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Africa offers a plethora of engaging educational travel experiences to help students grow into global citizens. It's a continent of staggering beauty and contrast, blessed with epic landscapes, ancient cultures and some of world’s most iconic wildlife.

From its snowcapped mountains to sunbaked deserts, vast savannas to lush wetlands, palm-studded beaches and mighty river systems, it offers something for everyone, and we can tailor an educational experience to suit your schools requirements or curriculum.

Witness millions of animals in migration, trek through rainforests in search of rare primates, and seek out the iconic Big 5 game animals on an unforgettable safari. Canoe along the lush tributaries of the Okavango Delta, see the spectacular Victoria Falls, or assist on a Service Learning project in Morocco, Tanzania, Kenya and Egypt.

Visit vibrant cities and World Heritage Listed treasures, experience the rich cultures and traditions of Africa’s many ethnic groups or challenge your students to a safe ascent of one of Africa’s highest peaks, such as Mt Kilimanjaro.

Our exciting program of African educational adventures includes opportunities to trek, climb, cycle, kayak, cruise and camp throughout these diverse environments.

Browse our range of destinations or get in touch with our team to begin designing an African School Group adventure to suit your budget and requirements.

School trip and project ideas in Africa

High Atlas Experiential Geography Trip in Morocco

Activities:.

Kilimanjaro School Expedition

Moderate to Challenging

Madagascar Conservation, Education & Ecology Adventure

Morocco School Adventure

Introductory

Morocco Sea, Service & Summit School Adventure

Southern Africa Wildlife History & Culture

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Africa projects, africa destinations.

On a continent rich in wildlife and cultural diversity that is famed for its spectacular landscapes, the importance of sustainable travel is high. We aim to minimise our impact on the natural environment by practicing the '7 Principals of Leave No Trace', our School Group adventures support local economies by employing guides and staff from local communities.

Our Animal Welfare Code of Conduct, Child Welfare Code of Conduct and Porter Welfare Policy ensure the well-being of animals and children we encounter, as well as the porters we employ on Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Mount Kenya and in the Ruwenzori Mountains.

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Ready to tailor a school trip to Africa?

Our educational travel experts are ready to help you tailor an itinerary or service learning project in Africa to suit your school’s needs and budget. Contact us today to receive a free consultation.

Accommodation

In cities and large towns you will be accommodated in 3-4 star properties that are generally centrally located, atmospheric and reliable and where we have seen a good track record with traveller satisfaction over many years. At times, accommodation will be chalet style with a bedroom and bathroom attached to a lounge area. Very occasionally, hotels may have shared bathroom facilities.

Safari lodges

In game parks, national parks and rural locations we use properties that reflect the character of the area. They are generally one storey high and will be a collection of individual bungalows or a series of adjoining rooms, based around a central main dining/lounge area.

Luxury safari lodges

Luxury lodges differ to standard safari lodges in that they feature extra facilities such as swimming pools, satellite TVs or rooms with private balconies. You will find this type of accommodation in East Africa at Serene Lodges and at boutique, 4-5 star lodges in Southern Africa.

Found in Morocco, a riad is a traditional house often located in the ancient medina (walled city) and usually includes an internal courtyard with a garden or water feature. Generally all rooms are a different shape and size, adding to the character. Riads range from elaborate traditional tiled decor to ultra modern furnishings.

A homestay describes any stay with a local family where we share their current home. Sleeping arrangements may be dormitory style and bathroom facilities will generally be shared. The standard is often basic but the experience is unbeatable.

Permanent safari camps

The perfect way to experience Africa wilderness; think of this as a tented hotel. Rooms are individual tents with built-in floors, doors and windows and include an en suite bathroom. Tents are usually placed on a solid structure and may also be sheltered under a solid roof. Guest tents are generally clustered around a main central dining/lounge area and power is either solar or by generator.

Luxury permanent safari camps

A luxury permanent safari camp differs to a standard permanent safari camp in that they feature extra facilities such as swimming pools, satellite TVs or rooms with private balconies; all with premium views.

Bedouin camps

Found in desert regions in North Africa and the Middle East, these are permanent safari camps using traditional Bedouin tents and decor. Bathroom facilities may be basic as water is scarce in the desert. Power is limited to specific hours of the day and is usually by generator when available. Kerosene lanterns or candles provide night time lighting, adding to the ambience.

Camping refers to any accommodation using mobile tents, ranging from large dome tents to small trekking tents. The local camp crew erects the tents or, on a limited participation safari, guests are expected to assist with this process. Group camping equipment (dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent) is supplied. Bathroom facilities are shared, and on rare occasions, bush toileting may be required.

