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GOURMET TRAVELLER’S RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR AND WINNERS OF THE 2023 RESTAURANT AWARDS REVEALED

CELEBRATING THE BEST AND BRIGHTEST IN AUSTRALIAN DINING THIS YEAR

Australia’s leading luxury food title, Gourmet Traveller, last night unveiled the winners of the Gourmet Traveller 2023 Restaurant Awards at the hospitality event of the year. South Australia’s Restaurant Botanic has taken out the top honour at this year’s Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards, with chef Justin James accepting the award at a glittering gala event at Shell House in Sydney. “There’s no question that Restaurant Botanic is a bravura performance,” says Gourmet Traveller editor Joanna Hunkin. “It combines fun and adventure with polish and poise. Chef Justin James doesn’t attempt perfection but rather embraces the beauty of irregularity and nature, making the most of the restaurant’s iconic location and using the garden’s bounty to create something uniquely of its place.” The country’s leading chefs and restaurant personalities came together to celebrate the annual awards, which are Australia’s longest-running restaurant awards and a highlight of the hospitality calendar. Neil Perry, Shannon Martinez, Ben Shewry, Brigitte Haffner, and Andrew McConnell were amongst the top chefs to attend the event, which marked the first time the awards have been announced in person, following more than two years of Covid restrictions and disruptions. It was a night of double celebration for Perry, whose Double Bay diner Margaret was named both Best New Restaurant and the NSW state winner of Restaurant of the Year. Tasmania claimed Best Destination Dining for Van Bone in Marion Bay, while Hobart’s Fico was named the state winner. In South Australia, Restaurant Botanic claimed both the state prize and was named Restaurant of the Year, while the creative duo behind Willunga wine bar Muni – Mug Chen and Chia Wu – were named Best New Talent. From Victoria, Thi Le was voted Chef of the Year in the night’s only peer-voted category, while Shannon Martinez was named Restaurant Personality of Year. Tedesca Osteria was named the state winner for the second year in a row. Gold Coast wine bar Paloma was singled out as the Wine Bar of the Year, while Essa was awarded the state prize for Queensland. Rounding out the state winners, Pilot was named ACT’s best restaurant for a second year running, while Perth’s Lulu La Delizia took out the honour for Western Australia. Full profiles of all the winners, along with the full 2023 Restaurant Guide, feature in the October issue of Gourmet Traveller, on sale now. The Gourmet Traveller 2023 Restaurant Award winners: RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR: RESTAURANT BOTANIC, Adelaide STATE WINNERS: ACT: PILOT, Canberra NSW: MARGARET, Sydney QLD: ESSA, Brisbane SA: RESTAURANT BOTANIC, Adelaide TAS: FICO, Hobart VIC: TEDESCA OSTERIA, Red Hill WA: LULU LA DELIZIA, Perth CHEF OF THE YEAR: THI LE Ca Com & Jeow, Melbourne, Vic BEST NEW RESTAURANT: MARGARET, Sydney, NSW BEST NEW TALENT: MUG CHEN & CHIA WU Muni, Willunga, SA BEST DESTINATION DINING: VAN BONE, Marion Bay, Tas WINE BAR OF THE YEAR: PALOMA, Burleigh Heads, Qld RESTAURANT PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR: SHANNON MARTINEZ Smith & Daughters, Melbourne, Vic Profiles of the award winners will be published in the October issue of Gourmet Traveller, now on sale, along with the 2023 Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide, which highlights the best dining experiences to be found in Australia in the year ahead. This year’s awards are sponsored by Winning Appliances, PorkStar, Oceania Cruising, Ilve & Fhiaba, and Furi.

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Gourmet Traveller

Gourmet Traveller is a trusted source and authority for the best in food, wine and travel. It delivers unique content, escapism and exclusive access to enrich, entertain and inspire the consumer, the Gourmet Traveller.

Joanna Hunkin

Australian Gourmet Traveller is one of the country’s most iconic voices in food and travel, bringing the latest news and trends to life through quality journalism, enticing recipes and evocative photography. Our readers rely on us to entertain, inspire and inform them with the best in cooking, dining, travelling and shopping.

LUXURY LIFESTYLES

Gourmet Traveller has redefined Luxury Lifestyles. Find out what motivates gourmet traveller audiences and our newly released special executions and partnerships by contacting the team .

About the Audience

*Print & Cross Platform - Source: Roy Morgan Single Source Australia, December 2023 *Digital - Source: Ipsos iris Online Audience Measurement Service, December 2023 *Social Connections - Source: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest, February 2024

Reader Dinner Partnership

In 2022, the team at Gourmet Traveller welcome the opportunity to partner with your brand and develop a custom Reader Dinner for your customer set.

UNDERSTANDING THE GOURMET TRAVELLER READER

A food saviour.

