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Advantage International LLC. Partners with Michael Baisden on an Exotic Trip to Dubai

( ENSPIRE Travel ) Join Advantage International LLC. and Michael Baisden on an Unforgettable Journey as They Bring Class and Style Back into Traveling

Enspire contributor: keith alexander lee.

Advantage International LLC. is a luxury traveling company founded by Ja’Vonne Harley in 1998. They are now partnering with Michael Baisden to offer travelers new and exciting travel opportunities. This partnership kicks off with a five-star trip experience in Dubai this coming February.

The dynamic duo, Ja’Vonne and Gene Harley, are determined to create a service and experience for upscale African Americans whose travel needs were largely left unmet. With the combined knowledge and expertise that spans multiple fields including marketing, broadcasting, event planning, and traveling, the two veterans in the travel business gave birth to Advantage International LLC.

Michael Baisden is an exuberant radio personality and the best-selling author of seven books. He has built an exciting community of travelers called the Michael Baisden Travel Club. Members will have access to his live commentaries, first notifications for a wide range of events, and travel opportunities alongside the charming Baisden.

Advantage International LLC. seeks out exotic travel destinations for their travelers. These trips allow their travelers a chance to experience and appreciate unique foreign history, cultures, and cuisines. The travel packages include 5 star- accommodations, fully guided and escorted tours, and people-to-people opportunities.

Traveling During the Pandemic

The pandemic certainly is a cause for concern for many travelers. However, they can rest easy knowing their safety and travel needs are Advantage International LLC.’s top priority. During the initial travel lockdown, the travel company worked tirelessly to ensure and protect all reservations mad. They also utilized the downtime to develop new programs and measures to keep up with the new travel regulations, ensuring the safety of their travelers.

As traveling bans are mostly lifted, Harley and Baisden aim to provide travelers with the safest travel arrangements possible. While the Dubai Trip is all booked, there are many more trips planned for travelers to look forward to. With exciting destinations such as Fiji, Greece, Liberia, Spain/Morocco, and glamping across the U.S.!

Michael Baisden’s Travel Club and Advantage International LLC. are ready to offer travelers the trip of their lifetime. Since COVID has hampered all of our traveling plans, this timely joint venture gives us hope for a better and more fun future of safe travel once again. Please stay tuned for upcoming travel opportunities by Advantage International LLC. to see how you can be a part of their next exhilarating adventure! Ja’Vonne also launched her own show, “Traveling Culturati” in spring 2016. Be sure to follow her program to learn the ins and outs about traveling! For upcoming travel opportunities, please click here .

Stay tuned to Ja’Vonne’s show “ Traveling Culturati .” Follow Advantage International LLC. on Instagram . Keep up to date with Michael Baisden on Instagram . Related Articles: Black Star Travel Group Announces Third Holiday Trip , Unique Airbnb’s Are Creating a New Travel Experience , Kinyatta E. Gray, CEO Of FlightsInStilettos: “Travel, Glamour, Slay”

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• GENERAL TRAVEL

10 Benefits of Exploring New Places (So Just Go!)

Growing up as an “army brat,” Sydney could not help but develop a thirst for travelin...

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If you’ve ever wondered what you can do to change your life for the better, traveling should be the top thing on your list! You’ll meet interesting people, view lifestyles from different angles, and see sights that will take your breath away.

Or make you *conserve* your breath.

Imagine sailing the waters in the Caribbean , trekking Machu Picchu in Peru , or squishing sand between your toes in Fiji. Bonus—you’ll have lots of Instagram-worthy pics, and dozens of stories to regale your friends and family with!

Whether you travel abroad for a couple weeks or a couple years, you’ll be able to reap lots of positive effects of traveling. Who knows? You might even pick up some fresh skills that will give you a competitive edge in your future or current career field. Are you catching on to the benefits of international travel yet?

If you still need more #inspo on why travel is good for you, check out our round-up of the benefits of exploring new places that will make you want to book the next available flight—and get out into the world!

Pandemic burnout? Sign up for our 20 Days of Travel Inspo for a daily dose of positivity!

Why travel is good for you, 1. broadening your horizons.

Broad horizons are the best for perfect sunsets!

Your normal day-to-day routine will only do so much for facing new challenges and experiencing new opportunities. Why not get out of your comfort zone and travel?! You may fumble over some foreign words or can’t hold chopsticks to save your life, but it’s about trying something new, right? You’ll be proud of yourself, and you’ll have something to laugh about later!

When you travel, you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of international issues and develop cultural sensitivities. Traveling will help you learn to see things from new perspectives, build your confidence, and develop a deeper empathy for others.

2. Improving your health

When you travel to new places, you may do a lot of walking around and climbing stairs to see sights firsthand. You may even want to try new physical activities like salsa dancing , white water rafting , or scuba diving ! These physical activities can help cut down stress levels, improve heart health, and boost muscle growth.

