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The 9 Best Travel Jewelry Cases of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your jewelry safe with one of these protective and stylish travel cases.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Traveling with jewelry can be risky business, so it’s important to pack your accessories thoughtfully. Sure, you can always use Ziploc baggies and tissue paper, but the easiest and safest way to keep your jewelry safe is by using a handy travel-size jewelry case.

Since travel jewelry cases come in all different shapes and sizes, we tried 25 options from trusted luggage and jewelry brands. After loading the cases up with jewelry, we tossed, dropped, and shook them to see how safe the jewelry would be in situations like traveling where rough handling can be expected. From testing, we selected the winning jewelry cases that will keep your jewelry safe and organized whether you’re a jewelry minimalist or maximalist.

Our Top Picks

Best overall: cuyana travel jewelry case, best budget: bagsmart jewelry organizer bag.

• Best Roll-Up: Bagsmart Peri Folding Jewelry Organizer

Best Personalization: Mark & Graham Small Travel Jewelry Case

Best large capacity: kendra scott medium travel jewelry case, best for long trips: calpak jewelry case, best compact: vee & co. small travel jewelry case.

• Best for Everyday Use: Levenger Mini Jewelry Organizer

Best Sustainable: Paravel Jewelry Case

The small, oval container is the perfect size for a weekend getaway.

It could use a few more organizational features.

Cuyana’s oval-shaped case is deceptively spacious in comparison to its smaller design. Perfect for minimalist jewelry wearers, the interior has plenty of room and designated spots for several rings and earrings, but there aren’t specific latches for necklaces or bracelets. The two slip pockets on each side of the case can hold bigger or longer pieces of jewelry, but they run the risk of getting tangled without a latch so we wish the organization was a bit better. Made with genuine leather, the case has a protective exterior with a soft suede interior to further guard the jewelry against scratching or other damage. Throughout six months of tests, we loved this case for weekend getaways and longer trips alike and found it to be the perfect size to toss in a backpack or personal item.

The Details: Italian leather | 5 in. x 3.5 x 1.25 inches

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

The bag is spacious yet compact and comes with a handle to carry it easily.

The quality feels a bit lower than other cases we tried.

Designed similarly to a toiletry bag, we love that this wallet-friendly jewelry case comes with a top handle to transport it to and from a suitcase with ease. The compact bag is also a great deal considering how much jewelry it can hold while still being easy to pack. The polyester material is protective and flexible so the bag can pack down to a smaller size depending on how much jewelry is inside. The interior has an earring panel, ring bands, necklace clips, and various zippered pockets for storing all of the jewelry you want to pack for a trip. While we didn’t notice any issues with quality during testing, the materials feel less durable than other pricier cases we tried. We tossed the packed jewelry case around a bit during our tests and the items remained perfectly safe without any tangling or damage. Even after traveling with the case on seven flights, trains, and throughout more than four roadtrips during our six months of tests, nothing became tangled and the case is proving to be durable and sturdy.

The Details: Polyester | 6.1 x 9.8 x 1.9 inches

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Roll-up: Bagsmart Peri Folding Jewelry Organizer

The compartments roll out, which makes it easier to pack jewelry.

It was slightly difficult to put the earrings on the designated card.

Bagsmart impressed us a second time with their roll-up jewelry organizer, which was the easiest bag to pack with jewelry during testing. After six months of use, we love that it can fit a lot of jewelry and has compartments big enough for even the biggest hoops and other dramatic earrings. The envelope-style case unrolls and lies flat so you can easily see all of the pockets, latches, and hooks for storing every piece of jewelry you could ever need for traveling thanks to the larger capacity. We had some slight difficulty getting earrings into the holes in the earring card, but it was just a minor inconvenience, and there are plenty of other spots to place hoops and studs. Made with cotton fabric, the case may feel a bit flimsy, but is soft and protective, and it’s very compact since it can lie fairly flat even after it’s packed with jewelry.

The Details: Cotton | 9.06 x 6.3 x 5.75 inches

Mark & Graham

It comes in 28 color and pattern options — plus it's monogrammable.

After six months of using the case, we wish it had more space for necklaces, bracelets, and larger earrings.