With an average age of 52, she (80% of buyers are women) is most likely living in a home with her partner and no children (they’ve left home, or are soon to). From street food to fine dining, she reads Gourmet to stay ahead of the trends in food, travel and dining.

SHE IS A SERENDIPITOUS TRAVELER

Whether for business or leisure, in real life or online, she is a traveller. She enjoys weekends away, and is a trusted adviser to others in regards to holidays and hotels, often booking for her friends and family too. She prefers a holiday that leaves her room for serendipity and exploration – she wants to explore, experience and live like a local where ever she goes.

SHE IS WINING AND DINING

She is the first to try the latest new restaurants and dines out at least weekly. She is a lover of wine with her meals and enjoys going to the theatre, opera and ballet, followed or preceded, naturally, by a dining experience.

SHE IS PROVIDENCE MATTERS

She loves grocery shopping. She shops from a range of retailers and multiple times a week. She is the first to try new flavours, tends not to buy the same food products each week and loves to have a well stocked pantry. Brands and ingredients are an essential part of the provenance story and when she orders a drink at a bar she is significantly more likely than the average person to order her drink by brand.

SHE IS SUCCESSFUL

With one in two Gourmet readers having a university degree (idx 150), success is important to her, and she considers herself an intellectual. She reads the business section of newspapers and is more likely to be on Linkedin. All of which is reflected in her higher than average income, strong AB profile and status as a ‘big spender’ of discretionary income.

SHE IS SOCIALLY MINDED

With a highly metro based audience (77% of readers compared to 65% of population), she places a high degree of value on education, charity and indigenous culture. The reader is twice as likely to be classified as ‘Socially Aware’ – someone with a keen interest in new ideas and information, idealistic and with a strong sense of social responsibility.

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Related audiences, fiona the baby boomer, francesca the foodie, luxury lover lauren, rachel the renovator, roxy the big spender, related brands.

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Gourmet Traveller

Each issue is packed with great dish ideas, hot restaurants and bars, entertaining tips, the best hotels and lavish spreads on some of the world’s most intoxicating travel destinations - everything you should expect from the Australia's premier food and travel magazine.

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Joanna Hunkin Editor Deputy Editor Anna McCooe Creative Director Jacqui Triggs Senior Designer Sam Yates Words Senior Sub-editor Suzanna Chriss News Editor Jordan Kretchmer Editorial Coordinator Alexandra Harris Digital Digital Managing Editor Sarah McInernay Digital Editor Cordelia Williamson Digital Content Producer Charlotte Wishart Contributors Elliot Baker, Alexandra Carlton, Michael Harden, Anna Hart, Annabel Heseltine, Matty Hirsch, Kylie Kwong, Lee Tran Lam, Samantha Payne, Alley Pascoe, Simon Rickard, Katie Spain, Lee Tulloch, Max Veenhuyzen, Nikki Wallman. @gourmettraveller [email protected] GOURMETTRAVELLER.COM.AU Published by Are Media Pty Limited. ABN 18 053 273 546. 54-58 Park St, Sydney, NSW, 2000, (02) 9282 8000. The trade mark Gourmet Traveller is the property of Are Media Pty Limited and is used under licence. ©2023 All rights reserved. Printed by IVE, Unit 1/83 Derby St, Silverwater, NSW, 2128.…

Editor’s letter

GIFT GT THIS MOTHER’S DAY magshop.com.au/gmt Scan here to purchase GT Restaurant Gift Card. A recent visit home saw me spend a morning helping my mum declutter her jewellery drawer. As an editor, I spend my life making tough decisions on what to cut – prioritising the things that have genuine value over those that are simply taking up space. I would argue I’m efficient; my mother might use the word ruthless. Particularly when it came to a series of sparkly plastic jewels that she had accumulated over the last four decades; a series of birthday, Christmas and Mother’s Day gifts from her well-meaning but clueless sons. Some dated back to the early ’90s, when we lived in Hong Kong and my brothers would head to the local mall to…

Dishes and destinations

The Union Bank, Orange, NSW  Charred octopus is matched with a swipe of hummus, chickpeas and a hearty seasoning of harissa for a warming autumnal lunch. The cosy surrounds and country town hospitality only add to the charm. Charlotte Wishart, digital producer Shinjuku, Japan The smoky trail of yakitori, the buzzing neon lights and hum of hundreds of people commuting through the city – you don’t have to go to a landmark to feel totally immersed in Toyko. A stroll from the labyrinth that is Shinjuku station is an adventure in its own right. Jordan Kretchmer, news editor Kurumba, Sydney, NSW The delight of this whimsical dessert – aside from its pretty pink colour and the sweet crunch of crystallised pistachio – was trying to place the childhood sweet it…

