Moscow

What are the most recommended things to do in Moscow?

  • Visit Red Square and admire Saint Basil’s Cathedral
  • Explore the Kremlin and its museums
  • Tour the State Historical Museum
  • Walk along Arbat Street for shops and cafes
  • Enjoy art at the Tretyakov Gallery
  • Relax in Gorky Park and try outdoor activities
  • Take a river cruise along the Moskva River
  • Discover Moscow Metro stations, known for their architecture
  • Visit Novodevichy Convent and Cemetery
  • Experience Bolshoi Theatre performances

Introducing Moscow

Moscow is the capital of the Russian Federation and the capital of Moscow Oblast. Moscow is Russia's political, economic, cultural, financial, and transportation center, as well as its largest comprehensive city, and a cosmopolitan metropolis. Located in the central part of European Russia and the central part of the East European Plain, Moscow straddles the Moscow River and its tributary, the Yauza River. Connected to the upper reaches of the Volga River and its estuary, Moscow is a vital transportation hub in Russia and even in Eurasia, and a major center for industrial manufacturing, science, technology, and education.

Climate and best time to travel

The best time to travel to Moscow is in early autumn (May and September). The summer in Moscow is not "hot", but the sunlight is sometimes strong, so you need to pay attention to sun protection.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Red Square

The site of the annual Victory Day parade and a tourist destination, Red Square is a symbol of Moscow. To the west is the Kremlin, to the east is the GUM State Department Store, and to the south is Russia's most beautiful onion-domed St. Basil's Cathedral.

Strolling through the square allows you to experience Russia's national history, take photos with the sculptures, or watch performances by folk artists. At night, the complex is illuminated, making it the perfect time to photograph the Red Square at night.


Moscow State University

Founded on January 12, 1755, Moscow State University is the oldest university in Russia. Its original campus was located in the heart of Moscow. After the completion of the new main building on Sparrow Hills in 1953, the university moved to Sparrow Hills. The main building is one of seven Stalinist buildings in Moscow (known as the Seven Sisters). Stalinist architecture is a typical centralized style, with a large base and high spires, reflecting strong monistic values.


National History Museum

Located on the north side of Red Square, this classical-style building with red walls and white roofs was built in 1872 and opened to the public in 1883. The museum houses a rich and diverse collection of exhibits and archival materials, covering not only Russia's millennia of history but also the evolution of civilization in Northeastern Eurasia from the Paleolithic Age to the present day. Its scale rivals that of the Arsenal Museum, making it a must-see for those who don't have time to visit the Kremlin.


Recommended number of days for visiting: about 3 days


Most Popular FAQs for Moscow

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Moscow is the capital of Russia, founded in 1147. It has been the political, cultural, and economic center of Russia for centuries, playing a key role in Russian history, governance, and arts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

  • Located in western Russia along the Moskva River
  • Accessible via Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, or Vnukovo airports; airport shuttle buses and taxis available
  • Moscow Metro: efficient, widespread, and connects main attractions
  • Buses, trams, and taxis are widely available
  • Many central areas are walkable

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Museums: 10 AM–6 PM, often closed on Mondays
  • Red Square and public areas: open all day
  • Best time: May–September for mild weather; December–February for winter scenery
  • Early mornings or weekdays are less crowded

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Red Square and public areas: free entry
  • Kremlin: 500–700 RUB; tickets available online or at the entrance
  • Tretyakov Gallery: 400–600 RUB; tickets online or offline
  • Bolshoi Theatre: ticket prices vary; book online or at box office
  • Novodevichy Convent: ~250 RUB; tickets at entrance

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for Kremlin, Tretyakov Gallery, and Bolshoi Theatre, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead; outdoor attractions usually require no booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–4 days to cover main attractions, museums, parks, and cultural experiences.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Red Square and Saint Basil’s Cathedral
  • The Kremlin and its museums
  • Tretyakov Gallery
  • Arbat Street
  • Bolshoi Theatre
  • Gorky Park
  • Moscow Metro stations
  • Novodevichy Convent and Cemetery

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available in Russian, English, German, and other languages for major attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Saint Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square
  • Observation platforms in Kremlin towers
  • Moscow City skyscrapers
  • Sparrow Hills viewpoint
  • Moskva River embankments

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Red Square, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, GUM, Kremlin. Day 2: Tretyakov Gallery, Arbat Street, Moscow Metro tour. Day 3: Bolshoi Theatre, Gorky Park, Novodevichy Convent. Optional: Day 4 Moscow City and Sparrow Hills.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

  • Evening tours of Red Square and Kremlin
  • Bolshoi Theatre performances
  • Seasonal light shows and events
  • Nighttime photography at Moscow River embankments

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Popular areas are crowded on weekends and holidays; weekdays and early mornings are less busy.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, benches, and rest areas are available at most major sites.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main attractions and parks have wheelchair access; some historic buildings may have stairs and limited access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; small cash recommended for street vendors and local markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Café Pushkin: Russian cuisine
  • White Rabbit: modern Russian fine dining
  • Dr. Zhivago: traditional Russian meals
  • Arbat Street cafes: casual dining and coffee
  • GUM department store: multiple eateries

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many restaurants in Moscow offer vegetarian, vegan, and some halal options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Four Seasons Moscow
  • Hotel Baltschug Kempinski
  • Ararat Park Hyatt
  • National Hotel Moscow
  • Radisson Collection Hotel Moscow

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Moscow City skyscrapers
  • Sparrow Hills and Moscow State University
  • Kolomenskoye Estate and Park
  • Izmailovo Kremlin and market

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Matryoshka dolls and Russian crafts
  • Fabergé-style eggs
  • Russian chocolate and sweets
  • Soviet memorabilia
  • Traditional textiles and scarves

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Moscow Metro and suburban trains for local travel
  • Buses and taxis to regional destinations
  • Airport transfers via Aeroexpress trains or taxis to Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, or Vnukovo
  • Car rentals for exploring nearby regions