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Body Lock Basics: A Comprehensive Guide for Grapplers in MMA

The body lock, also known as a bear hug, is a grappling technique used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) to control and immobilise an opponent. 

There are different variations of the body lock, including over-under and double underhooks, which provide different angles of control and opportunities for takedowns or submission attempts.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the body lock, from the basics of how to execute it to advanced applications in both BJJ and MMA. You’ll learn how the body lock can help you control your opponent, set up takedowns, defend against takedowns, and maintain dominant positions. Plus, we’ll give you some fun partner and solo drills to practise your body lock skills. So, get ready to lock it up and level up your grappling game with the body lock!

Importance of the Body Lock in BJJ and MMA

The body lock is an important technique in both BJJ and MMA for several reasons:

• Control : The body lock allows the person applying it to control their opponent’s movement and restrict their mobility. This makes it easier to take the fight to the ground, manoeuvre for a submission, or maintain control during a clinch.
• Takedowns : The body lock can be used to set up takedowns, particularly the double-leg takedown, which is a common technique in both BJJ and MMA. You can take your opponent off balance and bring them to the ground by wrapping your arms around their torsos and lifting them.
• Defence : The body lock can also be used as a defensive technique, particularly in MMA where opponents may try to take you down. A body lock prevents your opponent from getting close enough to take you down or forces them to expend energy to escape.
• Positioning : The body lock is often used to control an opponent from the back or side position, which can provide opportunities for submission attempts. It can also be used to maintain a dominant position, such as in the mount or side control.

Type of Body Lock

There are different types of body locks that can be used in BJJ and MMA. The most common types include:

• Double Underhooks : This body lock involves wrapping both arms under your opponent’s arms and around their torso, with your hands clasped together behind their back. The double underhooks provide a high degree of control over your opponent’s upper body and can be used to set up takedowns, control the back, or defend against takedowns.

• Over-Under : This body lock involves having one arm over your opponent’s arm and the other arm under their arm, with your hands clasped together behind their back. The over-under body lock provides control over your opponent’s upper body and can be used to set up takedowns, control the back, or defend against takedowns.

• Body Triangle : This body lock involves wrapping both legs around your opponent’s torso, locking your ankles together, and squeezing tight. The body triangle is commonly used from the back position in BJJ to control your opponent’s movement and set up a rear-naked choke.

• Gable Grip : This body lock involves clasping your hands together around your opponent’s torso, with your elbows close to your body. The gable grip can be used to control your opponent’s movement in the clinch and set up takedowns.

Each type of body lock provides a different angle of control and can be used in different situations depending on your goals and the position you are in.

Importance of Grip and Position in Body Lock

When it comes to executing the body lock effectively in BJJ and MMA, grip and position are two critical factors to consider. Here’s why:

• Grip : The way you grip your opponent’s body can greatly affect your ability to control them. For example, the double underhooks and over-under body locks both require you to clasp your hands together behind your opponent’s back. If your grip is too loose, your opponent may be able to break free, but if your grip is too tight, you may tire yourself out quickly. Therefore, finding the right balance in your grip is essential for maintaining control while conserving your energy.
• Position : Your position relative to your opponent also plays a key role in executing the body lock effectively. For example, in the double underhooks body lock, it’s important to get close to your opponent and get your head underneath theirs to maintain leverage. In the over-under body lock, it’s important to control your opponent’s arm that’s over your shoulder to prevent them from breaking your grip. Therefore, being mindful of your position and making adjustments as necessary can help you maintain control and execute the body lock more effectively.

Ultimately, the grip and position you choose will depend on your goals and the situation you find yourself in during a match.

How to Execute a Body Lock

If you’re new to BJJ or MMA, executing a body lock may seem intimidating at first. However, with practice and patience, you can master this essential grappling technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to execute a body lock effectively:

• Get close to your opponent : To execute a body lock, you need to be close to your opponent. This may involve stepping into the clinch or closing the distance after a takedown attempt. Whatever the case may be, make sure you’re close enough to wrap your arms around your opponent’s body.
• Choose your grip : Depending on the situation and your preference, you may choose to use a double underhooks, over-under, body triangle, or gable grip. Choose the grip that feels most comfortable and secure for you.
• Secure your grip : Once you’ve chosen your grip, secure it firmly around your opponent’s body. If you’re using the double underhooks or over-under, clasp your hands together behind your opponent’s back. If you’re using the body triangle, wrap your legs around your opponent’s torso and lock your ankles together. If you’re using the gable grip, clasp your hands together in front of your opponent’s body.
• Position yourself : Depending on the grip you’ve chosen, you may need to adjust your position relative to your opponent. For example, if you’re using the double underhooks, you’ll want to get your head underneath your opponent’s to maintain leverage. If you’re using the over-under, you’ll want to control your opponent’s arm that’s over your shoulder.
• Control your opponent’s movement : Once you have the body lock secured and your position adjusted, use your grip and body position to control your opponent’s movement. This may involve lifting them off balance, moving them in a certain direction, or preventing them from moving altogether.
• Execute your next move:  Depending on your goals and the situation, you may choose to use the body lock to set up a takedown, control the back, or defend against a takedown attempt. Whatever your next move is, make sure you execute it with confidence and precision.

