Red Square Moscow 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Heart of Moscow - Red Square

This itinerary focuses on experiencing the historical, cultural, and culinary richness of Moscow’s Red Square area.

Accommodation: Consider staying in a centrally located hotel near Red Square for easy access to attractions. Options include:

  • Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Moscow, The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow
  • Mid-Range: Metropol Hotel, Baltschug Kempinski
  • Budget: Hostel Rus’, Fabrika Hostel

Transportation:

  • Moscow Metro: Efficient and affordable; download the Yandex Metro app for navigation.
  • Walking: Red Square and surrounding areas are easily walkable.
  • Taxis: Use reputable apps like Yandex Taxi or Gett.

Things to Know:

  • Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
  • Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB). ATMs widely available.
  • Language: Russian is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.

Day 1: Red Square Icons

  • Morning: St. Basil’s Cathedral (explore its colorful onion domes and unique architecture).
  • Afternoon: Lenin’s Mausoleum (pay your respects to the Soviet leader).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Café Pushkin (traditional Russian cuisine in a historic setting)

Day 2: Kremlin Exploration

  • Morning: Kremlin Museums (explore the Armoury Chamber with its collection of royal treasures and carriages).
  • Afternoon: Cathedrals within the Kremlin Walls (visit the Archangel Cathedral, Assumption Cathedral, and the Annunciation Cathedral).
  • Evening: Dinner at White Rabbit (contemporary Russian cuisine with panoramic city views)

Day 3: Art & History

  • Morning: Tretyakov Gallery (admire masterpieces of Russian art from different eras).
  • Afternoon: State Historical Museum (learn about Russia’s history through exhibits and artifacts).
  • Evening: Sample traditional Russian dumplings (pelmeni) at Pelmennaya “Yablochny Spas”

Day 4: GUM & Shopping Spree

  • Morning: Explore GUM Department Store, a historic shopping arcade with luxury brands.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the Izmailovsky Market for souvenirs and traditional crafts.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Turandot (modern Asian cuisine in a luxurious setting)

Day 5: Parks & Relaxation

  • Morning: Stroll through Gorky Park, Moscow’s largest park with green spaces, amusement rides, and cafes.
  • Afternoon: Relax by the Moskva River or take a boat tour.
  • Evening: Dinner at Restaurant SAVVA (modern Russian cuisine with seasonal menus)

Day 6: Bolshoi Theatre & Ballet

  • Morning: Visit the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the world’s most famous opera and ballet houses.
  • Afternoon: Attend a performance or take a backstage tour for a glimpse into the theater’s history.
  • Evening: Enjoy a celebratory dinner at Café Americano (Italian-American cuisine)

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Novodevichy Convent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful churches and tombs.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy last-minute souvenir shopping or explore any missed attractions.
  • Evening: Depart from Moscow.

Tips:

  • Purchase the “Moscow City Pass” for discounts on attractions and transportation.
  • Learn basic Russian phrases for easier communication.
  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Enjoy your adventure exploring the heart of Moscow!