Looking for the perfect gift for a traveler? You can monogram this Mark & Graham jewelry case with up to three letters for a personalized touch that makes the gift all the more thoughtful. The square-shaped case has a sturdy exterior that feels like it will hold up perfectly in a packed carry-on and the pebbled vegan leather gives the box a sophisticated look while sitting on a desk or dresser. The interior is split into two sections with a mirror divider to separate the box, which makes it slightly difficult to fit larger jewelry pieces like a watch or chunky necklace, but after six months of testing, we did like that the separate sections help you access all your items without spilling everything out. We also love that there are tons of ring pillow slots so if you’re a big ring wearer, this jewelry case is an excellent option. In addition, there are several necklace or earring latches as well as a slip pocket and sections for bracelets or broaches.

The Details: Vegan leather, linen | 4.5 x 4.5 x 2.25 inches

Kendra Scott

The large size of this jewelry box makes it useful for heavy packers or at-home use.

It doesn’t have any necklace hooks.

Jewelry maximalists will appreciate the bigger size of Kendra Scott’s jewelry case. It looks like a traditional jewelry box that sits on a dresser, but it’s also very portable thanks to its lightweight materials and design. The interior has four large compartments to easily drop in bracelets, necklaces, or watches without any hassle and there are over 10 ring pillow slots for rings or earrings. To keep all the packed jewelry safe, the case comes with a divider to prevent items from jostling around on the go. The case also comes with a small matching zippered pouch that you can keep in the box or remove for extra storage. We found this separate pouch to be perfect for use on shorter trips when you may not need to bring the full case. While we wish the box had a few more organizational features like necklace hooks or earring holes, the jewelry remained perfectly intact after we shook it around, so we’re confident that the box keeps items safely tucked away. Plus, after six months of use, the stylish case still looks new and is a great option for home storage, too.

The Details: Polyurethane, polyester | 8 x 5.5 x 2.5 inches

After six months of traveling with this case, not one necklace became tangled thanks to the plentiful hooks.

We wish it had more storage options for studs.

If you’re embarking on an international trip that includes a checked bag, we recommend this jewelry case from Calpak to weather the journey. Since the rectangular jewelry case is bigger, it can easily store enough jewelry for several weeks of traveling. The structured design makes it ultra-durable and our favorite part is that it has a built-in drawstring bag that does an excellent job of keeping bracelets, watches, or earrings safely secured in the bottom section of the jewelry case. The top part has a variety of necklace latches and a ring holder for even more security. When we rigorously shook the container, none of the jewelry budged from its original spots, so we feel confident that this case will protect your valuables in a checked bag with no issues.

The Details: Faux leather, faux suede | 7 x 5 x 2.5 inches

The square-shaped box is small enough to easily fit in a carry-on or backpack.

The jewelry might scratch up the mirror on the divider.

The lower price and superior functionality make this petite jewelry case an excellent option for anyone looking for a place to store their accessories. It’s smaller than a lot of the options we tested, so we think it’s ideal for travelers needing to save space in a backpack or suitcase. Despite its compact stature, this jewelry box can fit tons of jewelry from studs to a leather watch. It’s intuitive to pack the case with rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and more since there are designated latches, slots, and compartments for virtually everything. When we shook the case, all of the jewelry remained packed away in its original spot without any damage occurring. The box has a divider with a mirror on one side and our only worry is that the mirror could get scratched by the metals or vice-versa, so you may want to put a small piece of fabric between the mirror just in case.

The Details: PU vegan leather | 3.94 x 3.94 x 1.97 inches

Best for Everyday Use: Levenger Carrie Mini Jewelry Organizer

The small design makes it easy to store the case in a purse.

It can’t fit large jewelry pieces.

Jewelry minimalists will love this tiny jewelry case for keeping track of just a few pieces of jewelry while on the go. After six months of use, we love that this Levenger mini jewelry case has latches, hooks, and pockets to protect and organize rings, bracelets, and necklaces. It is on the small side with minimum space for studs, but light packers will appreciate the hard, durable exterior that still looks new after six months. The genuine leather exterior and suede interior feels luxurious and looks elegant, so this also makes a great jewelry case for newlyweds going on a honeymoon . We especially love the tiny zippered pocket in the middle of the case for storing extra small jewelry items like studs or stacking rings.

The Details: Leather, microsuede | 4.25  x 4.5 x 1 inches

All of the materials used to make this case are recycled.

