joie travel toothbrush caps

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products

The 11 Best Travel Toothbrushes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These are the best travel toothbrushes worthy of space in your toiletry bag.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Other Toothbrushes We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

While there are many things you can go without on a trip, a toothbrush isn't one of them. But depending on where you're going and how long you'll be staying, you might want to use something other than what you have at home.

So, what toothbrush should you pack? "Deciding between an electric toothbrush and a manual brush for travel will depend on personal preference and brush design — not all electric and manual toothbrushes are convenient for travel," says board-certified orthodontist Marina Gonchar, DMD.

We tested more than 40 toothbrushes over a six-month period to help you narrow it down, evaluating each for ease of use, functionality, portability, quality, and value. With insight from Dr. Gonchar and other dental professionals in mind, we researched travel-friendly options to round out our list.

Best Overall, Electric

Oral-b genius 9600 electric toothbrush.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

The Genius 9600 goes above and beyond to clean your teeth and boasts ample features, like multiple modes, Bluetooth connectivity, and a charging travel case.

It's slightly heavier than other electric models we tested, and since it comes with several parts, there's more to store at home.

Our favorite electric toothbrush is the Oral-B Genius 9600. Though it took us a moment to figure out how it works, we were thoroughly impressed by the feature-rich design. And once we got started, it was very straightforward and user-friendly. This toothbrush has multiple cleaning modes (regular, light, whitening, and tongue) that you can toggle between by tapping the handle. Our teeth felt exceptionally clean and slick after brushing, thanks to the round head that helps you get into every nook and cranny of your mouth. It also has Bluetooth connectivity for dental hygiene lovers who want to get super into tracking and improving their teeth-cleaning habits.

The Genius 9600 comes with various parts, including a corded charging stand, a suction holder for the toothbrush or your phone (for real-time feedback through the Oral-B app), and a hard-sided USB travel case. Though the travel case is undoubtedly handy for trips, the rest is kind of a lot to store at home.

This toothbrush is slightly heavier than other electric options but certainly not too heavy to pack in a suitcase. When you're away from home, you can charge both the toothbrush and your phone with the USB case. The rechargeable battery lasts about two weeks, so if you're going on a shorter trip, you might not even need to charge it while you're away. All things considered, we think the price is reasonable.

The Details: Electric | Soft bristles | USB-charging travel case

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Oral-b genius x limited.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Design 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

This advanced toothbrush makes your teeth feel professionally cleaned and comes with a charging travel case for on-the-go use.

The countertop charging stand tips over easily.

We were also big fans of the Oral-B Genius X Limited during our tests. The user-friendly design was easy to use right off the bat. It comes almost fully charged, so you could pack it in your suitcase without charging it first and start using it on your trip right away. This advanced toothbrush makes you feel like you just got your teeth professionally cleaned. It vibrates every 30 seconds to notify you when to switch to the next quadrant of your mouth, and a red light flashes if you brush too hard.

This toothbrush is also Bluetooth-enabled, so you can connect to Oral-B's app to track your habits. It lasts about two weeks on a full charge. Not only that, but it comes with a charging travel case that also charges your phone, plus a charging stand for at home. However, since it tips over easily when on the stand, you'll want to place it somewhat out of the way if possible. Beyond that, we have no complaints and wouldn't hesitate to recommend the Genius X to travelers and, really, anyone else in the market for a new electric toothbrush.

The Details: Electric | Soft bristles | Travel charger case

Best Splurge

Philips sonicare prestige 9900 toothbrush.

The Sonicare 9900 Prestige looks, feels, and performs like a luxury product and comes with a sleek travel case that doubles as a charger.

It doesn't come with any replacement heads.

Want the Cadillac of toothbrushes? The Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige won't disappoint. This high-end electric toothbrush looks, feels, and performs like a luxury product. Out of the box, it's about 40 percent charged and lasts roughly two weeks on a full charge. Despite the advanced design, it's very easy to use — just turn it on and select your preferred intensity setting. You can also sync it with the app to get real-time guidance and track your brushing habits.

The 9900 Prestige comes with a sleek frosted charging stand for your bathroom counter, plus an attractive faux leather travel case that looks like a high-end sunglasses case and charges your toothbrush via USB. Unlike many other models, it only comes with one head, and the replacements are up to $30 a pair. You'll definitely be glad to have this toothbrush with you on your next trip, but since it's a bit of an investment, consider using it as your everyday at-home toothbrush as well.

