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Ajala travel (feat. Oladips)

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Ajala the traveller Nigeria rode a bike around the world

G rowing up, we always called a person who travelled a lot Ajala is the traveller. We sing songs about them, but did you know he was a real person?

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, or simply Ajala the Traveller, deserves a spot of notoriety in Nigeria’s history.

Ajala’s early life

He was born in Ghana in 1934 but moved back to Nigeria, where he studied at the Baptist Academy in Lagos and later at the Ibadan Boys’ High School in Ibadan.

At 18, he left Nigeria and pursued pre-medicine studies at the University of Chicago. Instead of completing his studies, he chose to be an explorer. At 22, he embarked on an epic journey from Chicago to Los Angeles, covering 2,280 miles on a bicycle. He made stops in 11 major cities and educated Americans about Nigerian and African culture.

Despite facing deportation back to Nigeria, he staged a daring protest by climbing an 80-foot radio tower, sustaining a back injury in the process. Instead of returning to Nigeria, he was sent to London.

His journey around the world

In 1957, he left London to travel the world for six years, visiting 87 countries.

Àjàlá, a journalist, made money by selling travel writing to newspapers and magazines in West Africa. However, his travels were not easy, as he faced encounters with authorities and brushes with the law. He was often engaging in fights over women and committing petty crimes like counterfeiting a cheque. He was also accused of trying to hurt Nikita Khrushchev in the Soviet Union and nearly got shot by Jordanian police in Jerusalem for crossing the border too fast.

He wrote a book about his travels called "An African Abroad" in 1963, detailing his experiences in India, the Soviet Union, the United Arab Republic, Iran, Jordan, Israel, Palestine, Poland, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Austria, Yugoslavia, Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Turkey, Hong Kong, China, and Australia.

Upon returning to Nigeria, Ajala became a socialite and hung out with celebrities and entertainers like the late Sikiru Ayinde. However, their relationship dwindled with his influence, popularity, and fame. He lived in a rundown rented apartment in Lagos, where he died of paralysis from a stroke in 1999.

ALSO READ: 5 achievements of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti besides the first woman to drive a car

Oladips – Àjàlá Travel

Nigerian indigenous rapper-singer Oladips comes through with brand new music titled “ Àjàlá Travel “, a cover of Ghanaian singer Black Sherif’s song “ Kwaku The Traveller “.

The new record “Ajala Travel” is a fantastic track for your listening pleasure. It fills in as a follow-up to his previously released song titled “Birthday Finesse”.

Listen and share Oladips – “Àjàlá Travel” below.

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The Story of Olabisi Ajala, The Popular Nigerian Traveller Who Toured The World On A Vespa

Who was Olabisi Ajala The Traveller?

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala , popularly known in Nigeria and across the globe as ‘ Ajala the traveller ‘, was the man who toured the United States of America on a bicycle, and the world, on a motor scooter better known as Vespa.

From the ordinary son of a traditionalist, Ajala rose to a global celebrity and his name became a song sang on every lips. During his prime, Ajala was envied and praised by both the young and old for his courage, determination and success.

Even in 1972, the Nigerian music wizard himself, Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey , immortalized Ajala and his adventures in a song included in his album titled ‘Board Members’. Obey sang thus: “ Ajala travel all over the world (2ce), Ajala travel (2ce), Ajala travel all over the world. ” Below is OldNaija’s detailed account of the life, career and death of the legendary and iconic Ajala the traveller.

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala was born in Ghana into a Nigerian polygamous family of thirty. He was one out of the twenty-five children produced by his father and his four wives. Shortly after Ajala’s birth, his family moved down to Nigeria where he schooled in Baptist Academy, Lagos and Ibadan Boys’ High School.

At the age of 18, Ajala went to America to further his studies; he was admitted into the University of Chicago where he studied as a pre-medical student. His initial dream was to become a medical doctor and return to Nigeria to disparage the practice of voodoo and the people’s belief in superstitions but Ajala’s lifetime dream changed along the course of his life; he found something more interesting to him than donning lab coats and using stethoscope.