Here’s a top reason why travel is good for you: Not only is it good for you physically, but travel can be good for you mentally . It can help to manage your anxiety and stress to explore new places and have fun new experiences. You’ll also meet new people, which will help you feel happier and increase levels of self-esteem and confidence.

3. Making new memories

One of the best benefits of international travel include making memories that will last a lifetime! From historical landmarks to aromatic foods to charismatic markets, your travels will tingle your senses from head to toe. You’ll remember the laughs you had with new friends as you try to stay upright on the subway, or the time when all of you got lost trying to find a local restaurant.

Everything won’t always go as planned, but that’s part of the fun. You’ll have some memorable experiences along the way! All the pictures you’ll take that’ll capture those moments will make for scrapbooks that you’ll cherish for years to come.

4. Building your resume

Who says you can’t have a great time AND do a little good for the world?

One of the best ways to boost your hiring potential and make your resume look impressive to future employers is by traveling abroad. More specifically, you could study , teach , work , intern , or volunteer abroad to improve your skills. And we mean valuable skills, like adaptability, time management, and problem solving!

You’ll also fuel your creative thinking skills when you expose yourself to new challenges that involve thinking outside of the box. You’ll also improve your intercultural communication skills when you meet new people from other countries and work with them on projects. Hey, you’ll have something to talk about in job interviews too!

READ MORE: What Skills Do You Gain from Studying Abroad?

5. expanding your social circles.

Ready to meet your new BFF? Maybe your soulmate? Okay, no promises there, but the benefits of international travel include meeting new friends for life! The conversations you have with both locals and other expats about the joys and pains of your experiences abroad will make for strong bonds.

Also, who knows if a new contact could lead to a new job or business venture? You never know if opportunities abroad will lead you to a connection that could change your life!

6. Making a difference

“Set your heart on doing good. Do it over and over again, and you will be filled with joy.” —Buddha

Whether you’re interested in helping the environment , animals, or people in need, you’ll find that many countries are in need of volunteers in one way or another. You could teach English to orphans, provide medical assistance to wounded elephants , or plant trees on affected coastlines.

Volunteering is also a great way to immerse yourself in your host country and learn more about the culture. You’ll not only be making a difference in the lives of others, but you’ll also be improving your skill set for future opportunities.

7. Practicing a new language

There will be tons of opportunities to practice or gain language skills.

Remember the good ‘ol days of trying to learn a language in school with lots of reading and writing but not enough speaking and listening? Here’s another one of the top pros of traveling: You can practice new language skills at restaurants, bus stops, grocery stores, theaters, events, and more with native speakers.

You’ll find that many places also host language exchange clubs. Taking classes can help with getting a strong foundation, but you’ll learn even more with real world experiences. Knowing another language will open new doors for cultural exchanges and career opportunities. Plus, you’ll be able to participate in a whole new world of music, books, movies, memes, and more!

8. Trying out new activities

You’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of exploring new places when you can check off new activities on your bucket list! Skydive in New Zealand , zipline above cloud forests in Costa Rica , or go caving in the depths of Iceland .

If you’ve ever wanted to challenge yourself with adventurous activities, you’ll find lots of opportunities in other countries. You could even swim with sharks in South Africa, paraglide in Colombia, or go sea canoeing in Thailand.

What about participating in activities you’ve never heard of? Try underwater scooter riding in Mauritius, sky swinging in Australia, or spending a night in an ice hotel in Sweden!

READ MORE: 9 Adventurous Destinations for Spelunking & Caving

9. sampling new dishes.

Food is always one of the top benefits of traveling abroad! Imagine tasting fresh paella in Spain, slurping ramen in Japan , or savoring tikka masala in India! From smoked salmon in Scotland to shawarma in the United Arab Emirates to Adobo in the Philippines, your palate will explode with a variety of flavors wherever you go.

Got a bit of a sweet tooth? Chow down on churros in Mexico, get a pick-me-up with tiramisu in Italy, and enjoy gooey sponge cakes in South Africa. Every country will expose you to new spices and seasonings that can give you new ideas for dishes you can create back home. When traveling the world, we’re all foodies at heart.

10. Feeling more grateful for home

There’s no shame in feeling a little relief when you’re headed home!

You may love the food in France, the pyramids in Egypt, and the people in Portugal. You may also, however, miss your favorite hometown burger, the bookstore down the block, and free clean water at restaurants.

In the end, you’ll learn to be grateful for all the little things you took for granted. All the day-to-day problems you faced back home won’t seem so bad anymore. You’ll also cherish your friendships and family more at home because absence makes the heart grow fonder, right?

Traveling is a wonderful experience when you fully commit yourself to enjoying every moment, but there’s also something soul-nourishing about returning home to the familiar after a long time away.

Talk to our FREE Online Advisor and get 5 personalized travel program matches

Who could argue with the positive effects of traveling.

The benefits of traveling abroad are tenfold, from opening your eyes to creating meaningful relationships to developing new skills. The pros of traveling include tasting new foods, trying new activities, and seeing new sights. Maybe you’ll learn how to ask for directions in Spanish or learn how to ride a moped.

