Sprawling along the banks of the Irpin River, Irpin lies just a stone’s throw from the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. It centres around a late-19th-century railway station and a fountain-filled square and is home to a squirrel-inspired outdoor amusement park. The city hosts the Irpin Film Festival each year, which celebrates the best in alternative cinematography.
Things to do in Irpin'
Begin your visit at the Irpin Historical Museum, which details the people and events that have shaped the city. It overlooks Irpinsʹkyy Vodohray, a sprawling square dotted with fountains where kids can cool off during the warmer months. Irpinsʹkyy Vodohray is a short stroll from Victory Park, which centres around a small pond and colourful play equipment.
North of Irpin is the Extreme Park Crazy Squirrel, an outdoor high ropes and obstacle course designed to challenge all ages. If you’re not feeling adventurous, there’s also a small cafe offering drinks and snacks where you can relax while enjoying the natural setting.
A short drive outside of Irpin are the remains of the Osten-Sacken Manor, a 19th-century estate that was raided during the Soviet era due to its extravagance. After being largely destroyed by fire, it’s only the manor’s elegant walls that remain, with the ruins slowly being enveloped by vegetation. It’s positioned on the edge of a picturesque pond fringed by apple trees and is an ideal spot for a picnic.
Getting around Irpin'
Irpin is around 30 minutes’ drive from Kyiv and just over an hour’s drive from Kyiv Boryspil International Airport. Regular trains connect to the Irpin railway station while buses travel throughout the city. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way of exploring the surrounding attractions.