Moscow, Russia-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Red Square and Kremlin

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic Red Square (Krasnaya Ploshchad), a historic square in the heart of Moscow. Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral, a beautiful example of Russian architecture.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Kremlin, a fortified complex that serves as the official residence of the President of Russia. Explore the Armory Chamber, where you’ll find the imperial carriage collection and other treasures.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Russian cuisine at Old Arbat, a cozy restaurant with a rustic atmosphere. Try their borscht and beef stroganoff!
  • Accommodation:
  • Getting around:
    • Take the metro from any station to Red Square (stations: Okhotny Ryad or Teatralnaya).
    • Use public transportation, taxis, or walk/bike in the city center.

Day 2: Visit the Tretyakov Gallery and explore Moscow’s neighborhoods

  • Morning: Spend your day exploring the Tretyakov Gallery, a world-renowned museum showcasing Russian art. See works by famous artists like Kandinsky, Malevich, and Repin.
  • Afternoon:
    • Wander through the charming neighborhoods of Arbat Street and Kitai-Gorod, known for their picturesque architecture and lively atmosphere.
    • Visit the Novodevichy Convent, a beautiful Orthodox convent with stunning views of Moscow.
  • Evening: Savor traditional Russian cuisine at Turandot, a cozy restaurant with an elegant atmosphere. Try their pelmeni and beef shashlik!
  • Tips:
    • Don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll along the scenic river embankment, where you’ll find beautiful views of Moscow.
    • Be prepared for crowds at popular tourist spots like Red Square.

Day 3: Discover the beauty of Moscow’s parks and gardens

  • Morning: Visit the Bolshoi Park, a picturesque park with beautiful fountains, sculptures, and walking trails.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the Alexander Garden, a charming park with a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of Moscow.
    • Visit the Tsaritsyno Park, a beautiful park with stunning architecture, gardens, and fountains.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Gogol Cafe, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine. Try their shashlik and chicken Kiev!
  • Getting around:
    • Use public transportation to reach the parks (stations: Kuznetsky Most or Novoslobodskaya).
    • Walk or bike in the park for a more leisurely experience.

Day 4: Visit the Moscow Metro and explore the city’s hidden gems

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of the Moscow Metro, an impressive subway system with stunning architecture and intricate designs.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the State Historical Museum, which houses a vast collection of Russian history, art, and artifacts.
    • Explore the charming neighborhood of Tverskoy District, known for its beautiful architecture, lively atmosphere, and historic significance.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Lebichevsky Cafe, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine. Try their borscht and beef stroganoff!
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds at popular tourist spots like the Moscow Metro.
    • Don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll along the scenic river embankment.

Day 5: Shopping and souvenir hunting

  • Morning: Visit the GUM Department Store, a historic shopping complex with stunning architecture, luxury brands, and souvenir shops.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the charming neighborhood of Old Arbat, known for its picturesque architecture, lively atmosphere, and souvenir shops.
    • Visit the Central Market, a bustling market with stalls selling fresh produce, souvenirs, and traditional Russian goods.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Riviera Cafe, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine. Try their shashlik and chicken Kiev!
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds at popular shopping destinations like GUM.
    • Don’t miss the opportunity to try some traditional Russian sweets and pastries.

Important things to know

  • Moscow has 12 time zones, so be sure to adjust your clocks accordingly.
  • Tipping in Russia is not as common as in other countries, but it’s always appreciated for good service (10-15%).
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist spots like Red Square and the Kremlin.
  • Don’t drink tap water – stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or mosques.

Additional tips

  • Learn a few basic Russian phrases like “hello” ( Privyet), “thank you” (Spasibo), and “excuse me” (Pardon).
  • Use public transportation, taxis, or walk/bike in the city center to avoid traffic.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll along the scenic river embankment for beautiful views of Moscow.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Moscow!