Why not learn to tango in Argentina, sip bubble tea in Thailand, or snap pics of the Taj Mahal? You’ll feel like a true adventurer when you visit the Amazon, trek the Great Wall, or dive into the Great Barrier Reef!

Your body and mind will thank you for all the positive effects traveling had on your health. You’ll also have lots of good stories from your travels that will make for amazing conversations with everybody you meet.

There’s no doubt about it—you’ll come home feeling a sense of accomplishment knowing that you faced challenges and overcame obstacles along the way and made lasting memories!

Do you have questions about planning your next trip? Talk to us on Twitter , Instagram , or Facebook !

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7 Personal Benefits of Travel

Forget milling around in your finest evening wear, Singapore Sling in hand: You'll be lucky to get peanuts. Flying isn't quite the party it was in Sinatra's days, and lots of time, energy, and money are expended to leave home, so why travel? How long do the  personal benefits of travel last?

Getting away from home and stepping outside of your usual routine is beneficial for both mind and body. The long-lasting personal benefits of visiting a foreign country far outweigh the costs and time to get there.

The great travel writer Pico Lyer said: "Travel is not really about leaving our homes, but leaving our habits." Here are seven ways that travel, especially  international travel, will enhance your life.

Travel Sharpens the Mind

You've done your old routine for so many years that you could run through it on autopilot. Being dropped into a new environment engages a dormant part of your mind and gets those synapses firing again.

Suddenly, you'll be required to navigate unfamiliar places, read foreign languages , try new things, make quick decisions, and choose your new eating and sleeping schedule.

Unlike at home, all the new sights, sounds, and places will require mental processing and filing. Your brain will welcome the workout! Once you return home, you'll be sharper than ever for better organizing and sprucing up your daily routine.

A Shift in Perspective

"Nobody comes back from a journey the way they started it." — Unknown

Being exposed to new cultures and people will greatly shift your paradigm and create a healthier perspective once you return back home. Seeing different social classes creates compassion and really makes you feel more blessed and content. Large portions of the world's population have to deal with daily threats such as hunger, disease , and landmines .

A hard day at work suddenly doesn't seem so bad when you see people in developing countries toiling in sun-scorched fields from morning to dark, or begging for a drink of water.

A Chance to Try New Things

"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." — Ralph Waldo Emerson

While you may branch out at home from time to time by trying new restaurants or splurging on expenditures, traveling kicks you out of the comfort zone and forces you, for better or worse, to try new things!

Even if you don't enjoy your first attempt at scuba diving , at least you'll be able to relate in a new way the next time you see it in a movie or hear someone talking about it.

Becoming a well-rounded individual enhances self-confidence and will help you find new material for conversation in social settings with a wider variety of people.

Who knows, you may accidentally discover your new favorite food or find out that you want to pursue a new career in karaoke!

Meet New People

"A journey is best measured in friends, not in miles." — Tim Cahill

You'll meet far more friendly people on the road than you will under ordinary circumstances at home.

Other travelers are always looking to share experiences, give tips on places to go, and meet people from all over. Striking up a conversation with other travelers is extraordinarily easy.

A polite "so where are you from?" breaks the ice quite easily and may lead to lasting friendships with people from all over the world.

See the Real Deal

"To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries." — Aldous Huxley

Until you visit a place and form your own opinions, your understanding only comes from what you were taught in school, read in books, or saw on media, which may or may not be a complete truth.

Don't over-research your upcoming destination in guidebooks. Do your best to avoid building a bias toward a place or installing mental filters before you visit. Wait to form your own opinion, remaining objective until you can make up your own mind.

Exercise and Sunshine

Sure, you could just go sweat in the gym under fluorescent lighting, but chances are that you'll be much more active from day to day while on the road, regardless of whether your trip is an adventurous one or simply a relaxing beach trip .

You could be exploring new cities on foot, hiking , swimming, walking between places, and hopefully soaking up some needed sunshine while doing so. And it's guaranteed to smell better than the gym.

Come Home Renewed

After stepping away from home for a while, you'll return with renewed energy, a new set of mental filters, and ready to take on the next big project or challenge. Call it a life reboot.

Getting away for some time, even though it requires effort, will greatly enhance your attitude and productivity once you return home. Sure, you may have some mail piled up and matters to attend, but those are simple challenges easily knocked out.

Breaking up the monotony for a while is a great way to reduce stress and give your life an injection of excitement. Don't be surprised if shortly after your return, you're already counting down days until the next trip!

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The Many Advantages and Disadvantages of Travelling Abroad

I think everyone should travel. However, it’s still a big decision. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of travelling abroad may help you make the call. Here’s a comprehensive list of travel pros and cons to draw upon.

Danny Newman

The advantages and disadvantages of travelling abroad to consider when deciding to travel or not.

Before COVID struck at the start of 2020, world travel was getting more popular every year.

