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• Destination Scotland Poland Hungary Israel Turkey Greece Rome Italy Germany Ireland Switzerland France Austria River Cruise Czech Republic Portugal Egypt Spain England Jordan
• Affiliation Non-Denominational No Preference Lutheran Lutheran (ELCA) Anglican Lutheran (LCMC) Lutheran (LCMS) Baptist Baptist (Southern) Christian Church Evangelical Free Church of Christ FAM
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Experience the Reformation

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Walking in the Footsteps of Paul

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10-Day “Walk in the Footsteps of Paul” Tour including a 3-Night Greek Isles Cruise

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Breakfast and dinner daily*, guided sightseeing, first class hotels, deluxe motorcoaches, round trip airfare*.

*Airfare and meals provided per brochure

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JOIN A TOUR

Choose from a wide variety of pre-scheduled group trips from churches and organizations all over North America! These trips are ideal for those looking to join an existing trip without any unnecessary hassle.

LEAD A TOUR

Customize the perfect group trip for your church or organization! Each trip is fully customized for your individual trip. Pick and choose your ideal time of year, departure city and more when booking your next trip.

Just wanted to write an official letter thanking you and Imagine for going the extra mile in making our Tour to Israel for Shepherd of the Hills Church a huge success. It was the first time that I had hosted 4 buses in one tour group with over 160 people all together.  From the schedule and itinerary to the food and accommodations, to the guides and the drivers, it was ALL run professionally and efficiently.  This was my 14th trip to Israel as a host and without question, this was the best of the 14. There was extra care to detail during this trip that I credit to you, to those who work in your office at Imagine as well as to those who worked in the office in Israel.  We literally in every way received the V.I.P. treatment.  As you know, when traveling with such a large group it is imperative to know that those working behind the scenes are there in support of your plans and ideas for a blessed trip.  I want to thank you personally for your attention to detail.  For you going the extra mile in every phase of this trip.  I wish to also thank, specifically, all the folks in your Israel office who worked tirelessly to insure all the logistics happened on time and without missing a beat. I can honestly tell you that without them, this would have been an impossible task, but with them, it was seamless and worry free. Looking forward to future trips with Imagine Tours.

Pastor Dudley R.

I want you to know that the journey we just went on was life changing.  Thanks so much for being a facilitator for this.  The guide “Ikey” and driver “Akram” were excellent.  They went way beyond the call of duty and met every need we had and so much more.  It was one of the best journeys I have ever taken, and I have been all over the World.  This was by far the most impacting of all the countries I have been to.  Thanks again.

I would like to take a few moments of your time to express my profound gratitude for all you and your company did to make our recent pilgrimage to Israel a resounding success. Our team of 29 travelers spent eight days in Israel.  imagine Tours did a fantastic job in helping me plan, organize, recruit travelers and ultimately lead this group.  When we initially began our dialogue in February of 2013, less than 12 persons had expressed an interest in going.  You said to expect 30.  I thought you were crazy.  Over the following months your projection was spot on and 30 persons did sign up to go.  You made each step of the journey enjoyable.  No question was ignored and your prompt responses to a myriad of ideas was greatly appreciated.  The accommodations while in Israel were also superb.  Each hotel was clean, neat, accommodating, comfortable and relaxing.  They provided delicious meals for both breakfast and dinner.  I loved the food.  From the personnel in your office in Florida, to the folks who met us at Ben Gurion, we were in capable hands.  Thank you.  I certainly look forward to traveling with you again.

The Faith Lutheran travelers have safely returned from our tour through Greece and Turkey.  Our walk in the Footsteps of Paul was wonderful!  I cannot say enough good things about our superb guides in Greece, Aliki and Yanni.  They were a joy to be with!  Helpful, knowledgeable, fun, and capable, they made our days in Greece memorable.  Everyone’s favorite hotel was the Lucy in Kavala.  It received universal rave reviews, and we all agreed that we would like to spend more time there.  Thank you for such a great experience in Christian travel. 

Having helped plan itineraries for marvelous “heritage tours”of England, Scotland, Ireland and Scandinavia, I know the personal attention imagine Tours & Travel gives to every host pastor, and the unique destinations he works into almost every tour’s travel plan. Their imagination and flexibility are phenomenal, and guarantee an outstanding spiritual experience for every tour they organize.

Rev. Dr. William R.