The organizational features could be better and, after six months of use, we think it's a bit too large to pack in a carry-on.

Paravel is one of our favorite luggage brands , so we’re pleased to report that its jewelry case impressed us, too. The circular case is made entirely of recycled materials from post-consumer plastic water bottles and upcycled zippers to create an eco-friendly accessory for travel. Besides the sustainability factor, the case comes with a large drawstring pouch that makes it easy to drop in larger pieces of jewelry like bracelets or watches. The top flap of the case has a ring holder and earring post to store smaller pieces of jewelry, but we wish there were a few more organization features like necklace latches or zippered pockets. However, we love the vintage-style design and, like most Paravel bags, you can monogram the case with initials for a special touch.

The Details: Recycled canvas, vegan leather | 5.6 x 3.6 inches

Other Travel Jewelry Cases We Liked

The jewelry cases below get an honorable mention since they still performed well in testing, but fell slightly short compared to our top performers.

Benevolence Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Box Organizer : This jewelry box can fit a ton of items, but you’ll want to make sure everything is secure before traveling since we noticed most of the jewelry became dislodged during testing.

Mejuri Travel Case : The case looks elegant and sleek on the outside, but the interior doesn’t offer much in the organizational department, so it’s best for minimalist travelers.

Our Testing Process

After thoroughly researching jewelry cases from trusted brands, we selected 25 options to first test out in our New York City lab. We packed each case with every type of jewelry you can think of, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, watches, and more to get a feel for the usefulness of the organization features. Then, we tossed, dropped, and shook the cases (think Kourtney Kardashian level of salad bowl shaking) to see if the jewelry remained safely secured in place or if the pieces moved around. We also examined the cases for any scuffing or damage.

With our lab testing portion complete, we then rated the jewelry cases based on ease of use, capacity, design, and quality to determine the winners. We will continue to test the jewelry cases for an additional six months so we can see how each one performs while traveling in a more natural setting after the lab testing.

Tips for Buying a Jewelry Case

Buy the right size case.

First, you’ll want to think about how much jewelry you travel with to determine the best size for your needs. For those who travel with bigger pieces of jewelry like watches or chunky necklaces, consider getting a more structured case with large compartments. Delicate or minimalist jewelry will pack better in an envelope or binder style of jewelry case. And if your jewelry collection consists of just a few pieces, opt for a mini jewelry case to save space in your luggage.

Consider organization

Most jewelry cases come with latches, hooks, pockets, and pillows to hold pretty much any piece of jewelry you can think of. Like other types of travel organizers , some jewelry cases are more barebones than others, so you’ll want to buy a case according to your organization preferences or based on the type of jewelry you travel most with. If most of your jewelry consists of earrings, be sure to get a box that has pockets and hole cards with spots for hoops, studs, and dangling earrings.

The best way to keep your jewelry safe and organized is to use a jewelry case. The best thing about travel jewelry cases is that they often come with designated slots for all types of accessories to make packing intuitive and quick. If you want to add an extra layer of protection, you can always place tissue or fabric between your jewelry to prevent the pieces from rubbing against one another in transit.

Once your jewelry is packed into the case, we recommend placing the jewelry case between soft clothing for safekeeping or in a personal item in case you have to gate-check your bag when flying. It can be risky to place a jewelry case in a checked bag since you may run the risk of the bag getting lost, but it depends on your comfort level for flying with potentially valuable items.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp writes most of the team’s articles where all of the products were tested in our lab or in a real-world setting. She participated in this lab test and is currently testing the Cuyana jewelry case for the next six months. Anna sifted through testing notes and used her expertise of traveling with jewelry to recommend the best travel jewelry cases for all types of trips.

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• Travel Products

The 7 Best Travel Jewelry Cases of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Protect your precious gems while on the go.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Final Verdict

Our testing process.

• How to Shop
• More to Consider

Take Our Word for It

What is real simple selects.

Real Simple / Joy Kim

Stop tossing your favorite jewelry into a bag when you embark on a trip—it can quickly become tangled and scratched, damaging your most delicate pieces. A travel jewelry case solves this problem, offering a secure and stylish way to store your necklaces , earrings, and rings on the go. 

