Moscow - Discovering Russia

Travelling to Moscow

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Moscow, a pretty good destination in Russia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Moscow and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Moscow, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Russia, here's everything to know about Moscow for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Moscow

Moscow is the capital and largest city of Russia, located in the western part of the country, along the Moskva River. It has a population of around 12 million people and is a major political, economic, cultural, and scientific center of Russia. Moscow is known for its historic landmarks, such as the Red Square, Saint Basil's Cathedral, and the Kremlin, as well as its modern developments, including skyscrapers and contemporary art galleries. The city experiences cold winters and mild summers, with average temperatures ranging from -10°C in winter to 22°C in summer. The main language spoken is Russian and the currency is the Russian ruble.

What to visit in Moscow

Certainly! Here are some popular tourist attractions in Moscow with a brief summary about each one: 1. Red Square - This is the central square in Moscow and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to several landmarks, including the St. Basil's Cathedral, the State Historical Museum, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the GUM shopping mall.
2. Kremlin - This is a fortified complex located in the heart of Moscow and serves as the official residence of the President of Russia. Visitors can tour the various museums, cathedrals, and palaces within the complex.
3. Saint Basil's Cathedral - This iconic cathedral was built in the 16th century and is known for its colorful domes and unique onion-shaped architecture. It is located in Red Square.
4. Bolshoi Theatre - This historic theatre is famous for its ballet and opera performances. It was founded in 1776 and has been a symbol of Russian culture ever since.
5. Moscow Metro - This underground subway system is not only a convenient way to travel around Moscow, but it is also considered to be one of the most beautiful metro systems in the world. Many of the stations have intricate architecture and artwork.
6. Gorky Park - This park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It has a variety of activities available, such as bike rentals, roller skating, and outdoor cinemas.
7. The State Tretyakov Gallery - This is the foremost museum of Russian fine art in the world. The museum's collection consists of over 170,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and graphics.
8. Moscow Zoo - This zoo is home to over 8,000 animals from around the world and is considered to be one of the oldest and largest zoos in Russia.
9. Victory Park - This park is a memorial complex and dedicated to the victory of the Soviet Union in World War II. There are several monuments, museums, and a parade ground located here.
10. Cathedral of Christ the Saviour - This is the tallest Orthodox church in the world and was originally built in the 19th century. It was destroyed in 1931 and then rebuilt in the 1990s.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Russia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Moscow.

When to go on holiday to Moscow

The best time to visit Moscow is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature during this time is around 20-25°C (68-77°F) which makes it perfect for sightseeing. Additionally, there are many festivals and events taking place in the city during the summer, making it a great time to experience the cultural side of Moscow.
However, it's worth noting that summer is also high tourist season in Moscow, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and tourist attractions.
Alternatively, if you prefer cooler weather and want to avoid the crowds, the months of May and September can also be good times to visit. The weather is still fairly mild, and there are fewer tourists around. Just be prepared for some rainy days in May. Winter can be an interesting experience also when the city gets covered with snow and there are many Christmas markets around. However, it can be very cold, with temperatures dropping to well below freezing, so it's important to pack warm clothing if you plan to visit during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Moscow

There are several ways to get to Moscow, Russia: 1. By plane: Moscow has three major airports, namely Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO), Domodedovo International Airport (DME), and Vnukovo International Airport (VKO). These airports are well-connected to major cities across the world, and most major airlines operate flights to Moscow.
2. By train: Moscow is well-connected to several major cities in Europe, such as Paris, Berlin, and Helsinki. The city has several train stations, including Belorussky station, Kazansky station, and Leningradsky station. Train travel is a great way to see the countryside and experience local culture.
3. By bus: Several long-distance buses connect Moscow to other major European cities. It's a budget-friendly option compared to train and air travel, although travel times can be longer.
4. By car: Although driving to Moscow is possible, it can be a challenging experience due to the language barrier and unfamiliar driving rules. However, renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the country on your own.
Once you arrive in Moscow, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation such as the metro or bus to get around the city.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Moscow, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Moscow

Here are some typical foods of Moscow with their short descriptions: 1. Borscht: A hearty soup made of shredded beets, cabbage, potatoes, and meat (usually beef or pork). Sometimes served with a dollop of sour cream.
2. Pelmeni: Small dumplings made of meat (usually beef, pork, or a mixture of both) wrapped in a thin dough. Often served with butter, sour cream, or vinegar.
3. Blini: Thin pancakes made of wheat or buckwheat flour, topped with butter, sour cream, jam, honey, or caviar. Often served as a breakfast or dessert dish.
4. Shchi: A soup made of cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables, usually flavored with meat (usually pork or beef) or mushrooms.
5. Beef Stroganoff: Thin slices of beef cooked in a creamy sauce made of sour cream, onions, mushrooms, and spices, often served over a bed of egg noodles.
6. Pirozhki: Small pies filled with meat, cabbage, potatoes, cheese, or other ingredients. The filling is usually baked inside a dough made of wheat flour, yeast, butter, and milk.
7. Kvass: A traditional Russian fermented drink made of rye bread. It has a slightly tangy and sour taste and is often served cold during hot summer months.
8. Caviar: A luxury food consisting of the eggs of sturgeon. It is usually served on toast points, blini, or with cream cheese.
You can find general info about typical foods in Russia here.