The Details: Electric | Soft bristles | Charging travel case

Oral-B iO Series 9

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5
• Design 4.2 /5
• Value 4.2 /5

This high-tech toothbrush gives you real-time guidance while brushing and makes your teeth feel as smooth as glass.

It needs to be charged weekly, whereas other electric models can last two or more weeks.

If you're interested in a smart toothbrush, the Oral-B iO Series 9 might be your best bet. Setup is a cinch — just download the Oral-B app and connect it through Bluetooth. The app tells you where you're brushing in real-time, how long you've been brushing, if you're using too much pressure, and when you miss a spot. (You can also use it without the app when you're short on time or once you feel like you've mastered your brushing habits.)

The iO Series 9 has seven modes, including daily clean, sensitive, super sensitive, intense, gum care, whitening, and tongue clean. After brushing, our teeth felt smooth as glass. It comes with a charging stand for at home and a magnetic charging case for travel. As with such a high-tech design, this toothbrush will need to be charged about once a week, whereas other models often last closer to two weeks. Still, it charges from zero to 100 percent in just three hours, and the remaining battery life is displayed right on the toothbrush, as well as on the app.

The Details: Electric | Soft bristles | Magnetic charging travel case

Best Features

Oral-b io series 8.

• Ease of Use 3.5 /5
• Design 3.8 /5
• Functionality 4.5 /5

The iO Series shows key info right on the handle and syncs with the Oral-B app to track your habits and score each brushing session.

It takes a little time to set up before your first use, and the high-tech design could be overkill, depending on where you're traveling.

The Oral-B iO Series 8 was also a hit during our tests. Though it took us some time to read through the instructions and set up the app before the first use, it was overall easy to use. The handle is sturdy but not too heavy or thick, with a battery life display, a built-in timer, and a light that glows red if you press too hard. You can track your brushing on the app and receive a score for each session. While the gamified aspect makes brushing fun, it might be overkill when traveling — but you always have the option to use it without the app.

This electric toothbrush comes with a countertop magnetic charging stand and a travel case that doubles as a charger. It has six modes you can easily toggle between, including daily clean, sensitive, super sensitive, intense, gum care, and whitening. Our teeth were noticeably cleaner after using it, and we didn't experience any sensitivity or discomfort. The price is steep, but we think it's worth the investment.

Best for Sensitive Teeth

Oral-b io series 5.

• Functionality 4.8 /5

This electric toothbrush has a soft-bristled head, multiple modes for sensitive teeth, and a light that tells you when you're brushing too hard.

It doesn't stop after two minutes like it's supposed to, and the travel case doesn't have a built-in charger.

Sensitive teeth? Go with the Oral-B iO Series 5. This electric toothbrush has a soft-bristle head that's gentle on the teeth and gums. It glows red when you press too hard, green when the pressure is just right, and white when you need a bit more elbow grease. We appreciate that it has multiple modes, including sensitive and extra sensitive, though you'll need to read through the instructions to know which one you've selected.

The iO Series 5 buzzes every 30 seconds, letting you know to switch quadrants, and according to the manual, it's supposed to stop after two minutes. However, while the light ring turns to a rainbow after two minutes, it doesn't actually shut off on its own. Still, we loved how easy it was to access all areas and angles of the mouth, and our teeth felt exceptionally clean after each brushing session. This toothbrush comes with a countertop charger and a travel case. Though the case doesn't have a built-in charger, the battery lasts up to two weeks, so you might not have to charge it while you're away.

The Details: Electric | Soft bristles | Travel case

Best Overall, Manual

Marvis soft toothbrush.

• Comfort 4.7 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

This Italian-made toothbrush boasts a lightweight handle, soft nylon bristles, and a handy head cover for travel.

The bristles aren't contoured like some other manual models.

If you prefer to keep it simple while traveling, a manual toothbrush will suffice. Our favorite packable option is the Marvis White Soft Toothbrush. From the popular luxury toothpaste brand, this Italian-made product features a slim, lightweight acrylic handle. It'll take up minimal space in your toiletry kit and add almost nothing to your luggage weight.

As for the head, you're looking at soft nylon bristles that gently polish your teeth clean. The bristles aren't contoured like some other models, but they definitely get the job done without irritating your gums. We also appreciate that it comes with a head cover to keep it clean and prevent the bristles from crushing in your suitcase.