COME WHAT MAY This month’s hottest restaurant openings, jet-set pets, a flash new Tokyo hotel and food festivals worth booking. THE LATEST FROM CHEFS AND RESTAURANTS AROUND AUSTRALIA RESTAURANT NEWS SYDNEY Inspired by the flavours of Latin America, Morena has set up shop in Martin Place within the 150-year-old GPO building, which also houses the five-star Fullerton Hotel. Returning to Sydney from Melbourne, executive chef Alejandro Saravia expands his Farmer’s Daughters remit to explore his Peruvian heritage while covering more ground, from Brazil to Bolivia and beyond. Work your way through a devoted ceviche menu, featuring goldband snapper with leche de tigre (a marinade of lime, coriander and chilli), sweet potato and chulpi (Ecuadorian toasted corn); king prawn with green plantain crisps and sofrito; or yellowfin tuna with soy dashi,…

Cucumber pickles

WESTMONT CHILLI PICKLES Australian pickle upstart Westmont has been perfecting its brine since 2014, and these crinkle-cut cukes are some of the best and crunchiest we tried. Slices of chilli add zing, and this humble all-rounder pickle belongs in the fridges of home cooks and chefs alike. $6.50 for 500gm, harrisfarm.com.au TSUKE MONO JAPANESE PICKLES Naturally fermented with a trifecta of saltiness from soy, sweetness from mirin, and acidity from rice vinegar, these pickles pop. Aromatic mustard seeds and a thick slice make these excellent for topping rice bowls, cold soba or served as part of a bento box. $13 for 450gm, harrisfarm.com.au DILLICIOUS STRAIGHT UP GARLIC DILL PICKLE CHIPS These pickle pucks are joined by dill fronds for tasty results. The rounds are ideal for putting on burgers to…

A Quick Word With Lorinda May Merrypor

Delusion can be your ally. I was that little girl dreaming big with her head in the clouds. But you need to put in the work ... you hunt down every opportunity, and you work harder every day. Growing up in Rockhampton, Queensland, our very fancy, go-to special occasion restaurant was Sizzler. And if Sizzler wasn’t available for some reason, it was the Hog’s Breath Cafe. I didn’t leave Rocky at all until I left to study at the Queensland Conservatorium in Brisbane when I was 19, and I only went overseas for the first time when I landed the role of Juliet in & Juliet. So it’s safe to say that my experiences with food were pretty simple for a significant portion of my life. But striking out on…

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U.S. subscriber -- Superb. Best Executed.

Excellence in an App. I have been a subscriber for the last 2 years, and to most all ipad based, top food magazines written in english and italian. Our large US food magazines are still trying to balance content (generally a theme around bacon) and the technical abilities of the App (failed recognition of subscriptions, no downloads, flat content etc)....take note...this is the world-class model. Well done. If you're a true gourmet, home chef, love food & wine, are a traveller who saveurs the finest with a bon appetit, look no farther. Even if you want to see excellent execution of an ipad published document of any sort - this is the best I have come across.

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The 8 Best Restaurants in Moscow

From the traditional to the modern, fine dining destinations in Moscow celebrate the best that Russian cuisine has to offer.

By Elite Traveler

With many of the best restaurants in Moscow also doubling as bars and clubs, the atmosphere is nearly always one step away from a party, and many of the city’s elite come dressed to impress. Of course, there are still many elegant and family friendly restaurants for those who prefer a quieter evening. With such a large selection available, Elite Traveler has compiled a suitable list for diners of all persuasions.

Café Pushkin

Designed to recreate the feel of a 19th century aristocrat’s house, Café Pushkin has become one of the most popular restaurants in Moscow, thanks to the quality of its food, impeccable service and the excellent vodka selection. The atmosphere of pre-Revolution Russia is delightfully charming, from the flowery script of the menu to aristocratic country house décor. Pushkin is the ideal destination if you want to be treated like Russian nobility and dine like a Tsar – but book ahead, the restaurant’s popularity requires reservation well in advance.

cafe-pushkin.ru

Lavishly decked out with chandeliers and hand-painted furniture, the menu selection may come as a surprise to first-time guests, with options ranging from Pi Pa duck with melon and truffle to beefsteak with foie gras. Turandot puts a French spin on pan-Asian cuisine, and does so with incredible style and boldness. Whilst the interior décor is certainly to be marvelled at, it is the thoughtfully conceptualized and perfectly executed menu options that make for an incredible dining experience.

turandot-palace.ru

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Azerbaijan, dubai and beyond: fairmont expands luxury portfolio, fairmont to expand to moscow.

When the Ginza Project, a company that owns some of the finest restaurants in Moscow, announced that they would be opening a restaurant on the 29th floor of Radisson Royal Hotel, the excitement and anticipation was palpable.