Applying the Body Lock in BJJ

The body lock is a versatile grappling technique that can be used in a variety of situations in BJJ. Here are some ways to apply the body lock effectively:

• Using the body lock in takedowns : The body lock is a powerful takedown technique that allows you to control your opponent’s body and take them down to the ground. To execute the body lock takedown, get close to your opponent and secure the double underhooks grip around their body. Using your leverage, lift them off the ground and take them to the mat.
• Applying the body lock from the back : The body lock can also be used from the back position to control your opponent and set up submissions. To apply the body lock from the back, get your hooks in and wrap your arms around your opponent’s torso to secure the grip. Utilize your leverage to control their movement and look for chokes or armlocks to attack.
• Using the body lock in guard passing : The body lock can be a useful tool when passing the guard and transitioning to a dominant position. To use the body lock in guard passing, get close to your opponent and secure the over-under grip around their body. As soon as you pass their guard, use your leverage to control their movement and establish side control or mount.
• Escaping from the body lock : If your opponent has you in a body lock, it’s important to know how to escape and regain control of the match. To escape from the body lock, focus on breaking your opponent’s grip and creating space between your bodies.

Applying the Body Lock in MMA

• Using the body lock to take the fight to the ground : To execute the body lock takedown in MMA, you need to wrap your arms around your opponent’s waist from behind, interlocking your hands in front of their belly button, and lifting them off the ground. This move can be used to set up a variety of submissions or to gain a dominant position on the ground.
• Applying the body lock in the clinch:  The body lock is also a useful technique in the clinch, which is the close-range standing grappling position that often occurs in MMA fights. In the clinch, you can use the body lock to control your opponent’s movement, limit their striking opportunities, and tire them out. Once you have secured the body lock, you can transition to other grappling techniques , such as a trip or a takedown, or use strikes to the body or head.
• Using the body lock to control and tire out your opponent : In addition to taking your opponent to the ground or applying it in the clinch, you can use the body lock to control and tire out your opponent. By maintaining the body lock position, you can wear down your opponent’s energy, make it difficult for them to breathe, and limit their ability to strike. This can be a useful strategy in longer fights or against opponents with superior striking skills.
• Defending against the body lock in MMA:  To defend against the body lock in MMA, you should try to prevent your opponent from getting close enough to secure the position. If they do manage to get the body lock, you can try to break their grip or create space by pushing or pulling away. You can also use footwork and movement to avoid being trapped in the body lock position, or use your own grappling techniques to counter your opponent’s attack. Regular training and sparring can help you develop the skills and reflexes needed to defend against the body lock in a fight.

Training and Drilling Body Lock Techniques

Drilling body lock techniques is important for several reasons:

• Muscle memory : The more you practise body lock techniques, the more your body will become familiar with the movements and positions involved. This will help you to react more quickly and instinctively in a real fight situation.
• Technique improvement : Drilling body lock techniques allows you to refine your technique and improve your form. This can help you to execute the technique more efficiently and effectively, making it more difficult for your opponent to escape.
• Conditioning : Body lock techniques require a lot of strength and endurance, particularly in the core and legs. Drilling these techniques can help you to build the necessary strength and endurance to execute them effectively, and to maintain control over your opponent for longer periods of time.
• Confidence : The more you drill body lock techniques, the more confident you will feel in your ability to execute them in a real fight. This can help to reduce anxiety and improve your overall performance.

Partner Drills for Body Lock Training

Partner drills are an effective way to practise body lock techniques in MMA. Here are a few drills that can help you improve your body lock:

• Body lock takedowns : Start with your partner in a standing position. Move in and clinch your partner with a body lock. From here, use your legs and hips to lift your partner off the ground and take them down to the mat. Practise this drill from both sides.
• Body lock defence : Have your partner attempt to clinch you with a body lock. Use your arms and legs to defend against the body lock and prevent your partner from getting a secure hold on you. This drill will help you develop effective defence against the body lock.
• Body lock transitions : Start with your partner in a standing position. Clinch with a body lock and take your partner down to the mat. From here, transition into another grappling position, such as mount or side control. Practice transitioning from the body lock to different positions.
• Body lock escapes : Have your partner get a secure body lock on you. Practice escaping from the body lock by using techniques such as pummeling, shrimping, and hip escapes. This drill will help you develop effective escape techniques.
• Body lock submissions : Once you have secured a body lock on your partner, practice transitioning into submission holds, such as the rear naked choke or the guillotine. This drill will help you develop your submission skills from the body lock position.

By practising these partner drills regularly, you can improve your body lock techniques, develop effective defence and escape strategies, and increase your overall grappling skills in MMA.

Solo Drills for Body Lock Training

Solo drills can be an effective way to supplement partner drills when training body lock techniques in MMA. Here are a few solo drills that can help you improve your body lock:

• Shadow grappling : Stand in front of a mirror or imaginary opponent and practise the movements involved in the body lock, such as stepping in and wrapping your arms around your opponent’s torso. This drill will help you improve your form and develop muscle memory.
• Resistance training : Use resistance bands or a heavy bag to practise the movements involved in the body lock. Wrap the resistance band around a heavy object or attach it to a wall, then practise stepping in and executing the body lock. This drill will help you develop strength and endurance.
• Footwork drills : Practise footwork drills such as shuffling, pivoting, and circling around an imaginary opponent. This will help you improve your footwork and positioning, which are essential for executing the body lock effectively.
• Core strengthening exercises:  The body lock requires a lot of strength in the core muscles. Practice exercises such as planks, sit-ups, and Russian twists to strengthen your core and improve your body lock.
• Hip movement drills : The body lock also requires a lot of hip movement. Practice exercises such as hip thrusts, hip bridges, and fire hydrants to improve your hip mobility and develop the necessary strength for executing the body lock.

As MMA continues to evolve, it’s likely that the body lock will remain a fundamental technique for both offence and defence.

We hope this article has helped you understand the importance of body lock techniques in MMA and how to train them effectively. Remember to always practise safety and take a gradual approach when incorporating new techniques into your training. With consistent practice and dedication, you can improve your body lock skills and become a more well-rounded fighter in MMA. Best of luck in your training!

