child safe tourism

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Child Safe Tourism

Be a child safe traveller.

Children working and living in tourist areas are especially vulnerable to physical, emotional and sexual abuse. When you travel we encourage you to take the following actions that have been put forward by World Vision in order to help create a safer tourism environment for children.

If you are concerned about the welfare of any child, tell your tour guide immediately.

Instead of giving money directly to children who are begging or selling food or souvenirs, support their families and communities or donate to reputable children’s charities.

Treat children like you would in your home country. Before taking photos of children, always ask for their permission.

Never take a child anywhere without the supervision and permission of their parents or guardian.

Before visiting or volunteering with vulnerable children, research the organisation to ensure they have standards and procedures that protect children’s physical and emotional wellbeing. Please do not support ‘orphanage tourism’.

Spread the word about child safe tourism. Share this information with your friends and family while you travel and when you return home.

View World Vision’s ‘ Be A Child Safe Traveller ’ and visit www.childsafetourism.org for more information on how you can protect vulnerable children.

Our Child Protection Code of Conduct, modelled on World Vision’s ‘Child Protection and Trafficking Best Practice’ protocol, is in place for itineraries, on which adult travellers are volunteering building or repairing at or near schools for more than 24 hours.  

• Code of Conduct Australia >>
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Rethink Orphanages

We're adding our weight to the fight against orphanage tourism

World Expeditions is on the working party of the Rethink Orphanages Network , an organization working to prevent the unnecessary institutionalisation of children in developing countries.  Back in 2013, we removed all instances of orphanage tourism from our trips when research first revealed a direct relationship between the increase in the number of orphanages in developing nations and the increase in tourism numbers.  We hope that our involvement will encourage other companies, and travellers, to avoid orphanage tourism.

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Child safety traveling and tourism

 child safe traveling and tourism.

The tourism industry is booming. Traveling to distant countries is cheaper and easier than ever before. The world has grown smaller and we can now visit places that would have been unthinkable just one generation ago. Many tourists are seeking “authenticity” and combining sun and beach holidays with a “good deed,” such as visiting and volunteering in orphanages.

In many of the relatively new tourist destinations for Swedes – Thailand, Cambodia and Nepal – poverty is widespread, the rule of law is not upheld, and the people are traumatized after long periods of conflict or war. Children generally have lower status in these societies. Many live in extreme poverty, and on the street or in orphanages. A power balance occurs when relatively wealthy travelers meet people in poor countries, and this increases the risk of child sexual exploitation.

How Childhood works to increase the protection of children in travel and tourism:

Childhood supports many projects in Asia that provide direct support to children at risk. These include outreach programs and drop in-centers for children and families living on the street, support for needy families, short-term accommodation for girls who are victims of sexual abuse and therapy for survivors of trafficking. These projects reduce the risk of child abuse by foreigners.

Childhood is also a part of the  Child Safe Movement,  which works to raise the awareness of travelers about child sex tourism. Through training of child safe agents in the communities (street vendors, taxi and tuk-tuk drivers, hotels and restaurants) a safety net for children in vulnerable situations is developed. Children and child safe agents have access to 50 hotlines where they can access professional advice and support. Children and families are provided with alternatives to a life on the street which reduces risks for children. 7 900 people are trained and certified child safe agents and 100 000 children are estimated to have benefitted from increased protection through the network in 2016. ChildSafe also highlights the problems associated with orphanages as a business model and the risks this entails for the children – mainly because they are separated from their families unnecessarily, but also because visitors and volunteers without any background checks have easier access to vulnerable children.

In 2014, in partnership with the Swedish Police, the County Administrative Board and the National Method Support Team Against Prostitution and Human Trafficking, we launched the  Resekurage  initiative, an advocacy campaign aimed at encouraging traveling Swedes to report any sexual exploitation of children directly to the Swedish Police. 2,5 million people have been exposed to the campaign and it has resulted in an increased awareness about the crime and how to report.

The Tourism program, run by  Childhood Brazil , mobilizes the hospitality sector to examine and take responsibility of its areas of operation. The overall strategy of the program is to engage with hotel chains and strategic partners to increase awareness about child sexual abuse and exploitation and train workers to recognize and take actions if they witness violence against children.  Atlantica Hotels  is the largest independent multi-brand hotel manager in South America. In 2005, the company partnered with Childhood Brazil in a pioneering eff ort to prevent and combat the sexual exploitation of children in Brazil’s hotel sector. A decade later, Childhood Brazil celebrates the achievements of this partnership that has aligned the managerial and operational procedures of its hotels with the principles of sustainable tourism and the protection of children. One of the partnership’s first projects was the implementation of the Atlantica Hotels Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation, which was followed by a series of training courses for professionals involved in hotel management operations, all of which was conducted in tandem with Childhood Brazil. Atlantica Hotels has also played a key role in spreading information about child sexual abuse and exploitation to its many stakeholders — guests, shareholders, suppliers and competitors — through effective engagement and communication strategies. Today, 25 million guests have received information about child sexual abuse and exploitation.

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Child Safe Tourism: The Tourist Perspective

1.6 MiB (PDF)

WVI, World Vision International

Matthews, Amie

Contributors

Johnson, Afrooz Kaviani, Kapoor, Aarti

Content type

Reports, Study: Research

Child Protection, Protection of Children from Harmful Work

Child abuse, Child sexual exploitation, Sexual exploitation

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How safe is Moscow for tourists?

Moscow is an enormous city. 12 million people live here and many others commute in from the Moscow Region for work each day. And although there is no particular danger for either tourists or locals, it is, as in any big city, always worth using common sense. We'll tell you how to avoid running into trouble and which areas you might want to avoid.

Is the city center safe?