The company has a reputation for the high quality of its restaurants that grace the streets of the capital, and Buono is no exception. The views from Buono are unashamedly spectacular, while the décor is elegant, with soft creams complementing the fine views on offer. The food is classical Italian; Chef William Lamberti is well known throughout Europe and has created an excellent menu. It’s always best to book ahead at Buono, as the window seats that offer the finest views over the city are quickly taken.

buonomoscow.ru

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Italian for ‘small’, Piccolino is a cozy, homely restaurant – something of a rarity in Moscow.

Serving typical Italian food, the family friendly establishment is laid back, but this doesn’t compromise the quality of the food: good, hearty portions that are exceptionally tasty. The interior of Piccolino has been designed to replicate that of a large country house, and the décor is entirely fitting with the atmosphere of the restaurant. In a city where many of the establishments value the names of their guests over the quality of their dishes, Piccolino is the place to come if your preference is quality of food rather than famous faces.

Twin Gardens

With two tasting menus and an à la carte option, the Twin Gardens at the heart of Moscow caters to any palette. With the restaurant concept based on the symbiosis of science and nature, their Vegetables set menu explores all manner of produce from seedling to peeling, delicately plated in a tasteful homage to the natural life cycle of wild plants and flowers. For more adventurous types, their Rediscover Russia menu offers a culinary tour of various local specialties found in provinces across the vast continent. They also have a wide selection of Russian wines.

twinsgarden.ru

Located in an elegant 19th century mansion, CDL is one of the most sophisticated restaurants in Moscow.

The interior has been gorgeously designed to recreate the grandeur of the Silver Age of Russian culture, with antique balustrades and bas-reliefs throughout the Oak Hall main room. The staircase in the Oak Hall is a particular masterpiece; it was built without a single nail or screw. The fireplace is equally impressive and has been used as a meeting room by President Dmitry Medvedev. Guests can also hire additional rooms such as the Cigar Room and the Cabinet Room. A menu of authentic Russian cuisine has been created by top chef Alexander Popov, with organic dishes bursting with flavor and a splendor to match the opulent surroundings. With so much luxury and class on display, it’s little wonder that former US Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush have chosen to dine here. Situated in the center of the city between Bolshaya Nikitskaya 53 and Povarskaya Ulitsa 50, it’s worth booking ahead to avoid disappointment.

White Rabbit

With a domed window inviting soaring views of the Moscow cityscape, White Rabbit has recently undergone extensive renovations, to both its interior and its menu. Renowned architect Natalia Belonogova has transformed the restaurant into an airy, modern space, perfected by the addition of a summer veranda. To connect the dining options with the new interior, head chef Vladimir Mukhin has created a new menu, Metamorphoses, to reflect the lifecycle of the mayfly butterfly.

Delight your palette with scallop, strawberries and blackcurrant or, for dessert, dandelion honey with melted cottage cheese. This summerlike and refreshing menu has its roots in Russian soil and its head in the clouds above Moscow’s skyline.

whiterabbitmoscow.ru

One of the best places to see and be seen, the O2 Lounge is half stylish seafood restaurant and half trendy pre-club hangout.

The food on offer is delicious Japanese fare, with sumptuous sushi prepared in front of diners by the team of talented chefs led by Nicholas Courtois. Located on the 12th floor of the Ritz-Carlton hotel, the restaurant has spectacular panoramic views over Red Square and The Kremlin. After dark the restaurant becomes one of the coolest bars in town, with award-winning cocktails and a selective wine list.

o2loungerestaurant.com

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Best travel deals and exclusive holiday sales to know about this month

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys. From eating chilli crab at bustling Singapore hawkers in 45-degree heat to strolling through ancient streets to seeing magnificent beasts in their natural habitat, experiencing cultures and landscapes different to our own is enriching. But while travel makes our lives richer, it does force us to dig into our pockets — and often pretty deeply. The workaround? Travel deals, holiday packages, and flight and cruise sales which occur more regularly than you think. You just have to know where to look.

Because not all holidays are created equal, we’ve curated our pick of the best travel deals currently happening. Spend your money on Roman sorbetto, a luxurious spa day or that oceanfront villa at one of the best Maldives resorts instead of on the long-haul flight over there (which let’s be honest, is often the least exciting part of travel).

Here are the best travel deals, sales and holiday packages to know about.

Luxury Escapes Exclusive Sail Away Sale

Luxury Escapes has launched a limited-time cruise sale, offering reduced fares on incredible packages across the world’s best cruise lines, visiting destinations in Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond. Pitched as the biggest cruise sale of the year, the Luxury Escapes Sail Away Sale promises unparalleled luxury travel at sea, with new offers added daily.

GT-approved cruise deals:

• The Kimberley All-Inclusive Heritage Expedition
• France: Rhone All-Inclusive Ultra Lux Riverside Luxury Cruise
• Australia & Indonesia Azamara Cruise
• Tasmania Cunard Cruise

To see all cruise sales on offer as part of the Sail Away Sale, visit the Luxury Escapes website .

