Moscow is Russia's capital; this city has a storied past, beautiful buildings and churches, and has everything you need from a bustling concrete jungle. I was here for around 5 days and felt that I needed more time to see everything.
Moscow is one of the biggest cities in Europe with its around 20 million inhabitants (including its metropolitan area). This sprawling urban jungle has a mix of old and new, centuries old churches and structures mingle with skyscrapers and Soviet-era buildings. There are fast food chains (McDonald's and the like, local cafes serving local and international cuisine, museums, galleries and theaters. It is also the center of political, cultural and economic power in Russia. The history of the city dates back to the 1100s.
The city is too big to explore in just a few days, I made most of time seeing the places that were high on my list. I would definitely go back if given the chance.
St. Basil's Cathedral
The iconic St. Basil's Cathedral is the most recognizable structure in Moscow. This centuries old church is characterized by its colorful, onion-shaped domes and a flaming red exterior. This centuries old structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Kremlin and Red Square.
Entrance Fee: Entrance fee to enter the church is RUB700 during low season and RUB1000 during peak season.
How to Go: There are metro stations nearby these are Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Aleksandrovsky Sad and Teatralnaya.
Red Square
This square is popular with both local and foreign tourists. Many make their way here throughout the day to visit the museums, walk around, take photos or just admire the beautiful architecture. You'll see several shops, cafes and restaurants all over the area.
How to Go: There are metro stations nearby these are Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Aleksandrovsky Sad and Teatralnaya.
The Kremlin
The Kremlin is the country's seat of power until today. Some parts of this fortress are open to tourists such as Cathedral Square and the Armoury. I was only able to visit Cathedral Square; here, you'll find centuries old churches that have beautiful and well-preserved religious icons. You can also find tombs of former kings and royalty. A visit to the Kremlin is a must during your trip.
Entrance Fee: RUB700 for the Armoury and RUB500 for Cathedral Square
How to Go: There are metro stations nearby these are Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Aleksandrovsky Sad and Teatralnaya.
GUM Department Store
This beautiful department store used to be state-owned, now it is a symbol of the country's capitalism and consumerism. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, theaters and cafes inside. Shop till you drop here or just eat after exploring the city.
How to Go: There are metro stations nearby these are Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Aleksandrovsky Sad and Teatralnaya.
Novodevichy Convent
This old and beautiful cloister looks like a fortress from the outside, but once you enter, you'll see the typically colorful churches of Russia. The convent was founded in the 1520s. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was currently under construction when I went, but you could imagine the size and beauty of the buildings found here.
Entrance Fee: RUB400 this includes fee for taking pictures (under construction when I visited)
How to Go: Alight at Sportivnaya metro station, then walk towards 10-letiya Oktyabrya Street then make your way to pl. Novodevichyego. Then turn left at Novodevichyi Prudy. Ask around if you get lost.
Wooden Palace of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich
This eye-catching building was only a reconstruction, but the original was built in 1667. The complex had around 270 rooms that had detailed carvings and paintings. The palace had separate sections for males and females. The palace was reconstructed in the 90s following research made about it.
Entrance Fee: RUB400
How to Go: This palace is found inside Kolomenskoye Park, you can alight at Kolomenskaya Station or at Kashirskaya Station. You can walk to the park and follow directions inside to find this attraction.
Tsaritsyno Estate
This sprawling estate traces its history back to the 16th century. It has changed owners several times since then. Its most remarkable owner was Catherine the Great who bought the estate in 1775. Fast forward to today, the complex was restored and was designated as a protected historic zone. It's a nice place to walk around and imagine what life was like centuries ago.
Entrance Fee: RUB350 for the Grand Palace and Bread House
How to Go: The closest station is Tsaritsyno, you can just walk to the estate once you get out.
Read more about this destination: Tsaritsyno Estate
Kolomenskoye Cathedral or Church of the Ascension
Kolomenskoye Park is a great place to visit to get away from the frenetic pace of the city. This green space has walking trails where locals go jogging or just simply taking a leisurely stroll. You can also find the UNESCO World Heritage Site Church of the Ascension. The church has a long history dating back to 1532. The structure marked a different stage in Russian design. This attraction was the first tent-roofed church constructed in stone.