Just take a look at the international tourist arrival stats in 2018 :

Around 1.4 billion people spent at least one night overseas, which was a 56-fold increase from 1950!

Crazy, right?

And it’s no surprise. There are so many huge, life-changing benefits to travel that I think everyone should do it.

But don’t be fooled by all those rose-tinted travel snaps on instagram.

There are definite challenges to being on the road worth knowing about too!

Want to learn more about both the pros and cons of travel?

Keep reading to discover the primary advantages and disadvantages of travelling abroad!

[Last updated: July 2021]

Short on time? Here’s a printable PDF cheatsheet of this post! Click to download 👍

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There are many benefits of travelling abroad. But there are disadvantages of travelling abroad to know about too. Here’s a list of everything to consider before you trip.

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List of Advantages and Disadvantages of Travelling Abroad

Travelling has become popular in recent years. What are the advantages and disadvantages of travelling?

Let’s take a look! Here are all the pros and cons of travelling that you can expect to encounter on the road.

The Advantages of Travelling Abroad

Travelling’s packed full of advantages. In no particular order, here are the main ones…

1. You Meet Incredible People

Of all the benefits to traveling, it’s often the people you meet that make the experience of travel so unforgettable.

You meet people from all walks of life, with totally different values, stories, and aspirations.

Moreover, you meet people with whom you’d never usually cross paths. Personal differences don’t matter as much on the road though. You’re all doing the same thing: having an adventure and seeing the world.

You can make friends in an instant on that foundation alone.

It’s ironic…

Many people dislike the idea of solo travel for fear of getting lonely.

Yet the reality is that it’s all too easy to meet like-minded, lovely people to spend time with! All told, a major travel benefit is the lifelong friendships you earn along the way. Whether you stay in touch or not, they’ll walk with you forever in memory.

2. You Explore Somewhere New

One of the biggest benefits of travel is that you get to visit beautiful places that you’ve never been to before!

You grow up hearing about distant lands and exotic cultures in stories like these ; watching TV shows about intrepid adventurers, ancient ruins, and natural wonders of the world.

And then you go travelling and see it with your own eyes! This, for me, is one of the primary reasons for travelling in the first place.

Without travel, your world’s limited to your house, friends, family, and local neighbourhood. Travelling bursts that bubble. You step outside the norm and realize how much there is to see.

Ironically, the more you travel, the bigger the world seems to get.

Wondering what to take on your travels? Check out this post full of packing list ideas .

3. You Have an Adventure

My own wanderlust is driven by a desire for adventure .

I don’t know why, but I’ve always yearned for it, ever since I was a kid!

It’s a central reason why travelling is important to me. It’s about independence, taking control of my life, getting out there and doing something different.

For me, travel is really living . It gets to the very heart of what it is to live life in a vibrant, engaged, intense way.

Go travelling and forge memories that will last forever. Isn’t that what it’s all about?

4. You Witness Immense Beauty

Another reason why you should travel is that it takes you to some of the world’s most beautiful places.

Beauty’s everywhere and you don’t have to travel a thousand miles to find it. But there’s no denying that travel lays it on a plate for you!

You find yourself in places of such sublime beauty that it defies belief.

It gets to a point where you actually start losing touch with it. You find yourself thinking “oh, another waterfall”, or “ah yep, another snow-capped mountain”

In other words, you get spoiled!

Quick N.B. : With all that beauty on offer you’ll want a camera to picture it! Here’s a list of the best backpacking cameras out there!

Wondering why travel is important? Of the many advantages of travelling abroad, witnessing immense beauty, in new parts of the world, has to be one of my favourites.

5. Make Unforgettable Memories

Another key reason to travel is for the amazing memories you make along the way.

Trust me, if you go away for any reasonable period of time and immerse yourself in the experience, you’re 100% guaranteed to come back with stories you’ll never forget.

And that’s a big deal! I’ve heard it said that, as people, all we really are is a system of memories .

Our very identity’s built upon the things we’ve seen, heard, read about, and committed to memory.

In the same way, we can look at the process of making memories as a fundamental way of learning who we are, and/or becoming someone new.

Click here to read some more interesting facts about travelling!

6. Do Something Different

Life is short.

It’s clichéd to say, but you really never know how much time you’re going to get.

I love this quote:

“So live your life such that the fear of death can never enter your heart.”

Who’s more likely to be scared of dying:

The person who spends their life behind a desk for 40 years, or someone who takes a leap of faith, explores the world, and gets stuck into an adventure?

The purpose of life isn’t to take the less trodden path. But the less trodden path will most definitely help you find purpose in life.

It’s one reason I see travel as more than just a hobby . Travelling is fun, but it also has a profound impact on the way you see yourself and the world.

Of all the advantages of foreign travel, this is up there with the best of them.

7. Build Your Confidence

Why is traveling good? In part, because travel is hard .

Obviously, I’m not talking about “a week on the beach” kind of travel.

