lamy safari ef review

All About Fine Writing Instruments

Lamy Safari Fountain Pen Review: Best Fountain Pens for Beginners

Read today’s Lamy Safari fountain pen review to learn more about one of the best fountain pens for beginners!

Our Guest Reviewer: @kelseydoodles

Kelsey is a stationery addict and bullet journal junkie. While she’s a great lover of pen and paper, it was recently discovered that Kelsey had never tried using a Lamy fountain pen. It seemed the perfect opportunity to get a review from fresh eyes on a classic German pen design many point to as one of the best fountain pens for beginners. Kelsey had always wanted to try a Lamy fountain pen because so many people have great things to say about it, so we picked out a Lamy Safari pen and ink set with a fine nib and sent it off for her to put it to the test in today’s pen review!

Lamy Safari Fountain Pen Review: In Kelsey’s Own Words

“I have heard great things about Lamy pens from different friends in the stationery community on instagram, so I wanted to give this pen a try! My first impression is that I love the sleek design. I immediately wanted to test it out. It felt very light weight the second I picked it up, which I prefer for a pen on the go! The design feels really well thought out and stands out to me because as soon as you hold it, you can feel the grooves are made for your fingers to rest perfectly! It feels like a lightweight plastic but the metal clip feels super secure. It feels high quality. It comes with a bottle of black ink, five black cartridges, one blue cartridge AND a refillable Lamy converter .

Getting to Know the Lamy Safari Fountain Pen:

“I prefer converters because you can play with more ink options this way. The converter is of great quality, and it was really easy to twist and fill. The pen has zero skip! And the ink doesn’t get fuzzy on tomoe river paper. Which is my favorite paper for using fountain pens. I also tested it on my 160 gsm paper from notebook therapy in my bullet journal and it doesn’t skip or get fuzzy on that paper either. I prefer a fine nib pen in most cases and I feel like the nib of this pen hits closer to an extra fine nib, but it really just glides nicely so that really makes up for it. I used the Lamy black ink bottle, which almost has a deep purple hue. It doesn’t bleed through any of the papers I listed above either. It is actually a really great basic black ink that would fit great in anyone’s collection. I think what I love the most about this pen is the value. This is such a great starter pen and I highly recommend it for the person who is just starting out in the fountain pen world. It’s a great starter kit that comes with everything! And the color options for this pen are wonderful.” -Kelsey, guest reviewer

An Overview of Today’s Fountain Pen Review: The Lamy Safari

First Impression: Love the sleek design!

Writing Experience: Lightweight, great on the go pen, zero skip, and zero bleeding on Tomoe River paper 160 gsm Notebook Therapy bullet journal paper.

Thoughts on the Pen Design: Well thought out with a fantastic ergonomic grip section (grooves designed specifically for your fingers to rest!)

Quality: High quality feel

Pen Clip: Metal clip feels super secure

Nib: Runs a little smaller than expected, but glides along smoothly.

Kelsey’s Favorite Thing About the Lamy Safari Fountain Pen? The value!

The Lamy Safari is a Great Starter Fountain Pen:

The Lamy Safari fountain pen makes it a great starter fountain pen. The Lamy Safari fountain pen and ink gift set is actually a great starter kit that comes with everything – and it’s highly recommended for anyone just starting out in the fountain pen world.

Get Your Hands on a Lamy Safari Of Your Own:

Discover more popular luxury pens and fountain pen inks on our recently reviewed pens and ink page . If you enjoyed today’s Lamy Safari fountain pen review, and you’ve decided you need to try one yourself (or if you need to add another to your collection), you can always shop your favorite Lamy fountain pens, rollerballs, and ballpoints at PenChalet.com.

Other Resources: Pen Chalet Picks Demonstrator Pens Best Selling Fountain Pens

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Lamy Safari Fountain Pen Review: All-Around Favorite for Any Writer 

If you’re a budding pen enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the Lamy Safari fountain pen. It was one of the first fountain pens I ever bought — and helped grow my love of pens.

This iconic writing instrument has been a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned pen lovers for decades, known for its sleek design with cool color options and high-quality nibs.

In this review, I’ll delve into the history of the Lamy Safari , its design and aesthetics, nib options and writing experience, as well as its filling mechanisms and ink capacity, and share some of my thoughts as to why it’s such a great pen.