“I was shocked to see people using their laptops in parks in the evening,” says Nicholas Font from Argentina, who visited Moscow in May. “Of course, I was careful with my belongings, but I wasn't afraid of wearing my bag in the city center.”

The city center (and it is a very big city center) is generally convenient and safe for walking around. Pedestrians enjoy wide sidewalks and relatively calm road traffic. There are tourist police (who speak English), not to mention the ordinary police. Of course, there is never any guarantee that you won’t encounter a thief, and so to stay on the safe side keep your documents and money in places that are inaccessible to others. Red Square, Nikolskaya Street and Arbat are the most touristy places, so it’s worth being a little more aware of pickpockets in these areas.

Remember that in Moscow the police can stop you to check your ID. But unless you have committed some kind of crime there is generally nothing to worry about: You just need to show your passport and visa. "I was asked to show my passport and visa three times. Once in St. Petersburg and twice in Moscow," says our reader Ghazali Khan from Dubai. "Police in Russia are polite and professional. Most of them don’t speak English, but they understand your gestures."

Can you walk around at night?

Have you heard the expression "Moscow never sleeps?" Well, this is very true. The city center is buzzing 24 hours a day, and even on the outskirts you are likely to see people out and about even late at night. On a Friday or Saturday night there are likely to be even more people out on the streets than in the daytime. Of course, when it is minus 20 degrees Celsius in the winter, it isn’t as much fun as in the summer, but the only time Moscow really feels deserted is on the morning of Jan. 1 . 

According to a recent poll conducted by The Economist , Moscow came in at 37 out of 60 big cities around the world in its Safe City Index. (Tokyo, Singapore and Osaka were at the top of the list). In other words, the Russian capital is pretty much average when it comes to safety.

Is it safe to go to the suburbs?

As a general rule, the police record more crimes in the city center than elsewhere. For instance, 2,846 crimes—mainly robberies and muggings—were recorded in 2018 in the Presnensky District between Arbat and Moscow City.  

At the same time, over the past year these numbers have gone down by 20 percent, according to the prosecutor's office. 

The city suburbs, with the exceptions of the Maryino and Perovo districts, are generally regarded as quite safe. So if you have a desire to see how ordinary Muscovites live, don't hesitate to hop on the metro and ride out to Vladykino, for example. Just work out your route in advance as you might not run into many people who speak English out there.

What about public transport and taxis?

When Russia hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2018, there were many stories of unscrupulous taxi drivers charging tourists astronomical amounts, sometimes as high as a thousand dollars, for a trip from the airport to the center. In order to avoid such unpleasant surprises, avoid airport taxis altogether and instead download Uber or Yandex Taxi on your phone and then pay by card rather than with cash. You will see the cost of the journey at the time of booking, and this won't change when you arrive at your destination. And if you have a strong desire to leave a tip, you can do so online. For your information, the cost of a journey from the airport to the city shouldn’t cost more than $30 (unless you order a luxury car, of course). While you can also find official taxis at the airport, these will be significantly more expensive than ordering one off Yandex Taxi or Uber.

Travelling around the city by metro, bus or trolleybus is generally quite convenient. The Moscow metro is one of the most reliable and safe (not to mention beautiful) underground transport systems in the world. The trains are new and run at short intervals. CCTVs are everywhere in the metro, and there are police at every station. Gabriel Infante Carrillo from Mexico City says that while riding the Moscow metro he had to put his backpack through an X-ray machine, but that the official was very polite with him. "I was not surprised at all, I knew beforehand that this could happen due to security reasons," he said. 

Aboveground transport by and large uses specially allocated lanes, and while waiting you can pass the time at "smart" bus stops that have Wi-Fi, electric sockets and an electronic bus schedule in Latin script.

Can young women travel alone in Moscow?

It is generally rare for anyone in Moscow to pester women in the street or catcall them, especially if they see that she is a foreign tourist. Russian men are usually restrained and, even if they like a girl VERY MUCH, it is usually sufficient to politely decline their advances. So Moscow is a perfectly safe city solo women.

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Your Worst Fears: 17 Ways to Keep Kids Safe While Traveling the World in 2024

As we travel around the world with our kids we are constantly asked “How is it? Is it Safe?”. The answer is almost always a qualified “Yes”, but there are always risks. Here are our best strategies to reduce those risks as much as possible, and keep your kids safe when traveling.

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Table of Contents

Safety Tips for Traveling with Kids

Every parent worries about their child getting injured, sick, or separated from them when traveling. However, with proper preparation, you can prevent many of these situations, and ease your fears about traveling with kids. There are always risks with travel, just as there are risks with putting our children in cars or even in organized sports.

Here are our best safety tips to keep your children safe while you explore the world together.

Traveling to South America? Check out our safety and travel tips just for South America with kids .

1. Make a Separation Plan

One of the most important ways to keep your kids safe is to have a clear plan as to what to do if you get separated. This is a conversation that should happen several times so you are confident that the kids understand exactly what to do (and what not to do).

There are several important parts to this plan. This is one of the most important things you can do to keep your kids safe- and it’s often the most overlooked.

Getting Separated: Stationary Location

If you get separated in a stationary location, teach your kids to stay still. If they wander, they are much harder to find. Tell them to stop moving, and wait, that You will find Them. If a set amount of time has passed and they don’t see you, they should find a safe adult to ask for help.

In certain situations, it can be helpful to designate a meeting point. For example, in Grand Central Station, you might say, “If we get separated in the crowd, meet at the big clock”. This works well for older children who can navigate to the meeting point on their own, in larger spaces like malls, theme parks, or stadiums.

Getting Separated: On Moving Transit

You also need a plan for if you get separated on moving transit, like a metro or subway. We have been taking our kids to New York City since they were little, and trains can get crowded. Have a clear plan for what happens if some of you get on the train (or off) without the whole group.