How to Go: The park is within walking distance of Kashirskaya and Kolomenskaya Stations.
Sergiev Posad
This complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most beautiful churches and religious icons in Russia. If you have time, try to include this destination to your itinerary.
How to Go: This is a possible day or half-day trip from Moscow. You can get here by train, buy the ticket online for convenience. Book here: https://pass.rzd.ru/main-pass/public/en.
Read more about this destination: Sergiev Posad Guide
Moscow Subway
Moscow's subway stations can be attractions. You'll find chandeliers, art and statues inside. I took the time to stay a bit longer in some of the stops I made.
I walked around Moscow most of the time and found some places of interest along the way. The city has the usual chaos of traffic, pollution and wires overhead found in some of the places I've been to. Moscow has character, that's for sure.
Saint Petersburg
One of the most beautiful cities I have been to, full of history and culture. There are several palaces, museums and nice streets to walk around in. I recommend you spend at least three days here.
Read more about this destination here: Guide to Saint Petersburg
Vladimir
One of the cities included in the Golden Ring. A city with a small town charm, stayed here for a couple of days, nice and chill. There are also UNESCO-listed structures here.
Read more about this destination here: Guide to Vladimir
Kazan
Was pleasantly surprised with my trip to Kazan. Had a good mix of Russian Orthodox and Islamic influence. Many beautiful buildings and things to do.
Read more about this destination here: Guide to Kazan
Veliky Novgorod
Recognized as the Birthplace of Russia, Veliky Novgorod is a laid back destination with plenty of historic buildings that are centuries old.
Read more about this destination here: Guide to Veliky Novgorod
Golden Ring Cities
The Golden Ring is a group of cities that are culturally and historically important to Russia. I've only been to four.
Read more about them here: Golden Ring Cities
I found Moscow an easy city to navigate, a lot of the attractions are near metro stations or only a few minutes walk from them. I enjoyed walking everywhere, I walked from Entusiastov Boulevard (from Netizen Hostel) all the way to the Kremlin. I recommend getting a stored value metro ticket and just top it up whenever your credit runs low.
I stayed in two hostels Fasol Hostel and Netizen Hostel. Both were conveniently located near a metro station. The area near Fasol Hostel had more grocery stores, restaurants and other business establishments. Both were clean and had decent facilities for the price I paid (I stayed in the dorm).
Hostels in the city
Hotels for those with a bigger budget
The most convenient way to reach the city is to take the Aeroexpress; however, you will have to switch to a metro line upon arriving at the train station:
You can buy a ticket online through https://aeroexpress.ru/en/aero.html.
*Everything's in Russian Rubles unless otherwise stated.
500 - Aeroexpress ticket from airport to city
420 - Aeroexpress ticket from city to airport
910 - Transportation
1662 - 2 nights Netizen Hostel (including registration fee of RUB200)
882 - 2 nights Fasol Hostel
360 - Train to Sergiev Posad from Moscow
265 - Train to Moscow from Sergiev Posad
2910 - Food and drinks
700 - St. Basil's Cathedral fee
490 - Miscellaneous
500 - Cathedral Square inside Kremlin fee
740 - Train to Vladimir from Moscow
907 - Train to Kazan
350 - Grand Palace (Tsaritsyno Estate) and Bread House fee
400 - Novodevichy Convent fee
806 - Train to Novgorod-Na-Volhave (Veliky Novgorod)
12802 - Total
*That is roughly Php 10400; the exchange rate varies so check when you go.
For Filipino readers, here's how I got my visa: Visa Guide
Travel Guide for Moscow
Moscow is one of the biggest cities in Europe with its around 20 million inhabitants (including its metropolitan area). This sprawling urban jungle has a mix of old and new, centuries old churches and structures mingle with skyscrapers and Soviet-era buildings. There are fast food chains (McDonald's and the like, local cafes serving local and international cuisine, museums, galleries and theaters. It is also the center of political, cultural and economic power in Russia. The history of the city dates back to the 1100s.
The city is too big to explore in just a few days, I made most of time seeing the places that were high on my list. I would definitely go back if given the chance.
