and organisation. We guarantee that the routes pass only through safe zones and your safety always comes first.

- The opportunity to communicate with eyewitnesses. As part of the tours, you will be able to talk to those who survived these difficult times and learn their stories about the war events.

- Combining history and modernity. Visit Ukraine's tours combine historical locations with modern ones, so you can see how the city is changing after hard times and understand what the restoration and fight for independence means.

How to book a military tour of Kyiv?

You can book a military tour through the Visit Ukraine website or by contacting the managers directly. Visit Ukraine managers will help you plan the perfect itinerary, taking into account your wishes regarding transport, hotels, excursions, and provide advice and support at every stage of the trip.

To book a tour or get advice, please contact our managers - they will find the best and safest offer for you to travel in Ukraine: WhatsApp/Telegram.

Discover the military history of Kyiv with Visit Ukraine!

Visit Ukraine offers exclusive military tours that guarantee a comfortable and safe trip. We take care of all the details: convenient transfers, experienced guides, safe routes, and even medical insurance that covers war-related risks. Thoughtful tours and unique locations will help you see the real Kyiv through the prism of historical events.

Choose a tour and discover the true history of the capital of Ukraine!

Just a reminder. Ukraine is a country that is struggling, but at the same time preserves its beauty, culture and hospitality. By visiting it, you will not only gain a unique experience, but also support local businesses and people who are striving for recovery. Read here to find interesting and safe tours in Ukraine during the war.

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