Booking.com Getaway Deals

While you’ll often find savings to be had on Booking.com , its current Getaways Deals are a good place to start when looking for travel inspiration. Getaway Deals start from 15 per cent off with discounts applied to the original room or property price. Think $233 for a lush villa in Ubud , Bali; $265 for a deluxe king room in Ho Chi Minh City ; and $680 for a boutique hotel in Chelsea, London . The offer is available for stays up until 30 September 2024.

To see all Getaway Deals, visit Booking.com .

Qantas Red Tail Deals

Australia’s national carrier currently has return flights to popular Asian cities on sale — but only for a few more days. Dubbed Red Tail Deals , the discounted flights include economy, premium economy and business class fares to Tokyo (from $1049), Singapore (from $639), Hong Kong (from $959), Seoul (from $929), Bangkok (from $899) and more.

GT-approved Red Tail Deals:

• Sydney to Singapore return : from $799 economy, $2809 premium economy and $3898 business class
• Perth to Singapore return : from $639 economy and $3718 business class
• Melbourne to Seoul return : from $929 economy and $4760 business class
• Sydney to Bangkok return : from $899 economy, $2498 premium economy and $5227 business class
• Adelaide to Bangkok return : from $949 economy and $2599 premium economy
• Brisbane to Tokyo return : from $1049 economy and $4999 business class

To see all Qantas Red Tail Deals, visit the Qantas website . Sale ends at 11.59pm 24 April 2024 (AEST).

Insight Vacations US & Canada tours

Indulge in gourmet delights, adventure and experience the breathtaking beauty of North America with Insight Vacations, and save up to 20 per cent off* thanks to Flight Centre’s USA & Canada sale . Insight Vacations is pitched as the ‘business class’ of touring. From stays at handpicked luxe hotels to superior dining experiences, these tours encourage travellers to immerse themselves in the abundant culture and natural beauty of their chosen destinations. 

Curated Insight Vacations tours include iconic destinations such as the Canadian Rockies, enchanting Canyonlands, renowned parks of the US and more — all guided by experts to enrich your travel experience (and take care of all logistics). 

GT-approved Insight Vacations US and Canada tours:

• Enchanting Canyonlands
• Canadian Rockies & Pacific Coast
• American Parks Trail
• Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes

Insight Vacations’ exclusive 20 per cent off offer ends on Wednesday, 1 May.  Don’t miss the bus — book a tour of North America now via Flight Centre . 

To see all tours included in the sale and for more details, visit the Flight Centre website .

Gourmet Traveller is Australia’s trusted authority on food, travel and luxury lifestyle, bringing the latest news and trends to life through quality journalism, enticing recipes and evocative photography. For more than 55 years, it has been inspiring and informing Australians with the best in cooking, dining, travelling and shopping. Our critics bring the expertise of years of critical eating, drinking and writing to the table. Plus, as the country’s leading title in the luxury sector, Gourmet Traveller works closely with Australia’s leaders in the travel and hospitality industries to give our readers exclusive access. The Gourmet Traveller legacy is one of trust, prestige and relevance.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Travel Guide To Moscow

Moscow is enjoying a new gilded age but the glitter comes from more than just gold; after decades of grey Communist rule, an explosion of wealth has given the city a much-needed injection of colour. The boomtown revelry is fuelled by oil money and ignited by oligarchs. The area north of the Kremlin, from Tverskaya to Okhotny ryad, is where it's at, with a plethora of places to eat and drink.

