ayacucho jungle travel trouser

Designed for generations

Ayacucho® outdoor clothing and equipment is designed with a focus on responsible, careful sourcing and modern-day technological advancement , giving your adventure the welcome combination of responsibility, comfort and style .

Technical outerwear, T-shirts, backpacks or sleeping pads: Ayacucho® helps young and old to venture out into the world with high-quality outfits and material that lasts for years.

Mountain Midlayer Jacket

Peniche Snap Pullover

Highland III Parka

Mountain Lightweight Astrodust

3-in-1 jacket

A technical 3-in-1 jacket is a versatile jacket in which the inner layer can be unzipped and removed. The inner and outer layers can be worn separately or together..

Quick-dry fabrics wick away perspiration quickly, which means your body temperature stays even. You’ll stay fresh, dry and comfortable in these products, whatever you do.

Breathable fabrics or membranes protect from external influences as well as ensuring that perspiration is wicked away quickly so that you do not overheat or become too cold.

Anti-mosquito

An ecological, wash-resistant treatment protects the clothing from four types of mosquitoes. The treatment is both biodegradable and non-hazardous to humans and animals alike.

UV protection

The weaving technique, fabric thickness, and materials used ensure that garments provide a UV protection factor of 50+ where indicated. Protect your body from the sun!

Water repellent

In order to make our garments water-repellent, we use a PFC-free DRW finish from Bionic Finish Eco or Teflon Eco Elite. These coatings are environmentally friendly.

Garments with a windproof membrane offer you optimal protection from cold or strong winds, which means you won’t lose any body heat during outdoor activities.

Reflective details play an important role in the darker parts of the day; you remain highly visible thanks to these reflective pieces.

Made in Europe

Garments that are produced within Europe don't need to travel as far before you can wear them. This means that their transport results in fewer CO2 emissions.

Garments made from recycled materials can be made from reprocessed PET bottles, pre- or post-consumer textile waste, or other materials from recycling programmes.

You can wear reversible garments both normal and inside out.

Down/feathers

All our down is produced in a manner that’s as animal-friendly and responsible as possible. The down in Ayacucho products never comes from live-plucked animals.

The waterproof specification is generally expressed in water column/millimetres. The higher the water column, the longer the material repels water.

As many garments as possible are made of natural materials like merino wool, hemp, and organic or Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) cotton.

The Repreve textile fabric consists of 100% recycled polyester. Used PET bottles are collected, reduced to flakes, and melted into small chips to make new yarn. More than 14 trillion bottles have been recycled in the meantime. A sustainable fabric which we use more often.

Sustainable projects

Ayacucho® supports the people of disadvantaged regions.

Committed to sustainability and positive social change, each Ayacucho® product sold provides financial funds for Solid , a private organization working to alleviate poverty through socially responsible and sustainable entrepreneurship.

“Give a man a fish and you’ll feed him for a day. Teach a man how to fish and you’ll feed him for a lifetime.”

The private foundation Solid has been focusing its activities on disadvantaged regions in Peru, Kenia and India since 2005.

By means of creating opportunities and offering training schemes, Solid encourages farmers, workmen, micro-entrepreneurs and their families to improve their destiny by their own efforts. The organization invests in socially responsible entrepreneurship to stimulate employment, in order to contribute to the sustainable development in these impoverished regions.

Ayacucho Ambassador trip

Each year, we organize an immersion trip together with retailers that sell the Ayacucho® brand, such as A.S.Adventure and Bever. One trip for employees and customers. In Peru, Kenia and India, we actively assist Solid and can see first-hand what Solid International has achieved to date.

“Seeing with your own eyes makes all the difference.”

Built to last – extended warranty

We have put lots of care and attention into designing and creating our Ayacucho collection. To ensure you can enjoy many adventures together, we are giving you an extra long warranty for items purchased from the January 1, 2024:

Extended 3 year warranty

• Clothing & accessories
• Sleeping mats

Extended 5 year warranty

• Sleeping backs
• Travel accessories

If you take properly care of your Ayacucho items, you will contribute to protecting and preserving our environment.