When it comes to buying a jewelry case for travel, look for well-constructed pieces that “have several compartments to keep the pieces from touching each other,” says Bennett Beutel , the product lead at Tiffany & Co. He adds that by separating the pieces, you can limit any damage that may occur from them bumping into each other. 

To find the best travel jewelry cases to suit every type of trip and traveler, we tested 25 options ranging in price and size and filled them with jewelry. We evaluated how easy they were to pack, how well they kept pieces in place, any notable organizational features, and their capacity. Whether you need to stash a few dainty necklaces or protect larger statement pieces, these cases will keep your jewelry in prime condition.

Best Overall Travel Jewelry Case

Mark & graham small travel jewelry case.

Mark & Graham

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Performance 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

This jewelry case can be personalized and has a built-in mirror to use on the go.

We wish the dividers in the main compartment were removable to allow for larger pieces.

This small square case is available in a range of classic and vibrant shades, which you can monogram to add a personal touch (whether for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for a jewelry-loving jet setter). It has a zip-around opening to glimpse all your pieces at once. Behind the handy built-in mirror, there are three hooks for necklaces or larger pieces—just note that it doesn’t keep them very secure. 

The main compartment is ideal for ring lovers, with space to hold seven rings in the center. We wish the surrounding small compartments had adjustable dividers to fit more of our favorite pieces. The case is sturdy and maintained its shape when we jostled it around, so we feel confident that it would protect our pieces even if it got squished in our suitcase. 

Dimensions : 4.5 x 4.5 x 2.25 inches | Storage Compartments : 6 | Material : Vegan pebbled leather, linen

Best Budget Travel Jewelry Case

Bagsmart jewelry organizer bag.

• Performance 5 /5

It has a convenient carrying handle and ample organizational features.

The panel for earrings is flimsy and can only accommodate hoops along the edges.

At almost 10 inches long, this jewelry case is impressively roomy, with plenty of space for your go-to pieces. It features five compartments: a ring band that snaps on and off, a panel for earrings, five straps to secure necklaces, a zippered pouch for storage, and a side zippered pocket.

For all of its convenient features, the handle was our favorite—we loved that we could carry it like a purse or toss it into our carry-on luggage . This case is lightweight and compact even when filled beyond the recommended capacity. While we struggled a bit with the earring panel, as the holes are very close together and can only accommodate hoops at the edges, the hardware was overall durable. 

Dimensions : 6.1 x 9.8 x 1.9 inches | Weight : 0.55 pounds | Storage Compartments : 5 | Material : Polyester

Best Large Travel Jewelry Case

Kendra scott medium travel jewelry case.

Kendra Scott

It’s spacious and easy to see all of your pieces at a glance.

There aren’t any hooks to hang necklaces from.

Crafted from high-quality PU leather, this elegant case features a removable zippered pouch and several sturdy and cushioned compartments to separate your jewelry, including a central section where you can safely secure rings and earrings. It’s simple and satisfying to pack—just drop your pieces into one of the compartments. 

The clutch-like rectangular shape makes this a bit bulky for a carry-on or weekender bag, but it’s a perfect companion for checked luggage. Since it’s easy to see your pieces on display once you open them, we like this for at-home storage, too. Our only gripe is that there isn’t dedicated necklace storage, but the compartments are large enough to store necklaces in individual pouches. 

Dimensions : 8 x 5.5 x 2.5 inches | Storage Compartments : 6 | Material : PU leather, polyester

Best Small Travel Jewelry Case

Vee & co. small travel jewelry case.

Despite its compact size, this case has a section to store every type of jewelry.

The included display mirror doesn't feel durable.

Travelers will love this case for its extensive organizational compartments, which give every piece its place to minimize scratching and tangling. We like the six plush ring pillows, three necklace hooks, and a built-in earring panel that borders the included mirror, but our favorite feature is the two removable dividers that you can adjust to accommodate delicate or chunky jewelry. The mirror is another convenient addition to this compact case, allowing you to try on different pieces or do your makeup—however, it seems less durable than the rest of the case. 

Dimensions : 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.9 inches | Weight : 0.37 pounds | Storage Compartments : 6 | Material : Vegan leather, velvet

Best Round Travel Jewelry Case

Cuyana travel jewelry case.

The detachable earrings bar is perfect for dangling or hoop earrings.

There aren’t any individual hoops for necklaces, and storing them on the provided detachable bar can lead to tangles.