History of the Lamy Safari Fountain Pen

The Lamy Safari has been available since the early 1980s when it was first introduced in Germany. It was designed by Wolfgang Fabian, with a focus on creating an affordable and reliable pen that was suitable for use by both children and adults.

Origins and Design Philosophy

Fabian’s design philosophy is reflected in the pen’s name, Safari, which suggests durability and reliability in harsh environments. The pen’s aesthetic is also inspired by Fabian’s desire to create a writing instrument that was simple, practical, and modern, with a focus on functionality over style.

The Safari fountain pen was designed to be a workhorse pen that could be used in a variety of settings, from the classroom to the boardroom. Its lightweight design and comfortable grip make it easy to use for extended periods of time, while its sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. If you’re looking for a daily writer, this is a great option.

One of the key features of the Lamy Safari fountain pen is its interchangeable nibs. The pen comes with a steel nib as standard, but users can easily swap it out for a different size or material depending on their writing needs — even offering left-handed nibs for writers . This versatility has made the Lamy Safari a favorite, who appreciate the ability to customize their writing experience without having to buy a new pen every time.

I recently ordered a new set of nibs for my Safari. I had a medium and wanted to try a fine, so as much as I’d love a collection of Safari’s, it was a lot cheaper to get a new nib.

Evolution of the Lamy Safari Series

Over the years, the Lamy Safari fountain pen has evolved in various ways. New materials and color options have been introduced, as well as different nib sizes and types . Today, the Lamy Safari is still going strong, with a loyal fan base that appreciates its quality and affordability.

In recent years, Lamy has expanded the Safari series to include other types of pens, such as rollerballs and ballpoints. These pens retain the same design aesthetic and functional features as the fountain pen, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a different writing style.

The Safari is one of the best beginner fountain pens for those who are just starting out with fountain pens or who want a reliable workhorse pen for everyday use. Its combination of quality, versatility, and affordability has made it a classic in the world of fountain pens.

Here is a comparison of the Safari and some of its most popular competitors:

Please note that prices may vary based on the retailer and location. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s best to check with specific retailers or manufacturers.

Design and Aesthetics

The Lamy Safari fountain pen is unmistakable in its design, with its sleek lines. It is available in a variety of materials and colors, ranging from bright and bold to more subdued shades.

But the Lamy Safari is not just a pretty pen. It is also designed for functionality and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a beginner, this pen is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable writing tool.

Material and Color Options

The pen’s body is typically made of lightweight, durable resin, but there are also models available in aluminum and stainless steel. The resin models are particularly popular due to their affordability and wide range of color options. From classic blacks and whites to vibrant purples and blues, there is a color for every taste.

I love the bright yellow, so when I saw it, I had to grab it.

The aluminum and stainless steel models, on the other hand, offer a more premium feel and are perfect for those who want a pen that feels substantial in their hand.

Clip and Cap Design

The pen’s clip and cap are also notable design features. The clip is not just for show — it is sturdy and reliable, allowing you to easily clip the pen to your pocket or notebook without fear of it falling off. The cap is designed to prevent ink from drying out and allows for easy opening and closing, so you can quickly jot down your thoughts without any fuss.

But the cap also serves another purpose. It is designed to be posted on the back of the pen while you write, giving the pen a longer and more balanced feel in your hand. This is particularly useful for those who prefer a heavier pen or like to write for extended periods of time.

Ergonomics and Grip

The Lamy Safari fountain pen is designed with ergonomics in mind, providing a comfortable grip for extended writing sessions. The triangular grip ensures that your fingers are properly spaced and allows for a more natural and relaxed grip. This is especially important for those who suffer from hand fatigue or cramping when writing for long periods of time.

I’ve spent a lot of time journaling with my Lamy Safari and haven’t gotten some of the hand cramps I have with other pens.

The grip is also made of a non-slip material, which ensures that the pen won’t slip out of your hand, even if your palms get sweaty. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in hot or humid climates or for those who tend to get nervous when writing in important situations.

Overall, the Lamy Safari fountain pen is a great choice for anyone who values both form and function. Its sleek design, range of colors and materials, and comfortable grip make it a joy to use, whether you’re writing a novel or just jotting down a quick note.

Nib Options and Writing Experience

The Lamy Safari fountain pen is a popular choice among fountain pen enthusiasts for its variety of nib options and smooth writing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, the Lamy Safari has a nib option that will suit your needs.

