The heart of Russia, a symbol of the country and a must-visit place for every tourist. It is surrounded by the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, and the State Historical Museum.

Red Square is a city square in Moscow, Russia. It separates the Kremlin, the former royal citadel and now the official residence of the President of Russia, from a historic merchant quarter known as Kitai-gorod. /n Red Square is often considered to be the central square of Moscow since the city's major streets, which connect to Russia's major highways, originate in the square. It is recognized as one of the most iconic landmarks in Russia, with a rich history and stunning architecture. The square is home to several significant buildings, including the Kremlin and St. Basil's Cathedral. It has been a symbol of Russia's government and power for centuries and continues to be a popular tourist destination today.

Red Square is a city square in Moscow, Russia. It separates the Kremlin, the former royal citadel and now the official residence of the President of Russia, from a historic merchant quarter known as Kitai-gorod.

One of the most iconic symbols of Moscow and Russia, it is an Orthodox church in Red Square that also serves as a museum.

St. Basil's Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat, is a world-famous landmark in Moscow's Red Square. It is an Orthodox church that is now a museum. Its colorful domes are an iconic symbol of Russia. The cathedral was built in the 16th century by Ivan the Terrible and is a masterpiece of Russian architecture. /n Inside, the cathedral is a maze of galleries winding from chapel to chapel and level to level via narrow stairways and low arches. The walls are painted in floral and geometric patterns. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow.

St. Basil's Cathedral is a world-famous landmark in Moscow's Red Square.

GUM is the main department store in many cities of the former Soviet Union, known as State Department Store during the Soviet era. It is currently a shopping mall. Prior to the 1920s, the location was known as the Upper Trading Rows.

GUM Department Store, situated in the heart of Moscow, is a shopping paradise for those who love luxury brands. This historic department store is not just a shopping destination, but also an architectural marvel that attracts tourists from all over the world. /n The store is home to a wide range of high-end brands, offering everything from fashion and accessories to homeware and gourmet food. The grandeur of the store is reflected in its stunning architecture, with a beautiful glass roof and ornate detailing that harks back to its origins in the late 19th century. The store also hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year, adding to its appeal as a cultural hotspot. Whether you're looking to indulge in some retail therapy or simply want to marvel at the architectural beauty, GUM Department Store is a must-visit when in Moscow.

GUM is a historic department store in Moscow, offering a wide range of luxury goods and brands.

A fortified complex at the heart of Moscow, overlooking the Moskva River to the south, Saint Basil's Cathedral and Red Square to the east, and the Alexander Garden to the west.

The Kremlin is a fortified complex in the heart of Moscow, overlooking the Moskva River to the south, Saint Basil's Cathedral and Red Square to the east, and the Alexander Garden to the west. /n It includes five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers. The complex serves as the official residence of the President of the Russian Federation. The name Kremlin means "fortress inside a city

The Kremlin is a fortified complex in the heart of Moscow, overlooking the Moskva River to the south, Saint Basil's Cathedral and Red Square to the east, and the Alexander Garden to the west.

A historic theatre, home to the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera, the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world.

The Bolshoi Theatre is a historic theatre in Moscow, Russia, designed by architect Joseph Bové, which holds ballet and opera performances. /n It was opened on 20 October 1856 and is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world. The theatre's neoclassical facade is iconic and its interior is just as impressive, with a grand auditorium that can seat more than 1,500 people. The Bolshoi is a symbol of Russia for all time and it continues to pride itself on its high, uncompromising standards.

The Bolshoi Theatre is a historic theatre in Moscow, Russia, designed by architect Joseph Bové, which holds ballet and opera performances.

The foremost depository of Russian fine art in the world. The gallery's history starts in 1856 when the Moscow merchant Pavel Mikhailovich Tretyakov acquired works by Russian artists of his day.

The State Tretyakov Gallery is an art gallery in Moscow, Russia, the foremost depository of Russian fine art in the world. /n The gallery's history starts in 1856 when the Moscow merchant Pavel Mikhailovich Tretyakov acquired works by Russian artists of his day with the aim of creating a collection. Today, it contains more than 130,000 exhibits, ranging from Theotokos of Vladimir and Andrei Rublev's Trinity to the monumental Composition VII by Wassily Kandinsky and the Black Square by Kazimir Malevich.