Toss this pretty, petite pouch into your bag or jacket pocket for your next adventure, whether you're road-tripping or hopping on an international flight. It’s palm-sized and convenient to carry thanks to its ergonomic design, and the soft suede interior will keep your pieces protected on the go.

While there are only a few compartments—two small pouches, plus a detachable bar to store your favorite earrings and another for rings or necklaces—we found we could fit several pairs of earrings, a few necklaces, and nine (yes, nine!) rings, among other small pieces of jewelry. Light packers will love that this space-saving pick weighs less than half a pound and allows you to customize the design, as you can remove the earring and ring bar to free up space for larger pieces.

Dimensions : 1.25 x 5 x 3.5 inches | Weight : 0.33 pounds | Storage Compartments : 4 | Material : Leather, suede

Best Travel Jewelry Case for Maximalists

Calpak jewelry case.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

The generously-sized drawstring offers enough space to store larger pieces, plus it has mini pockets on the inside.

It’s bulky and may be better suited to longer trips than weekend getaways.

Famous for its reliable, attractive luggage and travel accessories, Calpak is a go-to brand for frequent flyers—and this jewelry case is no exception. Jewelry lovers will rejoice at the sight of the drawstring pouch, which features ample space for statement bracelets, necklaces, chunky earrings, or watches. We love that it also has small pockets folded in, which helps to reduce any possible scratching and to maximize the space. 

This large case has enough room to hold several rings on the snap-off ring bar and four necklaces on the detachable hooks—there's even a sturdy earring card ideal for studs and small hoops. Those who don't want to leave their favorite eye-catching pieces at home will appreciate carrying jewelry in this durable, faux-leather case. 

Dimensions : 7 x 5 x 2.5 inches | Weight : 0.9 pounds | Storage Compartments : 6 | Material : PU leather, polyester, ABS

Best Travel Jewelry Case for Minimalists

Levenger mini jewelry organizer.

• Capacity 4.5 /5

This compact pick has necklace hooks, an earring and ring bar, and a zippered pouch, making it perfect for just the essentials.

The earring bar isn’t spaced far enough apart for wider studs.

Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, this ultra-lightweight and dainty case is ideal for anyone looking to keep a few favorite pieces from tangling or scratching without adding any bulk to their compact carry-on . Perfect for short trips or minimalists, this mini organizer has two hooks and a catchall pouch for necklaces, a small zippered pouch for bracelets or large earrings, a tiny removable ring bar, and a detachable earring bar that can fit two pairs of smaller earrings.

While we wish the stud holes were farther apart (you can only fit dainty studs or one pair of chunkier earrings), we could store larger hoops in the pouch. It comes in five colorful styles, and we found the leather exterior soft and scratch-resistant, while the suede interior helped protect our pieces. 

Dimensions : 4.25 x 1 x 4.5 inches | Weight : 0.25 pounds | Storage Compartments : 3 | Material : Pebbled leather, microsuede

The Mark & Graham Small Travel Jewelry Case is our top pick thanks to its stylish and sturdy construction, handy mirror, and how well it kept our jewelry secure when we jostled it around during testing. If you're shopping on a budget, opt for the Bagsmart Jewelry Organizer Bag , which has five compartments for all your favorite pieces.

We tested 25 portable jewelry cases for this article, packing up each piece with the same array of jewelry—three necklaces, four earrings, three rings, two bracelets, and one watch—noting if it all fit or if we could comfortably add in even more pieces. 

Next, we tested for durability and protective features by vigorously shaking the cases and throwing them up in the air and onto the ground, checking to see how securely they kept our pieces in place and whether anything became broken or tangled in the process. 

Finally, we evaluated how easy it was to load pieces into the case or remove them, particularly regarding detachable ring rods and earring posters. The jewelry cases that scored the highest across our categories—ease of use, capacity, design, performance, and overall value—earned a spot on this list. 

How to Shop for a Travel Jewelry Case Like a Pro

Depending on the type of jewelry you wear and the trips you expect to take, compare different case types to find the best pick for you. For short weekend trips, a small palm-sized piece should suffice. But if you're spending weeks abroad, you may need a large-capacity jewelry travel case with more organizational features. 

