Things to do in Moscow
Discover the best attractions and experiences Moscow has to offer
Historic Monuments
Moscow's historic core is spangled with grand squares, royal towers, and centuries-old structures that define the city’s character.
Red Square
The city’s historic heart, flanked by iconic buildings and a constant buzz of activity.
Saint Basil's Cathedral
Colorful onion domes and striking geometry mark this fairy-tale church near the Kremlin.
Kremlin and Kitai-Gorod
A formidable fortress complex with walls, towers, and historic architecture.
Lenin's Mausoleum
A stark granite monument in Red Square recalling Soviet history.
Museums
World‑class collections span Russian icons to European masters and contemporary works.
The State Tretyakov Gallery
A premier collection of Russian art from medieval icons to 19th‑century masters.
Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts
European masterworks housed in a grand neoclassical building.
MMOMA (Moscow Museum of Modern Art)
A leading venue for contemporary Russian and international art.
Religious Monuments
Gilded domes, cloisters, and sacred spaces illustrate Moscow’s spiritual heritage.
Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
Magnificent river-facing cathedral with sweeping views of the city.
Assumption Cathedral (Dormition) - Moscow Kremlin
Historic cathedral within the fortress walls, a symbol of imperial Moscow.
Novodevichy Convent
Elegant cloister complex set around a tranquil cemetery and park.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces and estates provide seasonal beauty, river vistas, and relaxed strolls.
Gorky Park
A central urban park with paths, lawns, cafes, and river views.
Kolomenskoye Park and Estate
Historic estate with wooden churches, meadows, and riverside scenes.
Izmaylovo Park
Forested grounds with quiet corners, ponds, and access to markets.
Neighborhoods
Walkable districts reveal Moscow’s layered character from imperial grandeur to bohemian streets.
Arbat Street
A historic pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Kitay-Gorod
Ancient crossroads and medieval lanes just steps from Red Square.
Zamoskvorechye
A riverside district with historic houses, galleries, and cafes.
Free Things to Do
Some of Moscow’s best experiences cost nothing but time and curiosity.
Red Square (free to explore)
Soak in the atmosphere, architecture, and city energy at any hour.
Alexander Garden
A shady, ornamental park adjacent to the Kremlin walls.
Moscow River embankments
Stroll along the water with bridges, statues, and city views.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Russian flavors and modern twists in markets, cafes, and historic eateries.
Pelmeni at a traditional Moscow cafe
Try bite‑sized dumplings served with sour cream in a cozy setting.
Borscht with black bread in a Soviet‑era canteen
Hearty beet soup with rye bread in a nostalgic ambience.
Blini with caviar or sour cream
Delicate pancakes paired with classic toppings in a casual setting.
Nightlife
From moody bars to lively squares, Moscow comes alive after dark.
Patriarch’s Ponds area
A fashionable area for late‑night bars, cafes, and a relaxed vibe.
Bars around Tverskaya Street
A cluster of late‑night venues and stylish lounges in central Moscow.
Nighttime strolls around Red Square
Experience the illuminated squares and festive energy after dark.
Entertainment
World‑class theaters, circuses, and performance venues showcase Moscow’s artistic prowess.
Bolshoi Theatre
Iconic ballet and opera house offering world‑class performances.
Moscow State Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard
Traditional circus with dazzling acts in a historic venue.
Taganka Theatre
Renowned stage for contemporary and classic Russian productions.
Sports
Catch a game or tour legendary stadiums and indoor arenas.
Luzhniki Stadium
Russia’s primary national stadium, hosting football matches and tours.
Megasport Arena
Major indoor arena for hockey, basketball, and concerts.
Off the Track
Go beyond the obvious with quirky venues, markets, and hidden corners.
Izmailovo Market
An expansive market complex with antiques, crafts, and snacks.
Bunker-42 Cold War Museum
A subterranean tour of a Cold War era bunker turned museum.
Red October (Krasny Oktyabr) Chocolate Factory
Historic factory district with chocolate heritage and modern spaces.