We tell our kids- if we get separated, and you are on the platform, stay there. We will circle back and come find you. Do not get on the next train. It will take us time to come back, just wait. If we get separated and you are on a moving train, get off at the next stop and wait. We will come to find you.

Again, if a certain amount of time passes, they should find a safe adult to ask for help.

Kids Part: How to Find a Safe Adult when Separated

When kids get lost or separated, they can get scared, and often shy. Teach them to look for safe adults to ask for help. We teach our kids to look for adults in uniform, or parents with kids.

When many of us were young, we were taught about “Stranger Danger”, this concept has largely been replaced with teaching kids how to find a “safe” adult versus someone who might be a “tricky” adult who shouldn’t be trusted. We also talk to our kids about trusting their instincts and listening to their “gut” about who is safe and who is not.

Adult Part: What to Do if You Can’t See Your Child

So, you’ve planned as best you can, but you turn around, and your child is nowhere to be seen. It happens. So, what do you do? Just like we need to rehearse with our kids how to act in a scary situation when separated from the group, we as adults need to rehearse how we would react.

First-don’t panic, chances are quite high they have just wandered off and are safe.

Second, shout their name. People have a tendency to panic quietly, and not make a fuss. Be Loud .

Other people around you can then help you. The more people who are looking, the faster you will find the child, and the less likely they are to be hurt.

Lastly, shout a description, such as “I’m Looking for my Five-Year-Old Eric, he’s wearing a Spiderman t-shirt and a blue hat!”.

2. Family ID Bracelets

One of the first things we did before embarking on our Family Year Out , was to get the whole family silicon ID bracelets. We made it very clear to our kids that they must wear them at all times, and we do the same.

We use RoadID bracelets, which come in a variety of fun colors, and three sizes in each pack, so you can choose the right size for each person, and even change sizes as they grow.

You can personalize the bracelets however you like- for our kids, we include their name, mom + phone, dad + phone, allergies (or state “no allergies”, and blood type. Make sure to include the correct country code in front of your phone numbers.

The kids know that if they get lost or separated, or there is any kind of emergency where they need help, they have our contact information on their wrists.

3. AirTags or Tiles

We use Apple AirTags in a couple of ways. First, we have them attached to the inside of our luggage, so we can track any missing bags. More importantly, they are in the kids’ backpacks that they carry with them on travel days. This way if they wander off (or leave their pack behind), we can track them and their backpack easily. 

For younger children, you can also attach an AirTag directly to their clothing. Tiles and other GPS locators can be used in a similar manner. AirTags can be engraved for free, so you won’t get them mixed up. The batteries last approximately one year.

We also like these color-coded silicone AirTag Covers that allow you to clip the tag to something, as well as keep the tags from getting scratched up over time.

3. Create a Family Safety Code Word

Create a codeword the kids will remember, but not use often in everyday life (Avocado! Alligator!) This is a family password that tells the kids (who are often clueless about what is going on around them) that you are in a serious and potentially dangerous situation.

When they hear this word, (“We are in an Alligator Situation”) they should know to stop whatever they are doing, be quiet, follow instructions, and save their questions for later.

They can also use this word to get your full attention if they see or feel something is wrong or potentially dangerous.

Be clear that the priority is to make sure everyone is safe first, and provide explanations second.

4. Practice Water Safety

Water is one of the most dangerous elements on many family trips. The stronger your kids are as swimmers, the safer they will be. Consider getting kids swimming lessons before you leave home.

Set clear rules around pools, lakes, and rivers. Rules might include “no running, and never go into the water without us”. We also teach our children not to roughhouse in the water, (no grabbing or dunking) and to respect different swimming abilities.

Make sure adults clearly communicate who is responsible for watching any children playing in or near the water. Accidents often happen when one adult thinks the other is paying more attention than they actually are.

If you are staying in a house or apartment with a pool, check that the fence around the pool is secure, and that small children can’t wander into it without your knowledge.

When in doubt, there are portable door alarms you can buy to alert you to wandering children. You can attach these to interior doors, or directly to the pool gate.

5. Child Proof Your Accommodations

Generally, hotel rooms will not present a hazard to children, but you’ll need to check apartments or rental houses more carefully.

Travelers report exposed wires and unsafe balconies. Remember that safety standards and expectations vary by country. You may need to remove chairs from balconies (depending on the age of your children) or create barriers around hazards.

Check for windows on high floors that are fully openable with no gates or other barriers. Make sure older children are aware of any hazards and how to avoid them.

6. Get Travel Vaccines

Make sure your children are up to date on any travel vaccines for your destinations. Before we left for our Family Gap Year we weren’t sure exactly which countries we would be visiting, so we all got vaccinated for Yellow Fever and Japanese Encephalitis.

Wherever we go, we have the proper vaccines (and the paperwork to prove it). Some vaccines will need boosters over time, while others are only once or twice per lifetime.

Planning long-term travel? Don’t miss our planning guide: How to Plan a Family Year Out .

7. Pack First Aid Kits

Create a first aid kit to immediately handle any minor emergencies. We have two kits- one is for injuries and is carried with us at all times. It includes things like band-aids of various sizes, Neosporin (antiseptic cream), cortisone cream, Afterbite Itch Lotion , Moleskin, Arnica bruise lotion , a tick remover, and nail clipper and nail file. This will handle most minor cuts, bruises, rashes, and bug bites.

We also have a second kit for sickness- this includes chewable fever tablets , kids’ stomach medication, cold & cough medication, and electrolyte powder as well as similar adult medications. This is what we use when a child has the sniffles, a fever, or a stomach bug. These are the items that you generally don’t need instantly, but will be glad to have on hand instead of running out to find a strange pharmacy in the middle of the night.

We find that the easiest way to carry these is in zip lock bags, all contained in a small zippered travel pouch- usually the pouches designed for pencils or art supplies are a good fit.

