Red Square, Moscow-2-day-itinerary

Two Days Exploring the Heart of Moscow: Red Square Itinerary

Day 1: History & Grandeur

  • Morning (9:00 - 12:00):

    • Red Square: Start your day in the iconic Red Square, marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral with its vibrant onion domes, and take photos of Lenin’s Mausoleum.
    • Kremlin Museums: Explore the Armory Chamber showcasing Russian treasures and Tsarist regalia or visit the Diamond Fund for dazzling royal jewels.

  • Lunch (12:00 - 13:00):

    • Cafe Pushkin: Enjoy traditional Russian cuisine in a beautifully restored historical setting just off Red Square.

  • Afternoon (13:00 - 17:00):

    • State Historical Museum: Delve into Russia’s rich history through exhibitions covering centuries of art, artifacts, and documents.

  • Evening (18:00 - 21:00):

    • Dinner at White Rabbit Restaurant: Indulge in contemporary Russian cuisine with stunning panoramic views of Moscow from this rooftop restaurant.
    • Bolshoi Theatre: Catch a ballet or opera performance at this world-renowned theatre for a truly unforgettable experience (book tickets in advance).

Day 2: Culture & Shopping

  • Morning (10:00 - 13:00):

    • GUM Department Store: Explore the luxurious GUM department store, renowned for its elegant architecture and upscale boutiques. Enjoy a coffee break at one of the charming cafes within.

  • Lunch (13:00 - 14:00):

    • Stolovaya #57: Experience authentic Soviet-style dining at this popular cafeteria known for its affordable and hearty dishes.

  • Afternoon (14:00 - 17:00):

    • Tretyakov Gallery: Immerse yourself in Russian art, from icons to masterpieces by renowned artists like Repin and Kandinsky.

  • Evening (18:00 - ):

    • Dinner & Drinks: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Moscow’s vibrant restaurants or bars. Explore the trendy Arbat Street for dining options and live music venues.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Ritz-Carlton Moscow, Hotel Metropol
  • Mid-range: Lotte Hotel Moscow, Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel & Business Centre
  • Budget: Hostel Fabrika, Art Hostel

Transportation:

  • Moscow Metro: Efficient and affordable subway system with beautiful stations. Purchase a Troika card for easy travel.
  • Taxis: Yandex Taxi and Gett are popular ride-hailing apps.
  • Walking: Red Square and surrounding areas are easily explored on foot.

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Check visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to Russia.
  • Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB).
  • Language: Russian is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas. Learn basic phrases like “hello” (Здравствуйте -Zdravstvuyte), “thank you” (Спасибо -Spasibo), and “please” (Пожалуйста -Pozhaluysta).

Tips:

  • Dress warmly: Moscow experiences cold winters. Pack layers, a warm coat, hat, gloves, and scarf.
  • Download offline maps: Google Maps or Yandex Maps can be used offline for navigation.
  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of cultural differences and avoid loud or boisterous behavior in public places.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is common practice at markets like Izmailovsky Market.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Izmailovsky Market: A vast market offering souvenirs, crafts, antiques, and traditional Russian goods.
  • Victory Park on Poklonnaya Hill: Commemorates Russia’s victory in World War II with stunning memorials and panoramic views.
  • Moscow State University: Admire the impressive skyscraper of Moscow State University, a landmark of Soviet architecture.