Where to stay in Moscow

ARARAT PARK HYATT 4 Neglinnaya Street (00 7 495 783 1234 ; www.moscow.park.hyatt.com ). The best hotel in town, in a terrific location on a quiet side street in the centre of town, and with an excellent concierge service (talk to Guilia). There are 216 rooms and suites, arranged around a vast atrium. The spectacular Winter Garden suites have glass walls and rooftop terraces. The Armenian restaurant, Café Ararat, is excellent; there's also a spa and a pool. Have vodka shots on the roof, with the magical Moscow skyline behind you. Sunday brunch in winter includes Veuve Clicquot. Staff training has been excellent, they even smile. Another plus point? You can walk nearly everywhere from here, including to the best restaurants. ££ BALTSCHUG KEMPINSKI Ul Balchug 1 (00 800 426 313 55; www.kempinskimoscow.com ). Across the river from Red Square, with an amazing view from its corner rooms, this stylishly modernised 1900s establishment is all you'd expect from a top-class hotel. Its stellar guest list includes David Bowie and Michael Jackson. £££ HOTEL METROPOL Teatralny proezd ¼ (00 7 501 927 6000; www.metropol-moscow.ru ). The Metropol has an unbeatable location, opposite Red Square and the Bolshoi and next to GUM department store. Steeped in history, the ambience is old-style Russian, despite a makeover, with vast, echoey halls and liveried bell boys. There are 365 rooms and suites, suites on the third-floor have impressive antiques. The stately Metropol, with its 20-metre-high stained-glass ceiling and central fountain, was a favourite restaurant of Kim Philby in the 1960s. ££ HOTEL NATIONAL Mokhovaya ul 15 (00 7 095 258 7000; fax: 258 7100; www.national.ru ). If your taste is for historic property, the National is hard to beat - it is owned by Moscow City Government, but managed by Le Meridien. Red Square is outside your door, across the pedestrianised Manege Square, while the Kremlin's main public entrance is down the same street. The building's listed status has forestalled the possibility of squeezing in more rooms, even the standard twin rooms are rewardingly spacious. Lenin found the rooms so pleasant that he moved in permanently: his office (once preserved as an attraction during the Soviet era), is no longer on show, however. HOTEL SOVIETSKY 32/2 Leningradsky Prospekt (00 7 495 960 2000; www.sovietsky.ru ). Hotel Sovietsky is seven kilometres north-west of central Moscow, four stops away on the metro. The building features Stalinist 'Russian Empire'-style architecture, with high ceilings, marble and gilt. The hotel attracts savvy tourists and respectable Russians. There are 100 rooms and suites with high ceilings and French-style windows; the best are the apartments on the third and fourth floors. With its magnificent, double-height setting and excellent Russian cooking, the hotel's Yar restaurant is legendary; try the veal stroganoff. £ HOTEL TIFLISS Ostozhenka ul 32 (00 7 095 733 9070; fax: 733 9071). The cream of the locally managed crop, Tiflis is a charming Georgian-run hotel with a small-ish swimming pool. Ostozhenka is Moscow's Mayfair. A short walk takes you to the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and Pushkin Fine Arts Museum. The hotel is newly built above the Tiflis Restaurant, run by the same owners and Moscow's most exclusive Georgian eaterie (guests qualify for a discount). LE ROYAL MERIDIEN NATIONAL 15/1, bld. 1 ul. Mokhovaya (00 7 095 258 7000; www.national.ru ). An Art Nouveau pile, rivalling the Metropol for splendour and high standards. £££ MOSCOW MARRIOTT ROYAL AURORA HOTEL Petrovka ul 11 (00 7 095 937 1000; fax: 937 1001; www.marriott.com" ). The gem in Marriott's Moscow crown: the location is the city's finest, scorning the ostentation of grandiose Soviet plazas for a discreet niche on historic Petrovka - a mere pirouette away from the Bolshoi Theatre. The bijou boutiques of Stoleshnikov pereulok are just around the corner. Rooms can be booked through Internet agents although you may find promotional weekend offers for less, especially when sold together with a flight. The other two Marriott properties have central locations, but aren't quite so exclusive. ££ SAVOY HOTEL Ulitsa Rozhdestvenska 3 (00 7 495 620 8555; www.savoy.ru ). The Savoy Hotel is located in central Moscow, close to the main sights and just a block from the Lubyanka, former headquarters of the KGB. It features opulent Art Nouveau interiors: a comprehensive renovation was completed in December 2005. Recent guests have included Pavarotti and Richard Gere. There are 67 rooms and suites, which although not large, are beautifully decorated with Italian wooden beds, flat-screen TVs and pink-marble bathrooms. The Hermitage bar serves excellent hot chocolate, and it is worth dining in the Savoy Restaurant for the breathtaking rococo ceiling. The food is good too. £££££

Where to eat out in Moscow

BOLSHOI RESTAURANT

Petrovka ulitsa 3/6, Moscow (00 7 495 789 8652; www.novikovgroup.ru ). Set between Kuznetsky Most and Petrovka ulitsa, this is Arkady Novikov's most recent venture. To Muscovites, Novikov needs no introduction: he is the man behind most of the city's poshest restaurants. Legend has it that he started out flipping burgers in a Moscow McDonald's and caught the entrepreneurial bug. His latest outlet offers modern Slavonic cooking. The golubtsy (a Ukrainian dish of mince rolled in cabbage) comes highly recommended.

Krasnaya ploshchad (the Red Square) 3, Moscow (00 7 495 620 3182). This Italian restaurant offers three essential services: an excellent watering hole in which to rest after exploring GUM, the huge shopping mall which runs along the northern side of the Red Square, opposite the Kremlin; fine views of Lenin's tomb; and an excellent cappuccino. The veal chop is as good as you would get in Milan, and the terrace is without a double the best summer spot in the city.

CAFE PUSHKIN

Tverskoy bul'var 26a. Moscow (00 7 495 739 0033; www.cafe-pushkin.ru ). This is the first port of call for anyone who wants to experience quality Russian food. At first glance the building appears to be a stunningly preserved 19 th -century townhouse; on closer inspection the façades are entirely fake. But this lack of authenticity is not reflected in the food, especially the outstanding meat pies and dumplings. The slickest waiters in Moscow even have a trolley with a dozen different mineral waters.