Gearing up for long-term travel? Don’t miss our full guide on what we pack for long-term travel .

8. Purify Your Water

One of the most common ailments when traveling is Traveler’s Diarrhea. You never know exactly where it comes from, but water is often the culprit. We recommend using a Steripen to sanitize any tap water before you or your kids drink it.

This lightweight pen uses UV light to sterilize the water and remove 99% of any bacteria that could make you sick.

Check Prices: SteriPen Ultra Water Purifier

However- make sure to research the water at your location. If there are heavy metals in the water, they will not be removed by either UV purification, or a water bottle filter. In these instances, it’s best to stick with bottled water.

Hitting the road? Check out our full list of road trip gear and supplies .

9. Consider Bright Clothes

If you are heading to a crowded location, whether that is an airport or a sports stadium, consider dressing your family in bright clothes that are easy to spot in a crowd.

Likewise, bright swimwear makes it easier to spot your child in a crowded water area. Avoid blue swimwear that will blend in with the water, you want your child to be as visible as possible.

10. Take a Photo

As an added layer of protection, consider taking a quick family photo before you leave for a particularly crowded location. This will give you a record of what everyone is wearing that day in case you get separated.

When you are fighting panic when looking for your child you may find it hard to remember which t-shirt they put on that morning, as well as how to best describe them- a picture is worth a thousand words.

Also- take a photo of your luggage before you check it at the airport- it’ll be easy to find on your phone if you luggage doesn’t show up on the baggage carrousel!

11. Travel Car Seats

Car seat standards vary widely by country, and each family will decide their own comfort level with transportation as their children age. While we use standard high-back car seats and boosters for our kids when in the United States, we rely on the MiFold Travel Car Seat when overseas. Update: Since these car seats are no longer available, we have some new recommendations below.

Many families report great results with the RideSafer Travel Vest . This vest is not cheap, but it is approved for ages 3 and up, with a weight of between 30 and 60 pounds.

For older children, a booster seat will allow them to use a standard shoulder-belt seatbelt safely. There are two inflatable options, both of which weigh about a pound: the Bubblebum Travel Booster Car Seat , safe for kids 40 to 100 pounds; and the Hiccapop Inflatable Booster Car Seat , which is for 40-110 pound kids. The two products have slightly different shapes which may work better for different kids.

12. Safety for Toddlers

For toddlers, we highly recommend a backpack with a harness. This allows you to prevent them from running off (at an airport, into a busy street), and they feel like they are carrying a special bag with their things in it. Many parents have been successful with these by using them only on certain occasions and treating them like a special item that the child is excited to use.

We like these cute Skip Hop backpacks with detachable harnesses in different animal shapes.

13. Research your Destination

One of the most important ways to keep your family safe is to do research before you head to your destination. In most large cities you will find very safe neighborhoods and neighborhoods that are best avoided.

When visiting National Parks, or other outdoor areas, research which hikes are appropriate for your kids’ age and ability.

When our youngest had yet to develop a sense of danger and caution, we turned around on a few hikes that meandered along cliff edges with steep drop-offs. The level of vigilance required to keep our children safe in those situations took the fun out of the hike.

14. Build Street Smarts

One of the best ways to keep kids safe in the long term is to help them build their own street smarts. Explain to them why you do certain things to help keep your family and your belongings safe.

For example:

“See how I keep my bag in front of me on the subway? That makes it harder for someone to grab my bag or unzip it and grab my wallet.”

“We are crossing the street to avoid that homeless man who is screaming (or peeing)!”

So much of what we do on a daily basis, such as not leaving bags unattended becomes second nature. Pointing out these actions to kids allows them to understand the small things you do to keep everyone safe and protect your belongings as you travel. It also helps them to slowly build their awareness of what is happening around them.  

(As a side note, it will also lead to interesting conversations about why people may be homeless and how to tell which people might be best avoided).

14. Know your Comfort Level

Safety standards vary widely by country. Not comfortable putting your child in the back of a taxi with no seat belts? Speak up, and get a different taxi.

While we may be ok with our children not wearing life jackets in a slow-moving boat in shallow water, for a faster boat, we’d insist upon it.

These comfort levels vary by person, and by the age of the child. You are the ultimate decision-maker about what is ok for your child. Better to make a fuss and change plans, than regret it later.

15. Buy Travel Insurance

Don’t leave home without travel insurance!

Travel insurance not only covers things like baggage loss and trip interruptions, but it will also cover any medical treatment that you need overseas. It will also cover getting you home for more serious treatments if needed.

We use SafetyWing travel insurance which is designed for long-term travelers. We set our policy to renew every 30 days until we turn it off. This means we can set it up, and then not think about it unless we need to make a claim.

SafetyWing covers all countries except Iran, North Korea, and Cuba, so you don’t need to constantly update them on your plans. This is helpful, if like us, you are constantly changing your destinations!

Get a Quote: SafetyWing Travel Insurance

There You Have It: Safety Tips for Travel with Kids

With these strategies, you should be ready to travel the world as a family with confidence.

Ready to start planning?

Check out one of our most popular posts, and brainstorm bucket-list travel with kids!

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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Is It Safe in Moscow?

Stanislav Solntsev / Getty Images

When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

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What to do in Moscow

Ballet at the bolshoy, cathedral of christ the saviour, drinking & nightlife, entertainment, house-museums, the museum of modern history, the new tretyakov gallery, novodevichiy convent, patriarch’s ponds, the pushkin museum of fine arts, sandunovsky baths, the tretyakov gallery.

Travel in Moscow is easier than you might think: the city’s general layout is a series of concentric circles and radial lines emanating from Red Square and the Kremlin, and the centre is compact enough to explore on foot. Moscow’s sights can also be mapped as strata of its history: the old Muscovy that Russians are eager to show; the now retro-chic Soviet-era sites such as VDNK and Lenin’s Mausoleum; and the exclusive restaurants and shopping malls that mark out the new Russia. A CityPass is a good bet if you plan on seeing several of the city's heavyweight attractions.