Ajala came into the spotlight in 1952 when he went on a lecture tour across the United States of America on a bicycle covering a total of 2,280 miles.

Throughout the lecture tour, Ajala dressed in the traditional attires of Nigeria one of which was described as “elaborately flowered robes with a felt-like head-dresses to match”. He did this in a bid to enhance the purpose of his lecture tour which was to educate Americans about the progress of his country, Nigeria, and Africa in general, and to enlighten them that contrary to the popular belief held in America, Africans don’t walk about naked or covered in leaves and loin clothes.

The news of Ajala’s bicycle tour spread across the United States of America like wildfire and quickly made it to the dailies and television.

Below is a text of how Ajala was described in Global Television Formats: Understanding Television Across Borders: “ Perhaps even more significant for our discussion of the show’s global and local dynamics, however, was the participation of Nigerian contestant, Olabisi Ajala, a sophisticated world traveller and secretary to his country’s prime minister. Olabisi is an attractive and charismatic black man who held a degree in psychology from Columbia University and was an expert in ethnology, the subject he chose for Lascia o Raddoppia? Olabisi recurrently appeared on TV wearing traditional Nigerian clothes, and he managed to transform every night on the show into a celebration of his ethnic and cultural heritage. The final night however, Olabisi entered the TV studio wearing an impeccable tuxedo, while Mike wore the traditional Nigerian costume, demonstrating once more his ability to interact with his contestants’ most genuine aspects of identity, be it regional, Italian or foreign and Other. ’’

Ajala’s fame also landed him big movie roles. After his bicycle tour across the United States of America, he got his first role (of $300 per week) in the movie White Witch Doctor produced by the popular 20th Century-Fox Motion Picture. He played the supporting role of Ola, a companion of Loni, a famous African hunter played by Robert Mitchum. Also in August, 1955, he signed a movie contract with the Eagle Lion Studios of Hollywood which involved making movies with European and African backgrounds.

The already famous Ajala the traveler did not limit his tour to the United States of America, he visited a total of 87 countries with his scooter in six years.

He visited countries such as Israel, India, Australia, Iran, Russia, Ghana, Cyprus, Egypt and so on where he met with some of the greatest leaders in the world such as: Gamal Abdul Nasser of Egypt, Jawarhalar Nehru of India, Niki Khrushchev of the USSR, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi of Iran, Ronald Reagan of America, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa of Nigeria and many more.

Ajala the traveller was known as a man of many women. His marital life featured different women from different parts of the world. In 1953, a Chicago nurse named Myrtle Basset filed a paternity suit against Ajala for denying being the father of ‘their son’ which she claimed Ajala himself named Oladipupo and also signed his birth certificate.

Despite the lawsuit, Ajala held firmly to his ground denying being the father of the boy. Ajala proposed a DNA test but the nurse was reluctant at first and when she eventually agreed to surrender the baby for the test, Ajala disappeared into the thin air which made the court ruled against him. In March, 1953, a domestic court mandated Ajala to pay $10 per week for the upkeep of Oladipupo, also named André.

That year, things did not go down well for Ajala. In March, 1953, he was arrested on the charges of forgery, grand theft and worthless check by the police of Beverly Hills, California. Ajala pleaded not guilty to the charges, he claimed he was duped by one Arnold Weiner who was an ex-bank accountant. Arnold Weiner in turn defended himself, he admitted showing Ajala how to write cheques but claimed he didn’t dupe him.

However, Ajala was sentenced to one year jail term and later deported from America. His deportation was not solely because of the forgery charges levelled against him but also because he had failed to keep up with his studies at the Santa Monica Junior College, thus invalidating his visa. Ajala resisted deportation and protested because, according to American authorities, he feared tribal execution. The authorities said Ajala was scared of being killed by his father if he was deported back to Nigeria which led to his protest.