Please contact your retailer if you ever run into an issue with one of our items.

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Featured , Packing , Travel , Travel Tips

Jungle clothes to wear in a tropical rainforest.

Knowing what to wear in a tropical rainforest can be tricky. Do you pack your normal travel gear and hope for the best? Or is it worth investing in jungle clothes that are made for the tropics? 

In this post, I’ll share my pick of the best tropical rainforest clothing that will keep you comfortable, fashionable and stylish while jungle trekking in places like the Amazon rainforest or staying at eco-lodges in Costa Rican jungles . 

For safari gear, head over to Really Wildlife for a full packing list !

Long-sleeved tops

Long-sleeved shirts, t-shirts or tops are the first item in this list of jungle clothes for a reason! Rainforests and jungles are full of creepy crawlies and mosquitos that would love to prey on your arms. Sleeves will not only provide a protective barrier for these biting insects but also keep the sun’s rays from burning your skin.

Choose long-sleeved tops made of cotton or other lightweight and fast-drying fabrics for the most comfort. You’re bound to sweat, so this will keep you as cool as possible while still providing plenty of protection. 

Very thin button-down shirts worn over a tank top will also keep you cool, but do bear in mind that some insects can bite through thin fabric so many not protect you as much as you need.

My top picks for ladies:

• Craghoppers Nosilife Erin Long Sleeved Top – this long-sleeved top is easily one of my favourite things to wear in the jungle. As well as the odour and moisture control, the Nosilife technology keeps biting insects away.
• Craghoppers Nosilife Pro III Long Sleeved Shirt – this button-down shirt for ladies in a slim fit style protects you from burns and bugs thanks to the UV protection and insect repellant technologies built into the fabric.

My top picks for gents:

• Craghoppers Nosilife Bayame Long Sleeved Top – these long-sleeved tops from Craghoppers are lightweight and slightly stretchy to keep you cool and protected from biting insects in the jungle.
• Ayacucho Equator II Shirt – this button-down shirt from Cotswold Outdoor features anti-mosquito technology, as well as breathable, quick-drying material, perfect to wear in the rainforest.

Head to Craghoppers.com to view their full range of jungle clothes

Light sweaters or cardigans

It may sound crazy to include warm items like sweaters in a list of jungle trekking clothes, but it can actually get cold in the jungle, especially at high altitudes. The cloud forests in Costa Rica are a great example of this, as I could happily wear four layers to maintain a comfortable temperature. 

Even if you travel to more equatorial places where the humidity and heat can be unbearable, taking thin hoodies or sweaters that you can layer up is a really good idea. Wearing a light sweater or cardigan over a tank top in the evenings after a cold shower will keep your arms and shoulders protected from biting insects too. 

• Craghoppers Nilo Hooded Top – this handy hooded top is the perfect way to cover up in the evening. The insect-repellant technology protects against biting insects too.
• Craghoppers Sydney Crew – this stylish crew top is soft and stretchy, but cool enough for the hot rainforest climate thanks to the moisture-wicking properties. 
• Craghoppers Nosilife Tilpa Hooded Jacket – this hoodie is lightweight enough to keep you cool in the most tropical climates, whilst also reducing the likelihood of being bitten by insects.
• Nosilife Alba Jacket – this lightweight zip-through jacket features moisture control and insect-repellent technology to make it perfect for covering up on cooler evenings in hot weather climates.

Raincoats are an absolute must in the rainforest. It’s in the name after all! Though it sounds obvious, make sure you buy a waterproof jacket. Some coats are described as showerproof, which means water may still seep in through the seams, leaving you a little soggy. It’s also best to find a lightweight, breathable raincoat that will keep you cool during a humid downpour, and then easily stuff into your backpack once it’s over. 

It may be tempting to choose a raincoat with a funky pattern or bright colours, but insects are attracted to these colours so it may not be a good idea. Muted colours like greens and beiges are best.