Mountain huts

Mountain huts can be considered camping in a basic shelter. These generally consist of dormitory rooms with shared bathroom facilities and in the majority of cases are not exclusive to World Expeditions guests. Some mountain huts have cooking facilities that will be used by your crew; others have separate shelters for this.

Leaders in the field

Elias Berehe

Elias has a degree in Education and previously worked as a teacher, however his passion for travel and learning new things saw him change careers and attain his tour guide diploma six years ago. He has a friendly and sensitive nature and enjoys sharing his extensive knowledge of the cultural, social and historical gems of Ethiopia.

Victor Kombe

Victor was born in the heart of Kilimanjaro and has been a safari guide for eight years. Tracking wild animals is in his blood and he has an intimate knowledge of all the wildlife, from the smallest insect to the largest predators. The big cats are his particular favourites, especially the elusive leopard which Victor describes as "an animal work of art".

January B Kayombo

January has been working 14 years as a driver-guide in Tanzania, with his favourite being the Serengeti National Park. He is a keen wildlife enthusiast with a passion for bird watching, flora and fauna. January's favourite animals are all the big cats, and favourite bird is the Didric Cuckoo. January's knowledge, skills and experience make him very popular with clients.

Anjela Tumaini

Anjela is one of our female guides on Kilimanjaro, breaking stereotypes in this male dominated field. She first worked as a porter in 2012 and in the same year made her first summit ascent and obtained her guides license. Anjela has completed the National Parks and First Aid courses. She enjoys meeting clients from all around the world and encouraging them to reach the summit.

Ian Williams

Ian lives and breathes the bush and is known as the "Africa Guru". It would be a hard task to determine where Ian has not travelled in Africa over the past 40 years! He is a keen photographer and is passionate about all things African. His in-depth knowledge is integral to the itineraries he organises for our Africa private and school groups.

Kembo Sithole

Starting life as a bank teller in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Kembo saw the light and began his safari career in Hwange National Park in 1998. Since then he has grown to become one of our most popular Southern African guides. He has vast knowledge of fauna and flora and this with his excellent manner with people ensures he brings that something extra to our guests’ safari experience.

Phumuzile Ncube

Phumuzile was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, and moved to South Africa to work in the hospitality industry and learn more about his passion for wildlife and nature. His love of the local cultures, beauty of nature and sense of humour make Phumuzile an excellent guide for Southern African safaris. In his spare time, he loves supporting local football.

George Griffiths

George first started working as a guide in Namibia in 2006 and soon became a very much loved guide. His bright and friendly personality plus his years of experience make George a sought after guide, and his ability to speak many of the local languages opens up doors when you travel with him.

Clive Dougherty

Growing up in the Kenyan bush has inspired Clive to seek out East Africa’s greatest adventures. From the summit of Mt Kenya and the Ruwenzori Mountains to the plains of the Masai Mara, his rapport with fellow Africans and local knowledge ensure that our trips in East Africa offer an exceptional insight into the cultures, wildlife and environments of the region.

Thierry Andrianirinantenaina

Thierry has been an adventure guide for the past 14 years. The chameleon is his favourite animal due to its ability to adapt to the environment. His experience and love of diverse local cultures and natural environments makes him an excellent and highly experienced guide for our Madagascar and Mauritius adventures.

Youssef Elouali Kaissar

Youssef is a Berber from the High Atlas Mountains. He studied at Marrakesh University before completing his mountain guide qualification in 1994. While his love for the mountains is unmistaken, Youssef is also highly regarded for his extensive knowledge of the imperial history of Morocco. The union of the two also makes Youssef an ideal guide to develop new treks and tours for our travellers.

John Sempele

John, a Masai born in the region between Aberdare and Mount Kenya, is a popular safari guide best known for guiding on foot safaris in remote and beautiful corners of Kenya. His favourite is the climb on Mount Kenya with its lobelia strewn valleys. He has led many traditional safaris and has the innate ability – from a childhood in the bush – to read animals movements, a good skill when on foot!

Jackson Odhiambo

Jackson is from a small village on the shores of Lake Victoria, Western Kenya. He has always admired East Africa’s environment and wildlife. Following in his uncle's footsteps, he has put his passion to good use. Jackson became a driver and guide more than a decade ago and has clocked more than 500,000kms. He is a member of the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association.