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• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Everything You Need To Know About The Body Lock In BJJ And MMA

In combat, one of the best ways to control an opponent is to control their upper body. Upper body control is an easy and straightforward way to break their posture in the stand-up portion and pass their legs on the ground. It is a complex task to control the opponent’s upper body as you have to get through a line of defenses such as their hands and hips. 

But once you successfully control the opponent’s upper body, passing the guard becomes very hard to stop. In this article, we will talk about the application of the body lock in BJJ and MMA .

The Body Lock

The body lock can be separated into two applications – in the stand-up and on the ground. Typically in the stand-up, the ideal body lock is used to control the opponent’s upper body by trapping their torso using your arms via underhooks . This is no easy feat as the opponent will surely use their arms to defend themselves. The body lock can still be applied while trapping one (over-under) or both the opponent’s arms (double over), limiting their ability to move. A successfully applied body lock can be used to go behind the opponent, set up different takedowns , or strikes in MMA.

On the ground, the body lock is also used to control the opponent’s torso by wrapping your arms around their waist as you pass their guard and move to side control or mount . The body lock is typically used against the butterfly guard as it neutralizes the hooks by limiting the use of the opponent’s legs.

Applying An Over Under Body Lock

In the stand-up, it can be difficult to get good body lock control from the over-under position. In an over-under, where you and the opponent are in the same position, the opponent’s upper body is strong and upright. Thus, in this position, it is hard to re-grip and lift their arm away from their body in your underhooking side because there is no space, especially when they have their grips locked in.

To get the dominant over under body lock, change levels by bringing your knee down. Swing your underhooking arm near your body to create momentum and get the underhook back as you pop your body up. This allows you to create space as you lift your body up from changing levels, enabling you to flare their hand away from their torso on your underhooking side. Finish by securing the over-under with a gable grip.

Takedown From The Body Lock

Begin in the over-under position and secure the body lock low on the opponent’s back. Step around and behind the opponent’s leg (their underhooking side) as you pull the body lock tight to your chest. Pull the opponent tight against your chest as you pop your hips in and sit back to the mat. As you fall back, rotate your body around so that you land on side control.

After shooting for a single leg takedown, head in with your body on the side, transition your grips from the single leg to the body lock. Place your body lock grip between the opponent’s waist and ribs. Drive your head towards their chest while squeezing to bend their body backward. This will break the opponent’s upright posture back. Step your other leg over their far leg to bring them down on the mat. Secure the mount position as you fall.

The Body Lock Pass

Starting from the standing open guard pass with the opponent in a seated butterfly guard position, grab their leg on the side you want to pass. To pass the butterfly guard with the body lock pass, you have to stop the opponent’s leg from going outside to your hip on the side you want to pass, as it allows the opponent to re-guard. As you block their leg, dive your head forward to their chest as your other hand underhooks their torso behind the waist.

Use your leg to block their feet from getting outside your hip. Let go of grabbing their leg and use your hand to reconnect with your underhooking hand behind their waist. Keep your elbow blocking the top of the opponent’s thigh. This prevents the opponent from freeing their leg and bringing their knee towards their chest, making it challenging to apply the body lock. To make it difficult for the opponent to recover their guard, use your head to drive on their chest on the side you are passing, to prevent them from using their arms to push on your legs or arms.

As you lock your hands, bring your leg past the passing side. Turn your hip to the other side by sprawling and step your other leg on top of their knee. Put your head to the other side of their body and apply pressure by driving your shoulder towards their chest. From this position, the opponent will usually lock the half guard . Pass the half guard by pinching your knees together and pummeling your feet inside their leg. From here, free your trapped leg by bringing your knee up. Move to side control or full mount to secure the pass.

The body lock is a versatile technique that lives up to the central concept of grappling – closing the distance. It is easy to perform and requires little athleticism to become efficient at. In today’s meta, where different types of guards are used to create space and distance against the opponent, the body lock is an absolute must-learn to overcome opponents of all skills and styles. Grapplers of all levels can safely use this technique, be it in BJJ, MMA, or even self-defense situations , both in standing or on the ground.

Using your body to limit movement is the key to a solid body lock pass. Be mindful of your positioning at all times, and you should be able to smash even the toughest guards in your gym. Have fun!

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The Body Lock and Outside Leg Trip Takedown: 

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Bjj bodylock takedown, pass and back control.

We’re less than 48 hours from one of the biggest fights in MMA history. Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmaghomedov is set to face former two-division champ, Conor McGregor. The grappling world is mostly on Khabib’s side, due to the fact that the Dagestani is one hell of a grappler. One of Khabib’s signature moves is the bodylock takedown, a wrestling staple that he uses to perfection. That said, the bodylock takedown works just as well for Jiu-Jitsu, as it does in the cage. In fact, the bodylock concept is not restricted only to takedowns in BJJ. 

If there’s one prerequisite of a grappling technique to work for BJJ, it is variety. If you can use one move, from multiple positions, then it fits BJJ perfectly. All it takes is for the move’s basic principles to work from different positions. The bodylock takedown fit this bill as good as any other Jiu-Jitsu technique. It is a wrestling classic that, originally, offers two ways of getting the fight to the ground. You can do it from the front or the back, which is where it really benefits BJJ

The bodylock takedown not only offers ways to the ground but also gets you behind an opponent. We all know that when you get the back, you’re pretty much on cruise control. But that’s not all, The bodylock concepts work just as well on the ground. On the subject of back control, you can use a bodylock variation to get even tighter control over your opponent, freeing up your arms to attack. Furthermore, you can even use the bodylock to pass difficult open guards, like the butterfly. Keep reading and you’ll see how.

What is A Bodylock?

A body lock is generally any position that offers you direct control over the opponent’s hips via a closed circuit. The closed circuit is usually by connecting your arms around the opponent’s hips. it can, however, also be done with your legs.