Is Moscow an expensive destination for tourists?

Moscow can be quite expensive for tourists, especially in terms of accommodation and dining. However, there are ways to save money and travel on a budget. One way is to look for budget accommodations such as hostels or small hotels outside of the city center. Another way to save money is to eat at local markets or street food stalls instead of restaurants. Additionally, many museums and attractions offer discounted or free admission on certain days or to students with identification. So, it is possible to enjoy a trip to Moscow on a budget with some research and planning ahead.

Where to find accomodation in Moscow

There are several areas in Moscow that are popular and convenient for finding accommodation, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some of the most popular areas: 1. Tverskaya - located near the city center, this area is known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife.
2. Arbat - known for its historic pedestrian street and proximity to the Kremlin, this area is popular among visitors.
3. Kitay-Gorod - known for its many historic buildings, this area is also popular for its nightlife.
4. Zamoskvorechye - located on the other side of the Moskva River, this area provides a glimpse into the traditional side of Moscow.
5. Patriarch Ponds - a trendy area with many cafes and restaurants, this area is also popular for its park and fountain.
6. Red Square - located at the very heart of Moscow, this area is home to many famous tourist sights and attractions.
These are just a few of the many areas in Moscow where you can find quality accommodation.
You can check hotel prices at Moscow here:
Booking.com

Is Moscow a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, overall Moscow is a safe place for tourists. However, like any big city, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your belongings close to you, and staying in well-lit and busy areas. It is also important to be aware of common scams and tourist traps. Additionally, it is always a good idea to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs before traveling to a foreign country.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Russia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Moscow.

What type of travelers will enjoy Moscow the most?

Moscow, the capital of Russia, has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. For history enthusiasts, Moscow offers several iconic landmarks like the Red Square, the Kremlin, and St. Basil's Cathedral. History buffs will also enjoy exploring the city's numerous museums and art galleries like the State Hermitage Museum and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts.
For couples, Moscow offers romantic attractions like the Moscow River boat cruises, the Moscow State Circus, and romantic walks in the beautiful parks like Gorky Park. Moscow also has excellent restaurants and a vibrant nightlife scene for couples looking for entertainment and fun.
For families, Moscow has many kid-friendly activities, including the Moscow Zoo, the Moscow Planetarium, and the Central Children's Store. Moscow also has many beautiful parks and gardens like the VDNKh park, which is ideal for picnics and family outings.
Overall, Moscow is a versatile city with something for everyone, making it an excellent destination for couples, young people looking for fun, and families.

How to get around Moscow

In Moscow, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the city. They include: 1. Metro - Moscow has an extensive underground system that connects the whole city.
2. Buses - buses provide transportation to areas not served by the metro.
3. Trams - an affordable and convenient mode of transportation in Moscow.
4. Trolleybuses - an environment-friendly way of transportation; you can move around the city without polluting the air.
5. Taxis - you can easily hail a taxi on the streets.
6. Car rental - You can rent a car to drive around Moscow. However, traffic can be heavy, and parking can be expensive.
Overall, the subway is the most efficient and time-saving mode of transportation in Moscow.

What to see around Moscow

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Moscow: 1. Sergiev Posad: This historical town is home to one of the most important monasteries in Russia, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius.
2. Kolomna: This picturesque town is located on the banks of the Oka River and is home to stunning churches, museums, and a well-preserved kremlin.
3. Suzdal: Located in the Golden Ring region, Suzdal is filled with charming churches, traditional wooden houses, and a beautiful kremlin.
4. Vladimir: As another city in the Golden Ring, Vladimir boasts plenty of historical sites, such as the Assumption Cathedral and the Golden Gate.
5. Zvenigorod: This small town located in the Moscow Oblast region is home to the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, an impressive work of Russian architectural style. 6. Gorki Leninskiye: This is a former Soviet estate located about 20km south of Moscow. This historic estate was used as Vladimir Lenin's last residence before his death in 1924 and is now preserved as a museum.
7. Abramtsevo: A beautiful countryside estate featuring different art styles and become the center of cultural life for the prominent Russian writers and artists in the second half of 19th century.
I hope these suggestions help!
For every travel information about Russia you can click here.

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