From Red Square to Kremlin: Best Tourist Hotspots in Moscow

Are you planning a trip to Moscow, but don’t know where to start exploring the city’s rich history and culture? Well, look no further! In this blog post, we’ll take you on an exciting tour of some of the best tourist hotspots in Moscow. From the iconic Red Square to the majestic Kremlin, get ready to be awed by stunning architecture and fascinating history at every turn. So grab your camera and let’s set off on an adventure through one of Europe’s most vibrant cities!

What are the best tourist hotspots in Moscow?

Moscow, the capital of Russia, is a fascinating city with countless tourist hotspots to explore. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for some fun in the sun, these are the best tourist spots in Moscow:

1. Red Square

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an essential stop on any Moscow tourism itinerary. The perfect place to start your day is with a peaceful stroll around the historic square, admiring the brightly colored granite monuments and graceful architecture. In the evening, head down to the Kremlin for an hour of candlelit poring over century-old frescoes and mosaics.

2. St Basil’s Cathedral

Built between 1555 and 1561 by Prince Vasili III and considered one of Russia’s most impressive edifices, St Basil’s Cathedral is home to some precious artefacts, including icons attributed to Rurik and Vladimir The Great. Tourists can enter through either side (the southern entrance is usually less crowded), but be sure to check out the western facade as well.

3. Gorky Park

One of Moscow’s oldest public gardens – it was officially founded in 1756 – Gorky Park contains a myriad of attractions including an Olympic-sized pool, several museums (including War Memorial Museum), arboretum and playgrounds for kids. It can get quite busy during peak hours so be prepared for long queues on summer days!

How can you find these attractions?

When planning your trip to Moscow, one of the first things you’ll want to know is where the best tourist hotspots are. Here are five of the best places to visit:

1. Red Square

Red Square is the epicenter of Moscow. Whether admiring its striking architecture or taking in a performance by the Kremlin musicians, Red Square is an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to snap a photo of Lenin’s Mausoleum on your way out!

2. Tretyakov Gallery

One of Russia’s most famous art galleries, the Tretyakov Gallery houses some of the world’s finest Russian paintings and sculptures. Behind the scenes, you can also check out the museum’s collection of Russian avant-garde art.

3. Strastnoy Boulevard

If shopping is your thing, Strastnoy Boulevard is definitely worth a visit. The pedestrian street is lined with luxury boutiques and high-end stores that offer some of the most unique and exclusive fashion finds in all of Russia. From fur coats to jewelry sets, there’s sure to be something for everyone on Strastnoy Boulevard.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

Another must-see during your visit to Moscow is the Bolshoi Theatre – home to some of Russia’s most renowned ballet performances. From Swan Lake to The Nutcracker, don’t miss a day when visiting this iconic landmark.

5. National Art Gallery of Russia

To experience the beauty of Russian art in all its glory, head to the National Art Gallery of Russia. This stunning gallery houses a vast array of paintings, sculptures and antiquities from across centuries of Russian history.

What should you expect on a visit to these places?

When you visit Moscow, the first thing you should do is take a walk around Red Square. This iconic landmark is full of history and makes for a great starting point for your trip. From here, you can explore either St Basil’s Cathedral or The Kremlin, both of which are extremely popular tourist destinations. Although neither attraction is overly large, they’re both jam-packed with history and architecture that’s sure to fascinate visitors of all ages. If you have time, don’t forget to take a stroll through the brightly lit Gorky Park or the famous Sadovaya square. Don’t miss out on exploring Lenin International Airport, which lies just outside of town and offers an amazing view of the city skyline.

Which places are worth making a day trip from Moscow for?

From the iconic Red Square to the Kremlin, Moscow has a wealth of tourist hotspots that are well worth making a day trip from the city. While these destinations can all be covered by a single day trip, some are better explored as part of a longer itinerary.

Red Square is the perfect starting point for a day in Moscow. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to dozens of prominent monuments including the Russian Federation’s main statue of Vladimir Lenin, which dominates the square. Nearby Bolshoi Theatre and Trinity Cathedral offer additional attractions for visitors. While there’s plenty to see in Red Square, it’s best to not linger too long and explore other neighborhoods instead.

Yury Dolgoruky Street is one such neighborhood that’s well worth checking out for its architecture and history. Founded in 1703 by Yury I, Dolgoruky Street was once considered one of Russia’s most prestigious streets due to its concentration of high-quality buildings. Today, it remains popular with tourists, who can admire many restored historical landmarks while taking in Moscow’s different atmospheres and street art scenes along the way.

For something more active, take a walk down Okhotny Ryad (Hotel Okhotny Ryad) Boulevard which runs parallel to Kitai-Moskvoretsky Prospekt (the Kremlin Chain Bridge). The avenue sees heavy traffic during rush hours but makes for a great walk at any time of the day, especially when you can explore its many side streets and gardens.

Finally, there are plenty of other places worth visiting in Moscow. Vasilyevsky Island is a great place to start if you’re looking for a nature-focused day trip. The island is home to a number of lakes, forests, and parks, as well as several interesting attractions like the Pavlovsk Palace and the Hermitage Museum. If you have more time, make your way over to Saint Petersburg to soak up architecture and history at some of Russia’s most famous landmarks.

Conclusion

Moscow is a bustling metropolis with endless attractions to explore – from Red Square to the Kremlin. Whether you’re looking for historical highlights or simply want to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere, these are among the best tourist hotspots in Moscow.