The bodylock offers a lot of options to grapplers, both standing and on the ground. For one, it is perfect for maintaining close contact with an opponent. We all know that space is your enemy when you’re looking to control someone in Jiu-Jitsu. The bodylock takes care of it by placing you as close to your opponent as possible, from the front, back or side.

Moreover, the fact that you have your arms tied together means the control is really difficult to break. The usual positioning of a bodylock is beneath both the opponent’s arms, directly around their hips. In certain cases, you can even trap both their arms, but this doesn’t get you as much control. From there, you can lift or trip for a bodylock takedown and keep your arm configuration until you get a great position.

Bodylock Takedown

The bodylcok takedown usually takes the match to the ground from two general directions. The preferred method is to get behind your opponent, or at least be at their side. Another good variation, although not as versatile, is to stay in the bodylock from the front, where most entries are. Both directions offer distinct options for taking the match to the ground. The best thing about them is that they’re easily interchangeable, albeit mostly from front to back.

Getting in position for a bodylock takedown is fairly straightforward. There are plenty of grip positions and situations you can use to set up a bodylock. The easiest way to get it is via a duck under. From a basic head and arm control standing, you simply switch the control over the arm by placing our arm over an inside the opponent’s. Once there, you can hook their triceps to release your head and open a path to the back.

All other tie-ups, both Gi and No-Gi offer a path to the bodylock. You can get it via arm drags, fake takedown attempts, as a follow up on a failed Judo throw, as a counter etc.

Finish From The Back

Using the duck under, the basic idea is to get behind your opponent, but not straight back. When you’re on the feet, begin directly behind an opponent might backfire. Think of a victor roll to a kneebar and you’ll see what I mean. Instead, the goal is to use a correct angle for maximum control. Once you’re past the arm via a duck under, remain behind the opponent’s hip, while locking both arms on the opposite side. An S-grip would do just fine.

Once you have posture and optimal grips, you can move into takedown position. For that, you’ll first need to adjust your stance. You’ll need to get both legs behind the opponent’ leg on the side where you are positioned. Whenever you’re doing a bodylock takedown in BJJ, make sure you do not lift your opponent off the ground as in wrestling. Slams are illegal in BJJ, and trips offer much more control anyway. So, once you get both legs behind, all that’s left to do is drag the opponent down.

Front Bodylock Takedown

Getting into position for the front bodylock takedown is similar to the one before. the duck under is again the method of choice. Actually, you should be going for the back every time you see the opening. However, some opponents are wise to what’s happening and they’ll turn towards you really fast. This will get you a bodylock, but also place you to the front of your opponent.

Just like from the back, you’ll to trip instead of a lift. While lifting your opponent in the air might be much more attractive, tripping them is more high-percentage. The key moment here is choosing the direction of the trip. When you’re in a bodylock, you’ll have to position your legs to the side that ‘s opposite of the side you’re facing with your head. This gets you around the opponent.  InN this instance though, you’ll only use one leg for the trip.

Bodylock Pass

The place where the bodylock takedown concept gets it BJJ-specific use is in the guard passing department. While there are ways you can use bodylocks concepts against most guards, the best bet is the butterfly or half guard. Actually, the bodylock ties in great with the over-under pass. That said, the starting position for a bodylock pass is the same as with the front bodylock takedown.

Before you think about passing, you’ll need to sprawl back, extending the leg opposite of where you’re facing. this will neutralize their hooks so that you can switch your head to the opposite side. Now you can lift your hips, placing pressure with your shoulder. Even if they close half guard, a simple hip switch and a butterfly hook will get you straight into side control or mount.

Bodylock Back Control

Finally, the back control variation of a Bodylock is one that you’re probably familiar with. In BJJ we call ti the body triangle. UNliek with the bodylock takedown and pass, the lock is now done with your legs instead of your arms. Form regular seatbelt control you want to be on the side of your choking arm before you go for a bodylock. The one most important thing you need to remember about a rear Bodylock is that it has to be on the top side of your opponent. Otherwise, they might utilize and easy and painful counter.

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Inside Trip Off The Body Lock For MMA With Benson Henderson

When we look at MMA, we notice that the grappling is unique and different; unlike traditional grappling sports (BJJ, Wrestling, Judo…), where it is pure grappling on an open mat, MMA allows us to strike and use the cage walls to our advantage.

Most MMA fighters coming from grappling sports are surprised when they get into MMA and cannot find success as they are neutralized when the opponent glues them to the cage, strikes them, and uses the gloves to secure wedges and establish their own control over them.

So we know that MMA grappling is a unique skill we must develop if we want to succeed, and it doesn’t matter if we are strikers or grapplers. The training program of an MMA athlete involves a lot of cage work and unique skills to make us very effective under the rules.

In the next section, we will look at one of the best grappling skills to develop in MMA - The body lock. Unlike the traditional sports where the body lock is not as effective, in MMA, it is an essential skill to develop.

The body lock allows us to control the opponent and quickly push him to the cage, where we can glue his back to the wall and chop down his base for easy takedowns. Even when the opponent escapes the cage, we can keep the body lock on and use it to take him down or establish a better position.

Remember, we are talking about grappling for MMA, and fighters who can make that distinction will successfully carry on their fighting skills from the mat to the MMA cage. Still, it is not just grapplers who benefit from MMA grappling; strikers too can close the skill gap against grapplers pretty quickly, only focusing on this small aspect of grappling that will keep them safe in the cage.

In this video, Benson Henderson will show us how to chain our takedowns off the body lock and get an inside trip takedown.

Who Is Benson Henderson?