• Craghoppers Toscana Jacket – this breathable, lightweight and completely waterproof jacket from Craghoppers features a large hood to keep you really dry!
• Regatta Pack It Jacket – this raincoat for women is perfect to wear in the jungle, thanks to its breathable, waterproof material that packs down small after the heaviest downpour. 
• Craghoppers Notus Jacket – this lightweight jacket is made of waterproof material, designed to pack small when you don’t need it.
• Regatta Pack It Jacket – this super lightweight rain jacket is totally waterproof, perfect for both light showers and heavy downpours. It comes with a small stuff sack so you can keep it handy at all times. 

Long trousers/pants

For the same reason that long-sleeved tops are must-have clothes to wear in the rainforest, long trousers or pants will protect your legs from insect bites as well as creepy crawlies on the ground. Cropped trousers or shorts are pretty pointless, as it really is best to protect your whole leg. 

Choose lightweight materials that keep your legs cool, dry quickly and wick away sweat. Loose-fitting is best, as anything too tight like leggings will make you too hot. If you’re worried about insects climbing inside of your trousers, you can always tuck them into your socks. 

• Craghoppers Clara II Trousers – I love my Clara trousers! The ever so slight bootcut style is much more flattering than traditional walking trousers, and these have the added benefit of being really cool and insect-repellant. 
• Craghoppers Nosilife Pro II Trousers – these straight leg travel trousers are just what you need for the rainforest. They’re lightweight, feature moisture control and insect repellent properties for protection in all climates. 
• Nosilife Branco Trousers – The Nosilife technology in these comfortable walking trousers will keep your legs protected from the jungle critters, while the light material also controls moisture.
• Ayacucho Camps Bay Trousers – these trousers are made from natural Tencel fibres, making them a really sustainable choice without compromising on quality. They’re lightweight, moisture-regulating and antibacterial to control odours too. 

For the full run-down of Craghoppers’ range of insect repellent clothing, Nosilife, read my full review !

Waterproof Trousers (Optional)

We had heard that waterproof trousers would be useful, but in reality, we found our trousers didn’t get that wet, even in the heaviest of downpours. That said, if you still feel the need to take waterproof trousers, you will probably get away with a single pair.

• Craghoppers Kiwi Pro Waterproof Trousers – these waterproof trousers buck the trend of frumpy, ugly styles to give a flattering silhouette that doesn’t compromise on quality. 
• Craghoppers Kiwi Pro Waterproof Trousers – these reliable trousers are made from waterproof but slightly stretchy fabric to offer comfort when moving. 

Visit Cotswold Outdoor to see their full range of outdoor clothing

Hiking Boots

A trip to the rainforest or jungle will usually involve long walks and hikes along uneven terrain. It’s therefore important to pack a pair of sturdy hiking boots that are comfortable and will support your feet. 

Make sure you buy a pair well in advance of your trip, giving you time to wear them in. After all, the last thing you want is a set of painful blisters the first time you wear them in the jungle! It’s still a good idea to take blister plasters with you to keep you comfortable.

• Salado Mid Boot – these boots from Craghoppers are worth their weight in gold. With Nosilife technology and a crawl guard to fight against insects, they’re really comfortable too.
• Keen Targhee III Waterproof Shoes – these walking shoes are perfect for all terrains and climates thanks to the waterproof exterior and breathable mesh lining. 
• Salado Mid Boot – these hiking boots are both waterproof and comfortable, with an aqua dry membrane and moulded footbed. The Nosilife technology keeps insects away too.
• Merrells Moab 2 Ventilator Shoes – these breathable hiking shoes from Merrells are really comfortable and breathable, whilst still providing sturdiness and support to protect your feet on tracks and trails. 

Comfortable Shoes

When you aren’t trekking through a jungle or hiking through the rainforest, it’s good to have a pair of comfortable shoes to give your feet a rest from stiff hiking boots. When you’re travelling, going for dinner at your hotel or visiting tourist attractions outside of the jungle, they will come in incredibly handy. 