The Details: Manual | Soft bristles | Lightweight handle, head cover

Curaprox 5460 Ultra Soft Toothbrush, 3 Pack

• Comfort 5 /5

Each toothbrush has over 5,000 and densely packed, soft bristles that gently polish your teeth without irritating your gums.

They don't come with head covers or a travel case.

For the most bang for your buck, consider this three-pack from Curaprox. These Swiss toothbrushes feature over five thousand densely packed, ultra-soft bristles that promise to gently clean your teeth and protect your gums.

The handles are angled to help you reach every nook and cranny of your mouth. They're also lightweight, which is perfect for travel. Just a heads up, these toothbrushes don't come with head covers, so you'll have to buy those separately.

The Details: Manual | Soft bristles | Slim, lightweight handle

Best Foldable

Lingito folding travel toothbrush.

It folds into itself to become a more packable size while keeping the bristles clean and protected from smushing.

The bristles might not be soft enough for people with sensitive gums.

You might also consider a foldable design, like the Lingito Travel Toothbrush. It folds down into itself, decreasing its size by half. This makes it super travel-friendly while keeping the bristles clean and protecting them from getting smashed.

The grippy handle is easy to hold, and the bristles do an excellent job of cleaning your teeth. Though they might not be soft enough for people with sensitive teeth, the bristles aren't overly stiff or pokey.

The Details: Manual | Medium bristles | Built-in cover

Reach Ultraclean Travel Toothbrush Kit

This handy kit comes with a soft-bristled toothbrush with an antibacterial cap, plus TSA-approved travel-size toothpaste.

The bristles warp pretty quickly.

This on-the-go dental kit comes with a manual toothbrush and a travel-size tube of toothpaste. The toothbrush has soft angled bristles that get into all the contours of your teeth. It also has an antibacterial cap that keeps bacteria at bay while protecting the bristles from getting crushed.

The tiny toothpaste is well below the TSA limit for carry-on liquids, but it should still be enough to get you through about a week of twice-a-day brushing. And the included pouch helps you keep everything organized and accessible.

The Details: Manual | Soft bristles | Disposable with TSA-size toothpaste

Best Disposable

Patelai disposable toothbrushes.

Each toothbrush is individually wrapped, so you'll always have a fresh one to pack for a trip.

They're not as eco-friendly as longer-lasting toothbrushes.

Disposable toothbrushes can come in handy if you travel often. This set comes with 100 or 200 individually wrapped toothbrushes. It includes four colors, so you can differentiate whose is whose when traveling with family members.

Though the toothbrushes don't have caps, you don't really need them. You'll always have a fresh one ready to pack, and you don't have to bother with bringing it home. Of course, this isn't the most eco-friendly option, but it's certainly convenient.

The Details: Manual | Medium bristles | Individually wrapped

Other Travel Toothbrushes We Liked

Quip Electric Toothbrush : This electric toothbrush is lightweight, easy to hold, and about the size of a manual model. It runs on AAA batteries, so you never have to charge it, but taking it apart to replace the batteries is a bit of a struggle.

Oral-B Smart Limited Rechargeable Toothbrush : This high-tech electric toothbrush makes brushing a fun, enjoyable experience. Unfortunately, the motion sensor on the one we tried was pretty inaccurate, detecting the wrong areas of the mouth and continuously telling us we weren't brushing well enough.

We consulted Marc Schlenoff, DDS, FAGD for tips on selecting travel toothbrushes and guidance for testing them out. Next, we chose upwards of 40 models to try firsthand for an ongoing, six-month testing period. After unboxing the toothbrushes, reading through the instructions, and connecting to the apps (if applicable), we tried them out on our own teeth.

We noted the size and feel of the handles, whether the controls were intuitive, what features were useful (or unnecessary), how the bristles felt on our teeth and gums, and how clean our teeth felt after each session. Each model was rated for ease of use, functionality, portability, quality, and overall value. We featured the highest-scoring toothbrushes here and researched additional travel-friendly options to round out our list.

Tips for Buying a Travel Toothbrush

Decide whether you want something manual or electric.

According to research, electric toothbrushes clean your teeth much better than the manual variety, efficiently polishing away plaque and helping prevent gum disease. Plus, most have built-in timers, which make it easier to brush for the full two minutes, as recommended by dentists. Those with a dedicated dental hygiene routine might want to bring an electric toothbrush on trips, but it's definitely okay to go the manual route for a few days if that makes more sense for packing.