Benson Henderson is a professional MMA fighter and a former UFC and WEC lightweight champion. Benson became one of the most famous figures in MMA after beating some of the best fighters on the planet - Frankie Edgar, Donald Cerrone, Nate Diaz, and Jorge Masvidal. Over the years, Benson had many ups and downs, but he always showed up and gave the fans a show. Nowadays, Benson is still fighting at 37 at Bellator MMA, where fans can still enjoy an old-school legend like him.

Want More From Benson Henderson? Click Learn More! 

Inside trip set up from the body lock.

In this video, Benson Henderson will show us a technique out of his Body Lock series where he will fake the outside throw into the inside trip when the opponent steps back in defense.

So, we start in the body lock position, where we have one hand under the arm and the second arm wraps around the opponent’s hand for the body lock. Now, we will step around his leg on the over hook side and threaten a throw, but as he defends the throw by stepping back, we will go for an easy inside trip on the second leg.

Notice that as the opponent steps back, we have the opportunity to perform an outside throw again on the second leg that stays behind. Also, when you look for the outside throw, don’t forget to spin your opponent, making him step forward so we can have a smooth entry on the throw.

Now for the mechanics of the inside trip - when we go for the inside trip, we open our hips so we can sneak our way in between his legs and sit on our knee, trapping the foot and closing our hips ( rotating our hips, so they are frontal ) as quickly as we can for a successful takedown.

Now to wrap up the whole setup for the takedown, let’s break it down into simple steps:

• Pull our opponent, so he steps in closer
• Threaten the outside throw 
• As the opponent pulls his leg back, go for the inside trip on the second leg and get the takedown

Learn More From Benson Henderson

If you liked this technique from the body lock, you can get the entire series and fill in the gaps so you can take everybody down off the body lock; check out “Working The Cage And Walls In MMA” available exclusively on Dynamic Striking.

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The Grapple Club

Nogi judo 2.0 // the body lock system.

Owen Livesey

Stop being scared to start from the feet and learn how to takedown anyone!

One of the most requested instructionals ever in Grappleclub history is here! Owen showed his skills as an instructor with his NoGi Judo instructional earlier this year. Since its release we have received no stop messages to bring out another instructional with Owen focused on his wide ranging takedown game. 

Now you can have all the details right here on your phone or computer. You will learn the details of hand fighting, the highest percentage takedowns from his bodylock system, how to connect takedowns to passing, submission attacks of your takedowns and much more! Do not wait to upgrade your takedowns, passing and submissions and do not spend one more day as a guard puller! It is time to take you grappling to the next level with Owen’s latest game changing instructional. 

P.s in addition to all 7 chapters of these incredible positions, Owen includes an entire chapter covering his strength training insights for grappling

Course curriculum

Chapter 1 - hand fighting.

2 - Slide By

3 - Grip Details

4 - Snapdown

5 - Shrug Reaction

6 - Double Leg

Chapter 2 - How To Get To The Bodylock

1 - Slide By

2 - Shrug Reaction

3 - Snapdown (2 Options)

4 - Double Leg Transition

Chapter 3 - Body Lock Takedowns VS Whizzer

2 - Chop & Drive

3 - O-Goshi

4 - Uchi-Mata

5 - O-Soto Link

6 - Ankle Pick

7 - Inside Trip

8 - Head & Arm Triangle

9 - Body Lock Pass To Kimura

10 - Body Lock To Single Leg/Side Smash

11 - Options From Side Smash

Chapter 4 - Body Lock Takedowns VS Inside Position

2 - Ride and Roll

3 - Posture Up Back Take

4 - Underhook Back Take

5 - Lift and Sweep

Chapter 5 - Takedowns Without Whizzer

2 - Offsetting Your Opponent

3 - Big Pick Up

4 - Double Leg

5 - Single Leg

6 - Roll Back

Chapter 6 - Attacking Turtle

2 - Working To One Hook

3 - Arm triangle

4 - Back Take

5 - Grape Vine

6 - Grape Vine 2 Directions

7 - Back Control Finish 1

8 - Back Control Finish 2

Chapter 7 - Linking Sequences

2 - Sequence A - Slide By > Pick Up > Back Take

3 - Sequence B - snapdown > Drag > Back Take

4 - Sequence C - Shrug Reaction > Pick Up > Back Take

5 - Sequence D - Double Leg > Body Lock > Pick Up > Back Take

Chapter 8 - Strength Exercises For The Body Lock

1 - Sandbag Walk

2 - Sandbag Iso Hold

3 - Sandbag Over Shoulder Throw

4 - Sandbag RDL

5 - Sandbag Squat

6 - Gorilla Roll

Who Is Owen Livesey?

Instructor Bio:

Speciality - Judo and Wrestling

What are Owens students saying

Paul Severn

“To be able to get someone who can consistently apply his ability in numerous rule sets be it judo,bjj,nogi,mma is rare but to have the same ability to articulate techniques and tactics and how to build his knowledge into to your game is even rare...”

“To be able to get someone who can consistently apply his ability in numerous rule sets be it judo,bjj,nogi,mma is rare but to have the same ability to articulate techniques and tactics and how to build his knowledge into to your game is even rarer.A great resource on adapted judo that will benefit anyone from white belt to black belt .I look forward to more instructional from him and the chance to learn from him direct .6 stars”

brian thorpe

“Efficient videos get to the key points of the techniques, which build on each other in a smoothly integrated fashion.”

Dylan Rathbone

“Great overview of judo and wrestling techniques and concepts for NOGI and how they tie together effectively!”

What To Expect

Take your game to the next level and never lose a match again

Systematic course structure

Quality production value

Take your stand up game to the next level

Increase your confidence against wrestlers and judo players

Backed by thousands of students from around the world.

Stop being a guard puller

Learn movement drills to help improve your takedowns

Yes! This is a perfect instructional for anyone one seeking to develop a theoretical understanding of the standing position. Every technique is taught in detail and is broken down step by step.