Ajala had climbed an 80-foot radio tower where he screamed that he would rather leap to his death than be deported. Ajala protested on the tower for about 24 hours turning deaf ears to the pleas of the immigration authorities. He eventually jumped down from a height of 15 feet but was lucky to only have sustained a sprained back. The authorities also said Ajala, after the tower protest, embarked on hunger strike which Ajala debunked. He claimed he was only observing the 30-day Ramadan fasting. However, Ajala was flown to London instead of Nigeria. He had previously requested to be flown to Canada but his request was turned down because Canada refused to approve his application.

By December 1954, Ajala returned to America with his wife, Hermine Aileen who later divorced him in August 1955 on the charges that he was being adulterous. In December, that same year, Ajala married a 19-year-old white London radio-Tv actress, Joan Simmons.

Ajala the traveler maintained his global celebrity status for a while but soon went out of the limelight though his name still kept ringing in the ears of people. He retired to Nigeria where he lived with some of his children.

Things turned worse for the Ajala in his latter years as he fell from the famous and rich world traveller to a common man struggling to met his ends somewhere in Lagos, a rented apartment in a two-storey building on Adeniran Street, Bariga to be precise.

When Ajala fell sick, he couldn’t get adequate medical care because he didn’t have enough money, and his swarm of children were not there for him, only two of his children lived with him and they are: Olaolu Ajala, a 20-year-old student of Baptist Academy, Lagos and Bolanle Ajala, his 17-year-old daughter.

It is sad to know that the once world famous Ajala the traveler died a poor man on the 2nd of February, 1999 at the General Hospital, Ikeja as a result of paralysis from stroke. However, he has found a place for his name in the history of Nigeria and the world.

Thanks for reading, OldNaija.com

• Innovative Travels- The story of Ajala travel all over the world
• Tunji, Bolaji. ‘Sad End of Olabisi Ajala.’, The Guardian, 20 February 1999, pages 8-9.
• African Actor Jailed For Worthless Checks, Jet, 12 th March, 1953, page 46.
• Abiyamo- The Untold Story of AJALA TRAVEL, Africa’s Most Legendary Traveller

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34 comments.

Aw! Such a sad end. ????Ajala travel all over the world…

A sad end indeed! Thanks for visiting and dropping a comment, La. Kindly do visit again.

What a piece of edu-formation. Job well done.

So educative. So informative.

Thank you for visiting and dropping such a kind comment,Mr Abbey Baloo. We are glad you find this educative and informative. Kindly do visit again.

This is about my first time of reading a story about the famous man. It’s very important for a man to be careful in his choice of and dealing with women when it comes to marital affairs. It goes a long way in determining the rise or fall of a man. Nice work, OldNaija. Keep it up.

Thank you for your visit and priceless comment, Mr. Lekan Bello. You have indeed spoken well. Behind a successful man, they say, is A woman. We hope people will learn from his story. Kindly do visit again sir.

Eventually a movie will be made about this great adventurer.

It should, and very soon, we hope. Thanks for your visit and comment, Mr. Yacub. Kindly do visit again.

Yes o, what a great guy. Many Nigerian didnt know about him. I listen to one of Ayinde Barrister songs when the duo had issues. I had to research further for details of the famed Ajala. He was an interesting Nigerian. His life exploit should be well documented. Those guys lived in an interesting time and enjoyed life to the fullest.

Well said. They really enjoyed it to the fullest. Thanks for stopping by, Mr. Jinadu. Please, visit again.

this my first time of reading the story,it’s educative nd informative,though his life ended in a sad way.

A sad way indeed. Thanks for your visit, Abu. Kindly do visit again.

This is a very interesting historical piece, very educative, full of knowledge especially to every successful being, men have to be very careful and always know that no condition is permanent. All prospective and successful men should be careful about women, as success attracts more women, so men should be careful. Kudos to the compiler of this story.

Thank you for your visit and comment, Mr. Alabi Qozim Hamby. Kindly do visit again

Its a pleasure, I will.

What about Ajala’s service in the military during the civil war and his escapade with alhaja of ‘obokun’ fame popularised by inimitable Ebenzer Obey

Please send the story if you have it. Should be interesting.