The State Tretyakov Gallery is an art gallery in Moscow, Russia, the foremost depository of Russian fine art in the world.

A central park in Moscow, named after Maxim Gorky. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including skating, biking, yoga classes, and boat rentals.

Gorky Park, officially Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a central park in Moscow, named after Maxim Gorky. /n The park was created in 1928 and followed a plan from Konstantin Melnikov, a world-famous Soviet avant-garde and constructivist architect. Gorky Park was the first holiday park in the Soviet Union with children's playgrounds, sport stadiums, exhibition halls and attractions for rest and sport activities. Today, it is one of the most popular places in Moscow, perfect for walking, cycling, skateboarding and rollerblading.

Gorky Park, officially Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a central park in Moscow, named after Maxim Gorky.

A cruise along the Moskva River offers a unique perspective of the city, passing by many of Moscow's significant landmarks including the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, and the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. It's a relaxing way to sightsee, and many cruises offer dining options.

The Moskva River Cruise is a must-do activity for any visitor to Moscow. The cruise offers a unique perspective of the city, allowing you to see many of Moscow's most famous landmarks from the comfort of a boat. As you glide along the river, you'll pass by sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, and the State Tretyakov Gallery. /n The cruise typically lasts for about an hour and a half, and there are several departure times throughout the day, making it a convenient option for any schedule. In addition to the stunning views, the cruise also offers onboard amenities such as a bar and restaurant, so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while you take in the sights. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Moscow or a seasoned traveler, the Moskva River Cruise is a memorable and enjoyable way to experience the city.

A scenic cruise along the Moskva River, offering stunning views of Moscow's landmarks.

Experience the grandeur of Moscow, Russia's vibrant capital. Marvel at the iconic Kremlin and Red Square, home to the historic St. Basil's Cathedral with its colorful onion domes. Explore world-class museums like the Tretyakov Gallery and the Space Museum. Take a stroll along Arbat Street, a pedestrian paradise filled with shops, cafes, and street performers. Enjoy a performance at the world-renowned Bolshoi Theatre. Taste traditional Russian cuisine and sip on vodka in local taverns. Don't miss a cruise on the Moskva River for stunning city views. Moscow, a city that beautifully blends tradition and modernity, offers an unforgettable journey through Russia's rich history and culture.

Red Square

St. Basil's Cathedral

GUM Department Store

Kremlin

Bolshoi Theatre

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Red Square, where you can admire the stunning St. Basil's Cathedral and the historic GUM Department Store.

Enjoy a traditional Russian lunch in a local restaurant nearby. Try borscht, a hearty soup, or pelmeni, Russian dumplings.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Kremlin, a historic fortified complex at the heart of Moscow, home to beautiful cathedrals and palaces.

Have dinner in a restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. Sample modern Russian cuisine while enjoying the beautiful Moscow skyline.

End your day with a performance at the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the oldest and most renowned theatres in the world.

Exploring the Heart of Moscow

Tretyakov Gallery

Gorky Park

Begin your second day with a visit to the Tretyakov Gallery, Russia's foremost depository of Russian fine art.

Have lunch in a cozy café near the gallery. Try blini, thin pancakes, or pirozhki, small stuffed buns.

Spend the afternoon strolling through Gorky Park, Moscow's central park. Enjoy the greenery, rent a bike, or simply people-watch.

Dine in a restaurant offering a fusion of Russian and international cuisine. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and innovative dishes.

Finish your trip with a river cruise on the Moskva River. See Moscow's landmarks beautifully lit up against the night sky.

Art, Parks, and River Views

Note: russia has 11 time zones, the largest number of contiguous time zones of any country in the world; in 2014, two time zones were added and daylight saving time dropped

UTC+3

The Moscow Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive metro systems in the world. It operates from 5:30 AM until 1:00 AM. The stations are also known for their beautiful architecture. Tickets can be purchased at the station and are available as single rides, or as a card with multiple rides.