I’ve used imagine Tours for two trips and plan to used them again and again. I have highly recommended them to many of my friends. Rick and his team responded quickly to my questions and concerns. They stayed in touch with us while on our trip. They treated me like I was their only client! Our team felt completely safe on our trip. The tour guide and driver were professional, knowledgeable and personable. They were always attentive to our needs and were flexible to our personal preferences. They cared about us. Their goal was to assure a fantastic experience for our team. For most people a trip to the Holy Land is a once in a lifetime trip. I have taken people all over the world and have used many tour companies. Switching to Imagine Tours was the smartest move I’ve made in a long time. On my last trip to Israel, I met another imagine tour group. The tour leader has made 65 trips to Israel and he switched to imagine Tours. Enough said.

Pastor Don B.

I recently returned from my first trip to Israel as a tour group leader. Wow! Everything about our tour exceeded my expectations. The meals were delicious with a buffet variety which pleased everyone. Our guide from imagine Tours and Travel, did an excellent job of discovering the interests of our group and applying his knowledge and communication skills to give us a wonderful experience. Several in my group mentioned that they were pleased with every aspect of our trip and pleasantly surprised that they never felt unsafe during our entire trip. Even my wife, who is apprehensive of travel to a foreign country, was comfortable the whole time in Israel and definitely wants to join me on the next tour to Israel. No one in our group will ever be the same after our life changing trip!

Pastor Steve D.

Dear Prospective Program Leader, I have been leading numerous study tours in various parts of the world with several travel agencies over the years of my long academic carrier. However, in the past ten plus years, I have conducted such programs exclusively with imagine Tours & Travel. I have found their services to be reliable and efficient, their prices competitive, and their client relationships to be courteous. As program leader, I feel confident in placing my groups in their competent, secure care and in being spared the concerns and vexations that often plague group travels abroad. I recommend Imagine without reservation.

Dr. Gilbert B.

I regret that I didn’t take this trip earlier in my ministry, ten or twenty years ago.  It has enlivened sermons and Bible studies and brought great joy to many aspects of ministry.  This is a trip that will always be treasured.

Pastor Nathan B.

Our group had a fabulous trip to Greece and Italy at the end of April. We strongly urge anyone and everyone to take this trip. Working with Rick and his team was so worth it — they take care of everything and are so accomodating.  Top notch guides … fabulous Biblical and Christian sites … great accomodations … can’t say enough about how enjoyable it was.  Find out for yourself by booking with imagine.

kingdom of time

Jordan is a country of hikers and historians, scientists and artists, foodies and yoga-fiends. Whatever your tribe, you’ll find a kindred spirit here.

every moment, a treasure.

Explore a wide range of museums throughout the kingdom presenting the history and cultural heritage of Jordan.

carved by millennia. braved by you.

The Jordan pass is the ultimate sightseeing package that has been especially tailor-made for visitors to the country.

hike history. touch time.

a long-distance hiking trail in Jordan connecting the length of Jordan from Um Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south.

find your tribe.

A great collection of working steam locomotives, formerly used as part of a pilgrimage route and an intrinsic part of the Great Arab Revolt.

in the footsteps of myths and men.

One of the most lively and authentic parts of Amman consisting of fascinating historical sites of the Roman Theatre and Citadel.

life at your own pace.

The lowest point on earth and a natural wonder, is a warm, soothing, super salty water surrounded be desert beaches, mineral spas and oases.

Local Recommendations

Your tour to jordan via bright trip.

Everything you need to know to take your trip to the next level. In this free guide, you will learn how to travel Jordan with confidence and discover the best places to visit.

Experiencing Bethany Beyond the Jordan

Bethany Beyond the Jordan, a peaceful holy site, is a rare exception. A meditative place that is perfect for contemplation, exploration, and learning, this place is a hidden gem in the Holy Land. Read on to learn what it’s like to visit it today!

The Dead Sea Serenity & Sunshine

Time to unwind! If you’re looking to get pampered in a way unlike any other, then the Dead Sea is the spot for you. With a wide array of extravagant hotels and resorts, choosing to get your dose of relaxation here comes with its benefits.

72 Hours in Aqaba

When you think of Jordan, desert landscapes and age-old cities likely come to mind. Lesser known is this country’s southernmost resort town, where the red-brown mountains are cut off by a startlingly blue sea.

plan your trip now to experience the vibrancy of contrasts that is Jordan

The Jordan Pass

Virtual Travel Assistant

Getting Around

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See what other travelers are doing in Jordan right now and if you use #VisitJordan on your social media posts you might see yourself up here too!