Your writeup are refreshing. For a student,the sky is your lowest limit.I hail you

Thank you so much for visiting and dropping such a nice comment, dearest Ayoade. Kindly do visit again.

Anyone know where I can buy the book “An African Abroad”. Had a copy in college but had to return it. Been searching for a copy for sale for years with no success

wow what a pity and amazing traveler, this is wonerful to heard a very good and educative story of a man who toured so many countries with a vespa wow its not easy. i salute him may his soul rest in peace. thank you, and god bless

Thanks for your visit and comment, Mr. Shinkafi. Kindly do check back.

What sad way to finish his sojourn on earth! One should should tread with caution, fear of God, clear direction men should always watch the ways with adulterous lifestyle – it doesn’t end well. I must commend you Teslim, you did a nice work. I like the part of acknowledging your sources by stating… bravo brother!

You have indeed spoken well. Adultery is not and will never be a friend to man’s destiny. Thank you for your visit and kind words, Mr. Felicity. Kindly do visit again, and speaking of visiting again, you can subscribe to our mailing list to get notified of latest updates and exclusive contents. Have a wonderful day.

What a sadden end

A very sad end indeed. Thanks for your visit and comment, Mr. Ogungbenro. Kindly do check back, and speaking of checking back, you can subscribe to our mailing list to get notified of latest updates and exclusive contents. Have a wonderful night.

very interesting,I heard the song by ebenizer obey but I never knew ajala the Traveller exist. aside from the way he lived his life, I think the Nigeria government deserve to honor him or immortalize him for promoting our culture with the agbada on a bicycle. pls can u give the source I can get any other of his posture on the bicycle with the agbada,thanks and Go bless u for this information on olabisi ajala the Traveller. I will be expecting your reply,thanks once again

Thanks for the story. But on the other hand, let us think of how to eradicate this bane of once-young-successful-and influential-but-dying-poor-and-unsung syndrome. Let me suggest that you make a research on some of our past successful youths who had died poor and publish your op-ed on this platform for distribution, offering possible solutions about prevention and alleviation, if it does happen.

Hmm…What a pathetic end.Ajala had everything but took them for granted.Anyways,I love oldnaija and look to hearing more from you guys.How come a book wasn’t written about Ajala…..?

What a wonderful story, thanks for the writeup Teslim. Always amazed each time I read the story of Ajala. Sad how he ended his sojourn, God knows best though.

You are welcome, Dr. Abanikannda. Thanks for your time too. It was indeed a sad end for Ajala and a lesson for many more.

Leave a Reply. OldNaija loves your comment. Cancel reply

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Ajala The Traveller: The Man And His Journeys

Ajala. | Photo The African Abroad

Every avid Nigerian traveller or globetrotter has one time or the other been referred to as Ajala by their friends, families or acquaintances. Most even use the designation in their pseudo names; names like Ajalabug, Wondering Ajala, Ajalaman, The travelling Ajala. This vocabulary that has become so familiar and part of the Nigerian travel lingua still has little or less known about the origin of its name.

So, who is Ajala? 

On April 27, 1957, in London, a 26 years old student of psychology, Mashood Olabisi Ajala embarked on a trip across 40 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa on his Vespa scooter wearing his full conspicuous agbada regalia with a cap to match. As a pre-medical student, Olabisi has previously undertaken a similar jaunt four years ago in the USA pedalling from Chicago to Los Angeles on a bicycle covering 3,800 miles in 35 days over ten cities. His journey which he nicknamed “This Safari” will cover 30,000 miles across 40 countries in nine months and return to London afterwards.

How did his journey go?

In his book “An African Abroad”, Olabisi narrated his encounter with the then president of Egypt, Gamal Abdel Nasser:

“Every day at 6 am for the next two weeks, I was waiting directly in front of his presidential palace hoping he would come out. On the 13th day of my hitherto unpromising efforts, around 5 pm President Naseer emerged from the interior of his residence heading for his car.”

In his agbada, the heavily bearded Olabisi screamed as loud as he could and caught the attention of the president. He was heartily welcomed in by the president.

