Moscow, Russia-7-day-itinerary

Moscow, Russia - 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Red Square

  • Morning: Arrive at Sheremetyevo or Domodedovo Airport. Take a taxi or metro (Line #2) to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel and take some time to freshen up.
  • Evening:
    • Visit the iconic Red Square, surrounded by St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, and the State History Museum.
    • Try traditional Russian street food at one of the many vendors or stalls around the square.
    • Dinner: Try Turandot, a modern Russian restaurant with delicious cuisine.

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel National, Moscow (4-star)

Day 2: Kremlin and Armory Chamber

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Kremlin’s official website for tickets and security information. Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
    • Explore the impressive Armory Chamber, a museum showcasing Russian imperial treasures.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Diamond Fund (part of the Kremlin) and see some of the world’s most valuable diamonds on display.
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy dinner at White Square, serving modern European cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.
    • Explore the surrounding streets, including Tverskaya Street, one of Moscow’s main shopping districts.
  • Morning: Visit the world-renowned Tretyakov Gallery, housing a vast collection of Russian art from the 11th to the mid-20th centuries.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the charming streets of the Old Arbat neighborhood, lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and cafes.
    • Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the area, such as Café Pechersky, offering traditional Russian cuisine.
  • Evening: Dinner at Maison, a French restaurant located in a beautiful 19th-century building.

Day 4: Soviet History and Culture

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Moscow Museum of Modern Art, housed in a former warehouse.
    • Explore the nearby Lenin’s Grave and the adjacent Memorial to the Victims of the Repression (the site where victims were executed).
  • Afternoon: Visit the Museum of the Great Patriotic War, which showcases Soviet military history.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner at Pivovarnya, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Russian cuisine and craft beer.

Day 5: Grand Palace and Moscow Metro

  • Morning:
    • Visit the impressive Peter the Great’s statue in front of the Kremlin walls, followed by a visit to the nearby Grand Palace.
    • Explore one of Moscow’s grand palaces, such as the Novodevichy Convent (optional guided tour available).
  • Afternoon: Take a tour of the world-famous Moscow Metro system. The metro is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an underground wonderland with ornate decorations and intricate architecture.
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy dinner at Shvedsky, serving modern Russian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 6: Artistic and Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the Pushkin Museum, housing a vast collection of European art from ancient Greece to the early 20th century.
  • Afternoon:
    • Attend an opera or ballet performance at the Bolshoi Theatre (book tickets in advance).
    • Explore the adjacent shopping street, Galernaya Street.

Day 7: Departure and Last-Minute Shopping

  • Morning: Spend some time browsing for last-minute souvenirs or shopping along one of Moscow’s main streets.
  • Afternoon:
    • Return to your hotel to collect luggage.
    • Take a taxi or metro back to the airport for departure.

Things to Know:

  • Safety: Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Keep valuables secure.
  • Weather: Moscow can be very cold during winter (average -4°C/25°F) and quite warm during summer (average 22°C/72°F). Pack accordingly.
  • Language: Many locals speak some English, but it’s still a good idea to learn basic Russian phrases.
  • Currency: The official currency is the Russian Ruble (RUB).

Transportation:

  • Metro: A convenient and efficient way to get around Moscow. Buy a rechargeable travel card at any metro station.
  • Taxi: Use official taxi services, such as Yandex.Taxi or Uber.

Tips and Recommendations:

  • Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or other places of worship.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
  • Dress Appropriately: Dress modestly when visiting cultural institutions or religious sites.

Hotel Suggestions:

  1. Hotel National, Moscow (4-star)
  2. Four Seasons Hotel Moscow (5-star)

Restaurant Recommendations:

  1. Turandot
  2. White Square
  3. Maison
  4. Pivovarnya

Note: Prices are subject to change and availability should be confirmed in advance.

This itinerary is designed for travelers who want a taste of everything Moscow has to offer, from the grandeur of the Kremlin to the artistic treasures of the city’s museums.