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Jordan museums

Royal Jordanian

Must-see attractions in Jordan

The spectacular sandstone city of Petra was built in the 3rd century BC by the Nabataeans, who carved palaces, temples, tombs, storerooms and stables from…

The area known as the Citadel sits on the highest hill in Amman, Jebel Al Qala’a (about 850m above sea level), and is the site of ancient Rabbath-Ammon…

The Ancient City

The 1.2km Siq, or canyon, with its narrow, vertical walls, is undeniably one of the highlights of Petra. The walk through this magical corridor, as it…

High Place of Sacrifice

The most accessible of Petra’s High Places, this well-preserved site was built atop Jebel Madbah with drains to channel the blood of sacrificial animals…

Hidden high in the hills, the Monastery is one of the legendary monuments of Petra. Similar in design to the Treasury but far bigger (50m wide and 45m…

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve

Established in 1975 by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), this 22 sq km reserve was created with the aim of reintroducing wildlife…

Originally built by the Nabataeans (not the Romans) more than 2000 years ago, the Theatre was chiselled out of rock, slicing through many caves and tombs…

Dana Biosphere Reserve

The Dana Biosphere Reserve is the largest in Jordan and includes a variety of terrain, from sandstone cliffs more than 1700m high near Dana to a low point…

Darat Al Funun

On the hillside to the north of the downtown area, this cultural haven is dedicated to contemporary art. The main building features an excellent art…

The most distinctive of the Royal Tombs is the Urn Tomb, recognisable by the enormous urn on top of the pediment. It was built in about AD 70 for King…

Royal Automobile Museum

You really don't have to be a car enthusiast to enjoy this museum, which displays more than 70 classic cars and motorbikes from the personal collection of…

Royal Tombs

Downhill from the Theatre, the wadi widens to create a larger thoroughfare. To the right, the great massif of Jebel Al Khubtha looms over the valley…

Jordan Museum

The Jordan Museum, located next to the City Hall, is one of the best in the Middle East. Housed in a grand modern building, a series of beautifully…

Known locally as Al Khazneh, this tomb is where most visitors fall in love with Petra. The Hellenistic facade is an astonishing piece of craftsmanship…

Children's Museum

This brilliantly designed hands-on museum for kids is a complete joy. In its many zones, young visitors can play and learn about everything from the…

Burdah Rock Bridge

The largest of Rum's three arches is the Burdah Rock Bridge, precariously perched about 80m above surrounding rock. There’s a precipitous hike to the…

Qusayr Amra

One of the best-preserved desert buildings of the Umayyads, the Unesco World Heritage Site of Qusayr Amra is the highlight of a trip into the Eastern…

Azraq Wetland Reserve

For several millennia, the Qa’al Azraq (Azraq Basin) comprised a huge area of mudflats, pools and marshlands, which led to the establishment of Azraq as…

Ajloun Castle

This historic castle was built atop Mt ‘Auf (1250m) between 1184 and 1188 by one of Saladin’s generals, ‘Izz ad Din Usama bin Munqidh (who was also…

Temple of Artemis

Dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of hunting and fertility and the daughter of Zeus and Leto, this temple was built between AD 150 and 170, and flanked by…

Qasr Al Abad

The small but impressive Qasr Al Abad, west of Amman, is one of the very few examples of pre-Roman construction in Jordan. Mystery surrounds the palace,…

St George’s Church & Mosaic Map

This rather modest 19th-century Greek Orthodox church houses a treasure of early Christianity. Imagine the excitement in 1884 when Christian builders came…

Roman Theatre

This magnificently restored theatre is the most obvious and impressive remnant of Roman Philadelphia, and is the highlight of Amman for most foreign…

Little Petra Siq

Little Petra

An obvious path leads through the 400m-long Siq Al Barid, opening out into flat, sandy areas. The first open area boasts a temple while four triclinia –…

Whatever the light and whatever the weather, the forum, with its organ-pipe columns arranged around an unusual oval-shaped plaza, is always breathtaking…

Church of the Beheading of John the Baptist

This operational early-20th-century Roman Catholic church has been transformed into an intriguing destination for visitors and pilgrims by the restoration…

South Theatre

As you enter the South Theatre through a wooden door between the arches, there’s little to suggest the treasure encased by the plain exterior. But then…

Memorial Viewpoint

Moses' view of the Promised Land towards ancient Gilead, Judah, Jericho and the Negev is marked by an Italian-designed bronze memorial next to the Moses…

Hadrian’s Arch

There’s no better way of gaining a sense of the pomp and splendour of Rome than walking through the triumphal, 13m-tall Hadrian’s Arch at the entrance to…