One of the standout features of the Lamy Safari fountain pen is its variety of nib options. There are several different sizes and types of nibs available, ranging from fine to broad and even flexible. The nibs are made of high-quality stainless steel and are available in a range of sizes. Whether you need a fine nib for detailed work or a broad nib for bolder strokes, there is a nib option for you.

Nib Materials and Sizes

The Lamy Safari fountain pen’s nibs are made of high-quality stainless steel, which ensures durability and longevity. The nibs are available in a range of sizes, from extra fine to broad, allowing you to choose the perfect size for your writing needs. The nibs are also designed to be easily replaceable, so you can switch them out if you prefer a different size or type.

If you’re a leftie, you’re in luck. Lamy offers a left-handed Safari nib model, so you can enjoy writing too.

Lamy sells Safari pens that come with the leftie nib. So right out of the box, you're good to go.

Ink Flow and Smoothness

The Safari is known for its smooth writing experience, with consistent ink flow and minimal skipping. It’s also compatible with a variety of popular ink brands . The pen’s nibs are designed to provide a consistent flow of ink , ensuring that your writing is always smooth and effortless. The ink flow is also adjustable, so you can customize it to your liking. The pen’s ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, even during long writing sessions.

Writing Samples and Comparisons

If you’re considering purchasing a Lamy Safari, it’s important to try it out for yourself. However, there are numerous online reviews and writing samples available, allowing you to get a sense of its capabilities before making a purchase. You can compare the Safari to other fountain pens in its price range to see how it stacks up in terms of writing experience, design, and value.

Here are a few tests from some of the notebooks I own with varying paper weights . If you want to see the best notebooks for fountain pens, check out this post .

Samples on a Rhodia 90 GSM notebook.

Samples on a Clairefontaine 90 GSM notebook.

Samples on a Leuchttrum1917 80GSM notebook.

With these, there is some ghosting and a touch of bleedthrough, depending on the paper. I’m also using a dark blue ink which is big heavier.

Ghosting doesn’t bother me. But if it’s something that annoys you, then you may want to go for a notebook with a heavier GSM.

This doesn’t work well on standard paper like Field Notes.

There’s a lot of feathering and heavy ghosting on the other side.

Filling Mechanisms and Ink Capacity

The Lamy Safari fountain pen is a versatile writing instrument that offers a range of filling mechanisms to suit your needs. Whether you prefer the convenience of disposable ink cartridges or the elegance of a traditional piston filler, the Lamy Safari has got you covered.

I’ve used both converters and cartridges for my Lamy pens.

Cartridge/Converter System

The standard filling system for the Lamy Safari fountain pen is the cartridge/converter system. This is a popular option among fountain pen enthusiasts. It’s easy to clean and refill your pen with ink. With this system, you can choose between using disposable ink cartridges or using a converter to fill the pen from a bottle of ink.

One of the advantages of the cartridge/converter system is that it is very easy to use. Insert a new ink cartridge into the pen or attach the converter and dip the nib into a bottle of ink. It’s a great option for if you’re new to fountain pens or prefer a low-maintenance writing experience.

Piston Filler Option

For those who prefer a more traditional filling mechanism, the Lamy Safari fountain pen has a piston filler option. It allows you to fill your pen directly from an ink bottle. That lets you write a lot longer longer before needing to refill.

The piston filler system is a classic filling mechanism that has been used in fountain pens for decades. It works by using a piston to draw ink up from a bottle and into the pen’s reservoir. This provides a high ink capacity, which is ideal for those who write frequently or for long periods of time.

Ink Capacity Comparison

Depending on the filling mechanism you choose, the ink capacity of the Lamy Safari fountain pen will vary. The cartridge/converter system provides a moderate amount of ink. Each cartridge or converter fills the pen with about 1.5 to 2 milliliters of ink.

On the other hand, the piston filler option allows for a much greater capacity. With this system, you can fill the pen with up to 1.35 milliliters of ink. That’s more than double the amount provided by a single cartridge or converter.

Ultimately, the choice between the cartridge/converter system and the piston filler option comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a low-maintenance writing experience and don’t mind refilling your pen more frequently, the cartridge/converter system may be the best option for you. However, if you value a high ink capacity and enjoy the traditional elegance of a piston filler, the Lamy Safari fountain pen with a piston filler option may be the perfect choice.

Lamy Safari: Recommended

Beginners really can't go wrong with a Lamy Safari. I've spent a lot of time using mine as my daily writer. It's a great, solid pen.