• Allbirds Mizzles – These weather repellent shoes are super comfortable and feature a water-resistant coating called Puddle Guard to keep your feet dry in wet weather. With a Merino wool insole, your feet can get quite warm though in the rainforest! Read my full review of Mizzles here !
• Allbirds Tree Runners – Allbirds’ signature sneakers are ideal for everyday use. Widely hailed as the most comfortable shoes in the world, the tree fibres in the material will keep your feet cool and breezy in even the hottest climates.
• Allbirds Tree Skippers – These lightweight shoes are my favourite of the Allbirds range. Made from Eucalyptus tree fibres, they’re comfy, breathable and stylish too. Read my full review here !
• Allbirds Mizzles – Mizzles were made for wet weather, making them ideal for wearing in a downpour in the rainforest. Though your feet may get a little sweaty thanks to the wool insides, it’s a small price to pay for comfort! Read my full review of Mizzles here !
• Allbirds Tree Runners – These light and breezy sneakers are made with Eucalyptus tree fibres and recycled plastic bottles, making them sustainable and a great investment. Better yet, they’re incredibly comfortable and the perfect travel shoes.
• Allbirds Tree Skippers – Skippers are perfect for warm, humid weather. They are light enough to throw in a backpack or day bag when you need a break from hiking boots, and super comfortable too. Read my full review here !

For my honest review of Allbirds shoes, have a read of my Allbirds Mizzles review or my Allbirds Tree Skippers review next!

Socks are essential clothes for trekking in the jungle, and while it is possible to wear normal socks, it’s best to pick up a few pairs that are made especially for hiking. This will mean that they’re long enough for your trousers to tuck into, to protect your legs from climbing insects and leeches. Your ankles are one of the most common areas for insect bites, so do be prepared to cover them up.

Look out for socks made from merino wool or a vegan alternative to provide a comfortable barrier between your feet and stiff shoes. These materials are also great at regulating temperature so your feet won’t get too sweaty. 

• Craghoppers Nosilife Socks – this twin pack of Nosilife socks are comfortable enough to wear in hiking boots, but have the added benefit of Craghoppers’ insect-repellent technology built into the fibres
• Craghoppers Heat Regulating Travel Socks – these socks are designed to keep your feet cool in all conditions, and with a padded heel, toe and sole they provide extra comfort too
• Craghoppers Nosilife Socks – these travel socks incorporate insect-repellent technology to keep mosquitoes at bay, whilst keeping your feet comfortable and protected.
• Craghoppers Heat Regulating Travel Socks – these socks regulate foot temperature, keeping you cool and comfortable when jungle trekking.

Make sure to pack a light cotton long-sleeved top and bottoms to wear in bed at night. After all, mosquitoes are most active at night! Despite the heat, you’ll still be comfortable in pyjamas if they’re designed to keep you cool, whilst protecting you from biting insects. 

• Craghoppers Kayla Long Sleeved Top – this super lightweight long-sleeved top is a great option to wear at night. It wicks away moisture to keep you cool and protects against insects too.
• Craghoppers Carmen Joggers – not strictly pyjamas bottoms, but these joggers from Craghoppers kept me comfy and protected in bed, even in the most tropical conditions of Costa Rica.
• Craghoppers Nosilife Bayame II Long Sleeved Top – another long-sleeved top from Craghoppers, this one will keep you cool and protected from biting insects at night.
• North Face Surgent Pants – these cuffed pants are comfortable enough to wear in bed in the higher altitude areas of the cloud forest. 

Light Scarf

A large light scarf will have many uses while jungle trekking. As well as protecting your neck from the sun and mosquitoes during the day, you can also unfold the scarf to cover your shoulders, wear as a sarong or use as a blanket when travelling or in buildings with super-strong air conditioning.