I’m talking weeks, months, or years spent away from home, far from friends and family, exploring distant lands, living with minimal funds, and so on.

it’s natural to experience hardship when you travel like that! Among the many challenges (which I’ll talk more about in the next section), you’ll get lost, lonely, homesick, and question what you’re doing.

Yet, one way or another, you get through it all!

And overcoming adversity like that’s a sure-fire way to grow your confidence. The meekest, most insecure, and mothered person in the world can come away from travelling with heaps of newfound confidence.

8. Learn About Yourself

Your confidence on the road grows at about the same rate as your self-understanding!

It’s another of the most invaluable benefits of world travel.

There’s nothing quite like stepping out of your bubble to realise who you actually are.

I can vouch for this one. Self-awareness is a lifelong process, but I always arrive home from travel feeling far more aligned with who I am.

It’s difficult not to!

All those new people you meet, ideas you come across, cultures you learn from, things you see, and experiences you have…it all leads to self-discovery.

You get home from travel feeling distinctly different from the person who left it months before.

Here’s another top article about the role of travel in self-development !

9. You Recoup, Unwind, De-Stress, Move On…Heal

Here’s another of the main reasons to travel more:

There’s something inherently healing about it.

Throughout time, people have gone travelling to explore, learn, see, and live.

But there’s often deep pain, and the need to escape from it, lurking somewhere in the background.

If you need an opportunity to stop, move on, recover your energy, and generally lick your wounds, then consider going travelling.

You don’t need a plan, you just need time. You don’t need a goal, you just need to be open to the experience.

I don’t know how it works, but travel offers a soothing balm to the cuts and bruises that life can throw at you.

Quick point of interest : Some travellers take crystals with them for good luck! To learn more, here’s a guide to the best crystals for travel .

10. Expand Your CV

One of the final benefits of traveling abroad is to do with getting a job!

Many people baulk at the idea of travel because it means creating a gap on their CV.

“How could you possibly explain that year abroad to a prospective employer?”

Yet the reality’s that travel can actually make you more employable . After all, it demands maturity, tenacity, problem-solving, independence, language skills, time-keeping ability, people skills, and more.

What employer wouldn’t want a team member with those qualities?

Remember, we don’t live in the 1950s.

Travel’s so common now that most employers are used to it. They may even be surprised if you haven’t been away!

Secondly, the way we’re working is changing too. More and more of us are pushing against the typical “one-career-for-life” mentality.

Gaps, random roles, periods of unemployment, and travel, just go hand in hand with that!

Can you articulate the value of your time overseas? Then you can justify it to a future employer.

Related posts you might like:

• The Pros and Cons Studying Abroad
• The Patron Saint of Travel & His Incredible Story
• 30 Fundamental Types of Travelling

It might not look like it, but there are genuine disadvantages of travel as well!

The Disadvantages of Travel

As much as I love being on the road, there are both travelling advantages and disadvantages you encounter along the way.

Let’s move onto the disadvantages of travelling abroad.

1. It’s Expensive

First thing’s first: travel requires money!

Sure, there are ways to travel for less, and having limited funds doesn’t have to stop you from doing it.

But, in reality, without money in your bank account, travel becomes far trickier.

In exactly the same way, going travelling depletes your bank balance! That nice nest egg you’d built? Expect it to shrivel up before your eyes! Unless you can make money as you go , there’s normally not a lot left when you get home.

And, speaking from experience, this isn’t easy to handle.

You look at your mates who’ve been working while you’ve been away. They’re buying cars, houses, and doing cool stuff and you have barely a penny to your name!

You might have to live back with your parents and/or get a menial job to pay the bills or rent.

2. You’re Out of the Loop

Unless you’re travelling locally , hitting the road can take you thousands of miles away from home.

After an initial teething period, you get used to it, become immersed in the experience, and being away from loved ones feels easier.

But life goes on without you there too!

You don’t go to the parties, you miss out on the latest gossip, and you aren’t privy to the general goings-on. You can get home and find that you’re no longer up to speed with the group.

It can be easy to feel alienated and on the outskirts when you first get back.

3. You Miss Important Events at Home

A related disadvantage of travel is that you’ll almost certainly miss out on important events back home.

For example, I missed my Dad’s 60th birthday a couple of years ago because I was travelling. I was painfully aware of my family being together while I was on the other side of the world!

I’ve also missed family holidays, my brothers’ birthdays, friends’ weddings, and multiple Christmas days.

I’m doing cool stuff all the time, which is a definite silver lining, but missing these events are always makes me question if travel’s really worth it! They’re some of the loneliest times on the road.

4. You Feel Homesick

Almost everyone gets homesick on the road.

And for good reason!

You’re miles away from your nearest and dearest, missing all those big events I talked about above. You’re often lonely, out of your comfort zone, and missing your mum’s cooking.

Feeling homesick’ entirely understandable, but still never fun. It can sap the enjoyment from any trip for as long as it lasts.

Homesickness is a common struggle when you travel. As far as disadvantages of travelling go, it definitely isn’t fun.

