Red Square, Moscow-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Moscow and Exploring Red Square

  • Morning: Arrive at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) or Domodedovo Airport (DME). Take a taxi or metro (Aeroexpress train + subway) to your hotel.
  • Hotel: Stay at the luxurious Hotel Metropol Moscow, located near Red Square, or opt for a budget-friendly option like the Ibis Moscow Centre Bakhrushina.
  • Lunch: Head to Cafe Pushkin, a cozy spot serving traditional Russian cuisine. Try their borscht and beef stroganoff.
  • Afternoon: Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum, a historic site located in Red Square. Be respectful of the rules and dress code.
  • Evening: Take a stroll around Red Square, admiring the stunning architecture of St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin Walls, and the State Historical Museum.

Day 2: The Kremlin and Its Treasures

  • Morning: Visit the Kremlin Armoury Chamber, home to an impressive collection of Russian royal artifacts.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Russian meal at Restaurant Moscow, located near the Kremlin.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Diamond Fund Exhibition, featuring an impressive collection of precious stones and jewelry.
  • Evening: Attend a performance at the Bolshoi Theatre, a iconic cultural institution.

Day 3: Museums and Galleries

  • Morning: Visit the State Tretyakov Gallery, showcasing an extensive collection of Russian art from the 10th to the 20th centuries.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Stolle, a popular chain serving delicious pies and sandwiches.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Museum of Modern Art, featuring works by contemporary Russian artists.
  • Evening: Take a sunset stroll along the Moskva River, offering breathtaking views of the city.

Day 4: Moscow’s Underground Treasures

  • Morning: Visit the Moscow Metro, famous for its ornate stations. Take a guided tour to explore the hidden gems.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Georgian cuisine at Cafe Khinkali.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Khamovniki Flea Market, a bustling marketplace offering souvenirs, antiques, and vintage items.
  • Evening: Enjoy a cocktail at the trendy Noor Bar, located in the heart of Moscow.

Day 5: Day Trip to Sergiev Posad

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Sergiev Posad (approximately 1.5 hours by car or train), a charming town known for its stunning monasteries and cathedrals.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Russian cuisine at a local restaurant, like Podkova.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Russia’s most important spiritual centers.
  • Evening: Return to Moscow and enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning city views.

Day 6: Modern Moscow

  • Morning: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Khamovniki, known for its street art, boutiques, and cafes.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many hip eateries in the area, like Cafe Brix.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Gorky Park, a popular recreational spot offering boat rides, walking paths, and scenic views.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a modern Russian restaurant, like White Rabbit.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport and head back home.

Things to Know

  • Russia has strict visa requirements; ensure you have a valid visa before traveling.
  • Moscow is a vast city; consider purchasing a Moscow City Pass for free entry to many attractions and public transportation.
  • Be respectful of Russian customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Learn some basic Russian phrases, like “hello” (Здравствуйте), “thank you” (Спасибо), and “goodbye” (До свидания).

Transportation

  • Metro: An efficient and affordable way to navigate the city. Buy a rechargeable Troika card for convenient travel.
  • Taxi: Use reputable services like Yandex Taxi or Gett, which offer English-speaking drivers.
  • Walking: Moscow is a walkable city; explore on foot to discover hidden gems.

Tips

  • Pack layers for unpredictable Russian weather.
  • Learn about Russian culture and history to appreciate the attractions more deeply.
  • Be prepared for long lines at popular attractions.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak tourist season (June to August) for smaller crowds and lower prices.

This itinerary provides a mix of cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and modern attractions, giving you a well-rounded taste of Moscow. Enjoy your trip!