Khazali Siq

An easy siq to explore is the narrow fissure that cuts into Jebel Khazali. You can explore on foot for about 150m, far enough to appreciate the cool shade…

West Theatre

Entering Umm Qais from the south, the first structure of interest is the well-restored and brooding West Theatre. Constructed from black basalt, it once…

Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts

This small but impressive gallery is a wonderful place to gain an appreciation of contemporary Jordanian painting, sculpture and pottery. The attractive…

Al Hasany Dunes

While there are dunes in several places around Wadi Rum, the most striking are the red sands that bank up against Jebel Umm Ulaydiyya. If you are on a 4WD…

Qasr Kharana

Located in the middle of a vast, treeless plain, this imposing thick-walled structure was the most likely inspiration for the ‘desert castle’ moniker and…

Umm Al Jimal Ruins

The unpretentious urban architecture of Umm Al Jimal, near the Jordanian–Syrian border, encompasses more than 150 buildings standing one to three storeys…

Qasr Al Azraq

On the edge of dusty Azraq, this imposing fort is where TE Lawrence and Sharif Hussein bin Ali based themselves in the winter of 1917–18 during the Arab…

Shobak Castle

Perched in a wild, remote landscape, Shobak Castle wins over even the most castle-weary visitor, despite being less complete than its sister fortification…

Roman Ruins of Jerash

The ruined city of Jerash is Jordan's largest and most interesting Roman site, and a major tourist drawcard. Its imposing ceremonial gates, colonnaded…

Karak Castle

This fantastic Crusader stronghold, and later Mamluk fortress, is the reason to visit Karak. Throughout the castle, boards give detailed descriptions of…

Colonnaded Street

Downhill from the Theatre, the Colonnaded Street marks the centre of the Ancient City. The street was built around AD 106 and follows the standard Roman…

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Jordan Tours & Trips

Tour this ancient Holy Land and you will see the incredible ruins of the lost city of Petra, take a trip to Mt Nebo where Moses is said to have seen ‘the promised land’ and visit Wadi Rum and overnight with the Bedouin inhabitants. Try floating in the famous Dead Sea or visit the cosmopolitan Amman.

250+ Jordan tour packages with 2,415 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Highlights of Jordan

Excellent trip, really good guide who helped the group to gel, great mix of activities

• In-depth Cultural

Explore Jordan

The Jordan Tour was amazing! The itinerary and our tour guide, Osama, was great!!! Learned a lot of history and appreciated all the views Jordan could offer!

• Desert Hikes

One Week in Jordan

Great tour to have a quick experience of Jordan, if you get Hisham as your guide your will be very lucky, He is very knowledgeable, well organized, very motivated, and hardworking & show you all the hidden gems. I have travelled a lot with so many tour groups but intrepid you are my new favourite! Would suggest putting more time into Petra as we do not get to experience it completely.

Jewels of Jordan - Group Tour By Locals

Excellent tour! An experience of a lifetime! We highly recommend this tour. The pace was great, seeing new amazing sites everyday. Yes, we had some reservations because of the conflict in Gaza, but Jordan was perfectly safe. Everyone we met was welcoming and so helpful. Especially our guide Wisam. He is such a wonderful man - friends for life. Also recommend getting the Jordan pass before you go (very easy online). Entry to most of the sites were included with the Jordan pass. Great deal.

Premium Jordan

I had the BEST time on this tour with Osama and a great small group! Unforgettable stories, interesting history and context shared!

• Sightseeing

Jordan Express

An unforgettable trip! Jordan is amazing. Encounters Travel is well organized and always on time. Our guide, one of the best!

Short Trip To Jordan - Group Tour By Locals

Excellent ! I’m a solo female traveller and I can recommend this tour to everyone else who is traveling on their own. The tour guide is very competent and the trip was fantastic. We visited many different places in a very short time. It is a well-organized tour. The hotels we stayed at were mostly 4 or 5 star hotels and the hotel at Wadi Rum looked like it’s out of a space movie ;)

Looking for tours beyond just Jordan?

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Jordan.

Essential Jordan (4 Star Hotels)

I had an amazing time in Jordan. It was a dream trip and every little detail was great.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Jordan Discovery

Tour and leader were fabulous! I left behind 2 items at either the Petra hotel or Aqaba hotel: 1. Tan casual slacks, & 2. Blue long-sleeve shirt with "Seward Alaska" logo. Could you kindly trace those items for me. Thank you, Dennis Gartner

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Timeless Jordan

We saw so much in just 5 day. Petra was phinominal a must see at lest once in a lifetime.The overnight camping in wadi rum was great too it was more glamping then camping, we had a tent with shower, toilet and AC, which was a nice surprise as it was hot. A big Thank you to Basil our tour guide he was very informative, friendly and very knowledgeable.