Buses in Moscow cover the entire city and are a good way to see the city above ground. They operate from 5:30 AM until midnight. Tickets can be purchased from the driver or at metro stations.

Trams in Moscow are a slower, but scenic way to get around the city. They operate from 5:30 AM until midnight. Tickets can be purchased from the driver or at metro stations.

Trolleybuses in Moscow are a unique form of transport that operate on electric lines. They cover many parts of the city and operate from 5:30 AM until midnight. Tickets can be purchased from the driver or at metro stations.

Taxis are widely available in Moscow and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. It's recommended to use official taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Yandex.Taxi or Uber for safety and convenience.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Yandex.Taxi are popular in Moscow. They offer a convenient way to get around the city and can be booked using a smartphone app.

The Moscow Central Circle (MCC) is a 54-km railway service that circles around the city. It's a convenient way to get around and connects to many metro stations. Tickets can be purchased at the station and are available as single rides, or as a card with multiple rides.

Moscow has a bike-sharing system called Velobike. It's a good way to get around during the warmer months. Bikes can be rented from stations around the city using a credit card.

Renting a car is an option in Moscow, but it's not recommended for visitors due to heavy traffic and difficult parking. If you do choose to rent a car, an international driving permit is required.

Walking is a great way to explore Moscow's city center. Many of the city's main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Just be sure to dress appropriately for the weather.

River boats operate on the Moskva River during the warmer months. They offer a scenic way to see the city and stop at several key attractions. Tickets can be purchased on board or at the pier.

A traditional Russian soup made from beetroot, cabbage, and meat. It's a staple dish in Moscow and showcases the hearty, comforting nature of Russian cuisine.

Borscht

A type of dumpling filled with meat or vegetables. Pelmeni is a classic Russian dish that is often served with sour cream or butter.

Pelmeni

A popular Russian dish made from sautéed pieces of beef served in a sauce with smetana (sour cream). It's a classic Moscow dish that has gained international fame.

Beef Stroganoff

Thin, crepe-like pancakes that are a staple in Russian cuisine. They can be filled with sweet or savory fillings, making them a versatile dish to try in Moscow.

Blini

Small, individual-sized baked or fried buns stuffed with a variety of fillings. Pirozhki is a popular street food in Moscow, showcasing the city's love for hearty, on-the-go meals.

Pirozhki

A form of skewered and grilled meat that is a popular dish in Moscow, especially during the summer months. Shashlik is a testament to Russia's love for grilled meats.

Shashlik

A traditional Russian salad made from diced potatoes, vegetables, eggs, and meat. Olivier Salad is a staple dish during New Year's celebrations in Moscow.

Olivier Salad

A thick, spicy and sour soup that is a part of traditional Russian cuisine. Solyanka is a unique dish that showcases the bold flavors of Moscow's food scene.

Solyanka

A layered honey cake that is a popular dessert in Moscow. Medovik is a sweet treat that showcases the love for honey in Russian cuisine.

Medovik

A traditional Russian drink made from rye bread. Kvass is a fermented beverage that is both refreshing and representative of Moscow's traditional drinks.

Kvass

A world-renowned vodka that is a staple in Moscow. Russian Standard Vodka is a testament to Russia's long history of vodka production.

Russian Standard Vodka

A traditional Russian drink made from berries. Mors is a sweet and refreshing beverage that is a popular choice in Moscow, especially during the summer months.

Mors

New Year's Day

New Year Holiday

Orthodox Christmas Day

Defender of the Fatherland Day

Public Holiday

International Women's Day

Spring and Labor Day

Spring and Labor Day Holiday

Victory Day

Russia Day

Unity Day

Day off for Unity Day

Victory Day Holiday

Unity Day Holiday

Known for the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, the most important Russian monastery and the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Sergiev Posad

A city with significant historical value, home to several World Heritage Sites including the Golden Gates and the Cathedral of Saint Demetrius.

Vladimir

A town that is part of the Golden Ring of Russia, known for its well-preserved medieval buildings.

Suzdal

A city on the Volga River, known for its historic city center, a World Heritage Site.

Yaroslavl

A city located at the confluence of the Volga and Tvertsa Rivers, known for its historical buildings and beautiful parks.

