Dangers & Annoyances
Crime
In general, Kiev is as safe as most Western European countries. Organized crime does exist, but unless you’re coming to Kiev to open a chain of casinos the mafias are extremely unlikely to take an interest in you. Crimes perpetrated against visitors are generally low level and include pick pocketing and wallet scams.
Acts of mindless drunken violence such as those which commonly occur in British cities are rare. There are, however, increasing reports of racist attacks on those of African and Middle Eastern appearance.
Although the police in Kiev are no angels, they don’t, unlike their counterparts in Moscow, routinely pester foreigners for documents and bribes.
Other Dangers & Annoyances
- During the winter, many of Kiev’s streets and sidewalks resemble ice rinks.
- Prostitution, although often discreet, is common in hotel lobbies and bars.
- Ukraine has one of the fastest growing HIV/AIDS rates in Europe. The World Heath Organization estimates that there are 377,000 people in the country living with HIV/AIDS
- The idea of customer service still hasn’t caught on at many shops, restaurants and hotels.
- Face control is common at upmarket nightclubs and restaurants.
- Ukrainian drivers commonly use the sidewalk as an extra lane (as the Chinese Ambassador discovered).
Reader Comments / Additional Information
Kiev? Unfriendly, menacing, dangerous. I've never visited another city in which I've been made to feel so unwelcome. The locals see Western visitors as an exploitable resource. Was massively ripped off in a hotel bar - was charged for $500 bottle of champagne which was never ordered and never even seen at table. When I questioned this, was surrounded by a crowd of security guards and forced to pay - despite protests. Extortion, threats, robbery and intimidation - all within one of biggest hotels in Kiev. Will never return!
I'm an American who has lived and worked in Kiev. Like any big city, one has to be aware of his/her surroundings. My first impression (as a New Yorker) was that everything is dangerous. Street lighting is inadequate by western standards and the entrances to many older apartment buildings face the poorly-lit rear of the building--an ideal spot for a mugging. But you get used to this with time. The most dangerous things a foreigner can do is get really drunk and to ride in ordinary cars instead of in licensed taxis (a common practice for locals). Also ATM theft is risky--don't use them if possible. Other than that, just keep your wits about you, don't flash lots of cash and you'll be as safe as in any other big city.
I have just got back from a trip to Kiev and I experienced racism from police, officials and hotel staff. I also was spit at and pushed on the Metro and streets of Kiev. If you look dark do not go to Ukraine. They are racist.
Racism against foreigners by skinheads and harassment by police is the biggest problem for foreigners in Ukraine.
Gypsies are an absolute nightmare at the main train station. Watch your bags very carefully here.
Cars driving on the pavement seems to be an increasing problem. The main offenders are usually the drivers of expensive cars who think that the pavement is an extra lane that has been created especially for rich people.
Stray dogs are also a bit a problem in Kiev. They tend to roam around in packs and are most noticeable around some of the Metro stations in the suburbs. I've generally found that if you completely ignore them, they'll leave you alone too.