5. You Fall Behind on the Career Ladder

Travel’s good for your CV, as we’ve seen.

But you undeniably get home and have some “career-catch-up” to do (…assuming you want a certain career).

After all, your peers have had a decent head-start! While you’ve been away, they’ve been working.

They’re getting promotions, pay-rises, and progressing up the ladder while you have to start from the bottom.

And the longer you travel? The bigger that gap gets.

When you eventually come home, looking upwards at your friends’ success isn’t easy. And, with your travels now just a memory, it can be difficult to feel great about your decision-making…

6. It’s Tiring

This is a big one for me: travelling is bloody tiring!

You don’t expect it.

You’re used to vacations where the sole purpose is to rest up and relax. You come away feeling rejuvenated.

By contrast, travelling is food for the soul, but it’s rarely a relaxing affair.

You’re on the go all the time, moving from one place to the next, eager not to miss out on anything. All those new foods, people, languages, sounds, smells and places are there to experience!

You can easily burn out if you aren’t careful.

7. There’s (Potential) Danger

The potential for harm is a common reason many people decide against travel.

And yep, the prospect of long-term (especially solo) travel is daunting. It requires a leap into the unknown that goes against all of our innate survival instincts.

It’d be a flagrant lie to say there’s no danger out there.

Every year you hear awful stories of innocent travellers going missing, or being mugged or killed overseas. Those stories are awful and frightening and fuel the idea that travelling’s dangerous.

It can be, clearly! However, with appropriate precautions and general common sense, you have to be unlucky to come into harm’s way.

Also, get yourself some high-quality travel insurance .

It can’t prevent the bad stuff from happening. But it will relieve the practical and financial implications if it does.

As much as anything else, though, travel insurance gives you peace of mind. Even if you never need it, you know that it’s there- just in case you get unlucky. The result? You can get back to enjoying your time away.

One of the main travel disadvantages? You’re faced with your own fears, issues and insecurities…

8. You’re Forced to Confront Your Issues

Nobody’s perfect.

We all have our insecurities, weaknesses, neuroses, prejudices, and vices. But at home, surrounded by everything we know and everyone who loves us, it’s difficult to face up to them.

Often, it takes a change of environment and a novel context to showcase our problems.

Remember that advantage of learning more about who you are on the road? Well, sometimes that newfound insight has a sting in the tail.

I’ve realised a huge amount of stuff about myself that it would have been easier to ignore!

To name a few: how ignorant I am of the world, how insecure I can be, how anxious I can get , how entitled I can be at times…the list goes on.

This is how travel humbles you. It holds a mirror up and forces you to take note.

It hurts, but I actually count this as a major advantage of travel .

It’s exactly what makes you become a better person (you have to know what needs fixing before you can do it). However, not everyone wants to find out their bad bits, so I’ll leave it in the disadvantages section for now!

9. It Can Be Lonely

I’ve been born and raised in cities.

And I’ve always been struck by the irony that you can feel so lonely in such a mass of people.

The same is true when you travel. There may be times when you are genuinely by yourself. But as I’ve already mentioned, more often than not you’re surrounded by fellow travellers.

That’s almost always the case on the tourist trails.

Yet loneliness can develop anyway.

Exploring the world has a habit of highlighting just how small you are. It can crumble your desire to travel, wring the joy from the experience and have you yearning for the comfort of home.

And it’s all part of the experience.

Everyone should learn how to be alone. Creativity, discovery, and self-awareness develop in the silence of solitude and travel’s king at forcing you into it.

10. Coming Home’s Hard

Last but not least, the hardest part of travel is often coming home!

It’s ironic. Saying goodbye at the start of your trip is hard.

Then getting back to that very same place, with the very same people, is even harder. You end up mourning your time on the road.

Coming home’s a shock to the system after all your adventures.

You feel different, yet everything else is the same. It’s the same bed, the same four walls, the same conversations, the same meals in the evenings, the same mundane concerns…It’s hard to wrap your head around.

How has nothing at home changed when you’ve had this profound, life-changing time?

It can take a while to readjust back into home-life. I’ve found that you never want to travel more than in the weeks following your return home.

Now You Know the Benefits of Travelling Abroad (and Its Downsides!)

There you have it: a comprehensive list of advantages and disadvantages of travelling abroad.

Pre-COVID, tens of millions of people would travel in some shape or form each year. And you can only imagine that the same will be the case when this pandemic eventually eases its grip.

You may well be thinking of doing it too!

And, if so, I’d always encourage that decision. Travel will change your life.

However, it’s still a big call! Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of foreign travel may help you decide what to do. Hopefully, this list has given you everything you need to choose the path that’s right for you.

Now I’d love to get your thoughts on this piece! Are you thinking of travelling? What do you think would be the biggest advantage and/or disadvantage for you?

Drop a comment below.