Despite its size, Moscow's concentric layout is easier to grasp than you'd imagine, and the city's famous metro ensures that almost everywhere of interest is within fifteen minutes' walk of a station. Red Square and the Kremlin are the historic nucleus of the city, a magnificent stage for political drama, signifying a great sweep of history that includes Ivan the Terrible, Peter the Great, Stalin and Gorbachev. Here you'll find Lenin's Mausoleum and St Basil's Cathedral, the famous GUM department store, and the Kremlin itself, whose splendid cathedrals and Armoury Museum head the list of attractions. Immediately east of Red Square lies the Kitay-gorod, traditionally the commercial district, and originally fortified like the Kremlin. Stretches of the ramparts remain behind the Metropol and Rossiya hotels, and the medieval churches of Zaryade and the shops along Nikolskaya ulitsa may tempt you further into the quarter, where you'll find the former headquarters of the Communist Party. Take a private Kremlin tour to skip the lines for the Kremlin grounds and cathedrals.

The Kremlin and Kitay-gorod are surrounded by two quarters defined by rings of boulevards built over the original ramparts of medieval times, when Moscow's residential areas were divided into the "White Town" or Beliy Gorod, and the humbler "Earth Town" or Zemlyanoy Gorod. Situated within the leafy Boulevard Ring that encloses the Beliy Gorod are such landmarks as the Bolshoy Theatre and the Lubyanka headquarters of the secret police – with its "KGB Museum" – while the Zemlyanoy Gorod that extends to the eight-lane Garden Ring is enlivened by the trendy old and new Arbat streets, with three Stalin skyscrapers dominating the Ring itself.

Beyond this historic core Moscow is too sprawling to explore on foot. Krasnaya Presnya, Fili and the southwest describes a swathe which includes the former Russian Parliament building (known as the White House); Tolstoy's house and the Novodeviche Convent and Cemetery; Victory Park, with its war memorials and Jewish museum; and Moscow State University in the Sparrow Hills – the largest of the Stalin skyscrapers.

Across the river from the Kremlin, Zamoskvorechye and the south are the site of the old and new Tretyakov Gallery's superlative collection of Russian art. Private guided tours are recommended for art enthusiasts. Here too you'll find Gorky Park, the Donskoy and Danilov monasteries that once stood guard against the Tartars, and the romantic ex-royal estates of Tsaritsyno and Kolomenskoe – the latter known for staging folklore festivals and historical pageants.

Taganka and Zayauze, east of the centre, likewise harbour fortified monasteries – the Andronikov, Novospasskiy and Simonov – and the erstwhile noble estates of Kuskovo and Kuzminki, but the main lure for tourists is the Izmaylovo art market. Inside the Izmaylovo Kremlin, a cultural centre, there are also a range of attractions, from the Bread Museum and the Vodka History Museum to the fascinating Museum of Russian Toys.

Moscow's Northern Suburbs cover a vast area with a sprinkling of sights. Foremost is the Memorial and Museum of Cosmonautics and VDNK. For anyone interested in the glory days of the space race, and its monumental landmarks and propaganda, a visit is a must, like on this guided tour . In the vicinity are the Ostankino Palace, Moscow's Botanical Gardens and TV Tower. West from here, the Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines will appeal to visitors with an interest in Soviet social history, too.

Outside Moscow there's scope for day-excursions to the Trinity Monastery of St Sergei, the Abramtsevo artists' colony, Tchaikovsky's house in Kiln, Lenin's estate at Gorki Leninskie, and the battlefield of Borodino, where the battle is re-enacted every September. You can also head out to the village of Aksakovo for a beautiful two-hour troika ride. Further afield, the historic towns of Vladimir and Suzdal are graced by splendid cathedrals and monasteries attesting that they were the seat of a principality when Moscow was merely an encampment. Suzdal is one of the loveliest towns in Russia, and definitely merits an overnight stay. It's also possible to visit the Aviation Museum at Monino air base, en route to Vladimir, if you take the trouble to get permission ahead of time.

This article includes affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

Top image: Komsomolskaya metro station © Gubin Yury/Shutterstock

While Moscow's Bolshoy Ballet (also spelt "Bolshoi") is going through uncertain times, plagued by infighting and rivalries (not least the recent acid attack on Artistic Director Sergei Filin), few would deny themselves the chance to see this legendary company. During the season, evening performances start at 7pm, and Saturday and Sunday matinees at noon; there are no shows on Monday.

You can see what’s on currently and for a few months ahead on the Bolshoy’s website – although the English version sometimes lags behind the Russian one. The ballet company is usually abroad over summer and sometimes also in the autumn, leaving the junior corps de ballet to entertain visitors – although star dancers are certain to be in Moscow for the opening of the new season in September. For more on Russian ballet visit www.for-ballet-lovers-only.com . For those not interested in ballet but more in the historical aspect of the Bolshoy theatre, take a guided historic tour of the grounds.

If you're more interest in Folk Dances, visit the Kostroma Folk Dance show , the most authentic one in Moscow.

Built as a symbol of gratitude to divinity for having aided the Russians’ defeat of Napoleon in 1812, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour (daily 10am–6pm), opposite the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts at Volkhonka ul. 15, was demolished in 1931 in favour of a monument to socialism. The project was soon abandoned and years later, under Krushev’s rule, the site was turned into the world’s largest public swimming pool. In 1994 the Cathedral was rebuilt and is now a symbol of Moscow’s (and Russia’s) post-Communist religious revival.