Places to Visit in Moscow
St. Basil's Cathedral
The iconic St. Basil's Cathedral is the most recognizable structure in Moscow. This centuries old church is characterized by its colorful, onion-shaped domes and a flaming red exterior. This centuries old structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Kremlin and Red Square.
Entrance Fee: Entrance fee to enter the church is RUB700 during low season and RUB1000 during peak season.
How to Go: There are metro stations nearby these are Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Aleksandrovsky Sad and Teatralnaya.
Red Square
This square is popular with both local and foreign tourists. Many make their way here throughout the day to visit the museums, walk around, take photos or just admire the beautiful architecture. You'll see several shops, cafes and restaurants all over the area.
How to Go: There are metro stations nearby these are Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Aleksandrovsky Sad and Teatralnaya.
The Kremlin
The Kremlin is the country's seat of power until today. Some parts of this fortress are open to tourists such as Cathedral Square and the Armoury. I was only able to visit Cathedral Square; here, you'll find centuries old churches that have beautiful and well-preserved religious icons. You can also find tombs of former kings and royalty. A visit to the Kremlin is a must during your trip.
Entrance Fee: RUB700 for the Armoury and RUB500 for Cathedral Square
How to Go: There are metro stations nearby these are Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Aleksandrovsky Sad and Teatralnaya.
GUM Department Store
This beautiful department store used to be state-owned, now it is a symbol of the country's capitalism and consumerism. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, theaters and cafes inside. Shop till you drop here or just eat after exploring the city.
How to Go: There are metro stations nearby these are Biblioteka Imeni Lenina, Aleksandrovsky Sad and Teatralnaya.
Novodevichy Convent
This old and beautiful cloister looks like a fortress from the outside, but once you enter, you'll see the typically colorful churches of Russia. The convent was founded in the 1520s. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was currently under construction when I went, but you could imagine the size and beauty of the buildings found here.
How to Go: Alight at Sportivnaya metro station, then walk towards 10-letiya Oktyabrya Street then make your way to pl. Novodevichyego. Then turn left at Novodevichyi Prudy. Ask around if you get lost.
Wooden Palace of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich
This eye-catching building was only a reconstruction, but the original was built in 1667. The complex had around 270 rooms that had detailed carvings and paintings. The palace had separate sections for males and females. The palace was reconstructed in the 90s following research made about it.
Entrance Fee: RUB400
How to Go: This palace is found inside Kolomenskoye Park, you can alight at Kolomenskaya Station or at Kashirskaya Station. You can walk to the park and follow directions inside to find this attraction.
Tsaritsyno Estate
This sprawling estate traces its history back to the 16th century. It has changed owners several times since then. Its most remarkable owner was Catherine the Great who bought the estate in 1775. Fast forward to today, the complex was restored and was designated as a protected historic zone. It's a nice place to walk around and imagine what life was like centuries ago.
Entrance Fee: RUB350 for the Grand Palace and Bread House
How to Go: The closest station is Tsaritsyno, you can just walk to the estate once you get out.
Read more about this destination: Tsaritsyno Estate
Kolomenskoye Cathedral or Church of the Ascension
Kolomenskoye Park is a great place to visit to get away from the frenetic pace of the city. This green space has walking trails where locals go jogging or just simply taking a leisurely stroll. You can also find the UNESCO World Heritage Site Church of the Ascension. The church has a long history dating back to 1532. The structure marked a different stage in Russian design. This attraction was the first tent-roofed church constructed in stone.
How to Go: The park is within walking distance of Kashirskaya and Kolomenskaya Stations.
Sergiev Posad
This complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most beautiful churches and religious icons in Russia. If you have time, try to include this destination to your itinerary.
How to Go: This is a possible day or half-day trip from Moscow. You can get here by train, buy the ticket online for convenience. Book here: https://pass.rzd.ru/main-pass/public/en.
Read more about this destination: Sergiev Posad Guide
Moscow Subway
Moscow's subway stations can be attractions. You'll find chandeliers, art and statues inside. I took the time to stay a bit longer in some of the stops I made.
Random Places
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| Cathedral of Christ the Savior |
I walked around Moscow most of the time and found some places of interest along the way. The city has the usual chaos of traffic, pollution and wires overhead found in some of the places I've been to. Moscow has character, that's for sure.