NOBU MOSCOW

Dmitrovka ulitsa 20, Moscow (00 7 495 645 3191; www.noburestaurants.ru ). The owners took the brave decision to open this outpost of the Japanese restaurant at the apex of the financial crisis. They have been rewarded for their courage by securing it a reputation as the place for oligarchs to lunch. Since the fall of the USSR, Japanese food has become a staple diet for Muscovites, and the launch of Nobu was a natural next step. The company's owners had been fending off proposals for a Russian branch for more than a decade, so the restaurant's success is no great surprise.

Tverskaya ulitsa, 3, Moscow (00 7 495 255 8888; www.ritzcarlton.com ). Under a glass dome on the top floor of the Ritz-Carlton, Moscow , this bar has the city's best close-up views of the Kremlin. The food menu includes sushi rolls and sashimi. The drinks menu is supervised by a vodka sommelier who oversees 400 varieties of the spirit. The prices are shocking.

SHOP & BAR DENIS SIMACHEV

Stoleshnikov preulok 12/2 (00 7 495 629 5702). Denis Simachev is Moscow's Malcolm McLaren, and his bar has its own fashion store. Simachev is one of a small band of cultural entrepreneurs who have created a genuinely new, 'modern Russian' brand. The main conversation piece in the bar is the mural in which the world leaders of the early 21 st century are shown dining in a prison canteen. Great international comfort food is on offer, including Moscow's best steak sandwich.

Tverskoy bul'var 26/5, Moscow (00 7 495 739 0011). It's easy to believe reports that US$40 million was spent on creating the interior of this restaurant. Spread over 14 rooms, it includes homages to Louis XVI, the Ming Dynasty and imperial Russia. The Asian fusion menu reflects the chinoiserie adorning the main dining room, whose centrepiece is a mechanical golden peacock that rotates as the all-female orchestra plays. The waiting staff wear uniforms that would not be out of place in a BBC costume drama.

What to see in Moscow

BUILDINGS AND MONUMENTS

Laura Fowler , CN Traveller

Laura Fowler

Charlie Hobbs

Olivia Morelli

GRAVEYARD OF THE FALLEN MONUMENTS

At the State Tretyakov Gallery, 10 Krymsky Val, Moscow ( www.tretyakovgallery.ru ). Ever wondered where the statues of Soviet heroes were dumped when Communism collapsed? Many of them can be found in the grounds of the new Tretyakov gallery (see 'Museums'). The most intimidating figure is that of Felix Dzerzhinsky, founder of the Cheka - the organisation that was to become the KGB. His statue was toppled in the aftermath of the failed coup of August 1991 and removed from Lubyanka ploshchad. Open Tue-Sun, 10am-7.30pm.

STALIN'S SKYSCRAPERS

There are seven of these so-called 'wedding cake' buildings dotted across the city. Their mock-Gothic style would not look out of place in Gotham City. Stalin ordered their construction in the aftermath of World War II (and made use of free labour in the form of German POWs) to put his capital on an architectural par with the great cities of North America. The largest and most memorable is the Moscow State University building on Vorobyovy Gory (Sparrow Hills). The Hilton Moscow Leningrandskaya is housed in another.

ST BASIL'S CATHEDRAL

Krasnaya ploshchad (Red Square), Moscow (00 7 495 698 3304). The recently restored onion domes shine out from the top of the cathedral which marks the eastern border of the Red Square. Napoleon's troops ransacked the building, and it was once scheduled for demolition by Stalin. Today it's the jewel in the crown of the Russian Orthodox Church. The icons inside are well worth inspecting, but even better is the people-watching outside: young couples have their picture taken with the domes in the background on their wedding day. Open 11am-5pm, Wed-Mon.

TASS BUILDING

Tverskoy bul'var 10-12, Moscow. Before the USSR fell, nearly everything we in the West knew about Russia came out of this building, the home of the principal state-run news agency, TASS. Although it has been eclipsed by other news sources, its HQ remains a splendid example of tasteful 1960s Soviet architecture and is well worth a photo stop.

THE MOSCOW METRO

Spread across 180 stations, Moscow's underground rail system is a tribute to Soviet engineering and new Russian efficiency. With trains running every 90 seconds and the roads permanently clogged with traffic, the metro is the city's most practical form of transport. The earliest stations are architectural masterpieces, with Ploshchad Revolutsii, Kievskaya and Komsomolskaya really standing out. Visitors are advised to learn a little of the Cyrillic alphabet to help decipher the station names.