The Lamy Safari fountain pen is a classic writing instrument that has stood the test of time. Its sleek design, high-quality nibs, and variety of filling mechanisms make it a favorite among fountain pen enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a seasoned fountain pen user or just starting out, the Lamy Safari is a reliable and affordable option. You’ll get a smooth and enjoyable writing experience with it.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

The Lamy Safari Is a Fountain Pen for Dummies

I really love my Lamy Safari fountain pen . I’m not exactly sure where I first saw it. It might have been at Stevdan Stationers on Sixth Avenue, where I often wander around and test out pens — the people at Stevdan are very patient.

The Safari always caught my eye during these scouting missions — a German, Bauhaus-like design wrapped in the body of a Lego brick. Introduced in 1966, the pen today comes in a wide array of colors , unapologetically bright and vivid amid the homogeneous rows of smooth black pens with gold and silver accents. I remember trying out a yellow one and buying it on the spot — it felt great to finally buy something at Stevedan.

Fountain pens can be complicated and intimidating, but the Safari was designed to be approachable. (It was apparently originally meant to help teach proper handwriting to schoolchildren). Pen enthusiasts often recommend it as a great “starter” fountain pen, which I’ve found to be spot-on. There’s a bit of a learning curve with fountain pens that you don’t have with ballpoints. You need to hold the pen at a pretty sharp angle to the paper, about 45 degrees, with the nib falling flat on the page. It feels awkward at first; I kept thinking I was overcorrecting when I first tried, but it quickly became second nature. Write your signature a bunch of times and you’ll get the hang of it. The most surprising thing is that you barely need to apply any pressure when you write — it’s more like you’re gliding the pen across. The sensation and sounds are almost ASMR-like. (I actually found a pretty amazing fountain-pen-writing  ASMR video and I am so happy it exists.)

Not that I’m suddenly an expert, but there is something special about writing with a fountain pen. The steady flow of ink is so expressive; it somehow makes the weird, messy quirks of my handwriting feel intentional. The nibs come in extra-fine, fine, medium, and broad, and though most people prefer fine, I like the boldness of a medium. More than anything, it’s just fun to write with. I find myself looking for excuses to use my Lamy — I definitely write way more thank-you notes now. And even though the five-pack cartridge refills last a while, I’m considering going all the way with an ink converter that’ll let me refill directly from a bottle of ink .

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Writer Mark Byrne likes his brass Japanese pen : “Surely there are hundreds of other collapsible pens. There are also, I know, many very beautiful pens. I submit that the Midori is a rare combination of both, and for that reason it is extraordinary. It is both very good-looking and small. I keep mine in the coin pocket of my jeans. I carry it almost everywhere.”

Novelist Alexander Chee only uses one pen when he signs books: “Some  pens  will cut the paper, which is horrifying. It’s a little punk rock, but you don’t want to do it over and over. So with the new book, I knew I needed a pen. I don’t like the Sharpie, which is what a bookstore will hand you, so I went and found these. They’re technically drawing pens, and I use them to sketch and doodle when I’m not doing author events. I actually remember how I discovered it through trial and error. I had one of them with me in my pocket when I showed up for an event a few years ago for  Queen of the Night  readings, and that’s when I noticed it did very well and didn’t cut the paper.”

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Lamy Safari Fine VS EF

By Zeptogram March 18, 2010 in Lamy

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Hello there FPN users, my name is James (or just Zep), and I am very seriously considering a purchase of a Lamy Safari as my first fountain pen. I have but a small concern, and I hope that you fellas would be able to answer a little question. Forgive me if this is posted in the wrong section of this forum, as I've searched for something like this, but have not found what I've been looking for.

Here are my question:

-How much more broad is a Safari with a fine nib, than with an extra fine? Could someone maybe post a photo of two lines produced (one by each nib) side by side for a comparison?

I prefer a finer line, but hear that the EF nib is somewhat scratchy, so I am just curious to see how much more fine an EF nib really is.

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Hello there FPN users, my name is James (or just Zep), and I am very seriously considering a purchase of a Lamy Safari as my first fountain pen. I have but a small concern, and I hope that you fellas would be able to answer a little question. Forgive me if this is posted in the wrong section of this forum, as I've searched for something like this, but have not found what I've been looking for.   Here are my question:   -How much more broad is a Safari with a fine nib, than with an extra fine? Could someone maybe post a photo of two lines produced (one by each nib) side by side for a comparison? I prefer a finer line, but hear that the EF nib is somewhat scratchy, so I am just curious to see how much more fine an EF nib really is.