"I've never seen a hotel toothbrush I actually liked," says board-certified endodontist Alexa Martin, DMD, who often travels with an electric model. "Treat yourself and put on a new toothbrush head before you go — it'll feel like a small luxury indulgence."

Choose the right brush head 

When buying a travel toothbrush, pay attention to the shape, size, and softness of the brush head. "The bristles should be soft to medium to avoid abrasion of the tooth enamel and gum recession," says Dr. Gonchar, adding that angled bristles help remove plaque around the gum line. "A smaller brush head will allow for easier maneuverability around the back molars and front lower teeth, which are challenging to reach."

Yes, you can take an electric toothbrush on an airplane. Though airlines don't allow spare lithium-ion batteries, it's okay when they're installed within a device — the same goes for things like laptops and massage guns. "Your electric toothbrush can be in your checked bag or your carry-on," says Dr. Martin.

It depends on the type. Manual travel toothbrushes are often just a few dollars, and disposable options can come out to pennies per piece. Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, often cost $100 or more — sometimes even north of $200.

If you're partial to the electric variety, consider investing in a nice one you can use at home as well as on the go — preferably something with a charging travel case.

You can absolutely use your regular toothbrush on trips. If you have a committed brushing regimen with your electric toothbrush, by all means, bring it with you when you travel. "Make it easy for yourself, and stick to your normal routine," says Dr. Martin.

Most toothbrushes can be used for up to three months (the same goes for the replaceable heads on electric models). However, disposable toothbrushes and other relatively flimsy designs may not hold up as long. Beyond durability, it's important to make sure the bristles stay clean and dry to prevent bacteria growth. This can sometimes be hard when you have to pack your toothbrush right after using it.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a freelance writer specializing in travel, lifestyle, and wellness. For this story, she consulted Marc Schlenoff , DDS, FAGD, for his expert insights and interviewed Alexa Martin , DMD, board-certified endodontist, and Marina Gonchar , DMD, board-certified orthodontist and owner of Skin to Smile. With their expertise in mind, she compiled our long-term testing insights to curate a comprehensive list of the best travel toothbrushes. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Pitchika V, Pink C, Völzke H, Welk A, Kocher T, Holtfreter B. Long‐term impact of powered toothbrush on oral health: 11‐year cohort study .  J Clin Periodontol . Published online May 22, 2019:jcpe.13126. doi:10.1111/jcpe.13126

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Want to pack light but don't know where to start? Let's find the perfect size bag using this quiz !

Her Packing List

Travel Gear

Travel-friendly toothbrush options that take up less space.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using them, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps to keep this site running – thank you!

Wherever and whenever you go, a toothbrush (and toothpaste!) is a definite must-have in your carry-on luggage or backpack for travel. 

Whenever I travel, I always joke around that I can leave everything else – BUT NOT my toothbrush. 

Of course, I’m not okay with leaving my other important travel gear , but you get my point. While picking up a toothbrush at your destination is no big deal, packing one is generally high on everyone’s priority list.

Even though they might be tiny, we at Her Packing List believe that every little bit adds up – even your toiletry kit . If you’re after a more travel-friendly toothbrush option that takes up even less space , we’ve got you covered!

From folding to electric to compact ones, we made sure to include everything in the list – including toothbrush covers to keep your toothbrush clean!

Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Toothbrush

Before you get confused with so many options, there are a few things you need to consider before buying a toothbrush for your next travels. 

Here they are: 

Bristle firmness and texture

Yes, how toothbrush bristles feel against your mouth matters. There are different firmness and textures of toothbrushes from soft to medium to hard. Unfortunately, a lot of the super compact and low-cost travel toothbrushes can feel pretty harsh on your gums, so choose wisely.

If you have sensitive teeth and gums, soft to medium bristles should be your first choice. Just to be sure, check with your dentist. 

Type of travel toothbrush

With plenty of options on the market, you need to decide if you’d go for disposable or reusable travel toothbrushes (which come in a lot of different types, like foldable or compact). While we recommend reusable, there are some interesting disposable toothbrushes that might have a place on certain trips.

You also have the choice to bring an electric toothbrush if you prefer it more than manual options. 