Moscow isn’t a city that goes to bed early. Many venues act as a café by day, restaurant in the early evening, and both bar and club at night. This can cover anything from an arthouse café with a spot of live music to a dance warehouse, or a fancy nightclub with a restaurant and casino. Most cater to a certain crowd, whether it’s creative professionals, students, shell-suited "flatheads" or designer-draped models. While formal dress codes are rare, face control (feys kontrol) is widespread. Russians distinguish between “democratic” face control (aimed at keeping out hooligans and bandits), and the kind that favours the rich (never mind how they behave). It’s unwise to rile club security staff, however rude they might be.

There are scores of trendy bars and clubs on Krasny Oktyabr, a former chocolate factory building located across the river from Kropotkinskaya and now home to some of Moscow’s hippest nightlife.

Learn how to walk, talk, drink and party like a Russian on a small group with Russian spirits.

Moscow's gastronomic scene has improved enormously over the last five years, with hundreds of new cafés and restaurants offering all kinds of cuisine and surroundings, aimed at anyone with a disposable income – from mega-rich New Russians and expense-account expatriates to fashion-conscious wealthy teenagers.

For cheap eats head to a canteen, where you can compile a tray of dishes smorgasbord-style. Take advantage of the great-value business lunches offered by cafés and restaurants during the week between noon and 4pm.

For well over a century, Moscow has been one of the world’s great centres of classical music, opera and ballet, most famously represented by the Bolshoy Theatre but also by its orchestras and choirs. Theatre can be tricky for non-Russian speakers though circus and puppetry surpass the language barrier. Moscow’s film industry and annual international film festival dwarf St Petersburg’s, but at other times most cinemas screen Hollywood blockbusters.

All this can be surprisingly good value, provided you ask for the cheapest ticket available ( samiy deshoviy bilyet ).

Gorky Park on ul. Krymskiy Val 9 (R100; Park Kultury) is a large park occupying an area of over 700 acres along the river. In the winter the frozen-over paths become one of the city’s largest ice rinks, while in the summer Muscovites stroll the area savouring an ice cream.

Admirers of Bulgakov, Chekhov, Gorky and Tolstoy will find their former homes preserved as museums. Anton Chekhov lived at Sadovaya-Kudrinskaya ul. 6, in what is now the Chekhov House-Museum (Tues, Thurs & Sat 11am–6pm, Wed & Fri 2–8pm; R100, student R60; Barrikadnaya), containing humble personal effects, while the Gorky House-Museum (Wed–Sun 11am–6pm, closed last Thurs of the month; free; Arbatskaya) on the corner of Povarskaya ulitsa and ulitsa Spiridonovka is worth seeing purely for its raspberry-pink Art Nouveau decor. Leo Tolstoy admirers should head to the wonderfully preserved Tolstoy Memorial Estate on ul. Lva Tolstogo 21 (Tues, Wed & Fri 10am–6pm, Thurs 1–9pm, Sat & Sun 11am–6pm; R200, student R60; Park Kultury) where the Tolstoy family lived after moving to Moscow from their country estate in 1881, and where the novelist wrote War and Peace . The Bulgakov Museum at Bolshaya Sadovaya ul. 10 (Sun–Thurs 1–11pm, Fri & Sat until 1am; free; t 495/970-0619; Mayakovskaya), is the house where the novelist lived from 1921 to 1924. There are nightly tours (1–6am; R550; phone a week in advance for tour in English).

The Museum of Modern History at Tverskaya ul. 21 (Tues, Wed, Fri 10am–6pm, Thurs & Sat 11am–7pm, Sun 10am–5pm, closed last Fri of the month; R100; Tverskaya) brings the Communist past alive with striking displays of Soviet propaganda posters, photographs and state gifts, although there’s a frustrating lack of English translation.

Opposite the entrance to Gorky Park at Krymskiy Val 10, the New Tretyakov Gallery (Tues–Sun 10am–7.30pm; R360, student R220; Park Kultury) takes a breakneck gallop through twentieth-century Russian art, from the avant-garde of the 1910–1920s to contemporary artists. Full and illuminating commentary in English is a bonus.

A cluster of shining domes above a fortified rampart belongs to the lovely Novodevichiy Convent (daily 10am–5pm; closed Tues & last Mon of month; R150; Sportivnaya), founded by Ivan the Terrible in 1524. At its heart stands the white Cathedral of the Virgin of Smolensk. In its cemetery lie numerous famous writers, musicians and artists, including Gogol, Chekhov, Stanislavsky, Bulgakov and Shostakovich.

One of Moscow’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Patriarch’s Ponds is a pleasant spot (there’s actually just one pond) for a summer stroll or an ice-skate on its frozen waters in the depths of winter. The area is also known for being the location of the opening scene of Mikhail Bulgakov’s magical realist novel The Master and Margarita .

Founded in 1898 in honour of the famous Russian poet, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts at Volkhonka ul. 12 (Tues–Sun 10am–7pm; R150–300, separate fee for Impressionist wing; Kropotkinskaya) holds a hefty collection of European paintings , from Italian High Renaissance works to Rembrandt, and an outstanding display of Impressionist works.

Get the city grit out of your skin at the exquisitely elaborate Sandunovsky baths (Neglinnaya ul. 14 bldg 3–7 w www.sanduny.ru ; Teatralnaya), patronized by Muscovites since 1896. Join Russian businessmen and socialites in the banya , a wooden hut heated with a furnace, where you are invited to sweat out impurities, get beaten energetically with birch twigs, and finally plunge into ice-cold water. Men’s and women’s baths are separate, with the women’s section more like a modern spa. A three-hour session costs R1000. Daily 8am–10pm.

