Moscow, Russia’s vibrant and historic capital, is a city of contrasts. It blends centuries-old architecture with cutting-edge skyscrapers, Soviet nostalgia with a modern cosmopolitan vibe, and bustling streets with serene parks. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a culture lover, or an adventure seeker, Moscow has something special to offer.
If you’re planning your first visit, this guide will take you through the absolute must-see attractions and hidden gems. Plus, I’ll share some super handy apps at the end to make your Moscow trip smooth and stress-free.
1. Start Your Journey at Red Square & The Kremlin
No trip to Moscow is complete without stepping into Red Square—the beating heart of the city. You’ll be awestruck by the colorful Saint Basil’s Cathedral, which looks straight out of a fairy tale. Right next to it, you’ll find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where you can see the preserved body of the Soviet leader himself.
A short walk away is The Kremlin, Russia’s political and historical powerhouse. You’ll get to see majestic palaces, stunning cathedrals, and even the world’s largest cannon and bell. Make sure to book your tickets in advance because this place gets packed!
2. Dive into Russian History at the State Historical Museum
Located right on Red Square, this museum is a dream for history lovers. The stunning red-brick building itself is a masterpiece, and inside, you’ll find a vast collection of Russian artifacts—from ancient Slavic relics to Imperial treasures. It’s the perfect place to brush up on Russia’s fascinating past.
3. Explore the Underground Palaces of Moscow Metro
Okay, let’s be real—who gets excited about riding the subway in a foreign city? Well, in Moscow, you should! The Moscow Metro isn’t just a transportation system; it’s an underground art gallery. Stations like Komsomolskaya, Mayakovskaya, and Kievskaya are filled with chandeliers, mosaics, and marble pillars that will leave you speechless.
Pro tip: Get a Troika Card to save money on metro rides, buses, and trams.
4. Wander Through GUM & Try Soviet-Style Ice Cream
Moscow’s GUM Department Store, right on Red Square, is a luxurious shopping mall with an old-world charm. Even if you’re not in the mood for high-end shopping, visit for the architecture and the famous Soviet-style ice cream sold at the stalls inside. It’s rich, creamy, and absolutely worth trying!
5. Experience the Grandeur of the Bolshoi Theatre
Even if you’re not a big fan of ballet or opera, a visit to the Bolshoi Theatre is a must. Watching a performance here—especially classics like Swan Lake or The Nutcracker—is a magical experience. If tickets are too pricey, consider taking a guided tour of the theater instead.
6. Stroll Through Zaryadye Park for a Stunning City View
Zaryadye Park is a modern urban oasis just a stone’s throw from Red Square. It offers panoramic views of the Kremlin, the Moskva River, and the city skyline. Walk across the floating bridge, which extends over the river with no visible supports, for some Instagram-worthy shots.
7. Visit the Tretyakov Gallery – A Must for Art Lovers
If you appreciate art, the Tretyakov Gallery is a goldmine. It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art, including masterpieces by Repin, Shishkin, and Vrubel. Even if you’re not an art connoisseur, this museum is a great way to connect with Russian culture.
8. Discover Moscow’s Hipster Scene at Gorky Park
This is not your average park—it’s a cultural hotspot! Gorky Park is where locals go for morning jogs, yoga classes, and open-air movie nights. In the winter, the park transforms into a massive ice-skating rink. Don’t miss the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases cutting-edge Russian and international art.
9. Enjoy a Boat Ride on the Moskva River
Want to see Moscow from a different angle? Hop on a Moskva River cruise! It’s a relaxing way to admire the city’s landmarks, like the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the grand Moscow State University building. If you’re up for something fancy, book a dinner cruise for a romantic evening on the water.
10. Escape the City at Kolomenskoye Estate
Just a short metro ride from the city center, Kolomenskoye is a peaceful retreat with stunning wooden churches, royal gardens, and breathtaking views of the river. The Church of the Ascension, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the highlight of this historic estate.
10 Must-Have Apps for Travelers in Moscow
Traveling in a foreign city can be daunting, but having the right apps can make your Moscow adventure a breeze. Here are the top 10 apps you should download before your trip:
- Yandex Maps – Google Maps doesn’t always work well in Russia, but Yandex Maps is super accurate for navigation.
- Yandex Metro – Helps you plan your metro routes, showing you transfer stations and estimated travel times.
- Yandex Go – The Russian equivalent of Uber, and often cheaper than taxis.
- Google Translate – A lifesaver for translating menus, signs, and conversations.
- 2GIS – Offline maps with detailed building entrances—great for navigating large shopping centers and hidden cafes.
- Tinkoff Travel – Useful for booking flights, hotels, and experiences within Russia.
- Visit Russia – An official travel guide with must-see spots and local recommendations.
- Russpass – Offers tickets to attractions, event bookings, and itinerary planning.
- Currency Converter Plus – Stay updated on exchange rates for Rubles.
- Yelp Russia or TripAdvisor – Find the best restaurants, cafes, and bars with real reviews.
With these apps in your pocket, you’ll be navigating Moscow like a local in no time!
Best time to visit Moscow
The best time to visit Moscow is April and May, when the temperature creeps into the 50s and 60s, the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day, and hotel rates have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges. Of course, the golden period is summer, when the city is warm and bustling.
Final Thoughts
Moscow is an exciting blend of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you’re marveling at its architectural wonders, indulging in delicious Russian food, or simply wandering through its parks and streets, the city will leave a lasting impression on you.
Pack your bags, grab your phone with these must-have apps, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Russian capital!
What’s the first thing you’d love to do in Moscow? Let me know in the comments below!