My top picks:

• Nosilife Florie Scarf – this super lightweight scarf from Craghoppers features their famous insect-repellent and moisture control technologies – perfect for tropical climates!
• Nosilife Tube Scarf – while this scarf can’t be unravelled to form a blanket or sarong, it will certainly protect your neck from biting insects whilst wicking moisture away, keeping you cool.

Sun hats are essential clothes for the rainforest. One with a wide brim will protect your eyes and head from the sun, while a waterproof baseball cap will do this and more. If your raincoat doesn’t have a hood, or you simply don’t want to wear it up all the time, a cap will keep the water out of your face during rainstorms. 

• Nosilife Ultimate Hat – with a full face mesh to keep the insects away, and a wide brim to protect your face from the sun, this isn’t called the ultimate hat for nothing! 
• Nosilife Pria Hat – for a sun hat that offers insect protection without the face mesh, try this one from Craghoppers. The moisture-wicking fabric will keep you cool in the hottest temperatures.
• Ayacucho Quint Anti Mosquito Hat – this baseball cap is made from lightweight supplex material that dries really quickly, and protects from mosquitos!

Accessories

Now we’ve covered the best tropical rainforest clothing, let’s look at other essential accessories to pack in your luggage. 

A day pack is an essential piece of rainforest kit to store all of your valuables in while jungle trekking. In a day pack, you can store your sunscreen, sunglasses, camera equipment, water bottle, insect repellent – basically everything you’ll need for a day in the jungle! 

Opt for a waterproof backpack to keep your valuables dry and protected from the rain and humidity. 

• Kiwi Pro Rucksack – this 15L rucksack is perfect for a long day in the rainforest, thanks to its water-resistant material, multiple pockets and a hydration system to keep you hydrated on the go.
• Osprey Daylite Travel Rucksack – this lightweight day pack has plenty of space to fit everything you’ll need for the day, though you’ll need to buy a rain cover if you need it to be waterproof. 
• For larger luggage, check out Really Wildlife’s review of safari bags , as the advice can absolutely apply to rainforests too!

Mosquito Repellent 

Even with long sleeves and trousers, it’s best to wear insect repellent on exposed skin. Those critters will always find somewhere to bite if you don’t!

There are lots of different mosquito and insect repellent products available, but it’s widely said that those containing DEET are most effective in tropical areas. However, some research suggests that DEET can be harmful to those with sensitive skin, so it’s best to do our own research first. 

• Repel Plant-Based Insect Repellent – this DEET-free insect repellent has a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent and can repel mosquitos for up to 6 hours. The formula isn’t greasy or sticky, so the only reason you’ll know you’re wearing it is the lack of bites!
• Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil – this famous bath oil wasn’t designed to be a mosquito repellent, but huge numbers of people across the world swear by it! It has a lovely fresh smell and though it doesn’t last as long as other dedicated repellents, it’s worth it for the benefits it gives your skin. 

Insect Bite Remedies

No matter how much you prepare, a couple of insect bites are inevitable. With that in mind, it’s best to pack a few bite remedies to help alleviate any itchiness and swelling. 

• Dr Pawpaw Soothing Balm – I swear by my Dr Pawpaw when I have bites. It’s a multi-purpose soothing balm made with real pawpaw extracts and can be used to relieve sunburn as well as stop itching. Even better? It’s cruelty-free and vegan too!
• After Bite – this insect bite treatment provides instant itch-free relief from bites. It can sting a bit when you apply it, but it’s worth it to stop the itch.

Reusable Water Bottle

With the humidity and heat in tropical rainforests, it’s critical to stay hydrated while you’re out and about. Avoid buying bottled water to reduce your plastic consumption, as most eco-friendly lodges should provide free filtered water on tap for you to fill up your reusable bottle with.

There are plenty of water bottles available, but try one with a specially designed filter to make sure you have access to clean water no matter where you are. This means you can fill up from the tap or any source of freshwater (not salty!) and drink it safely. 