Read these posts next:

• An Essential Guide to Solo Travel
• 100 Reasons I love Travel & You Will Too
• More Disadvantages of Travel to Think About
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Travelling By Car
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Travelling By Air
• Why Travelling Isn’t Just a Hobby

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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 .

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

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

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

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

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

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

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

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

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

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

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

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

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

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

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

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

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

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

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

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

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

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

How many days you need in Moscow?

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

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

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

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

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

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

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

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

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

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

Alya and Campbell

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Is a travel agent worth it the pros and cons.

Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner.

The Pros & Cons of Using a Travel Agent

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A travel agent can save you money and time.

Need to pivot your trip plans but don't want to deal with the extra time, money and hassle of rebooking flights and accommodations on your own? That's just one area where a knowledgeable travel agent (also commonly known as a travel advisor) can help. Read on to discover the other benefits – as well as the downsides – of using a travel agent, so you can confidently decide whether or not a travel agent is worth it for your next trip.

The Pros of Using a Travel Agent

Travel agents can save you money – and get you other perks.

"In some cases, you'll actually get a better  deal by working with a travel agent," says Jackie Steele, travel expert at MagicGuides . "This could be in the form of a cruise onboard credit (free spending money to use on the ship), access to special agency/group rates, or even just learning about a discount you qualify for but weren't aware of." The best agents will even keep an eye on new discounts as they're announced and apply them to your trip even after you've booked, he notes.

Travel agents handle all the details

Hotel room? Booked. Dinner reservations? Made. Tour tickets? Ready to go. A travel agent handles every detail of your vacation itinerary. "The traveler still gets to be involved in the fun part of dreaming up ideas and providing their travel wishes, while we take and perfect them," says Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer .

Molly McShea, owner and travel advisor at McShea Travel , points out that travel agents can also help with timing logistics. "Travel agents know how many days should be spent in each destination, which tours go together, and how many things you should do in a day," she says, adding that crafting an itinerary can be challenging if it's not something you regularly do. Additionally, travel agents can help you choose the best time to visit your preferred destination(s) based on seasonality and your budget, and sift through travel insurance policies to find the best option for your needs.

Travel agents can provide local expertise

"A travel advisor's industry connections and relationships provide added value to their clients," says Valerie Edman, a luxury travel advisor and agency owner at Cultured Travel LLC. She says when working with a travel agent, travelers gain access to a global network of connections including:

• In-destination specialists who work exclusively with travel advisors and can connect travelers with unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences they wouldn't otherwise know about
• Exclusive experiences not available to the general public

You'll avoid surprise fees

When deciding if a travel agent is worth it for you, remember this: A reputable agent can guarantee you won't encounter any surprise fees on accommodations and activities once your trip is booked.

You'll have someone to troubleshoot unexpected travel issues

A travel advisor is essentially your personal vacation concierge. "Because they've been around for so long, agents really know what to look for," says Christopher Elliott , a consumer advocate and journalist. "Travel agents are among the first to know about flight cancellations and delays , making it easy for them to rebook itineraries right away." 

The Cons of Using a Travel Agent

It might not be your cheapest option.

There are some instances when it makes more sense to plan your own trip. "If you're planning a quick flight from New York City to Los Angeles, it's easy enough to book it yourself online directly or through a third-party booking site," says Elliott. "If you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or bucket list honeymoon , that's when you call the experts."

You'll have less flexibility in your itinerary

The upside of working with a travel agent is having someone plan an epic vacation for you based on industry knowledge and local expertise. But this can also be a downside in the event you discover an activity you'd like to do or a restaurant you'd like to try that isn't on your pre-planned itinerary. If you alter your plans, you risk losing money; plus, the time it takes for you and your travel agent to coordinate your change of plans may not be worth the hassle.

You still have to do some research

It's important to find an agent you can trust, which means you still have to do some of the vacation planning. For this part, Parker recommends picking up the phone. "Lots of people avoid or don't pick up the phone as much anymore," she says. "That's where you get the high-touch service, tone of voice, excitement or concerns to manage." She advises to look for the following red flags:

• No fees: " Travel advisors are charging planning fees more now or increasing them, so the client knows more confidently than ever, we work for them, not the suppliers with the best commissions," Parker explains. "There are a lot of things that are non-commissionable and the advisor's time and expertise shouldn't be given away for free, either. That's the best way to show an advisor takes their business seriously."
• Limited options: If you work with someone who is inexperienced or has an incentive to book you with a certain supplier, they may not be prioritizing your best interests. "It's important to check if they are with a larger consortia, accreditations and network, typically listed on their website and signatures," says Parker. "That level of mindshare doesn't come with a lone advisor unless they have many, many years of experience."
• Slow response times: If communication is delayed, that's a sign they may be too busy to plan your trip – but again, this is something you can avoid by having the right conversations early on.

Edman suggestes starting your search with the American Society of Travel Advisors . "ASTA-verified travel advisors are committed to the highest industry standards and have verifiable industry knowledge so consumers can feel confident in working with them," she says.