I use Lamy's ef and think they are a little to wide of a line for me. I normally use a Pilot f. But I would have to say the Lamy XF lays down a line like a Pilot G-2 .07 gel ink.

As far as scratchy.. not really mine write smooth, and I use Noodlers Heart of Darkness and Bad Belted Kingfisher. at work I have them filled with Noodlers X-Feather and Noodlers Hellbender Red.

Your mileage may vary and over time you will fine your own likes and dislikes after hundred of hundreds of dollars spent!!!! Welcome to the addiction!

A gentleman is one who puts more into the world than he takes out.

That's a trick question. Lamy nibs (on Safaris anyways) are pretty inconsistant.

I have a couple EFs and Fs. I have a F that puts down a thinner line than one of the EFs. One of my EFs is a little scratchy but the other is really smooth.

Other than that the Safari is a great pen, if the grip doesn't bother you.

http://i922.photobucket.com/albums/ad67/peshealy/postminipo0.png

The finer a nib, the scratchier it writes. That's just the way nibs work. The amount of scratchiness varies with brand and material, but in general an F on one pen should be smoother than an EF.

Since Safari nibs are relatively cheap, easily interchangeable, and can be bought separately, you should perhaps consider buying one of each and feeling the difference yourself.

I've seen a lamy nib size comparison, but I'm having trouble finding it right now.

  Your mileage may vary and over time you will fine your own likes and dislikes after hundred of hundreds of dollars spent!!!! Welcome to the addiction!

Thank you all, you've provided me with enough information (both here, and throughout this forum), to make my decision.

I will be purchasing an EF nib, as it does write thinner (usually). As I have indeed heard, the nibs are relatively cheap to pick up, so if there is any problem I have with the EF, I'll get the F.

Thank you all!

I have a Lamy Vista with a fine nib and two Safaris with EF nibs, and the F nib is too fat for my taste. I use one of the Lamy Safaris with EF nib nearly daily while the poor Vista is relegated to the drawer.

Regards, Joey

http://flexiblenib.com

I second the opinion that the nibs aren't very consistent. I went to the store yesterday and wrote with four of them, two F and two M, and I couldn't tell any difference at all between them. And I wrote two short tester pages each too.

"If we faked going to the Moon, why did we fake it nine times?" -- Apollo 16 astronaut Charlie Duke

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4447835438_d7314170bf_o.png

So with Lamy the nibs seem to be a "hit n' miss" sort of thing then? This is what I'm gathering from here, and other sources as well.

If you want to get the Vista out, just pull the nib off and slide on one of the EFs.

That's what I was thinking, but I'm no expert, seeing as I don't even own a FP yet! :embarrassed_smile:

Swapping Lamy nibs is a piece of cake.

I've found that the lamy Xf isnt actually that fine, so the lamy fine is more like a medium on a parker or other fountain pen. It also writes very smoothly but rather wet in my opinion.

http://i.imgur.com/EZMTw.gif "Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored" -Aldous Huxley

Parker 45 F, Lamy Safari EF, Lamy 2000 F, TWSBI Diamond 530 F, Reform 1745 F, Hero 616 F, Pilot Varsity F, Pilot 78g F,

Thank you very much for that link kind sir!

Thank you all for your kind help!

(Sorry for the double post)

Pulled out my Lamy nibs and did a quick side by side for you. Added the penny for scale. As you can see the EF does not put down as much ink and I got some shading out of it. FYI the nibs just slide off the front of the pen so doing a side by side with this pen is super easy and only got a touch of ink on my fingers.   Justin  

The fine line looks to be relatively the same size, and an adequate size for me. It also seems to be laid down on that paper a bit darker, which I do like.

Lamy nibs do seem to be inconsistent to me. I just got an extra fine nib and it is obviously more broad than the fine I've been using.

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--> Hand Over That Pen

pens & perspective for all hands, great and small

Review: Lamy Safari (Dark Lilac, Medium Nib)

Hand Over That Pen, please!

Katherine : The Lamy Safari is a commonly recommended “beginner” pen. I didn’t try one until I had been using fountain pens pretty regularly for over a year — the design was never a “gotta have” for me, and I had always heard the nibs ran broad, which wasn’t what I thought I preferred. When I finally acquired a Safari (won it in a raffle at a local art supply store), I was pleasantly surprised by how well made it seemed, but quickly grew frustrated with the triangular grip. Of the common “beginner” pens, it’s the one I like least — I much prefer the TWSBI Eco and Pilot Metro, but that’s personal preference.