Founded in 1892 by the financier Pavel Tretyakov, the Tretyakov Gallery at Lavrushinskiy per. 10 (Tues–Sun 10am–7.30pm; R360, student R220; Tretyakovskaya) displays an outstanding collection of pre-Revolutionary Russian art. Russian icons are magnificently displayed, and the exhibition continues through to the late nineteenth century, with the politically charged canvases of the iconic realist Ilya Repin and the Impressionist portraits of Valentin Serov, including The Girl with Peaches , one of the gallery’s masterpieces.

To see Soviet triumphalism at its most prolific, visit the Exhibition of Economic Achievements, or VDNKh (Prospekt Mira; VDNK/Prospekt Mira), with its statue upon statue of ordinary workers in heroic poses. Adding to the scene is the permanent trade-fair-cum-shopping-centre housed in the grandiose Stalinist architecture of the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition of 1939, and the People’s Friendship Fountain, flanked by Soviet maidens, each symbolizing a Soviet republic. One of the most hubristic Soviet monuments ever built is the Space Obelisk , which bears witness to Soviet designs on the stratosphere. Unveiled in 1964 – three years after Gagarin orbited the earth – it’s a sculpture of a rocket blasting nearly 100m into the sky on a plume of energy clad in shining titanium. Moscow’s giant Ferris wheel, small amusement park and numerous food vendors help to create a fairground-like atmosphere. For a fantastic view over the VDNK, take the lift to the 25th floor of Hotel Cosmos across Prospekt Mira.

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Moscow CityPass

The Moscow CityPass is a tourist card that gives you free entry to more than 40 top attractions in the Russian capital, including the Kremlin and Saint Basil's Cathedral.

Included attractions

The  10 most popular attractions  included with the Moscow CityPass are:

• Saint Basil's Cathedral
• Bunker-42 Museum
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Tsaritsyno Palace Museum
• Museum of the Patriotic War 1812
• State Historical Museum
• Great Wooden Palace of Tsar Alexis I in Kolomenskoye
• Moscow Sightseeing Bus Pass
• Moscow River Cruise

Moscow CityPass Prices

You can buy the Moscow CityPass for a duration of 1, 2, 3 or 5 days depending how long you're planning to spend in the city.

Is it worth it?

Entrance into these attractions is worth much more than the cost of the CityPass, yet it offers even more, for example, the Pushkin Museum , the Museum of the History of Vodka and the Museum of Contemporary History , among others, plus discounts at restaurants, shows and shops. If you're already planning to visit these sights, then it's well worth buying the CityPass to save money on tickets.

Where to buy the Moscow CityPass?

You can buy your   Moscow CityPass online in advance  via our website . Then, all you need to do is collect it from the Komsomolskaya Tourist Information Centre  (Komsomolskaya Square, 5-1), near the Komsomolskaya metro station. The office is open from 9 am until 8 pm.

You may also be interested in

Moscow has seen its fair share of history, from invasions to revolutions: these days it is home to a wealth of culture and is one of the most populated capitals in the world.

Russian National Ballet

Ballet is one of the most emblematic symbols of Russian culture, a dance that has infiltrated countries the world over. Watch a performance in Moscow!

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

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Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Moscow is emerging as a popular destination for Indian tourists with a focus on business, leisure, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel. Initiatives like the Moscow MICE Ambassador program and the introduction of e-visas have contributed to the growth, making travel to Moscow more accessible for Indians.

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Tourism Web Portal

About the portal.

A technological tool for effective communication between the leading players in the Moscow tourism market and representatives of the foreign/regional tourism industry through online events. OBJECTIVES: • Building long-term cooperation with foreign/regional representatives • Raising awareness among foreign/regional representatives of the tourism industry of the tourism opportunities, measures and attractiveness of the city of Moscow in the field of tourist infrastructure development

Moscow City Tourism Committee

The Tourism Committee, or Mostourism, is the executive body of the Moscow City Government that oversees tourist activities in the capital. The Committee is responsible for legislative initiatives, congress and exhibition activities, and event and image projects. As the brand manager for an attractive tourism image for Moscow, Mostourism constantly analyses global trends, offers Russian and foreign tourists what they want, and also uncovers new opportunities for the capital in terms of interesting and rewarding leisure activities.

ANO «Project Office for the Development of Tourism and Hospitality of Moscow»

Syundyukova Yulia [email protected] Mezhiev Magomed [email protected]

Video materials about Moscow

• Partner with AGBI

Moscow courts UAE to bump up inbound tourism

• Moscow targetting UAE tourism
• International visitors 10% of total
• Gulf tourists spend more

Moscow aims to double the number of annual visitors from the UAE this year, to expand its international tourist base amid headwinds such as the war with Ukraine. 

Bulat Nurmukhanov, head of the International Cooperation Division at Moscow City Tourism Committee (MCTC), told AGBI that while the Russian capital’s domestic tourism has broadly recovered since the pandemic, international tourism has yet to do so. 

Moscow received 24.3 million visitors in 2023, he said, of which 2.3 million were international and the rest were from elsewhere in Russia. In 2019, Moscow recorded 25 million visitors, of which four million were from overseas.  

• In Dubai, it looks like the Russians are staying
• Moscow still a key destination for Middle East tourists
• UAE-Russia trade grows as Putin arrives in Gulf

“Despite the challenges Moscow faces today, it has almost recovered its pre-Covid visitor flow of 2019 – our best year for the industry, helped by the effect of hosting the Fifa World Cup in 2018,” Nurmukhanov said.  

“But most of these are domestic tourists. We hope that by working with new markets such as the UAE, we can restructure the international tourism base and attract more visitors from the Emirates and wider GCC.”

Moscow has yet to calculate the number of visitors from the UAE last year, but it is a small proportion of the overseas total, according to Nurmukhanov. However, it is an important source market because of its higher-than-average spend per visit. 

“They’re helping load Moscow’s five-star hotels”, he said. These are not as popular among domestic tourists and other nationalities as three and four-star hotels. 