If you have a lot of jewelry or prefer bigger pieces, opt for a case with plenty of compartments. For instance, those who frequently wear hoops might find that a small earring placard designed for studs won’t suffice—you’ll want ample pouches or zippered pockets that could hold your go-to earrings.

If you tend to travel with just the essentials—maybe a few dainty rings, thin necklaces, and small stud or hoop earrings—then a smaller case like the Levenger Carrie Mini Jewelry Organizer will do the trick. For statement jewelry lovers, a larger case like the Kendra Scott Medium Travel Jewelry Case can properly store your hefty pieces.

Storage Compartments

The best jewelry travel cases “have several compartments to keep the pieces from touching each other and to limit as much scratching as possible,” says Beutel. There are several compartment types too, including pockets, pouches, necklace hooks, ring pillows, and more. If you wear a lot of rings, consider a ring pillow or ring bar—the former allows you to remove them individually, while the latter requires you to remove the bar and the rings on it to select the one you want. 

Beutel recommends cases with a hearty, protective exterior—think leather or PU leather—which will keep your jewelry safe in your bag even if it gets tossed around at baggage claim. For the interior, he prefers suede lining, as it’s non-abrasive and prevents scratching or dulling.

More Jewelry Cases for Travel to Consider

Mejuri Travel Case : Mejuri is best known for its dainty, everyday jewelry—and that’s what this tiny, trendy case is designed for. It’s great for minimalists and we love the streamlined design, but the price tag seemed too high for how little space it offers (there’s only room for four necklaces, three pairs of studs, and a few slim rings). 

Bagsmart Jewelry Organizer Roll : This budget-friendly soft-sided case boasts a range of compartments to keep jewelry organized and can accommodate quite a range of pieces, but inherently offers less protection than a sturdy leather case. The inner material is also far less soft than the suede lining. 

Questions You Might Ask

Is it ok to store all your jewelry together when traveling.

“From an organizational perspective, it’s definitely a good idea to have all your jewelry in the same place,” says Beutel, however, “every piece should be separated to a certain degree to avoid any potential scratching.”

Look for cases with hooks for necklaces, pillows or rods for rings, and small compartments or pouches for other large pieces to ensure everything has a designated place.

Can you use a jewelry travel case for everyday storage?

At home, keeping your pieces in their original packaging is preferred. “In an ideal world, one would pack their pieces in the original cases, but of course, that’s normally tough to do traveling,” Beutel says.

However, many travel cases can store your essential pieces at home and on the go, reducing the need to pack and unpack between trips. For extensive jewelry collections or statement pieces, consider a larger storage option designed for everyday use, which can typically accommodate and display more jewelry.

What are some alternatives to travel jewelry cases?

If you can't get your hands on a travel jewelry case before your trip, Beutel suggests rolling your jewelry in a soft cloth. “Nothing abrasive like wool or canvas," he says. "A hand towel or a shirt works wonders.” While these won’t provide as much protection for your pieces as a proper case, they can help prevent your pieces from getting damaged while in transit.

This article was written by Sophie Dodd , a contributing writer for Real Simple who covers travel, lifestyle, and home goods. To write this article, she evaluated our test results, which reflected our experiences with the jewelry cases after packing them with a range of pieces, tossing them around, and exploring how easy or tedious it was to put in and take out different pieces. She also spoke with Bennett Beutel , a product lead at Tiffany’s Jewelry Design and Innovation Workshop , about what to look for when shopping for travel jewelry cases and how to protect your pieces on the go.

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval . Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects , from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

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The Best Travel Jewelry Cases Byrdie Editors Never Pack Without

Take your organization game up a notch.

Byrdie / Kristin Kempa

The last thing anyone wants to do while getting ready (especially on vacation) is spending time untangling a necklace . If you don’t have a well-organized travel jewelry case, chances are you find yourself in this situation more often than not. Since jewelry is an important part of a travel capsule wardrobe , it's just as important to invest in a quality jewelry case that'll keep your precious pieces protected and organized.

We put more than two dozen to the test to find the best option for you, evaluating each one based on its design, capacity, ease of use, performance, and value. We filled them up with a variety of jewelry, shook them around to see how the contents held up and tested what’s it like to use them. From affordable and compact options to personalized picks and more, we’re rounding up the travel jewelry cases that impressed us the most, and therefore, we believe are worth your money.