Pam :  The Lamy Safari’s unique design makes it a definite standout among all the fountain pens, let alone an introductory pen.  I have picked up the Lamy Safari and the Lamy Joy in the past, and they have since found happier homes.  However, picking up Katherine’s Lamy Safari brought back some great memories and reasons why I was drawn to that pen in the first place.

The oddly shaped grip didn’t initially bother me, it’s only an issue when I grip too tight and the softer corners of the grip can dig into my fingers and the soft spot between my thumb and pointer finger.  The color of the dark lilac with the black trim is quite awesome.  In general, I do prefer the shiny chrome trim. The texture of the dark lilac is also quite different given that it has a more matte finish to the “shiny” and slick Safaris.  The extra “grippier” texture does add to a good hand feel.  I haven’t had the chance to try the AL (aluminum) version of the Safari and I would be curious to see if the feel in hand would be different.

Franz : When I started using fountain pens, I noticed that there is a disparity between pen people about the Lamy Safari through my online research. This was mainly due to the triangular grip that kind of forces one how to grip the pen. But because I liked how the charcoal version of the Safari looks, (and it was on sale on Amazon) I eventually got one when I was six months into the hobby. The grip actually did not bother me and I found that my fingers just rested almost parallel to the pen. This can be seen below in the unposted In the Hand photo.

I’m loving the Dark Lilac color with the black trim and the matte finish lets me hold the pen without my fingers slipping off.

The Business End

Katherine : The Safari nib is smooth and pretty straightforward. I’ve tried a couple now and found that they have been pretty consistent. However, in general, I don’t prefer super-smooth nibs, so I find the Lamy Safari nib a little “too smooth” and would prefer something with a touch more feedback.

Pam :  I am reminded and also surprised how much I enjoyed the medium nib on Tomoe River paper/Hobonichi and Midori paper.  Maybe it’s Franz’s influence, but the broader line didn’t bother me as much as I thought it would.  Instead, I found the nib to be smooth and really easy to use.  I enjoy stiffer nibs and I do feel that the Safari’s nibs are quite stiff.  The line is always consistent and clean.  I have had some experience that the nib can be on the drier side.

Franz : I love the black nib on this Safari however, it may develop scratches and eventually the coating will peel from use as you can already see some in the photo below.

This was my first medium Safari nib and it was quite smooth with a good flow. My first Safari had a fine nib and the ink flow was a bit dry. For those who don’t know, you can actually buy separate nibs in different sizes for cheap and switch it out ofthe feed. So you can have multiple nib widths with just one pen.

Please note that the Safari is cartridge/converter filled and they include one cartridge when you buy the pen, but they do not include the Z24 converter so that would be an added expense.

Write It Up

Katherine : The Safari is, overall, a comfortable size. The triangle grip was initially a huge turn-off for me, but after forcing myself to use it for a longer writing session I found that it wasn’t nearly as annoying as I thought. I still wouldn’t actively seek out a pen with a grip like this, but it isn’t as unusable as I thought it would be. Instead I found that I wrote very consistently since my angle never changed. Overall I found it usable and comfortable — but, like Franz, I wish it was a little bit heavier.

Pam :  I found the Safari to be slightly top heavy when posted, but too light when unposted.  Like the Eco, the length was just a tad too long, especially when posted.  If the Safari was closer to the size of the Prera, or even the Pelikan M200s/M400s, it probably would have stayed in my collection.  The plastic does make the pen really light, which can lead to comfort when writing for an extended period of time.  It can also lend to feeling too insubstantial, like the Kaweco Sport. I very much enjoyed my time with the Safari and being reacquainted with the nib on paper.  I was also reminded that I didn’t enjoy the body of the pen as much as I do the nib.

Franz : The length of the Safari is adequate for my hand in either posted, or unposted modes. The width of the grip section felt nice especially since I hold it higher. I really just wish the pen was a little heavier though. For 20 minutes, I wrote with the cap posted to give a little bit more weight. It was an enjoyable journaling moment.

Katherine : The Lamy shines on this front — the snap cap makes it easy to grab and go, and the triangular grip helps you get yourself into the right position for writing quickly. If I needed to keep a fountain pen at my desk for quick notes or for people to borrow, the Lamy Safari would be a strong contender.