Olabisi was very relentless and radical in his approach to travelling and this brought him fame and also trouble. In an interview, he was quoted saying -The world should send Doctors to Africa, missionaries to Chicago, Ajala said. The gangsters here need converting much more than we do.

Ajala The Traveller in Moscow | Pinterest

He also met with other great world leaders among them is the then Shah of Iran, the Soviet President -Nikita Sergeyevich, President of Egypt, Ronald Regan of America and the likes. His trouble particularly impressed Mrs Golda Meir the then prime minister of Israel, on meeting with Ajala she said as quoted in Ajala’s memoir ‘it’s not often we have this kind of trouble. Your bravery impressed us. We thought we should crown it.’

Crossing Lebanon on his way to Israel, the Lebanese security force arrested him believing he was on an espionage mission for the Israeli. He knew crossing of any border between Israeli-Arab frontier would be a death wish but was daring to continue his journey as this was the heat of the Israeli-Arab war.

His journey took him not just to the cities but to the rural places where no black man has ever set their foot, upon his arrival at a farm in Minsk in the then Soviet Union which is now in Belarus, his arrival caused some locals to flee in panic at the “frightening sight” of the black man invading their village.

He ended up spending more time than the initially proposed nine months, and during his sojourn, he got arrested on several occasions. He visited eighty-seven countries in his six-year globetrotting trip (ranging from North America to Eastern and Western Europe, through Africa and Asia and as far east as Korea, Indonesia and Australia). He documented all this in his book- The African Abroad”.

After his first journey previously in America, he expeditiously got fame for himself and accolades. All these got him a role in the film “White Witch Doctor” produced by 20th-Century Fox movies where he played the role of an African boy.

Ajala The Traveller featured in Jet magazine 1952

Why did he leave the USA to continue schooling in London England?

The intrepid traveller had a forgery case with the American immigration and was deported, he went on to protest against this by climbing an 80ft mast and refusing to come down for nearly 13 hours, his plea was that he was duped and didn’t commit the crime. The US government decided to deport him to London instead of Nigeria after he said he would face a tribal execution if he got deported home.

With his tremendous charisma and eccentric nature, he was the golden boy loved by the ladies, many of whom he met on his journeys. In his trip around the world, he married 5 women; an Australian lady, an American, a British model, a Nigerian woman in London and also another Nigerian in Nigeria. Upon his return to Nigeria, he became a publicist and his awesome showmanship got many musicians such as Ebenezer Obey, Ayinde Barrister and Sunny Ade singing about him.

In his last days, Ajala extravagance life became arduous to maintain and his wealth he had amassed over the years went gradually down to penury. In Lagos, he lived in a two-storey building in Bariga where he managed to live with stroke until he died in February 1999 at the age of seventy in a general hospital in Lagos.

It’s 63 years since he made his journey across the world, Ajala children are still in different parts of the world where he once journeyed. Ajala explored the unexplored and charted the hitherto uncharted. He made history. And also lived through life. He achieved a feat that no Nigerian or African might be able to achieve in our present day. His youthful decades was nothing compared to what the average person will do even in two lifetimes. His legacy lives on.

In this article

• Adebayo Ebenezer Mayowa
• Ajala The Traveller
• Ajala Travel
• The travelling Ajala
• Wandering Ajala

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Ajala The Traveller – Life and Times

Ajala the traveller, who was ajala.

Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, renowned as Ọlábísí Àjàlá, was a multifaceted Nigerian personality who excelled as a journalist, travel writer, and actor, and eventually became a prominent figure in Lagos’ social scene. He was born on April 3, 1934, in Ghana and was raised in a polygamous household with four wives and approximately thirty children, Olabisi held the position of the twenty-fifth child.

Following their time in Ghana, Ajala’s family relocated to Nigeria. In Nigeria, he pursued his education at Baptist Academy in Lagos and Ibadan Boys’ High School in Ibadan.