GORKY HOUSE

Malaya Nikitskaya 6/2, Moscow (00 7 495 290 5130). Despite falling in and out with the Communist Party throughout his career, Maxim Gorky was one of the Soviet era's most important authors. He was rewarded with this stunning house when he returned to Moscow from exile in Italy. The Art Nouveau building was originally the home of Ryabushinsky, an oligarch who fled to France as the Bolsheviks took power. Visitors can see Gorky's study and admire the centrepiece of the house: a limestone staircase which seems to melt into the floor. Open Wed-Sun.

LENIN'S TOMB

Krasnaya ploshchad (Red Square), Moscow (00 7 495 623 5527). Arguably the most influential political figure of the 20 th century lies embalmed in a building that is most recognisable as the place from which Communist Party bosses used to watch military parades in Red Square. The authorities maintain that the body really is Lenin's and that its wax-like appearance is due to the embalming chemicals. His clothes are changed every few years so he keeps up to date with fashion, if nothing else. Open Tue-Thu; Sat-Sun.

MUSEUM OF THE GREAT PATRIOTIC WAR

Park Pobedy 3, Moscow. You'll understand how marking the defeat of Germany in 1945 has become a form of state religion when you visit this stunning museum dedicated to World War II. It's set at the heart of Park Pobedy (Victory Park) and includes an art gallery, a hall of remembrance and some fantastic exhibits. Highlights for any history buff include the Nazi declaration of surrender and the table and chairs used by Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill during the 1943 Tehran conference. Open Tue-Sun.

PASTERNAK'S HOUSE

Pavlenko ulitsa 3, Peredelkino (00 7 495 934-51-75; www.pasternakmuseum.ru ). In Peredelkino, a small village 25 minutes by train from Kievsky station, is the dacha were Boris Pasternak lived for the last two decades of his life. The house was turned into a museum after his death, but his family still live in the grounds. On the first floor you can sit at the desk where he completed Dr Zhivago ; and on the ground floor you can see the early Soviet TV and fridge of which he was the proud owner. Open Thu-Sun, 10am-4pm; closed the last day of each month

THE STATE TRETYAKOV GALLERY

10 Lavrushinsky pereulok and 10 Krymsky Val, Moscow ( www.tretyakovgallery.ru ). These galleries - in two separate locations - house the best examples of Russian art from before and after the revolution. Most of the pieces in the old Tretyakov (at 10 Lavrushinsky pereulok) were in private hands before being nationalised in 1917. Its collection includes 'Rublev's Trinity', said to be the finest remaining Russian icon. The new Tretyakov (at 10 Krymsky Val) showcases all the main Russian art periods that followed the revolution and includes well-known works such as Petrov-Vodkin's Bathing of a Red Horse . The garden house the Graveyard of the Fallen Monuments ('Buildings and Monuments'). Open Tue-Sun, 10.30am-7.30pm.

PERFORMANCES

BOLSHOI THEATRE

Teatralnaya ploshchad 1, Moscow (00 7 495 250 7317; www.bolshoi.ru ). The Bolshoi stages operas and ballets, was the venue for Swan Lake 's première in 1877 and is home to the best-known dance company in the world. It is in fact two different theatres. The original stage is currently undergoing renovations and will not reopen until 2013 (eight years after it closed); but the new theatre has regular performances.

MOSCOW CONSERVATORY

Bolshaya Nikitskaya ulitsa 13/6, Moscow (00 7 495 629 8183; www.mosconsv.ru ). Russians take their classical music very seriously, and nowhere is more serious than the Moscow Conservatory. It's a series of concert halls and a school rolled into one. Every Russian classical star, be they composer or musician, has played or taught here, including Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky and Richter. Tickets are relatively easy to get, either from the box office or from babushkas who sell them for a small profit on the street outside.

Things to do in Moscow

VISIT A BATH-HOUSE: SANDUNY BANYA

Neglinnaya ulitsa 14, Moscow (00 7 495 625 4631; www.sanduny.ru ). The 19 th -century decor of the Sanduny Banya bath-house is reminiscent of a gentlemen's club in London's St James's. But the experience is uniquely Russian, as are the felt hats worn to protect your hair from the steam. The steam room is a vast, wood-panelled chamber with a huge open oven. Foreigners are made welcome by regulars, who are happy to inflict a beating with birch leaves (more refreshing than it sounds). After you've had a good thrashing, the waiters will bring you anything from tea and honey to prawns and beer.

How to get to Moscow

Moscow has two airports - Domodedovo ( www.domodedovo.ru ), which was refurbished in the Noughties, is the main international hub and has good links to the city via the Aeroexpress train (Pavletsky station-Domodedovo). The other is Sheremetyevo ( www.svo.aero ), which has Aeroexpress connections from Belorussky railway station.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

British Airways ( www.britishairways.com ) and bmi ( www.flybmi.com ) fly to Domodedovo; Aeroflot ( wwww.aeroflot.ru ) flies to Sherermetyevo.