Pam :  Snap cap and durability of the plastic makes the Safari a great work pen.  The design is also really interesting and sure to spark a few conversations among your pen-curious co-workers.  The medium nib is dry enough to work relatively well on copy paper with minimal bleeding or feathering.

Franz : The Lamy Safari is actually a great pen to use on a daily basis for its plastic ruggedness makes it easy to just bring along even without a case. The slip cap definitely made it a quick deploy pen and the medium nib was good for the copy paper at work as well. The Dark Lilac color also was admired by a customer of mine and had me talk a little about fountain pens. Yeah!

Final Grip-ping Impressions

Katherine : The Lamy Safari just isn’t my cup of tea. The triangular grip and lightness add up to a pen that I don’t actively  dislike , but am not excited to use. Overall, I think of it as a very bland pen — it works, but doesn’t bring me joy.

Pam :  I would recommend the Lamy Safari to those who enjoy the TWSBI Eco for the size and want to enjoy the versatility of swapping out nibs.  The design is unique, the pen is relatively affordable, and a great introduction to Lamy as a brand and to fountain pens as a whole.  My only quibble, which is a personal preference was in the size and weight.  Those nibs though… definitely worth a try in any Lamy pen that will accommodate them.

Franz : Pam has listed some great reasons as to why the Lamy Safari has been recommended to fountain pen beginners, and doing these pen reviews made me appreciate this pen for what it is. The Safari is a pen that is a gateway for new users and is also great for experienced pen folk.

I like this pen a lot but it just seems a little light for me. It’s really the only negative thing for me. Granted, since I own three Safari versions at the present time, it’s not a very big negative for me. Haha!

Thank you for reading and your time.

Pen Comparisons

Pen Photos (click to enlarge)

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LAMY Safari Fountain Pen - Charcoal Black - Extra Fine Nib

• Ergonomically shaped grip section.
• Ink window in the barrel.
• Easy ink installation—simply put the cartridge inside the barrel or grip section, then screw the barrel and grip section together to automatically puncture the cartridge.
• Sturdy ABS plastic construction.
• Large, flexible metal pocket clip.
• One blue ink cartridge .
• To prevent the ink cartridge from being punctured in transit, this pen comes with a cardboard spacer ring between the barrel and grip section. The ring must be removed before using the pen.
• This pen may come with ink residue in the nib from being dip tested by LAMY at the factory. As with all new fountain pens, we recommend giving your pen a good cleaning before you use it.

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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!)

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Moscow: An Honest Review of this Amazing City

“ You’re going to Russia?!?! Why? ” I heard these words pretty much every time I announced my upcoming trip to the east.

This reaction is understandable. Most people in Europe and the United States have a Putin-provoked distaste of the Russian Federation, which is growing by the day. Politicians claim that Russia’s sole mission is to diminish and undermine western powers to strengthen its own. After all, the name Vladimir comes from two old Slavic words, which together mean “great ruler of the world.” Make of that what you will…

Even the non-political vision of Russia is unfavorable. Most think of a cold, grey, backward place with Soviet architecture or battle-hardened, weather-beaten people. However, arriving at the sleek Moscow Domodedovo airport, I was impressed. I had been right to rebut popular notions of an unwelcoming and stony place.

However, almost immediately after leaving the airport, the ground for my righteous vindication became shaky. Driving into the outskirts of Moscow, my mind drew comparisons to television images of North Korean suburbs. Miles of uniform houses and bleak tower blocks lined the roads.

At the Izmailovov Delta Hotel next to the famous market of the same name, things were not looking much better. Truly peculiar decorations and violently colored walls competed for one’s gaze in the hotel lobby. Luckily, the rooms themselves were perfectly comfortable, though not particularly noteworthy. I’d stay central next time.

After dropping bags, I ventured toward the Izmailovov market for a look at how the locals live. From a distance, the buildings that encase the market are vivid, intricate and quite something to behold. As it was late in the day, the market was empty. Shop shutters were closed and stalls were folded up. I got the same uneasy feeling I get when walking through Disney Land – as if this was what remained after the recent collapse of a utopian society.

While nearly all the vendors had packed up and gone home, a few stalls remained opened for business. All that was left was an abundance of satirical matryoshka dolls containing various countries’ political leaders in historical order.

A tattooed burly salesman came over to me as I withdrew François Mitterrand from the wooden bowels of Valéry Giscard d’Estaing.