At the age of 18, Ajala embarked on a journey to the United States to pursue pre-medicine studies at the University of Chicago. Notably, he achieved the distinction of being the first black student to join Delta Upsilon Pi, a co-educational Greek-letter organization

However, he veered away from his initial career aspirations, abandoning the path of medicine for a life filled with adventures on the road. Subsequently, he enrolled at Roosevelt University (then known as Roosevelt College) to pursue studies in Psychology.

What Was He Known For?

Renowned as a world traveller, Ajala gained fame through his remarkable escapades in various countries such as Israel, Egypt, Palestine, India, the United States, and numerous other destinations across the globe.

Ajala, much like renowned explorers such as Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, James Cook, and Marco Polo symbolizes Europe’s exploratory spirit, He served as a representative figure for Africa.

In Nigeria today, Ajala’s name has become synonymous with the concept of “travel.” It has evolved into a slang used to playfully tease individuals who have a  habit of frequently traveling or being unable to stay in one place. Such individuals are humorously referred to as “Ajala the traveler.”

While in Chicago, Àjàlá came up with the idea of a bicycle journey from Chicago to Los Angeles. This cross-country trip covered approximately 2,280 miles and took him 28 days to complete. He began the journey on June 12, 1952, and reached Los Angeles City Hall on July 10.

The remarkable feat garnered him widespread recognition, with major newspapers featuring his story. Àjàlá’s early arrival in Los Angeles, two days ahead of schedule, led to a reception by the city’s mayor, Fletcher Bowron.

Marriage and Family

Ajala’s charismatic persona attracted the attention of numerous women, one of which was Myrtle Basset, a nurse from Chicago. Myrtle Basset became the mother of his first child, Ọládipúpọ́ Andrei Ajala.

He later married Hermine Aileen, an American, and then Joan Simmons, a 19-year-old British actress. His fourth wife was a 28-year-old Australian lady named Joannre Prettan, with whom he had three children.

Additionally, he married Toyin Ajala and Mrs. Sherifat Ajala while in England. His children are scattered across Nigeria, Australia, and London. However, Ajala had a strained relationship with his wives and children, as none of his wives were present during his final moments, and only three of his children stood by his deathbed.

Legal Issues

He had various encounters with the American immigration authorities due to minor offenses, including issuing false checks, and he received a one-year suspended jail term. Also because he neglected his studies — he was ordered to be deported to Nigeria.

He protested the deportation order by climbing an 80-foot radio tower, threatening to kill himself unless the order was rescinded. After nearly 13 hours, he jumped down from about fifteen feet and sustained a sprained back.

He initiated a hunger strike, referring to it as a 30-day Ramadan fasting, before being ultimately deported to London instead of Nigeria.

The legendary Juju musician, Ebenezer Obey, in his 1972 hit album, “Board Members,” contributed to etching his name in Yoruba folklore when he sang about his adventures with the words “Ajala travelled all over the world.”

His name has become synonymous with the concept of travel. It is a popular slang used to playfully tease individuals who have a penchant for being constantly on the move. Such individuals are humorously referred to as “Ajala the traveler.”

Olabisi Ajala surpassed the boundaries of a mere compatriot, becoming the very embodiment of adventure. Fearlessly carving his unique path, he embraced life to the fullest in a way that deeply resonated with him. His remarkable legacy transcends national borders, as he continues to be revered as a legendary figure worldwide. Ajala’s extraordinary journey has left an indelible mark, forever etching his name in the annals of history.

The life led by Moshood Adisa Olabisi Ajala, also known as Ọlábísí Àjàlá, was nothing short of extraordinary. In the 1950s, he embarked on a motorcycle tour that took him across approximately 87 countries. However, in the early days of 1999, he suffered a stroke, and on February 2, 1999, he passed away.

Unfortunately, by the time of his death, Ajala’s fame and wealth had diminished, and he lived a humble life in a poor area of Lagos. Despite his extraordinary adventures and achievements, he departed this world as a simple man in a poor area of Lagos.

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Ekiti state; land of honour and integrity.

Land of Honour and Integrity History Ekiti State is located in the South Western region of Nigeria. Ekiti State (Yoruba: Ìpínlẹ̀ Èkìtì) shares borders with Kwara State to the north, …

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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