Last summer, MCTC revealed that tourists from the Middle East accounted for more than 30 percent of Moscow’s total tourist flow from outside the Commonwealth of Independent States in 2022. 

“Middle Eastern countries are among the most promising markets for inbound tourism,” the committee noted. 

In the UAE, the number of Russian tourists and investors leapt in the year after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, as Russian businesses sought a safe haven free of sanctions imposed on them by the West. 

Bilateral trade between the two countries has also risen sharply , by 63 percent between January and September 2023 to $9 billion, according to Russia’s government. 

Nurmukhanov said: “We’re already receiving a decent amount of tourists from the UAE and want to make sure that now, we adapt our infrastructure and design new hospitality products, entertainment and offerings that will be in their interest.” 

The strategy includes enhancing relationships between Moscow and UAE hotels, travel agents and tour operators; improving restaurants’ halal offerings; translating menus and other literature to Arabic, and promoting popular activities such as bear hunting, helicopter trips and horse riding.  

Some Moscow hotels even help GCC tourists to purchase warm clothing for their trip, Nurmukhanov said. Gulf visitors can obtain visas on arrival in Russia, and in November a rapid e-visa service was extended to other countries.  

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Moscow Showcases Tourism Potential at SATTE 2024 International Exhibition in India

22.02.2024, New Delhi:  Moscow Tourism is thrilled to participate in the highly anticipated SATTE (South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange) trade fair, held in Greater Noida, NCR, India from February 22-24. The delegation from Moscow is one of the largest at the event, featuring representatives from the Moscow City Tourism Committee, the Made in Moscow project team, and other key figures in the city’s tourism industry.

During the first day of the event, held on February 22, representatives from the Moscow City Tourism Committee took part in various business sessions and introduced the capital’s flagship projects. One of these projects, the Moscow Estates Festival, received significant attention during a discussion on cultural heritage. The festival, which gained popularity among foreign tourists last summer and this winter, offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of Moscow’s historical mansions through theatrical tours, master classes, and other unique events. This interactive approach to studying cultural heritage has proven especially appealing to children and young people, who appreciate the recreated atmosphere and the chance to take stunning photographs.

Another highlight of Moscow’s tourism scene is the Moscow Tea Time project. At the Moscow exhibition stand, guests had the opportunity to taste different tea blends and learn about the city’s tea traditions. Currently taking place in Moscow hotels and restaurants, this project offers visitors the chance to enjoy tea time sets featuring an array of jams and pastries between 16:00 and 19:00 daily.

According to Evgeny Kozlov, First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and the Government of Moscow, as well as Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, Moscow hosts over 350 cultural and entertainment events each day, catering to all audiences, including families with children. With its extensive range of gastronomic establishments, including restaurants serving Indian cuisine, and hotels developing tailored offers for Indian guests, Moscow ensures a convenient and enjoyable experience for Indian tourists. Additionally, tourist navigation in the city is comprehensively duplicated in foreign languages, further enhancing the comfort of the journey.

As part of the SATTE business program, the “Moscow +” project showcased interregional routes designed to meet the demands of foreign travelers, including those from India, who often seek to combine visits to several cities within one trip. As the country’s main transport hub, Moscow offers ready-made tourist packages that combine experiences in Moscow with other regions such as St. Petersburg, Tyumen, and the Moscow Region. Russian tour operators participating in the project discussed their package offers specifically tailored to the Indian tourist market.

At the exhibition, Moscow also presented a wide range of traditional souvenirs crafted by participants of the “Made in Moscow” project. Sixteen Moscow-based entrepreneurs brought goods in categories including grooming cosmetics, home fragrances, HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, Catering/Café) products, children’s items, accessories, as well as vegetarian and vegan products, which captured the interest of Indian consumers.

The partnership between Moscow and India is thriving, encompassing both classic tourist trips and business tourism. Business visits have become increasingly popular among Indian travelers to Moscow. The Moscow City Tourism Committee shared successful experiences in organizing international conferences like the Meet Global MICE Congress, demonstrating Moscow’s potential in the field of business tourism.

The internationally acclaimed Gzhel theatre, known for its unique fusion of folk and ballroom dance, as well as classical ballet, also showcased its talent at the exhibition. The theatre is renowned worldwide and serves as a symbol of Moscow’s rich cultural traditions.

Moscow remains a top tourist destination in Russia, with visitor numbers soaring year after year. In 2023, a record-breaking 24.5 million tourists from various regions and countries visited the capital, marking a 37% increase compared to the previous year.

The city boasts almost 2,000 hotels, ensuring that every tourist finds suitable accommodation options. Cultural enthusiasts will also be delighted, with thousands of cultural sites spread across Moscow, including theaters, museums, and libraries. Iconic historical and cultural sites, such as the renowned VDNKh and the recently reopened Northern and Southern River stations, have undergone renovations and reconstructions, becoming major tourist attractions in their own right.

With over 19,000 food industry establishments, ranging from world-famous restaurants to accessible Moscow gastroclusters, the capital offers a diverse and exciting culinary scene. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views of the city from various vantage points, including the Moscow cable car, skyscrapers, observation platforms, and view restaurants.

Moreover, Moscow caters to families and children, providing numerous family-friendly attractions throughout the year. Notable highlights include the Moscow Zoo, one of Europe’s largest oceanariums, and Russia’s first indoor amusement park, Dream Island. The city boasts over 400 museums and over 1,000 excursions, including tailored walk-quests for parents and children. In recognition of its dedication to providing exceptional experiences for young travelers, Moscow was named the Capital of Children’s Tourism in 2023 and the Youth Capital for 2024.

As the SATTE exhibition continues, Moscow Tourism is excited to further engage with Indian visitors and strengthen the already flourishing relationship between the two nations.

Author: Anirban

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