This course is 100% digital and is available for streaming on all devices.

Every lesson in this course is full of actionable concepts & techniques. As soon as you start practicing & implementing the techniques you will see major improvements.

UPGRADE YOUR TAKEDOWNS NOW

Take your game to the next level

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Body Lock To Step Around Throw To Inside Trip

Wrestling is one of the primary disciplines in MMA.  A well rounded fighter must be able to wrestle both offensively and defensively.  The superior wrestler will hold the advantage of determining where the fight takes place.  In this video, ONE Championship World Champion Ben Askren teaches one of his favourite wrestling takedowns for MMA.

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Body Lock Takedown – How To Set Up, Execute, and Finish

Body locks are great against grapplers that like to scramble out of leg attacks. Additionally, you don’t need a penetration step to do a body lock takedown (although you can certainly take one if you’re comfortable with it).

One unique aspect of the body lock is that there are numerous different finishes, but fewer set ups. We’ll explore them in this post.

Body Lock Takedown Set up

Depending on whether you want to finish the body lock takedown in front or behind the opponent, your set ups may vary. To get behind the opponent, a duck under from bicep or wrist control is very effective and so is an arm drag. In fact, you can set up the duck under by faking an arm drag and vice versa because you’re pulling the arm in opposite directions.

Underhooks and elbow posts are good for opening up just enough space to lock your hands in front of your opponent. Sometimes you may be able to get behind the opponent too.

If you maintain good posture with one of your leg attack shots, you can transition into a body lock as well.

For the body lock takedown, all you need to do is follow your opponent’s hips and lower your level so that your center of gravity (hips) is lower than your opponent’s. This gives you more control and applies to both the front and back positions. At the same time, lock your hands around their waist. The lower you get, the more control you will have with the body lock.

Body Lock Takedown Finish (front)

The easiest finish from the front is pulling your opponent’s lower back in with your locked hands while pushing forward with your head (ideally, your head will be in your opponent’s chest). If you are somewhat perpendicular to the opponent, you can also twist them into the ground. With this variation, you’ll end up in side mount right away. However, the most effective takedown is to lift your opponent into the air and throwing them. This is because opponents cannot scramble out of a takedown when they’re being lifted into the air.

Body Lock Takedown Finish (Back)

The mat return is where you get perpendicular to your opponent while locking hands to lift them up before following them to the mat. Done right, this is the cleanest and most effective finish from the back. You can also trip your opponent’s legs while keeping your hands locked, too. Of course, you can also finish with a suplex for style points. You may want to check to see if this is legal in under whatever rules are being contested at your tournament though.

In general, the finishes where you lift your opponent off the mat are harder to learn and may take a little more strength and power, but have a higher success percentage because it’s much harder to counter an attack while you’re in the air.

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5 Fundamental Takedowns Every Grappler Should Know

Ideally every Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner should have at least a few takedowns and throws in their BJJ arsenal, and should therefore be able to start a match from standing. Of course, pulling guard is an option at the gym and in competition, however when it comes to being able to incorporate your BJJ knowledge for a self-defense situation (let’s be real the self-defense side of grappling is a big bonus to learning the sport) you need to be able to get your opponent to the ground or know how to grapple from standing in order for it to be effective. Are you going to pull guard in a street fight or an attack? Not likely.

When it comes to throws and takedowns there are copious amounts, but you don’t need to learn them all, you just need to have a few that work really well for you; as Bruce Lee once said, “I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”

Below are five fundamental takedowns every grappler should know; all of which are applicable to both Gi and No-Gi jiu-jitsu.

Table of Contents

Double Leg Takedown

The double leg takedown is a very popular takedown in both BJJ and MMA. The double leg is similar to a single leg, except with the double leg you want to have a deep penetration step and to have hold of both legs. An extremely effective takedown but shots have to be quick and well-timed to prevent getting sprawled on.

The double leg is a fairly straightforward move – you do a level change, step in, and you grab your opponent’s legs behind their thighs and you drive into them or pick them up and drive them perpendicular.

How to do a double leg takedown:

• Observe opponents current standing position. If you are close enough that you can touch them then you should be close enough to shoot.
• Lift their arms to make room for your entry.
• Take a small step forward with your lead leg and lower your level to set up your shot.
• Drive forward as you shoot in, making sure that your posture is straight.
• Grab behind your opponents with one hand behind each leg from the outside and drive the opponent as if you are cutting a corner to finish the takedown.

If you don’t fully commit and you shoot from too far away, or with poor timing, there is a danger of getting sprawled on by your opponent. Once you’ve finished the takedown you also need to make sure you don’t get trapped inside of the opponents guard, and jump off to the side once you’ve finished the takedown.

There are lots of different variations for the Double Leg. Often, the biggest differences between these variations include head position (the head to the side or in the middle of the chest) and whether you drop down to your lead knee as you shoot (the penetration step).

Watch multiple time world champion and IBJJF hall of famer Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida and Bernardo Faria explain and show the double leg below,

Single Leg Takedown

The high crotch single leg is arguably one of the best takedowns to learn in BJJ because it is simple but high percentage. The single leg high crotch can be done from a number of setups, but one of the most common and best setups is from the inside step and for this to work, you only need to grab one of your opponent’s legs.

How to do a single leg takedown:

• Push partners shoulder to bring the leg forward
• Take a small penetration step with your lead leg.
• Lower your stance but keep your posture upright as you shoot in, grabbing high up on their thigh with both of your arms.
• Your head will usually land on the side of their hip and rib area (be careful of guillotines!).
• Use your shoulder to push and rotate your opponent diagonally into the direction that’s unsupported by his leg. This will result in your opponent losing balance and falling down.