Totally Jordan - 8 Days

It was one the best tour I have been on so far . The canyon tracking is great and the guides was there to help us all through the hike

A Week in Jordan

I really enjoyed my Jordan tour. The itinerary was planned well... everyday was great, and then the next day was better! Of course the peak was Petra, but Jerash was an incredible gem! Our group size was nice, and Eddie, our guide, was fun and informative. I will book another trip with this agency!

Jordan Explorer Group Tour - 8 Days

Book2Jordan has always been responsive to my questions. Hatem was very attentive and steered me in the right direction. I had a very good time touring Jordan. He allowed me time to explore and never hurried me. I hoped I did not upset Hassan when his job was taken away from him. Mostly I find that there are always things lost in translation. I also learned that because of the Israel-Gaza War, many tourists cancel their trips leaving drivers with few opportunities for paying jobs. For that, I feel sorry if he lost his job. I did give him a little compensation for his loss and Hatem promised to give it to him. The other thing that did not go well was the farewell dinner. Being that I was the only traveller, I welcomed Hatem's presence at the dinner. He was happy to stay but then we were told that the company's policy does not allow him to do that. I offered to pay for his dinner but he didn't feel right to stay. On my insistence, he stayed to keep me company but still felt uncomfortable and refused to order anything to eat. I have no complaint about him, he just followed the rules. Perhaps the company rules can be more flexible.

Jordan Multisport

Monti was wonderful! We had tons of fun. The itinerary was very good. Activity wise there could have been more but this was really good too. Food and accommodation was excellent.

Jordan Jewels - 8 Days

This week in Jordan was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! From exhilarating 4WD rides through the Wadi Rum desert and sleeping beneath the stars to marveling at the ancient wonders of Petra and floating effortlessly on the Dead Sea, every moment was filled with awe-inspiring beauty. Jordan's landscape and culture captivate at every turn. A special acknowledgment goes to Mohammad, our exceptional tour guide, whose impeccable organization and extensive knowledge enhanced our journey. His entertaining dinner anecdotes were an enjoyable bonus to an already unforgettable adventure!

What people love about Jordan Tours

Amazing tour, seeing all the sites in Jordan. Was lucky enough to be the only person booked on my date so had one-on-one guiding with Thaer who was absolutely brilliant! Thoroughly recommend this tour

Great tour to have a quick experience of Jordan, if you get Hisham as your guide your will be very lucky, He is very knowledgeable, well organized, very motivated, and hardworking & show you all the hidden gems. I have travelled a lot with so many tour groups but intrepid you are my new favourite! Would suggest putting more time into Petra as we do not get to experience it completely.

Jordan Destinations

• Wadi Rum (41)
• Dead Sea (19)
• Holy Land (11)
• King's Highway (7)

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Jordan Tours starting in

• Starting in Amman (195)
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• Jordan Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

Immersive Experiences

Immersive Tours

Find the inspiration for your next trip through diving into Jordan's immersive experiences from world wonders to museums and galleries.

BAPTISM SITE

The Jordan Museum

Royal Automobile Museum

King Hussein Mosque

Petra Museum

Al Shobak Castle

Dead Sea Panorama

Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish - Fuheis church

The Folklore Museum (Amman Roman Theater)

The Children’s Museum - Jordan

Qasr Al-Mashta

Iraq Al Amir

The Royal Tank Museum

The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts

Jordan Hejaz Railway

More of jordan's immersive experiences coming soon...

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

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Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

• United Kingdom
• These Six Amazing Unbuilt Landmarks...

These Six Amazing Unbuilt Landmarks Could Have Changed Moscow Forever

Architecture & Design Editor

The Design Museum in London is marking the centenary of the Russian Revolution with its latest exhibition, Imagine Moscow: Architecture, Propaganda, Revolution , opening on March 15 . It shows the idealistic vision of the Soviet capital, envisaged by a bold generation of architects in the 1920s and early 1930s. Featured projects include the Palace of the Soviets, planned to be the world’s tallest building, and Cloud Iron, a network of striking horizontal skyscrapers.

