Moscow Russia 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Moscow Itinerary:

Where to Stay:

For a convenient and central location with plenty of charm, consider staying in a boutique hotel in the historic city center, like:

  • Hotel Metropol: A luxurious historic hotel near Red Square.
  • National Hotel: Iconic hotel with a rich history and stunning views of the Kremlin.
  • Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow: Known for its beautiful rooms and excellent location, it’s a bit further from the city center but still within walking distance of many attractions.

Where to Stay (Alternative):

  • Airbnb: For a more budget-friendly option with local experiences, explore apartments in charming neighborhoods like Arbat, Kitay-Gorod, or Izmaylovo.
  • Hostel: If you’re traveling on a tight budget, stay in a hostel near the city center for a social and affordable experience.

Day 1: Arrival & Red Square Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) or Domodedovo International Airport (DME).

    • Transportation: Take the Aeroexpress train to the city center, which is a faster and more comfortable option than the metro.

  • Afternoon: Explore Red Square, Moscow’s historical heart. Visit the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral (take in the colorful architecture!), Lenin’s Mausoleum (for a glimpse into history), and GUM department store.

  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Cafe Pushkin, a renowned restaurant known for its opulent decor, traditional Russian cuisine, and literary ambiance.

Day 2: Art & Culture Immersion**

  • Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the State Tretyakov Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Russian art from all periods.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Kremlin Armoury Chamber for a glimpse into the opulent history of the Tsarist era, or wander through the Izmaylovsky Park, a historical recreation area with beautiful scenery and traditional crafts booths.

  • Evening: Indulge in a classic Russian ballet performance at the Bolshoi Theatre.

Day 3: The Kremlin & Beyond

  • Morning: Visit the Red Square in the morning, starting with the Kremlin, which is best seen early to avoid crowds.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Kremlin, Russia’s historical heart, and explore the iconic Cathedral Square.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Cafe Forty Seven, known for its modern Russian cuisine with a European twist.

Day 4: Historical Exploration

  • Morning: Discover the beauty of the Moscow Metro with its ornate stations and intricate mosaics.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the past with a visit to the Moscow Kremlin Museums, including the Cathedral Square, Armoury Chamber, and State Diamond Fund.
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kitay-Gorod by enjoying a traditional Russian dinner and folk music performance

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Explore the Kremlin’s grounds, including the Alexander Garden, and reflect on your journey through Russian history.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Red Square in the afternoon, enjoy a final walk through the beautiful parks and gardens of the city, stopping at Gorky Park or the Moscow Museum of Modern Art (MMOMA).

  • Evening: Catch the Aeroliner for a comfortable journey to your chosen airport.

Things to know:

  • Visa requirements: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Russia. Ensure you have secured the necessary travel documentation before arriving.
  • Currency: The official currency is the Russian ruble (RUB).
  • Language: While many signs are in English, Russian is the primary language spoken. Learn some basic phrases or download a translation app for smoother interactions.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Red Square, the heart of Moscow and a must-see for any visitor.
  • Explore the Kremlin, including the historic cathedrals and palaces.
  • Take a tour of the Kremlin Armoury.
  • Wander through the Kremlin’s Armory Chamber to see the Kremlin’s impressive collection of historical artifacts and weapons.

Food recommendations:

  • Cafe Pushkin: This legendary restaurant offers a taste of classic Russian cuisine in a beautiful setting.
  • Cafe Staraya Moskva (Old Moscow): A charming cafe with a cozy atmosphere, serving traditional dishes like borscht and beef stroganoff.
  • White Rabbit: Experience fine dining with a view at this modern restaurant atop the Smolensky Square skyscraper.

Other things of interest:

  • Gorky Park: Enjoy a variety of activities such as skating, cycling, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through this green oasis in the city center.
  • Red Square’s museums: The Kremlin Museum offers a fascinating journey through Russian history and art, while the State Historical Museum provides a broader context for the country’s past.

Food recommendations for Day 2:

  • White Rabbit: This restaurant is known for its innovative cuisine and stunning views of Moscow, making it a unique experience.

  • Cafe Pushkin: A restaurant with a traditional Russian ambiance, offering a variety of delicious dishes like pelmeni (dumplings) and blini (thin pancakes).

  • GUM: Enjoy a traditional Russian meal at one of the many restaurants within this historic department store.

  • Eliseevsky Store: This beautiful food hall offers a wide selection of gourmet foods, from caviar to smoked salmon, and is a great place to sample different flavors.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Yandex Taxi (the Russian Uber) or Gett are the best for getting around Moscow, especially in the evenings when public transport is less frequent.
  • Metro: The Moscow Metro is an efficient and affordable way to travel within the city.

Things to consider:

  • Language: Download a translation app or learn some basic phrases to help you navigate.

  • Money: Ensure you have Russian rubles on hand, as many restaurants and shops prefer cash payments.

  • Safety: Moscow has a good public transportation system, but be aware of your surroundings and potential scams when using it, especially for tourists.

Enjoy exploring the cultural wonders and hidden gems of Moscow!