Take note that both manual and electric toothbrushes have their own pros and cons. For example, a manual or compact toothbrush requires less maintenance. On the other hand, an electric toothbrush will either require a battery or charge to function. 

Toothbrush covers for hygiene

While the idea of stuffing your toothbrush in a plastic or a ziploc bag seems great, it’s actually the worst place to keep them. Why? Bacteria buildup (eww!).

Bacteria likes to grow in wet places and when you’re traveling, using your toothbrush and stuffing it in a plastic bag suffocates them with no room to breathe. When you buy a travel toothbrush, make sure you also buy appropriate covers with holes for ventilation to keep your toothbrush free of bacteria. 

Travel-Friendly Toothbrush Options

Now that we’ve talked about the basics, here are the different travel-friendly toothbrushes that you may like for your next travels. 

Electric Travel Toothbrushes

Philips one rechargeable toothbrush.

Inclusions: 1x rechargeable toothbrush, 1x brush head, 1x travel case, 1x Type-C USB charger

Why we like it:

• Quiet operation
• Slender handle

What’s not to like: Bulkier and less powerful than regular electric toothbrush

Compared to other electric toothbrushes on the market, the Philips One electric toothbrush is quite affordable. It’s bulkier than manual and compact toothbrushes, but if you want a more satisfying brushing experience this is the one you should buy.

Also, the slender handle of this electric toothbrush makes it easier to brush your teeth. Just note that this is less powerful than regular electric toothbrushes since it’s made for travel. 

Pop Sonic Electric Toothbrush

Inclusions: 1x electric toothbrush, 1x replacement brush head, 1x AAA battery, 1x instruction manual

• Comes with 2-speed options
• Ergonomic design

What’s not to like: Soft bristles and gentle brushing may not be for everyone

The Pop Sonic electric toothbrush is more packable than the Philips One since it’s less bulky. The nylon bristles of this toothbrush are good for sensitive gums since they’re soft, but also flexible for hard-to-reach areas.

Overall, using this toothbrush will be like giving your teeth a gentle massage. While that’s a good thing for some, you may not like it if you’re used to giving your teeth a good scrub at the end of the day. It’s all about preference! BUT if you like a cute toothbrush with soft bristles, then this will be perfect. 

Quip Adult Electric Toothbrush

• Built-in tongue scraper
• Sleek and compact design
• Automatic notification at a 2-minute stop

What’s not to like: Limited color options

The Quip adult electric toothbrush is compact, sleek, and powerful! It’s powerful enough to provide your teeth and mouth with a deep clean feel despite having soft bristles. The added bonus was the built-in tongue scraper! The sleek and compact design makes it easy to hold and is super easy to use. 

Compact Travel Toothbrushes

Lingito travel toothbrush.

Inclusions: 3x toothbrush per pack

• Convertible built-in case
• Medium bristle firmness
• Regular-sized toothbrush

The Lingito travel toothbrush is very convenient for travel since it comes with a built-in case that you can convert into a handle when you use it. This compact design makes it easy to bring this toothbrush in your purse or even your pocket.

A pack comes with three toothbrushes making it one of the most affordable options out there. The only thing you need to be careful with is that since the handle becomes a fully enclosed case, you need to make sure that your toothbrush is dry before you pack it up to avoid bacteria buildup. 

Heinenand Travel Toothbrush

Inclusions: 10x or 20x toothbrushes per pack

• 4-in-1 toothbrush
• Environmentally friendly as it’s made from wheat straw

What’s not to like: Too small for some and ultra-soft bristles are not for everyone.

Similar to the Colgate Max Fresh Wisp toothbrush, the Heinenand travel toothbrush works as a convenient toothbrush that is multi-functional.

You can buy this for a pack of 10 or 20 and you get a toothbrush, a floss, toothpick, and a tongue scraper in one. It’s a convenient way to keep your teeth and mouth clean overall. What makes this toothbrush even better is that it’s nature-friendly being made from biodegradable materials.

Prony 3in1 Portable Travel Toothbrush

Inclusions: 1x foldable toothbrush and 1x free cleaning brush

• 3in1 kit (toothbrush, travel case, and toothpaste tube)
• replaceable toothbrush head
• FREE cleaning brush

What’s not to like: No ventilation holes

The Prony 3in1 portable toothbrush is almost perfect for a folding toothbrush – except it lacks any ventilation holes. But missing ventilation hole aside, it’s a good travel toothbrush with a toothpaste tube so you don’t have to worry about bringing a full tube of toothpaste.

