Moscow, Russia-4-day-itinerary

Moscow: A 4-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on hitting the highlights of Moscow while leaving room for exploration and personal interests.

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Russia. Apply well in advance.
  • Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB). ATMs are widely available. Credit cards accepted in most places but carry cash for smaller establishments.
  • Language: Russian is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic Russian phrases will be helpful.
  • Transportation: The Moscow Metro is efficient and affordable, with beautiful stations worth seeing. Buses and trams are also options. Taxis (Uber, Yandex Taxi) are readily available.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostel Rus’, Fabrika Hostel,Capsule Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Metropol Hotel, Izmailovo Hotel Complex, Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel & Business Centre
  • Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Moscow, Ritz-Carlton Moscow, The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya

Day 1: Red Square and Historical Treasures

  • Morning: Start at Red Square, the heart of Moscow. Admire St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, and the Kremlin walls.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Kremlin complex. Visit the Armoury Chamber (treasure collection), the Cathedrals of Archangel Michael and Assumption, and Ivan the Great Bell Tower for panoramic views.
  • Evening: Dine at Cafe Pushkin, a classic restaurant with traditional Russian cuisine and elegant atmosphere. Afterward, enjoy a stroll along Arbat Street, a pedestrianized street lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.

Day 2: Art and Culture Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the Tretyakov Gallery, home to an extensive collection of Russian art from medieval icons to masterpieces by renowned artists like Repin and Kandinsky.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the world of literature at the Pushkin Museum, showcasing a diverse range of art, including Impressionist paintings, Egyptian antiquities, and Greek sculptures.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the world’s most renowned ballet and opera houses.

Day 3: Soviet Legacy and Modern Moscow

  • Morning: Delve into Soviet history at the VDNKh (Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy), a sprawling complex with pavilions showcasing Soviet achievements in various fields.
  • Afternoon: Explore Izmailovsky Market, a bustling marketplace offering traditional crafts, souvenirs, and antiques.
  • Evening: Dine at White Rabbit, a modern restaurant on the 16th floor with stunning panoramic views of Moscow.

Day 4: Parks and Perspectives

  • Morning: Relax in Gorky Park, a sprawling green space with playgrounds, cafes, and boating opportunities. Climb the Observation Deck for breathtaking city views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Novodevichy Convent, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful churches and serene atmosphere. The cemetery is also the resting place of notable figures like Khrushchev and Bulgakov.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Restaurant SAVVA, renowned for its modern Russian cuisine and cozy ambiance.

Transportation Tips:

  • Purchase a Troika card for convenient travel on the metro, buses, and trams.

Extra Tips:

  • Learn basic Russian phrases for greetings and ordering food.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather, as Moscow experiences cold winters and warm summers.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing.
  • Embrace the local culture by trying traditional dishes like borscht, pelmeni (dumplings), and blini (pancakes).

Enjoy your trip to Moscow!