You might also be interested in:

• Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

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Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

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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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Here are the best-rated Priority Pass lounges in 2024

P riority Pass has revealed its best-rated airport lounges around the world — and you're definitely going to want to tick off a few of them on future trips.

Pulled together as part of the Priority Pass Excellence Awards, this roundup features the highest-rated lounges across the Priority Pass network , their rankings decided by 379,966 member ratings and reviews.

Related: 11 credit cards that offer Priority Pass airport lounge access

Each lounge is judged on a range of criteria, including quality of facilities, customer service, food and beverage selection, and overall satisfaction, with the awards recognizing best-in-class lounges both regionally and globally.

"We have a shared ethos with our partners to deliver the best airport experience to our members and the winners of this year's Priority Pass Excellence Awards have proven that they truly elevate every customer journey into something special," said Christopher Evans, president of Collinson International.

Here's a rundown of the lounges that received the best ratings for 2024.

Global and Europe

Winner: vienna lounge, terminal 1, vienna airport (vie) in austria.

The Vienna Lounge was refurbished in 2022 and is likely the slickest Priority Pass lounge we've ever visited, so it's no surprise that it received the best ratings in Europe and globally from visitors. It features hip art nouveau stylings, a beautiful Viennese cafe and top-tier food and drinks. And that's before we even mention the airy outdoor terrace with runway views and the artwork displayed throughout the lounge, which includes various works from renowned Austrian painter Gustav Klimt.

"The Vienna Lounge is all about symbolising impressive Vienna elegance and Austrian cuisine for travellers," said Julian Jäger, joint CEO and chief operating officer of Vienna Airport, in reaction to the win. "To be named Global Lounge of The Year amongst 1,500 other lounges and travel experiences is an outstanding confirmation of the quality of our services."

Highly commended (Europe): Marco Polo Club, Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) in Italy

The Save SPA-partnered Priority Lounge, Marco Polo Club, was also highly commended and recognized for its selection of hot and cold snacks, beverages, shower facilities, and other amenities. It's a worthwhile stop-off point if you're visiting Venice soon.

The Asia-Pacific region

Winner: chase sapphire lounge by the club, terminal 1, hong kong international airport (hkg).

This stylish Chase Sapphire Lounge covers 12,000 square feet and opened in October 2022. It features separate spaces for those traveling for business and pleasure, with dedicated areas for work and relaxation. Along with self-serve food and drink options, the lounge has an impressive array of signature cocktails, curated wines and made-to-order dishes.

Highly commended: Oriental Club Lounge, Terminal 2, Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

This lounge haven in Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is a perfect backdrop for travelers wanting to relax and enjoy freshly prepared (and delicious) Taiwanese delicacies during work downtime. You'll find a classy environment with grade-A service, food and drinks, and other amenities.

Latin America and the Caribbean

Winner: advantage vip lounge, curitiba afonso pena international airport (cwb) in brazil.

Priority Pass' standout offering in Brazil, the Advantage VIP Lounge, garnered great reviews for its excellent gastronomy experiences — which, along with regionally inspired menus, include delicious gluten-free options and frequent theme days that pay ode to Curitiba.

Highly commended: Macondo Lounge, Barranquilla Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ) in Colombia

Also recognized was the Macondo Lounge in Colombia, which prides itself on its fully stocked selection of newspapers and magazines, friendly service and diverse seating areas.

The Middle East and Africa

Winner: petra lounge, amman queen alia international airport (amm) in jordan.

The Petra Lounge was ranked highly thanks to its warm and inviting front-of-house staff, great food and vast seating area decorated in modern Middle Eastern-influenced details that reference the region's rich culture.

Highly commended: Primeclass Lounge, Muscat International Airport (MCT) in Oman

The highly regarded Primeclass Lounge is not only a favorite of Priority Pass members but was also referenced in glowing terms repeatedly by members of the Priority Pass team when TPG recently asked for recommendations. The lounge features a sprawling open buffet, a gaming zone, a cinema, a spa and a kids play zone.

North America

Winner: vip lounge aguascalientes, aguascalientes international airport (agu) in mexico.

The VIP Lounge Aguascalientes topped the ratings across North America thanks to its vibrant food and drink services and comfortable, pet-friendly space.

Highly commended: Escape Lounge, South Terminal A, Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) in New York

Finally, the Escape Lounge at Syracuse Hancock International Airport also received a worthwhile nod, thanks, in part, to its highly praised seasonal menus, which are changed frequently throughout the year.

Credit cards that offer Priority Pass Select memberships

These are multiple credit cards through which you can get a Priority Pass Select membership.

These include not only premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , The Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required) and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card — which even includes two guests — but also hotel credit cards like the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card (enrollment required).

Bottom line

Priority Pass has just revealed the winners of its newly established Priority Pass Excellence Awards, which take into account ratings and reviews of lounges across its entire global network. For 2024, the standout Lounge of the Year award goes to the Vienna Lounge at Vienna Airport after it topped the global and European rankings.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a first-time or frequent traveler
• Best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.