The exhibition focuses on six of these never-realised works, all planned to be located near Moscow ’s famous Red Square. After the October Revolution, there was a desperate search for an original architectural language to break from the Tsarist past. Architects aimed to reinterpret the old idea of the city by using new symbolism, designing new monuments and institutions, and building factories, theatres, communal housing and ministries. These dreamlike projects suggest an alternative reality for a series of sites around the city, offering a unique insight into the Soviet culture of the time.

Eszter Steierhoffer, curator of Imagine Moscow has said: ‘The October Revolution and its cultural aftermath represent a heroic moment in architectural and design history. The designs of this period still inspire the work of contemporary architects, and the radical ideas in the exhibition remain highly relevant to cities today. Imagine Moscow brings together an unexpected cast of ‘phantoms’ – architectural monuments of the vanished world of the Soviet Union that survive in spite of never being realised.’

Presented through plans, models, reproductions and projections, here are the six unrealised projects on display:

EL Lissitzky’s Cloud Iron (1924)

Lissitzky ‘s vision for this ultra-futuristic design was a series of eight lightweight horizontal skyscrapers. Lissitzky’s plan addressed Moscow’s pressing issue of overcrowding and the inadequacy of its public transport by linking upper-floor office spaces to living accommodation, while also creating new tram and metro stations on the lower floors.

Boris Iofan’s Palace of the Soviets (1932)

Probably the most well-known scheme of all is Iofan’s winning entry for the Palace of the Soviets competition, which was an incredibly ambitious design. With a towering 100-metre statue of Lenin on top, it was set to be the tallest building in the world, beating the Empire State Building in New York.

Located close to the Kremlin , the Palace was conceived to replace the demolished Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Work began in 1937 but was soon brought to a halt due to the Second World War and the consequent German invasion in 1941. Oddly enough, its foundations were turned into the world’s largest outdoor swimming pool for a time, but in 1995 a complete replica of the cathedral was built to replace the previous version, as if it had never been destroyed.

Nikolai Sokolov’s Health Factory (1928)

Exploring the theory of the ‘living cell’, a common theme in architecture of the period, Sokolov created a design for the Health Factory – a retreat on the coast of the Black Sea – which consisted of individual capsules for isolated rest, and a communal hall for eating and other group activities.

Nikolai Ladovsky’s Communal House (1920)

Designed to revolutionise the traditional family structure, Ladovsky’s design for the Communal House became an early and iconic example of the Soviet idea of communal living. Ladovsky’s unique spiral design cleverly and subtly merged individual living units into one united space, alluding to symbolism of progress.

Ivan Leonidov’s Lenin Institute (1927)

This incredibly vast library, complete with planetarium, was designed to educated the new Soviet man. A huge tower served as motorised book storage, while the circular volume of the building enclosed the auditorium. State-of-the-art technology and advanced engineering was key to the project; the complex was going to be linked to Moscow via an aero-tram, while also providing the ability to communicate with the rest of the world via a powerful radio station.

The ‘Narkomtiazhprom’ building by the Vesnin brothers, Ivan Leonidov and Konstantin Melnikov (1934-1936)

This large-scale piece of architecture was going to occupy a prime site of around 10 acres directly opposite the Lenin Mausoleum , which would have housed the People’s Commissariat of Heavy Industry. While many firms entered the design competition (predominantly Soviet architects), no winning design was ever selected, but the proposed designs by the Vesnin brothers – Leonidov and Melnikov – are on display. These outstanding examples demonstrate the type of architecture that was set to shape the new industrial landscape of the Soviet Union.

The exhibition contains large-scale architectural plans, models and rarely seen drawings, which are placed alongside propaganda posters, textiles, porcelain and magazines of the time to contextualise the transformation of a city re-born as the new capital of the USSR , and the international centre of socialism.

Imagine Moscow: Architecture, Propaganda, Revolution will open run from March 15 – June 4, 2017. To book, click here .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

The best group tours in the uk.

Swapping Rush Hour for the Ultimate Slow Commute

Places to Stay

Why where i stay is becoming a more important part of my travel experience.

Film & TV

Creating gotham in liverpool and glasgow for ‘the batman’.

Guides & Tips

The best private trips you can book with your family.

The Best Setjetting Trips You Can Take with Culture Trip

How to Make the Most of Your Holiday Time if You're in the UK

A Quintessential English Countryside Experience at Bovey Castle

Sleeper Trains Worth Experiencing on Your Travels

Aaand action! Explore the UK's Top Film Spots with Google Street View

The Yorkshire Dales, But Make it Luxury

Top TRIPS by Culture Trip in the UK

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

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