10 Simple Ways to Make Friends in Kiev

You may be surprised to know that Ukraine is 5th out of 67 states in the Ease of Finding Friends category under the InterNations Survey! Ukrainians are generally friendly and interested in meeting new people, and English has become widespread among local youth. So if you’ve just moved to the capital and would like to spend a great time here, HEADS UP! You’ll find new friends using our guidance below.

1. Visit business networking events

Regular business-oriented meetings are conducted at downtown hotels, restaurants and bars with the possibility to make business connections, raise your profile, exchange experience, practice language skills and enjoy the party. Whether you’re interested in finding a friend or business partner, hiring Ukrainian professionals or considering doing business in Ukraine – it’s a great opportunity!

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2. Join social clubs

In Kiev, you’ll find a number of social communities with regular meetings where foreigners and locals get together and friends come to see each other to learn, do or share something. Don’t be afraid to come alone! You will quickly find yourself in the company of interesting people who may become your great friends.

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3. Dancing: The Perfect Way to Meet People

If you know the basics of salsa or tango and would like to practice your skills, participation in dancing parties is one the best ways get over the awkwardness of making friends. Bring some fun and new people into your life!
For those who would like to take some dancing master classes, there are various salsa and tango studios in Kiev.

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4. Join AIESEC and make friends through volunteering

AIESEC is one of the largest global platforms for young people under the age of 30 focused on the development of their leadership potential, specializing in professional internships and volunteering experiences. This community is large and well-developed in Kiev, so you can often see notifications about upcoming educational events and projects. The members are open-minded and know English well, so it will be easy for you to blend into the team and participate in their volunteer projects.

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5. Join a sports club

Another good way to meet new people with similar interests is to visit one of numerous sport clubs in Kiev: a gym, tennis, yoga, etc. Choose what fits you best and go ahead!

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6. Speed dating

Speed dating is a revolutionary new format of making acquaintances that recently became popular in Kiev. In one evening, you have the opportunity to meet and communicate with 10 or more people of the opposite gender who are open to new experiences and wish to make interesting acquaintances. Men and women usually talk to each other for 7 minutes, and then the organizers ring a bell that is a signal for participants to move on to the next date. So brace yourself and be ready to get on a roll!

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  • Speed Dating Kyiv:
    Buffet, champagne, hot drinks are included
    +38 (093) 461 77 63
    +38 (067) 441 45 05
    +38 (066) 708 50 96
    5/2, Yaroslavskaya Str. (“Bella Italia”)
    speedating.kiev.ua

7. Play games

In Kiev, you have a great chance to dive into the exciting world of board games. In numerous anti-cafes and game clubs, you can try out new games, spend time in a fun, friendly and competitive atmosphere and of course meet new people.

Where:
  • Freud House:
    +38 (044) 462 50 72
    +38 (093) 715 53 06
    21, Kostyantynivska Str.
    (one minute walk from Kontraktova Square metro station)
    www.freud-house.com.ua/en/
  • Anti-cafe BesedniZza:
    Get the certificate for UAH 40 from our partner BesedniZza just after registration via this link:www.goo.gl/f5ZiSZ

    • www.besednizza.com

8. Language Exchange Club

The Language Exchange Club is a platform for those who want to improve their speaking skills or just talk to people in various languages including English, Ukrainian, Russian, Belarusian, German, French, Polish, Spanish and more. The meetings are free of charge with no registration required and are usually conducted in well-known cafes or restaurants (such as Puzata Hata, for example). People regularly come here to interact with native speakers, share an international perspective and make lasting friendships.

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9. Movies in English

Many cinema festivals are conducted in Kiev, giving visitors a unique opportunity to watch foreign-language movies with English and Ukrainian subtitles. You can meet people here who speak English or are enthusiastic to improve it in practice.

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10. ProEnglish Theatre

Could you imagine yourself as a professional actor? ProEnglish Theatre teaches how to act on a stage, control your body and voice, and make a speech in front of an audience. You will have a lot of chances to practice your artistic skills with other participants during workshops and lessons and even play in the big performance in front of a real audience at the end of the course.

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Have other suggestions?
Have other ideas on how to make friends in Kiev? Drop us an email with your ideas to kievcheckin@contactukraine.com.