This is usually one of the safest takedowns if done correctly (your hips are in, back straight, and head looking forward). Due to the similarities, single legs can be turned into double legs, and double legs can be turned into single legs depending on your opponent’s reaction. The single leg also beholds many variations so there’s options for counters depending on your opponents reactions (low single leg, lift leg high and sweep free leg etc..).

Do note that for BJJ and Submission Wrestling you have to be careful about putting your head to the outside of your opponent’s body (or let him force it to the outside) because a) it’s illegal at white belt in IBJJF competition, and b) it does expose you to the guillotine.

Watch five-time IBJJF world champion Andre Galvao display the best single leg for BJJ below,

The body lock entry is usually created through a pummeling exchange. Like all of the takedowns on this list, there are many variations. From entry to finish, the body lock leaves you relatively safe from counter-attacks and reversals. However, be aware that there is a chance that you may end up in the opponent’s half-guard after a leg trip. A knee bump will leave you in a better passing position. You can also work a back take from the position.

How to do a body lock takedown:

• Get double under-hooks from the pummel.
• Lower your stance while you push your head against their chest.
• With your arms around the lower back of your opponent, pull their hips in next to your hips.
• With your head pushing their chest and your arms controlling their lower back, they should look like they are leaning backwards.
• To finish the pass, you can buckle their knee by bumping it with your adjacent knee, or do a leg trip.

Professor Philipe Della Monica from Gracie Barra, Irvine, CA does a great job of showing the body lock inside hook takedown here,

Standing Arm Drag to back take

The arm drag can be initiated from a regular stance. You can also go into a single leg, double leg and inside trip (ouchi gari), ankle pick after the arm drag.

How to do a standing arm drag to back take:

• Control the their wrist or sleeve and pull it to your opposite side to expose part of their back
• As you drag the tricep, grab the side of their waist and step forward with your leg so that your foot lands behind your opponent.
• You are now on your opponent’s back. Take full control of your opponent’s waist with both arms.
• From this position, bump your knee on the side of your opponent’s knee. When you feel their knee buckle, simply bring them to the ground using your control around their waist to shift their weight down.
• Another option to finish is to slightly lift your opponent and use your knee to sweep their knee, or jump to a double shin hook behind their knee (crab ride).

There are also many more options from this position as you are behind your opponents back you can start to look for submissions ieven if you haven’t managed to take them to the ground yet. Although the arm drag isn’t necessarily a throw or a takedown on its own, it is a fundamental move that opens up a lot of takedown options, therefore we grapplers should be taking advantage of that.

The Wiltse brothers explain the arm drag concept very well here,

Harai Goshi

Harai Goshi was developed by judoka Jigoro Kano as a reaction to the Uki Goshi counter. Uki Goshi or hip throw is easy to escape especially if you create enough distance between your hip. Jigoro Kano developed the Harai Goshi as part of the 40 original throws of judo. Today, Harai Goshi has been developed as an individual move and not just a plan B coming from a hip throw or Uki Goshi. To use the Harai Goshi, you can start with a collar/neck (no-Gi) and a tricep grip.

How to harai goshi:

• Get your grips; one grip on the collar/opponents neck if no-gi and the other grip on their opposite elbow.
• You will have to off-balance the opponent towards one side and cross step.
• Your back should be glued to your opponent’s belly, no space should be left between you and your opponent, and make sure their heels are off the ground.
• Now you should be facing the same direction your opponent is facing.
• From this position, you block the outside leg with the same leg that you used to cross step. Continue to pivot using the other leg to finish the throw.

For anything that involves using the legs, you want to use it against smaller opponents or those who are of the same height as you. If not, you want to nullify the distance between your opponent’s hip and your hip.

Why are takedowns important in BJJ?

Takedowns are essential for BJJ. Having solid fundamentals with your stand-up game will give you more confidence, especially in competition. Being able to dictate where the fight will go will give you an advantage over your opponent.

According to a report by High Percentage Martial Arts , in the lower belt categories (white and blue), the most common attempted takedowns are leg trips, and single leg and double leg takedowns.

Learning the stand-up game should always be part of a jiu jitsu practitioners regimen and one of the best ways to supplement your stand-up game is to cross-train in both wrestling and judo. Learning both art forms will have a transformative effect on your jiu jitsu, not just on your stand-up, but in your ground game as well so get learning your throws and takedowns if you haven’t already!.

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BJJ Purple Belt living in, London, England. I began training BJJ back in 2017, when I was at university, and have trained ever since. #OSS Instagram: @journowynne

Lucy Wynne has 196 posts and counting. See all posts by Lucy Wynne

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.

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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.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

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 .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

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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Filthy Grappling Takedowns by Neil Melanson

• Details Contents
• Learn a wide range of takedowns from the body lock, 2 on 1, over/under, collar ties and MORE!
• Use grappling-approved takedowns that keep you safe from the threat of submissions that Neil has refined over his legendary career.
• Transition directly to your own submissions as soon as the fight hits the floor with Neil’s takedown to submissions sequences.
• Mix lower body takedowns like the single, double, high-C, ankle pick, and more into hard-to-stop chain wrestling sequences.
• Upgrade your takedown efficiency with tricky variations that make securing the takedown easier than ever!
• Make your takedowns better than ever with Neil Melanson!

Course Content

Chapter title, revolutionize your takedowns for submission-based grappling with one of the most innovative minds in the sport, neil melanson.

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What will you learn.

Neil Melanson adds another must-have to his instructional catalogue with Filthy Grappling Takedowns, an 8-part series detailing a comprehensive system of setting up and securing efficient takedowns. The series explores dozens of high-level takedowns that have been adapted and refined to work specifically in settings that allow submissions. Traditional approaches to takedowns can lead you directly into being strangled! Turn the tables on opponents with a takedown system that accounts for the threat of submissions, and allows you to take the fight to the floor and attack with your own submissions!

