Moscow

Moscow, Russia’s capital, is a city of history, culture, and grandeur. Iconic landmarks like Red Square, the Kremlin, and Saint Basil’s Cathedral showcase its rich past, while the Bolshoi Theatre and Tretyakov Gallery highlight its artistic legacy. The city’s modern side shines in its stylish restaurants, nightlife, and the stunning Moscow Metro. From Arbat Street to Gorky Park, Moscow offers a perfect mix of tradition and innovation.

Things To Do

Moscow, the capital of Russia, is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a unique blend of the old and the new. At the heart of the city lies the iconic Red Square, where you can marvel at the majestic St. Basil’s Cathedral, with its colorful onion domes, and visit the historic Kremlin, the center of Russian power for centuries. The Kremlin’s cathedrals, museums, and the famous Armoury Chamber are a must-see, showcasing Russia’s royal heritage and extraordinary craftsmanship.

Art lovers will find a treasure trove of masterpieces at the Tretyakov Gallery, which houses a remarkable collection of Russian art, including works by renowned painters such as Ilya Repin and Vasily Surikov. The Pushkin Museum is another cultural gem, offering a wide array of Western art, including pieces by Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh. Moscow also boasts a thriving theater scene, with the Bolshoi Theatre standing as a symbol of Russian classical ballet and opera, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural tradition.

Need To Know

Situated: In western Russia, the capital and largest city of the country.

Accommodation: Booking in advance is recommended, especially near Red Square or Arbat Street for easy access to major attractions.

Activities: Visit Red Square, the Kremlin, and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Explore the Tretyakov Gallery and the Bolshoi Theatre. Take a metro ride to see beautifully decorated stations. Walk through Gorky Park or shop at GUM. Enjoy Russian cuisine, including borscht and pelmeni.

Best season: From May to September, with pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Cheap season: From November to March, when prices drop, but winters are very cold.

Recommended Time to Visit Moscow (Russia)

1-2 days: Focus on the major landmarks such as the Red Square, Kremlin, and St. Basil’s Cathedral.
3-4 days: Explore Moscow’s rich history and culture, visit museums, art galleries, and take in a theater performance.
5+ days: Dive deeper into Moscow’s diverse neighborhoods, explore day trips, and enjoy the city’s mix of old-world charm and modern attractions.

Moscow 3-Day Itinerary (Highlights Trip)

Day 1: The Heart of Moscow – Red Square & Kremlin

Morning:
- Start your day at the iconic Red Square, one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral, with its colorful onion domes, and take plenty of photos.
- Visit the Lenin Mausoleum to see the preserved body of the Soviet leader, or take a walk around the State Historical Museum to explore Russian history.
Afternoon:
- Walk to the Kremlin, Russia’s political heart. Explore its historical buildings and grounds, including the Armory Chamber, where you’ll find royal treasures and armor, and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower for a panoramic view of Moscow.
- Take a break for lunch at GUM, the grand shopping center located on Red Square, offering both high-end brands and Russian delicacies.
Evening:
- Head to Arbat Street, one of Moscow’s oldest pedestrian streets, for a leisurely evening stroll. Browse the shops, enjoy street performances, and stop for dinner at a café with Russian specialties like borscht or pelmeni (dumplings).
- Optionally, attend a performance at the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the world’s most famous opera and ballet venues.

Day 2: Museums, Parks & Modern Moscow

Morning:
- Start with a visit to the Tretyakov Gallery, a museum housing one of the finest collections of Russian art, from classical to modern works.
- Next, head to Viktor Vasnetsov’s House Museum, where you can see examples of Russian fairy tale art and mythological works.
Afternoon:
- Visit Gorky Park, one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. Rent a bike or enjoy a walk by the river, or relax in one of the park’s cafés.
- For lunch, try Mari Vanna, a cozy Russian restaurant known for its home-style cooking.
Evening:
- Take a scenic boat ride along the Moscow River for a unique view of the city’s skyline, including the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and the Sparrow Hills.
- End your day with dinner at White Rabbit, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary Russian cuisine with a stunning view of the city.

Day 3: Day Trips & Soviet History

Morning:
- Take a short trip to VDNKh (Vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva), the All-Russian Exhibition Center, a vast complex of Soviet-era pavilions, museums, and monuments. Spend time exploring the impressive architecture and visiting the Space Museum to learn about Russia’s space achievements.
Afternoon:
- Visit Kolomenskoye Park, a UNESCO-listed historical site with beautiful wooden architecture and the stunning Ascension Church. The park offers scenic views of the Moscow River.
- Alternatively, visit Novodevichy Convent, one of Moscow’s most picturesque monasteries, complete with its beautiful Novodevichy Cemetery, where notable Russian figures are buried.
Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at Dr. Zhivago, a stylish restaurant offering Russian classics in a chic, Soviet-inspired setting.
- If you’re a fan of history, end your evening with a visit to the Bunker-42 Cold War Museum, located inside a former Soviet military bunker, where you can explore the history of the Cold War.

Moscow 5-Day Itinerary (More In-Depth)

Day 4: Visit Izmailovo Market for a taste of Soviet-era memorabilia and Russian arts and crafts. Explore the Moscow Zoo for a day among rare species.
Day 5: Take a day trip to Sergiev Posad, a town with an ancient monastery and significant Russian Orthodox religious history, or visit Peredelkino, an artistic village known for its literary connections.