• Water-to-go bottle – the replaceable filters used in Water to go bottles mean you can have safe drinking water wherever you travel. It removes 99.99% of all microbiological contaminants from any non-saltwater source. Use the code WBT15 for 15% off! 

Read my review of Water To Go’s filter bottles to find out if it’s right for you.

So there we have it! Packing jungle wear clothing for your next trip will be a breeze with this list of essential items and outfits. 

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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• Gorky Central Park of Culture and Recreation, Moscow
• Guide to Russia

What is the history of Gorky Park?

• In the pre-revolutionary period, Gorky Park was a city dump and wasteland, which was cleared in 1923 to host the All-Russian Agricultural and Artisan Industrial Exhibition
• In 1928, a huge park was planned on the former site of the exhibition. It would not just be a place of leisure, but a place to proudly display Soviet culture and daily life
• Gorky Park has remained a cultural hub ever since, and has been renovated and added to over the years to make it one of Moscow’s top attractions today

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Recreation

Gorky Park is the most famous park of Moscow, created during the Soviet period as a hub for relaxation and cultural activities. The park is beloved by Muscovites and tourists alike, who visit in all seasons to stroll, enjoy sports, admire the park’s attractions, and attend cultural events. Gorky Park is the central part of an ensemble of four green spaces – Muzeon Park of Arts, Neskuchny Garden, and Sparrow Hills Nature Reserve – which curve around the southern bank of the Moskva River to the south-west of Moscow city centre. Here you may spend some time and enjoy nature and contemprary art during your vacation in Moscow .

History of Gorky Park

Imperial russia.

In the 17th century, the eastern bank of the Moskva River beyond Moscow’s city limits was home to floodplain meadows, where palace horses grazed. From the mid-1850s, events such as cockfights, fistfights, and races were held here, and by the 20th century this area had become a city dump where the unemployed and homeless people of Moscow lived, which remained this way until the Soviet period. This wasteland lay in stark contrast to the adjoining Neskuchny Sad – ‘merry garden’ – which lay to its south, an area of aristocratic country estates and elaborate gardens.

Soviet Russia

Photo from  https://parkseason.ru/

Following the October Revolution, Vladimir Lenin travelled around Moscow to find a suitable site for the first All-Russian Agricultural and Artisan Industrial Exhibition, which would reveal opportunities for socialist development of agriculture and industry. Lenin decided on the wasteland alongside the Moskva River, which was cleared with a programme of community work. In 1923, the exhibition began. It encompassed 250 pavilions dedicated to different themes of agriculture and industry, and was divided into thematic zones, such as villages, livestock, crops, engineering, railways, republics of the USSR, and foreign countries. The organisation of the exhibition demarcated the future layout and size of Gorky Park, and the paths, ‘zones’, and main square of the exhibition have been preserved until the present day. In March 1928, Moscow City Council decided to establish a park of culture and recreation on the site of the former exhibition, which would also encompass the Neskuchny Garden. Moscow’s residents were instrumental in the construction of the park – they voiced their desires for events spaces, physical education and leisure facilities, and gave up their weekends to build the park. The park’s main architect was Konstantin Melnikov.

Did you know? Konstantin Melnikov also helped to construct Lenin’s Mausoleum and the Rusakov Worker’s Club, one of Moscow’s Constructivist masterpieces .

Over 100,000 Muscovites flocked to the opening of the park on 12th August 1928. The brand-new park was equipped with two theatres, a cinema, nursery, reading room, restaurant and café, music stages, sports arenas, rowing boats, and even a giant helter-skelter slide. Unfortunately, because of the vast size of the crowd and the general excitement, the park was damaged and closed until September.

Did you know? The park was not named after Maxim Gorky, writer and founder of Socialist Realism, until 1933.