• What to Look For

Why Trust Byrdie

Best overall, calpak jewelry case.

Material: Faux leather and faux suede | Dimensions: 7" x 5" x 2.5" | Color Options: Black, Caramel + more

If minimalism is not your M.O. when it comes to jewelry, this travel case is for you. It comes with tons of storage options—from necklace hooks and a 28-hole earring card to a ring rod and a large pouch lined with pockets. You can take multiple pieces of each jewelry type with you, and we love that the large drawstring bag attached to the case is lined with pockets for extra storage and organization. We found that it was easy to pack and unpack, and everything remained in place when we shook it around. Though we wish it was a bit slimmer for more compact and lightweight packing, the design is pleasing and functional, and it’s not overly heavy. An added bonus is that it comes in neutral shades and limited-edition pops of color.

Byrdie / Joy Kim

Byrdie / Leticia Almeida

Best for Short Trips

Cuyana travel jewelry case.

Material: Italian pebbled leather and suede | Dimensions: H 1.25" x W 5" x D 3.5" | Color Options: Black, Soft Rose + more

When we first got our hands on it, we didn’t imagine that such a small case would be all that useful—but we were wrong. The compact design isn’t just chic and adorable, but it’s also quite functional for storing a few pieces of jewelry for a quick trip. It has detachable ring and earring holders (which makes putting jewels in and taking them out fast and easy), as well as two pockets to hold bracelets or other pieces. The ring rod can also be used to hang necklaces, though we do wish it provided necklace storage that was a bit better at keeping them in place. Overall, it’s compact and well-designed, and the leather and suede materials feel smooth and durable.

Best for Everyday Pieces

Levenger mini jewelry organizer.

Material: Pebbled leather | Dimensions: 4 ¼" W x 1" D x 4 ½" H | Color Options: Grape, Chilli Pepper + more

If you’re someone that doesn’t stray from your go-to jewelry pieces, there’s no need to add bulk to your bag by getting a large jewelry case. This one is perfect for minimalists because it’s ultra-compact. But don’t let the tiny design fool you, it provides excellent organization and protection for your jewelry.

It has removable panels for earrings and rings that feature secure snaps, snap hooks to prevent necklaces from getting tangled, an open pouch for chunkier pieces, and a zipper pouch. It’s very simple to pack and grab your pieces out of it on the go, and we were impressed by how well everything stayed in place. It’s also made with pebbled leather which resists scratches and scuffs, and the mini wallet-like design is easy to pop into your purse or even your makeup bag .

Best Budget

Bagsmart jewelry organizer bag.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 9.8'' L x 6.1'' W x 1.9'' H | Color Options: Lake Blue, Black + more

Amazon has tons of travel and storage items, and this travel jewelry case is a great one for anyone on the hunt for an affordable and accessible option. It’s spacious without being too clunky or heavy, and it features different storage options. It has snap hooks to keep necklaces straight, ring rods, an earring card, and plenty of pockets. It kept everything organized and in place during our test, and while it doesn’t feel the most durable or extravagant as others we tested, the functionality and price point make it easy for us to recommend.

Best Personalized

Mark & graham small travel jewelry case foil debossed.

Mark & Graham

Material: Pebbled vegan leather | Dimensions: 4.5" W x 4.5 D" x 2.25" H | Color Options: Black, Orchid + more

This option is best for short trips or minimalists, and we think it’s a fantastic gifting option for birthdays, bridesmaids, or that friend that seems to always be on another trip. It can be customized with a name or monogram in a few different fonts and in gold or silver lettering. The case also comes in tons of colors—everything from black and caramel to vibrant shades of orange and green.

As for the design itself, we like how compact it is while still offering various storage options. It has cushioned rows to store earrings, small sections for rings, and hooks for necklaces. It’s definitely better for storing small pieces like rings and earrings, though you can fit one or two bracelets and necklaces in it. We also appreciate that it has a built-in divider with a mirror and the materials feel durable.