Tver

A city known for its kremlin, a large fortress with churches and towers, and its old town area.

Kolomna

A town known for the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and a number of ancient churches.

Zvenigorod

A town known for the Tchaikovsky House-Museum, the former country residence of the famous composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Klin

Kazan

Saint Petersburg

Sochi

Red Square with Moscow Kremlin and St Basil's Cathedral

Testing of the electric ship boat 'Filka' on Sparrows Hills on the Moscow River

Bolshoi Theatre (Big Theatre) and fountain

Moscow is the capital and most populous city of Russia.

The official language is Russian, and while some people do speak English, it's not as common as in other European cities.

The currency used in Moscow is the Russian Ruble (RUB). It's recommended to have some local currency for small purchases.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Moscow, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or street vendors.

Moscow operates on Moscow Standard Time (MSK), which is 3 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+3).

Moscow has a humid continental climate with warm, sometimes hot, summers and long, cold winters. The average summer temperature is around 70°F (21°C), while in winter it can drop to -10°F (-23°C).

Tipping is customary in Moscow. It's usual to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Public transportation in Moscow is extensive and efficient. It includes the Metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses.

The Moscow Metro is one of the deepest subway systems in the world. It's also known for its beautiful station architecture.

Taxis are plentiful in Moscow, but it's recommended to use official taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.

Moscow is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Russian cuisine is hearty and diverse. Don't miss trying traditional dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and blini.

Drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited in Moscow, except in bars, restaurants, and other licensed establishments.

Smoking is banned in most public places in Moscow, including restaurants, cafes, and public transportation.

It's customary to dress up when going to theatres or high-end restaurants in Moscow.

Moscow is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

It's important to carry your passport with you at all times, as police may stop foreigners to check their documents.

Moscow has a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, theatres, and music venues.

Shopping in Moscow ranges from high-end designer boutiques to traditional markets and souvenir shops.

It's recommended to get travel insurance before your trip to cover any unexpected incidents or medical emergencies.

January is the coldest month in Moscow, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Dress warmly and be prepared for snow.

February is still very cold with frequent snowfall. It's a great time for winter activities, but make sure to bundle up.

March sees the beginning of spring with temperatures slowly rising, but still expect some snow and cold weather.

April brings warmer temperatures and the end of the snow season. It's a good time to visit if you prefer milder weather.

May is the start of the warm season with longer daylight hours. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

June is a pleasant month with warm temperatures and lots of sunshine. It's an excellent time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

July is the warmest month in Moscow. It's perfect for exploring the city, attending outdoor events, and enjoying the summer weather.

August is still warm but with fewer crowds. It's a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter travel experience.

September marks the beginning of autumn with cooler temperatures. It's a beautiful time to visit with the changing colors of the leaves.

October is a cool month with shorter days. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

November is a cold month with the first snowfall usually occurring. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter scenery.

December is a festive month with Christmas markets and holiday decorations. It's cold and snowy, so dress warmly.

When visiting Moscow, Russia, it's important to be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. The city experiences a humid continental climate, with long, cold winters and warm, somewhat brief summers.

During the winter months, from November to March, temperatures can drop as low as -4°F (-20°C) and snowfall is quite common. It's advisable to pack warm clothing such as thermal layers, heavy coats, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots to keep warm and dry. The city's snow-covered landscapes can be quite beautiful, but icy conditions can make walking and driving hazardous.

The summer months, from June to August, are much warmer, with temperatures reaching up to 77°F (25°C). However, sudden rain showers are common, so it's a good idea to carry a lightweight, waterproof jacket or umbrella. The long daylight hours during this period make it an excellent time for sightseeing.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October) are transitional seasons, with temperatures ranging from 32°F (0°C) to 68°F (20°C). These periods can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in weather conditions, so it's advisable to pack a mix of warm and cool clothing.

Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast regularly as conditions can change quickly. Also, keep in mind that Moscow's weather can vary significantly from the rest of Russia due to its geographical location, so ensure your travel plans and packing list are tailored to the regions you'll be visiting.

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Two-Day Scenic Exploration Tour of Moscow, Russia

About Moscow, Russia