In 1929, Betty Glan – at the mere age of 26 – became director of the park. She decided to reconceptualise it, uniting leisure, design, and ideology with the help of Moscow’s most eminent architects, designers and artists. Over the next decade, more cultural venues were established in the park, the Pushkinskaya Embankment along the Moskva River was developed, and the landscaping of the park was carefully cultivated. Architect Alexander Vlasov was particularly influential, and won the Grand Prix at the 1937 World Exhibition in Paris for his design of Gorky Park. This period under Glan’s directorship until 1937 was known as the ‘golden age’ of Gorky Park, which became not just a place for recreation, but a public space where Soviet culture and everyday life could be proudly displayed.

Did you know? During the Second World War topical events were held in Gorky Park, such as the championship in bayonet combat, grenade-throwing competitions, and air defence training. What’s more, an exhibition of captured enemy weapons – tanks, artillery, aeroplanes, and more – was organised in Gorky Park and continually updated throughout the war.

In the post-war decades new attractions were continually added to Gorky Park. These included the majestic 24-metre triumphal arch at the entrance to the park, an astronomical observatory (which remains open today), the famous Ferris wheel (unfortunately dismantled in 2008), and a fountain with lights and music.

Russia today

Photo from  https://countryscanner.ru/

The Gorky Park ensemble continued to flourish as a centre of culture and recreation in post-Soviet Russia. The adjoining Muzeon Park of Arts was founded in 1992, and Garage Museum of Contemporary Art was established in Gorky Park in 2008. The ensemble underwent serious reconstruction in 2011. Many new sports facilities were added, including centres for beach sports and extreme sports, bicycle paths and sports equipment rental hubs, and much effort was devoted to reviving original buildings, sculptures, and landscape compositions. Two years later, the embankment of the Moskva River from the southern tip of Zamoskvorechye Island all the way to Sparrow Hills was redeveloped and pedestrianised, making it possible to peacefully walk or cycle along the Moskva for many kilometres.

What can you do at Gorky Park today?

• Explore the park and see architectural attractions, fountains, and beautiful gardens
• Visit Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and the Gorky Park Museum
• Go boating on the lakes and stroll down the Pushkinskaya Embankment
• Rent bicycles or scooters, skateboard, and visit the sports centres

What can you do at Gorky Park?

Park attractions.

While exploring the treelined paths of Gorky Park, you’ll come across a number of attractions. To the west of the main entrance, near the river, is a beautiful geometric bandstand used for music and literary evenings in the Soviet period. As you head down the central alley of Gorky Park from the main entrance, you’ll see a statue of Maxim Gorky on your right, and discover the light and music fountain with its dancing jets of water – find the schedule of its performances here .

Did you know? Don’t be afraid to feed the red squirrels and birds you encounter on your walk around Gorky Park – there are even vending machines which sell special food for the animals!

The southern section of Gorky Park is occupied by the Golitsynsky Garden. In 1802, the Golitsyn Hospital was founded here as a hospital for the poor; it still adjoins Gorky Park today. Gardens were created as a relaxation place for patients, extending from the hospital building to the riverbank, and included landscaped gardens, a Chinese Bridge, and two ponds. On the riverbank is the Rotunda of the Golitsyn Hospital, which has been preserved since the 19th century. There is also a rose garden and fountain by the Bolshoi Golitsynsky Pond.

Did you know? In the Golitsynsky Garden is also located an unusual architectural monument – a public toilet designed by Alexander Vlasov in the 1930s, which is recognised as an ‘object of cultural heritage’!

Outdoor activities

Gorky Park’s extensive and varied grounds aren’t only good for walks! You can relax on the water by renting boats to sail on the Pionersky and Bolshoi Golitsynsky Ponds, or visiting the Olivkovy Beach on the Pushkinskaya Embankment to sunbathe. As well as this, you can hire bicycles, electric scooters, longboards or even roller skates to explore the park and embankments, play table tennis, visit the sports complex to play football, basketball, handball, badminton or volleyball, or visit the Vans skatepark or Nike sports centre for workouts and classes such as rooftop yoga.