“ Where are you from, friend? ” He asked.

Ignoring my response, he launched into a speech about his armed forces days and the political situation in Russia.

“ You really ought not to trust the government, ok? Putin is a dangerous man, you see. Someone’s always watching in this city. ”

The whiff of Glühwein that carried with each sentence made me doubt the erudition of his analysis. Then again… this is what we hear in the news. I was not sure what to believe. After thanking the man and hastily filling Charles de Gaulle with the rest of the presidents of the Fifth Republic, I made my way back to the hotel.

Emerging from the underground we rounded the corner and immediately found ourselves in Red Square. The sight demands you stop and stare.

The insurmountable walls of the Kremlin line the length of one side; halfway along lies Lenin’s tomb and opposite is the lavish exterior of the Gosudarstvennyi Universalnyi Magazin shopping center (or GUM, as it’s referred to, thank God). The architectural marvel of Saint Basil’s Cathedral stands at the south end, with the State History Museum at the other. Even though the foreboding structures radiate a rouge pastel hue into every corner of the square, there is a sense of openness. No-doubt there was a somewhat different atmosphere when thousands of Soviet soldiers goose-stepped through the square. Interestingly, the Russian army still marches like this today.

Walking around central Moscow, history oozes from every spire and pillar. Buildings seem to lean over as you walk past, as if peering down on whoever dares to enter these austere places. For every moment or event in Russian history, there is a dedicated museum.

The quality of each museum is notably high. In particular, the Armory inside the Kremlin holds astonishing collections of royal carriages from across the world and throughout the ages. The world-renowned Fabergé Eggs are displayed here too.

Having wandered around for so long during the day, we had no time to eat before attending the Ballet that evening. Sitting in the Bolshoi, the long day began to catch up with me.

It is now that I must make a confession: while attending a performance by one of the world’s greatest ballet companies, I fell asleep.

Thankfully, I woke up later in the second half and was treated to the final leaps and prances of Shostakovich’s The Bright Stream. As someone who is not a ballet aficionado, that was probably enough.

Feeling significantly perkier afterward, a late dinner was in order. Just behind the Bolshoi is VOGUE Café , a gastronomic outpost of the famous magazine. It claimed to serve an eclectic mix of Japanese, Italian and Russian dishes. Intrigued, we entered.

Adventurously, we accepted the offer of some Russian wine. Full bodied and berried, it was delicious. Our evident surprise led the waitress to explain that Russian food and drink has improved hugely over the last few years. As it turns out, since the United States and the European Union placed sanctions on Russia after their annexation of Crimea, food imports have been scarce. As a result, Russian producers have been forced to meet the demand and quality expected today. As a result, Siberian wines and cheeses now win awards around the globe.

When we left the restaurant, it was late. Only a day had passed, yet we had filled every minute with history, culture and food. The next three days followed a similar format and we continued to make our way down the list of museums and sights. A boat ride along the river is a must-do for alternative views of the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Afterwards, sit on the rooftop Strelka bar opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and watch the 3-mile-long line of pilgrims move slowly forward.

On the third day, we were due to board an overnight train to Saint Petersburg, but there was still so much left to do. Truth be told, it was probably too much for another three days, let alone one.

Nonetheless, I was satisfied. Moscow had revealed itself to be a fascinating and impressive city. While the city infrastructure isn’t as up-to-date as most capitals, the needs of every modern traveler can be met. It certainly isn’t the cold and unfriendly place envisioned by most in the west. Moscow’s winning attribute is its omnipresent sense of untouched history. This is a feature that is so often lost amongst hordes of tourists in Europe’s capitals.

It goes to show: what we hear about places we haven’t been in the news or through general hearsay, we can formulate pretty strong prejudices in our mind. While the political realities may still be ugly, by visiting, you can learn to separate and appreciate the everyday, the culture and the history of a place. On one side of a great red wall in central Moscow, a tyrannical leader works. On the other side, wholly separated, lies a magnificent Red Square where an overwhelming sense of history reveals the essence of Moscow and of Russia. And it is truly remarkable.

Russia Tourism: https://www.russiatourism.ru/en/

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Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 60 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

• Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
• Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
• Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
• Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Lower Volga Voyage

• Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
• Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
• Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

• Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
• Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

Vodka Shot - 6 days

• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
• Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

• Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
• Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

Small Group Moscow Tours

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

• Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

• Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
• Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

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Moscow reviews & ratings, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

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