Suggested Next Destinations
Saint Petersburg
One of the most beautiful cities I have been to, full of history and culture. There are several palaces, museums and nice streets to walk around in. I recommend you spend at least three days here.
Read more about this destination here: Guide to Saint Petersburg
Vladimir
One of the cities included in the Golden Ring. A city with a small town charm, stayed here for a couple of days, nice and chill. There are also UNESCO-listed structures here.
Read more about this destination here: Guide to Vladimir
Kazan
Was pleasantly surprised with my trip to Kazan. Had a good mix of Russian Orthodox and Islamic influence. Many beautiful buildings and things to do.
Read more about this destination here: Guide to Kazan
Veliky Novgorod
Recognized as the Birthplace of Russia, Veliky Novgorod is a laid back destination with plenty of historic buildings that are centuries old.
Read more about this destination here: Guide to Veliky Novgorod
Golden Ring Cities
The Golden Ring is a group of cities that are culturally and historically important to Russia. I've only been to four.
Read more about them here: Golden Ring Cities
Getting Around Moscow
I found Moscow an easy city to navigate, a lot of the attractions are near metro stations or only a few minutes walk from them. I enjoyed walking everywhere, I walked from Entusiastov Boulevard (from Netizen Hostel) all the way to the Kremlin. I recommend getting a stored value metro ticket and just top it up whenever your credit runs low.
Where to Stay in Moscow
I stayed in two hostels Fasol Hostel and Netizen Hostel. Both were conveniently located near a metro station. The area near Fasol Hostel had more grocery stores, restaurants and other business establishments. Both were clean and had decent facilities for the price I paid (I stayed in the dorm).
Hostels in the city
- Check the availability and rates of Netizen Hostel - I stayed here
- Check the availability and rates of Fasol Hostel - I stayed here
- Check the availability and rates of Kremlin Lights
Hotels for those with a bigger budget
- Check the availability and rates of Grand Belorusskaya
- Check the availability and rates of Metropol Hotel
- Check the availability and rates of Peter 1 Hotel
- Check the availability and rates of SkyPoint Hotel Sheremetyevo Airport
- Check the availability and rates of GettSleep Sheremetyevo Airport Terminal Aeroexpress - BUDGET OPTION
- Check the availability and rates of Holiday Inn Express Moscow - Sheremetyevo Airport
How to Get to Moscow from the Airport
The most convenient way to reach the city is to take the Aeroexpress; however, you will have to switch to a metro line upon arriving at the train station:
- From Sheremetyevo the trip takes 35 minutes and arrives at Belorussky Station
- From Domodedovo the trip takes 45 minutes and arrives at Paveletsky Station
- From Vnukovo the trip takes 35 minutes and arrives at Kievsky Station
You can buy a ticket online through https://aeroexpress.ru/en/aero.html.
Budget for Moscow
*Everything's in Russian Rubles unless otherwise stated.
500 - Aeroexpress ticket from airport to city
420 - Aeroexpress ticket from city to airport
910 - Transportation
1662 - 2 nights Netizen Hostel (including registration fee of RUB200)
882 - 2 nights Fasol Hostel
360 - Train to Sergiev Posad from Moscow
265 - Train to Moscow from Sergiev Posad
2910 - Food and drinks
700 - St. Basil's Cathedral fee
490 - Miscellaneous
500 - Cathedral Square inside Kremlin fee
740 - Train to Vladimir from Moscow
907 - Train to Kazan
350 - Grand Palace (Tsaritsyno Estate) and Bread House fee
400 - Novodevichy Convent fee
806 - Train to Novgorod-Na-Volhave (Veliky Novgorod)
12802 - Total
*That is roughly Php 10400; the exchange rate varies so check when you go.
For Filipino readers, here's how I got my visa: Visa Guide
Travel Tips
- A translator is your friend, download an online one for your trip.
- If you're booking train tickets to other cities, better to book online.
- Get a map (physical or online one) of the metro stations to make it easy to explore the city and find attractions.
- Bring USD or Euros for money changers; I had a difficult time to change other currencies to RUB. You can also use your international debit or credit cards to withdraw money.
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