Gorky Park Museum

Photo from  http://themedium.ru/

Visit the Gorky Park Museum, located in the left pier of the entrance arch. The current exhibition is dedicated to Gorky Park in the ‘golden age’ of the 1930s, and shows the development of Moscow’s central park through the eyes of Betty Glan. There is an observation deck on top of the arch, which offers a lovely view over the park and Moscow’s skyline.

Did you know? In the entrance arch there is also a gift shop where you can purchase balls, frisbees, blankets, and other items to enjoy your visit to Gorky Park.

Garage Museum of Contemporary Art

Photo from  https://muzeolog.com/

In Gorky Park you will find Garage Museum, Russia’s first philanthropic institution dedicated to contemporary art, founded in 2008 by Roman Abramovich and Dasha Zhukova. 10 major exhibitions are hosted each year to showcase the work of established and up-and-coming artists. Also organised are a rich programme of events including curator-led excursions, workshops, masterclasses, lectures, concerts, performances, festivals, and film screenings at Garage’s outdoor cinema. Read our article about Garage Museum of Contemporary Art to learn more.

Food and drink

There are plenty of excellent cafes and restaurants dotted around Gorky Park, where you can stop for a quick coffee or enjoy a long meal with a view. They include the stylish lakeside café Ostrovok (Little Island) and upmarket restaurant Vremena Goda (Seasons) which serve European and Russian food, colourful lakeside Thai restaurant Lebedinoe Ozero (Swan Lake), trattoria Merkato with its huge summer terrace, restaurant Syrovarnya (Cheese Factory) with a menu focused on its homemade cheese, food-truck court Restoparking which is stylised as a drive-in café, and ice-cream and tea shop Chaynaya Vysota.

What’s nearby?

Gorky Park is bordered by Muzeon Park of Arts, Neskuchny Garden, and Sparrow Hills Nature Reserve. This huge ensemble curves for eight kilometres along the bank of the Moskva River, providing a beautiful oasis of green in Europe’s biggest city.

Muzeon Park of Arts

Photo from  https://new-magazine.ru/

Muzeon Park of Arts is the largest open-air sculpture museum in Russia, home to 1,000 sculptures by Soviet and Russian sculptors, including those by famous artists. A large part of Muzeon is occupied by the New Tretyakov Gallery , which houses Russia’s most complete exhibition of national art from the 20th century to the present day. The pedestrianised Krymskaya Embankment which extends alongside Muzeon has recently undergone redevelopment, and is one of Moscow’s most popular spots to relax.

Neskuchny Garden

Neskuchny Garden is the oldest park in Moscow, founded in 1728 by Prince Nikita Trubetskoy, who threw fantastic festivities in his manor house and gardens – neskuchny means ‘merry’ in Russian. Many other noble families also built their country estates in this area, which became a public park and garden after being acquired by the royal family. Today, the Neskuchny Garden is home to historical buildings, fountains, and gardens from the 18th and 19th centuries, sports facilities, an open-air theatre, and a huge greenhouse which supplies flowers to Gorky Park.

Sparrow Hills

Sparrow Hills Nature Reserve is a huge forest park lining the steep bank of the Moskva River and the only specially protected nature area near the city centre. It is home to ecological trails, ponds, natural springs, rare species of plants and animals, many spots for picnicking, cafes, and a mini zoo. At the bottom of the park lie the Vorobyovskaya and Andreevskaya Embankments, with promenades along the Moskva River, a beach, and piers offering boat trips. As with Gorky Park, Sparrow Hills is hugely popular for sports and outdoor activities in all seasons. A new winter sports complex with snowboarding, ice skating, and ski tracks and jumps is currently under construction. When the weather is pleasant, you can rent a bicycle to ride the 8 kilometres along the river from Muzeon to Sparrow Hills.

Essential information for visitors Address and contact details Gorky Park, Krymsky Val, 9, Moscow, 119049 Website:  https://park-gorkogo.com/ Email:  [email protected] Telephone: +7 (495) 995-00-20 Nearest metro: Oktyabrskaya (570m), Park Kultury (860m) Opening hours and tickets

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