Plus, there’s an included cleaning brush for cleaning the toothpaste end. Just make sure to keep it out for as long as you can to let it dry before putting it away. 

Folding Travel Toothbrushes

Gum folding toothbrush.

Inclusions: Pack of 2 toothbrushes

• Tri-fold design
• Antibacterial bristles

As folding toothbrushes go, the GUM folding travel toothbrush is on a whole new level. Aside from its space-saving tri-fold design where the bristles fold into the handle, this toothbrush also uses hygienic-treated bristles to keep it clean.

Plus, there’s a tiny hole to air out any leftover moisture to make sure your toothbrush is free of mold and any possible bacteria buildup from being wet.

Radius Tour Travel Toothbrush

Inclusion: Pack of 3 toothbrushes

• Slim neck and jack knife design
• 3x more bristles than the average toothbrush
• Sustainable and eco-friendly materials

What’s not to like: Too soft bristles may not feel as effective at cleaning your teeth

Radius is a small business owned by women and they definitely know what a woman needs when packing light . The unique hideaway feature of the Radius Tour travel toothbrush makes it very compact. They have 3x more bristles (that are vegetable-derived) for better cleaning and the heads are replaceable, which saves you more compared to just buying a whole new toothbrush.

Lingito Folding Travel Toothbrush

• Firm grip handle
• No need for a loose cover
• Budget-friendly option

What’s not to like: Limited color choices

As a folding toothbrush, the Lingito travel toothbrush is pretty straightforward. It comes with a solid grip handle, folds up nicely, and cleans up well with medium-soft bristles. It’s lightweight and compact and you don’t need any additional toothbrush cover since the toothbrush head folds into the handle.

Brooke has this folding toothbrush and likes that it makes packing a toothbrush into her Tom Bihn 3D Organizer Cube – that she uses as a toiletry bag – so much easier!

Travel Toothbrush Kits

Colgate max fresh wisp disposable mini toothbrush.

Inclusions: 24x disposable mini toothbrush

• No rinsing necessary
• Brush and go
• Built-in toothpaste bead
• Can also be used as a toothpick

What’s not to like: Too small for some, and it’s disposable.

If you’re looking for a quick way to clean your teeth on the go, the Colgate Max Fresh Wisp disposable toothbrush should be in your toiletries. It’s a toothbrush and a toothpick in one with built-in toothpaste (freshening beads) that dissolve once you use it. That’s right… no need to practice those toothpaste packing hacks with this brush option.

This is convenient when you don’t have easy access to water and you need a convenient way to clean your teeth. It can also be nice for those quick overnight trips – you won’t have to pack much, not even toothpaste!

Crest Scope Mini Toothbrush

Inclusions: 12x mini toothbrush

• Multi-ridge tongue cleaner
• Interdental pick

What’s not to like: Not the most durable travel toothbrush, and it’s intended for single-use

The Crest Scope mini toothbrushes are a lot similar to the Colgate Max Fresh Wisp disposable toothbrushes. But where the Colgate Max Fresh wisp has softer bristles, the Crest Scope has thick and stiff bristles. This can make brushing your teeth feel uncomfortable especially if you have sensitive teeth and gums. It’s a good travel toothbrush for a quick clean, perhaps nice for camping, but it is not the most durable option. 

Reach Oral Kit

Inclusions: 1x toothbrush, 1x Crest 3D White Luxe Whitening Toothpaste, 1x toothbrush cap, 1x mini floss container

• Complete oral hygiene kit
• Easy kit to buy and pack without thinking

What’s not to like: Not the most compact option

If you’re a fan of a complete oral kit, this would be a good choice. However, it might not be your best choice if you’re looking for a compact option since the toothbrush doesn’t fold and you need to find more space for it plus the toothpaste that comes with it. 

Colgate Travel Kit

Inclusions: 1x toothbrush, 1x Toothpaste

• Value pack toothpaste and toothbrush
• Convertible handle as toothbrush case

What’s not to like: No ventilation holes on toothbrush case

The Colgate Travel Kit comes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a travel-friendly toothpaste tube. The toothbrush case can be converted as the handle which makes it very compact. The only downside is the lack of a ventilation hole when storing the toothbrush. 

