How to Get to Moscow

• By Air: Fly into Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) or Domodedovo Airport (DME), both about 30-45 minutes from the city center.
• By Train: Moscow’s main station, Moscow Kazansky Station, connects to cities like St. Petersburg and Nizhny Novgorod by high-speed train.
• By Bus: Buses from various European cities also arrive at Moscow Central Bus Station.

Best Time to Visit

• Best Time: May to September offers the best weather, with warmer temperatures and long daylight hours.
• Avoid: Winter (November to February) can be very cold, with temperatures often dipping below -10°C (14°F), though the snowy landscape can be beautiful for those prepared for the chill.

Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Historic Moscow

Start your Moscow adventure with a visit to Red Square, the heart of the city, home to famous landmarks like St. Basil’s Cathedral. Admire its colorful onion domes and step inside to see its stunning interior. Nearby, visit the Kremlin, a fortified complex housing government buildings, churches, and the Armory Chamber, where Russia’s royal treasures are displayed. Walk through Alexander Garden and see the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In the afternoon, head to GUM, Moscow’s iconic department store, for shopping or a coffee in the historic surroundings. End your day with a stroll down Arbat Street, one of Moscow’s most famous pedestrian areas, lined with shops, cafes, and street artists.

Day 2: Museums and Culture

Dedicate your second day to exploring Moscow's rich cultural heritage. Start at the State Tretyakov Gallery, home to the world’s finest collection of Russian art, including works by Repin, Shishkin, and Kandinsky. Next, visit the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, which boasts impressive collections of European art, including ancient Greek sculptures and works by Rembrandt and Van Gogh. In the afternoon, explore the Novodevichy Convent, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its serene beauty and historical significance. End your day with a visit to Moscow Metro, which itself is a work of art, with stunningly ornate stations that reflect the grandeur of Soviet architecture.

Day 3: Soviet History and Stunning Views

On day three, explore Moscow’s Soviet past and modern landmarks. Begin your day at VDNKh Park, a monumental exhibition center filled with Soviet-era pavilions and fountains, including the famous Worker and Kolkhoz Womansculpture. Visit the Cosmonautics Museum, where you’ll learn about Russia’s role in the space race, and see artifacts like the original space capsule. In the afternoon, take a trip to the Sparrow Hills for one of the best panoramic views of the city and Moscow State University. For something unique, visit Izmailovsky Market, where you can buy traditional Russian crafts, antiques, and souvenirs. Finish the day with a relaxing walk along the Moskva River or take a boat cruise for scenic views of the Kremlin and the city’s skyline.

Day 4: Day Trip to Sergiev Posad or Kolomna

For your final day, take a day trip to one of the nearby historical towns. Sergiev Posad, about 1.5 hours from Moscow, is home to the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, Russia’s most important Orthodox monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can explore beautiful churches and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this spiritual center. Alternatively, visit Kolomna, a charming town with medieval architecture and a picturesque Kremlin, located around 1.5 hours from Moscow. Both towns offer a glimpse into Russia’s history and traditional culture. Return to Moscow in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner in one of the city’s fine restaurants.