Moscow 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Moscow Itinerary:

This itinerary balances iconic sights with local experiences. It can be customized based on your interests - just let me know if you’d like to swap out any museums or focus on different types of attractions!

Day 1:

  • Morning: Arrive in Moscow, settle into your hotel (consider the historic Hotel Metropol for luxury or the budget-friendly Hostel Sputnik).
  • Afternoon: Explore Red Square, marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral, visit Lenin’s Mausoleum (for a glimpse into history), and take photos by the Kremlin walls.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Café Pushkin, a renowned restaurant with a classic Russian setting and menu.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Visit the Kremlin, exploring its cathedrals, palaces, and museums. Consider booking a tour in advance to learn about its history and significance.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the Armory Chamber, home to stunning historical artifacts and weaponry. Afterwards, relax and enjoy a traditional Russian afternoon tea at the Pushkin Museum Café.
  • Evening: Catch a ballet performance at the Bolshoi Theatre.

Day 3:

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the world-famous art collection at the Tretyakov Gallery. Explore the vast halls filled with masterpieces of Russian art, from ancient icons to contemporary paintings and sculptures.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Gorky Park for a leisurely stroll, amusement park rides, or boating on the Moscow River.
  • Evening: Dine at White Rabbit, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Day 4:

  • Morning: Explore the history and culture of the Russian people at the State Historical Museum. Admire its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits spanning centuries.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby GUM department store (a beautiful, historic building in itself!) for some luxury shopping and a snack break.
  • Evening: Relax with a classic Moscow Mule at a bar like the “Moscow Bar” while enjoying live music or a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 5:

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Russian architecture by visiting the St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin’s churches.
  • Afternoon: Explore the intricate beauty of the Red Square architecture, including the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Lenin Mausoleum.
  • Evening: Experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna) at a public bathhouse like “Sanduny” for a truly immersive cultural experience.

Day 6:

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the Izmailovo Market, a sprawling market with traditional crafts and souvenirs. Reward yourself with some delicious pirozhki from a local vendor.
  • Afternoon: Take a walk through the historic Izmailovsky Kremlin for stunning views of the Moscow River and the city beyond.
  • Evening: Experience modern Russian cuisine at a restaurant like “Twins Garden” or “Cafe Pushkin,” known for its innovative dishes and chic setting.

Things to know:

  • Currency: The currency in Russia is the Ruble (RUB).
  • Language: While English is spoken in some tourist areas, learning a few basic Russian phrases will be helpful.
  • Visa: Most foreigners require a visa to enter Russia. Check your country’s specific visa requirements before planning your trip.

Transportation:

  • Moscow Metro: One of the most efficient and beautiful metro systems in the world, it’s a must-do experience for any visitor. Use the Yandex Metro app for navigation.
  • Taxis: Ride-hailing services like Yandex.Taxi and Uber are popular and readily available.

Tips:

  • Download a VPN: Access to social media platforms and some websites might be restricted in Russia, so it’s recommended to download a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) before arriving.
  • Learn about the local culture: Research Russian customs and etiquette beforehand to avoid any cultural faux pas.
  • Carry cash: Not all places accept credit cards, especially outside of tourist areas.

Enjoy your trip! This is just a starting point - you can personalize it further by adding specific restaurants, cafes, or other activities based on your tastes.**