As the capital of the Russian Federation and formerly the Soviet Union, Moscow is an emblematic city of Europe. It is steeped in tradition and history and a trip to this infamous city will be one you won’t soon forget. From architectural icons to rich cultural heritage, Moscow should not intimidate travelers, but rather invite them to experience the Russia of yesteryear alongside a vibrant modern city. Keep in mind that winters here can be harsh and cold, so if you want to avoid harsh weather conditions, spring and summer may be the best times to travel. However, at any time of the year, commuters can enjoy the extremely reliable metro system that serves the entire city, making it especially easy to get around and explore. The metro stations themselves are an attraction in themselves due to their beautiful architecture and decoration. Keep in mind, however, that most of the signs are in Russian, so you’ll want your travel guide to help you navigate where you are and where you need to be. Whether you are flying into Moscow or traveling from another European city, traveling to the city is easy due to the fact that it is a major travel hub for trains and airplanes. As you explore all that Moscow has to offer, consider including these must-sees during your travels.
red square
This is by far the number one attraction for visitors to Moscow and one of the most famous addresses in the world. Here you will find the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Cathedral, the colorful architectural icon that looks almost like a storybook and is probably Moscow’s most recognizable landmark. The huge cathedral was built in the mid-16th century and is a must-see. Also, don’t miss Lenin’s Mausoleum, which is believed to be the resting place of the famous leader Vladimir Lenin, although many conspiracy theories have suspected that he is not actually buried there.
Across the square is the Kremlin, the seat of the Russian government. Originally a wooden fort built in the 14th century, it evolved over the centuries to become the massive complex that it is now. There is the huge Grand Kremlin Palace, the Terem Palace and the Senate Building. There are several monuments, museums and traces of Russia’s communist past with several towers still marked with the red stars. The Kremlin wall is also a must see. At the beginning of the 20th century, Red Square was primarily a cemetery for soldiers and continues to be so to this day with the tradition of burying soldiers who officers next to the Kremlin wall.
The spiritual side of Moscow
For centuries, the separation of church and state in Russia was unheard of, so religious buildings were symbols of power and religion. This has resulted in a host of architecturally beautiful churches and cathedrals throughout the city. The Cathedral of Christ Our Savior, the Kazan Cathedral, and the Cathedral of the Annunciation that was once the private church of the Tzar family, just to name a few.
There are also several beautiful monasteries in and around Moscow. In medieval Russia, Moscow came to power a lot because it was a religious center that attracted many people from all over Europe to live and worship there.
The Novodevichy Convent and its adjoining cemetery are also a must-see. Originally built in the 16th century, it also served as a fortress. The cemetery has some very famous Russians buried there, including Boris Yeltsin. However, the guide maps are only in Russian, so buying as many guide maps at the airport that are in English will probably come in handy during your travels.
Museums
Apart from the Kremlin museums, the Pushkin museum is probably the second most visited museum in the city. It houses a massive collection of priceless works of art. The Andrei Rublev Museum of Ancient Russian Art also has an interesting collection of very old artifacts and works of art.
Walking through the streets
Moscow is home to the highest number of billionaires per capita, leading to certain extravagances, most of which include shopping. If you have the means, you will find no shortage of great buying opportunities. If not, a walk through some of the most famous streets of Moscow is an afternoon well spent. Tverskaya Ulitsa has been the main street of Moscow since the Middle Ages. It’s full of inns, restaurants, and historic buildings, including the prestigious National Hotel. Ulitsa Varvarka is the oldest street in Moscow and is right next to Red Square, as well as Nikolskaya Ulitsa and the modern Kuznetsky Most.
Traveling with children
Children will certainly enjoy the fairytale look of Moscow’s many palaces and churches, allowing them to dream of kings and queens from the past. However, there is much more to see and do with young travelers. Older children can even enjoy a show at the famous Moscow ballet or opera.