Melanson has no nonsense approach to grappling where he is brutally honest about the realities of combat. This style of teaching is great for people of ALL levels looking for top-tier techniques broken down in a way that ANYONE can learn. Neil explores a wide range of takedowns from the most common scenarios that are encountered on the mat. You’ll learn to dominate with body locks, over unders, double unders, and more!

Whether you are looking for takedowns for self defense, MMA, or BJJ, Neil provides a unique system that allows you to gain control, set up the takedown, and EXECUTE! A major theme of the series is how to gain meaningful control over opponents to make takedowns more efficient and less predictable. You’ll learn how to utilize 2 on 1s and control ties to a high-level where you will be able to shut your opponent’s offense down, while opening up opportunities for trips, ankle picks, singles, doubles, and MORE!

Melanson takes his FILTHY approach a step further by teaching how to finish takedowns and end up in the best possible position. This means instead of hitting the floor and being stuck in someone’s guard, you’ll be transitioning directly from takedown to guard pass, or even submission with Neil’s unique system! Upgrade your takedown game plan with Neil Melanson’s tailored system of takedowns specifically suited to deal with threats of submission!

So, What Exactly Do You Get?

• INTRODUCTION
• OVERUNDER OVERVIEW
• BODY LOCK TRIP
• BODY LOCK FAR SIDE PICK
• OUTSIDE DUCK UNDER TO BODY LOCK
• DOUBLE UNDER HOOK TO BODY LOCK
• UNDERHOOK SHUCK TO BODY LOCK
• KNEE BUMP SNAP TO ANKLE PICK
• ADDITIONAL OFF BALANCE
• 2 ON 1 OVERVIEW
• 2 ON 1 TO TILT ARMBAR
• 2 ON 1 WIZARD TO REVERSE ARMBAR
• 2 ON 1 KIMURA
• POWER VERSION
• NEIL'S WEIRD LOCK
• RECOUNTERING 2 ON 1 TO BODY LOCK
• 2 ON 1 SINGLE
• 2 ON 1 ARM DRAG
• 2 ON 1 TO BACKTAKE
• 2 ON 1 FIRE MAN
• 2 ON 1 WIZARD OPTION
• UNDERHOOK SINGLE
• UNDERHOOK SNAP ONE HANDED GUILLOTINE
• UNDERHOOK SNAP ONE HANDED GUILLOTINE OPTION 2 (ROLLING VERSION)
• UNDERHOOK ARMDRAG TO ARM TRIANGLE
• UNDERHOOK OUTSIDE DUCK
• OVERHOOK ANKLE PICK
• OVERHOOK SNAP TO MIZZOU
• OVERHOOK COUNTER
• BODY LOCK OPTION 1
• BODY LOCK OPTION 2
• BODY LOCK OPTION 3
• BODY LOCK GRIP BREAKS
• COUNTER DOUBLE UNDERS
• UNDERHOOK AND OVERHOOK LEG TRIPS
• COLLAR TIE OVERVIEW
• SHUCK OPTION 2
• SHUCK OPTION 3
• SHUCK OPTION 4
• OUTSIDE TRIP
• KIMURA OSOTO GARI
• LAT TRIP THROW
• HAND FIGHTING
• HAND GUN CHOKE FROM COLLAR TIE
• SINGLE LEG VARIATION
• COUNTERING THE COUNTER ON A SINGLE
• COUNTER TO THE SINGLE LEG DEFENSE WITH ARM DRAG
• TOE STEP SINGLE
• SNATCH SINGLE
• DOUBLE LEG TO SINGLE MIX
• DOUBLE LEG TO SINGLE MIX PART 2
• DOUBLE LEG TO SINGLE MIX PART 3
• HI CROTCH DOUBLE
• SPEAR DOUBLE

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Meet The Author - Greg

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How To Flip Car In A Dusty Trip

Not able to flip your Car back in A Dusty Trip? Here’s what you can do about it.

Imagine driving at 100 Km/hr and getting your vehicle flipped over because of a tiny rock in the middle of the road. This mishap is very much possible in the desert landscape of A Dusty Trip. That’s why learning how to bring your Car or Van back on the wheels is important. I technically won’t suggest using a Dynamite because it can damage your vehicle. However, there’s another way to Flip your Car in A Dusty Trip, and we will explain that in this guide.

How to Flip Your Car and Van in A Dusty Trip

You must push your car to flip it in A Dusty Trip. This is done by pressing the “F” key (Grab) on the body of your Car. Make sure not to grab any attached parts like the door or wheel because you may detach them. So grab the frame or body of the car.

More specifically, I want you to crouch and press the grab key while aiming at the back portion of your Car (refer to the above image). Try spamming this until the Car is launched in the air. After this, your car or van will be flipped in a Dusty Trip.

After flipping the vehicle, make sure to refuel it. Because during all this circus, the fuel inside the car will get emptied. I always suggest attaching a Fuel Can to the vehicle in emergencies.

In a rare case, your vehicle may flip neither up nor down but in the middle. If that happens, you must push it further until it goes in the air again and falls on its wheel. Finding the right angle is not that difficult.

That’s all you can do to flip your Car in A Dusty Trip. Aside from this, if you want some tips to make your Car go faster , then we have a guide for you to check out. Feel free to access it in our dedicated section for A Dusty Trip .

Hops between Sports and Action RPG games frequently. Can play the Arkham series tirelessly. Currently invested in exploring FPS and Open-World games.

• GT Originals
• AC Valhalla
• Genshin Impact
• Honkai Star Rail
• Street Fighter 6
• Project Slayers