Kendra Scott Medium Travel Jewelry Case

Kendra Scott

Material: Polyurethane, 100% polyester Lining | Dimensions: 8"L x 5.5"D x 2.5"H | Color Options: Lilac, Taupe + more

Another option for those planning on traveling with a lot of jewelry, this one from Kendra Scott is great for storing earrings, rings, bracelets, and chunky necklaces that aren’t prone to tangling. We wish it had better storage to keep necklaces from knotting up, but we do love how much storage there is for everything else. There are tons of rows to place earrings, and the separate compartments at the bottom are nice for keeping medium and large pieces organized. We also appreciate that it comes with a removable pouch and the design is sturdy and easy to pack and unpack. It’s just a bit heavy for traveling with (especially for storing in carry-on luggage), but it’s a nice option if you have a lot of jewelry and accessories to take with you. It’s also fitting if you want a case to organize your jewelry at home—the design is simple and would look nice on your dresser.

• Byrdie/Leticia Almeida

Vee & Co. Small Travel Jewelry Case

Material: Vegan leather | Dimensions: 3.94" D x 3.94" W x 1.97" H | Color Options: Blue, White + more

If you’re looking for an affordable and compact travel jewelry case that will keep your collection super organized, we highly recommend checking out this one. Though it’s small, it’s well-designed to fit earrings, rings, necklaces, and bracelets—they all have a designated place. We do appreciate that the earring card features a mirror in the center which is convenient to have on hand while traveling. We had no issues with the jewelry moving around during our shake test, and we felt that it was intuitive to pack and easy to get the pieces out when needed.

What to Look for in a Travel Jewelry Case

• Organizational features: All travel jewelry cases have some storage organizational features, but some are far better than others. The right one for you will largely depend on what type of jewelry you wear and how much you’ll be taking with you, but generally, it’s wise to look for things like ring rods, earring cards, and necklace hooks.
• Size: Consider the size of a jewelry case wisely—especially when it’s for travel. You’ll want something that can fit everything you want to bring, but you’ll want to avoid options that are unnecessarily bulky or heavy.

This answer depends on what type of jewelry you’re traveling with, but in general, it’s wise to secure each piece in a travel case rather than throwing it all in a loose bag or compartment which will likely lead to damage and tangles. For necklaces specifically which are prone to knotting, look for a travel case that has snap hooks to keep them straight.

It’s always wise to pack your jewelry in your travel tote or carry-on luggage that way you can ensure you know where it is at all times—especially if it’s expensive or sentimental. If you pack it in your checked bag, you take the rise that the airline loses your bag along with the jewelry inside.

Alyssa Kaplan is an experienced writer in the beauty industry and product tester specializing in cosmetics. She received a bachelor’s degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she studied marketing and product development in the cosmetics industry as well as fashion business marketing. Alyssa has been a commerce writer at Byrdie since 2022, where she covers all things beauty.

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Is It Safe in Moscow?

Stanislav Solntsev / Getty Images

When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

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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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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual

• September 2, 2023

What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!

Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.

Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow

I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.

TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow

• Moscow Red Square
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Bolshoi Theatre

Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow

• Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
• Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye

Visit Moscow of the Soviet era

• Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
• VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
• GULAG Museum
• Metro stations
• The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city

Less touristy places in Moscow

• Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
• The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
• Zaryadye Park
• Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
• Business center, Moscow City

Main districts of Moscow to visit

• Patriarch Ponds
• Tchistye Prudy
• Kuznetsky most
• Arbat Street

However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.

What to do and see in Moscow in one day?

List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:

• Go to Red Square
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
• See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
• Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
• And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view

Things to do in Moscow in 2 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.

• First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
• Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill

As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .

Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow

Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.

Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside

Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!

• Visit estimate time : 1h30
• Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
• Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
• Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
• Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow

Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square

Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

• Open 24 hours a day
• Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?

See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district

The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets

The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin

Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.

• Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
• See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
• Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
• Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)

Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.

The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow

If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.

Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.

Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.

• Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.

Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University

The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.

• How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.

Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!

What to do in Moscow in 3 days?

If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!

VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era

VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!

GULAG History Museum

The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.

Discover the Patriarche Pounds district

It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.

What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.

Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!

Discovering Tchistye Proudy district

It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.

Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉

In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?

What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?

Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.

Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery

Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!

• Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
• Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
• Entry tickets. 500 RUB.

Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
• Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
• Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.

Walking on Arbat Street

All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.

Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)

Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.

Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.

Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow

Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!

• Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
• Prices. 2200 RUB per person
• Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.

What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?

There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .

If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.

There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!

Moscow travel tips:

• Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa
• Christmas and New Year in Moscow
• What is the best time to visit Moscow?

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