Brushee 3in1 Oral Care Tool

Inclusions: 24x pre-pasted mini toothbrushes with dental floss and toothpick

• Value pack multifunction oral kit

What’s not to like: Too small and may not be the most eco-friendly option

The Brushee 3in1 Oral Care kit is a pocket-sized toothbrush for quick and easy oral hygiene when you are on the go. The brush has medium bristles, but the dental pick may be a bit challenging to use since it’s short and very sharp so you need to be careful.

Toothbrush Accessories

In case your choice travel toothbrush lacks a head cover, don’t worry ‘cos we have some good options for you:

Steripod Clip-On Toothbrush Protector – this non-toxic, BPA-free-toothbrush with an easy clip-on cover comes with a tablet infused with peppermint essential oil leaving your toothbrush smelling fresh with a mint scent.

V-TOP Electric Toothbrush Head Cover – the V-Top toothbrush head cover is made of food-grade silicone designed with 5 vents for ventilation and available in packs of 5 or 10. It works for electric and manual toothbrushes.

Toothbrush Heads Dustproof Cover – this food-grade 6-pack toothbrush cover from Hsytek fits most Oral-B toothbrush heads, is snug, and comes with 3 ventilation holes to keep your toothbrushes dry.

Bril UV-C Toothbrush Sanitizer – this is a good option if you want to splurge and invest on a portable toothbrush sanitizer. The Bril UV-C sanitizer will keep your toothbrush 99.9 percent free of germs in a span of 3 minutes after every use. This is rechargeable and comes with a magnet disc that you can use to mount it on your wall.

Roundup – Best Travel Toothbrushes of 2023

With so many options, here are our top choices of the best travel toothbrush of 2023:

Best Electric Travel Toothbrush

Best compact travel toothbrush, best folding travel toothbrush`, best travel toothbrush kit, best toothbrush accessory.

Bril UV-C Toothbrush Sanitizer

How about you? Which of these travel-friendly toothbrushes did you like the most?

More posts you may like

Ultralight Packing List: I Traveled for 3 Weeks with a 12L Handbag

How to Successfully Travel with Contact Lens Solution

The 32L Zuca Pro Carry-on Suitcase: You Can Actually Sit on It

The Osprey Kyte 36 Backpack Review: Carry-on Friendly Hiking Pack for Women

Gear we use.

Speakeasy Hidden Pocket Scarves

Splice Reversible Jaisalmer Tunic

Eagle Creek Compression Packing Cubes

Tom Bihn 3D Organizer Cube

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Daypack

Turkish Travel Towels

Travel resources, hpl learnables.

H PL Packing Method – Learn to pack your lightest bag ever in this revolutionary packing course by HPL founder, Brooke.

Book Your Trip

Viator – Enhance your trip experience by booking from thousands of tours across the globe.

Booking.com – Search for hotels, hostels, and apartments using this one resource. Use it for flights, car rentals, and airport taxis as well.

Trusted Housesitters – Save money on travel accommodation by becoming a housesitter. Housesitters often have extra duties, like caring for pets and gardens.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

Click Here For More City Street Guides!

(A New Guide Posted Every Other Wednesday)

Comment Here! Cancel reply

For patreon exclusive educational content:.

Limited Edition Postcard Prints!

Street Photography Workshops

Donations Always Appreciated

I'll always keep Shooter Files free for everyone, but any donations would be greatly appreciated and help me keep it going. Many thanks to everyone following along!

Cheers! -f.d. walker

Search the Files

For Exclusive Patron Content:

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

Read Next: Things To Do on Socotra

To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Travel Itinerary for One Week in Beijing

If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

How I Planned My Trip to Vietnam

The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

Places to Visit in Barcelona That Aren’t Beaches

First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

20 Travel Tips I’ve Learned From Travelling The World

There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

12 Stunning National Parks and Regional Parks In France

If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

How To Stop Procrastinating When Trip Planning

Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

Two Weeks In Thailand: The Perfect 14-Day Itinerary

I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

You Will Also Like: 3-Day London Itinerary

Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

How to Save Money While Traveling in Europe

The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips Close to Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Diamond Apartments

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 6
• Very Good 1
• All languages ( 10 )
• Russian ( 8 )
• English ( 1 )
• Italian ( 1 )

" If you need any help ask assistance to the very friendly and serviable reception staff "

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

DIAMOND APARTMENTS