Gesine (Gus) Cheung

From Cairo to the Cape and beyond, Gus’ travels have taken her to the roof of Africa (Kilimanjaro), the ‘Big 5’ in South Africa, Tanzania's annual migration, Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Rwanda's Mountain Gorillas, Namibia, Zanzibar’s beaches, majestic Victoria Falls, Morocco, Turkey, Iran, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Oman and Jordan. Gus’ usual mode of transport is her own two feet, so don’t be surprised if you see her out on an African trail sometime.

Dr Ross Anderson

Dr Anderson lives with his wife in a small town near the Lakes District in the north of England. He is a family doctor and spends much of his spare time travelling as an expedition doctor. He has more than 10 years of altitude and travel medicine experience. Previous treks and expeditions have focused on the Himalayas, with others in the Scandinavian Arctic and mountainous areas of Africa. He also enjoys trail running, cycling and open-water swimming.

Why travel with us

Assisted over 14,000 Students Worldwide

Since the 1980's, we   have helped students from around the globe to experience the world's most exciting destinations, allowing them to travel, give, grow .

400+ Service Learning Programs

Together with students, we have completed over 400 Service Learning programs in developing countries. We will always continue to support causes including social justice, animal welfare, the environment and more.

Fully Customised School Travel Programs

Want to include service learning, your school curriculum and a physical challenge, or any of the above? Contact us and we can design a program fully catered for your students and budget.

Safety and Support - Our #1 Priority

Every school receives a detailed risk management plan that is guided by government advisories and the local partners we work with. We never compromise on the safety of your students to reduce the price of the program.

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Unforgettable Vacations with Purpose

We believe travel can be transformative. That it can empower the communities we visit. And that it can make the world a better place. Join us on a high-end handcrafted journey across the most unique destinations this world has to offer.

A Meaningful Way to Travel

Because you want more from your travel experiences. Our immersive, small-group experiences & purpose-driven itineraries allow you to explore a destination in ways few have access to. And our portfolio of boutique lodges are designed to create a truly unparalleled experience. Join us as we redefine what it means to travel.

Why Discover Corps?

We’ve been pioneering a new way to travel since 2012 delivering truly unforgettable, family-friendly journeys that have a positive impact. Hand-selected expert guides connect you with fascinating people and projects across some of the world’s most incredible locales.

This is travel that is designed to change your perspectives and inspire you and your children to engage with the world. Our passionate team of travel experts will be by your side the entire time.

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Each trip is designed to impact both the communities and wildlife that we encounter as well as you and your family. Our hand-selected partnerships provide access to inspiring initiatives that are changing the world for the better.

Wildlife Conservation

Come face-to-face with our world's most precious wildlife and engage with conservationists dedicated to protecting these animals.

Women's Empowerment

Experience local projects and meet community leaders helping women thrive.

Community Development

Engage with local communities and children helping to spark change in education and health.

Environmental Preservation

Discover innovative environmental initiatives designed to protect our incredible natural world.

Types of Trips

Signature Journeys

Our signature hand-crafted small-group journeys infused with purpose and high-end boutique lodging.

Grassroots Expeditions

Our selection of trips featuring hands-on volunteer projects, no-frills lodging and deep cultural immersion.

Experience a New Way to Travel

Brazil - Rio Carnival

Dress up in costume and parade with a leading samba school. Rub shoulders with Rio’s leading samba schools. Uncover arguably the most beautiful city in the world. This is Discover Corps’ Carnival!

Oaxaca - Day of the Dead

Experience the iconic Day of the Dead festivities & be immersed in the Oaxacan culture!

Thailand - The Lantern Festival

Thailand literally lights up during the Loy Krathong & Yi Ping lantern festivals. Experience the best of this stunning Southeast Asian country while joining in on the festivities!

Cuba - Havana Jazz Festival

Immerse yourself in one of the world's greatest jazz festivals! Explore the beauty of Havana & beyond.

Peru – Inti Raymi Festival

People come from all over the world to experience the iconic Inti Raymi festival. This is a time of celebration and arguably the best days of the year to be in Cusco!

Morocco – Fès World Festival of Sacred Music

Morocco is an epicenter of Arab culture in North Africa. And during the Fès World Festival of Sacred Music the country lights up in dance, music and art. A truly remarkable time to visit this enchanting country!

Looking for more?

What will you discover.

Discover Corps has been taking travelers to far corners of the world for over a decade. Hear what a few of our Alumni have to say...

Each day I thought we had reached the high point of the trip, but then the next day always offered another rich experience. Broadening my knowledge of Peru and its people was very important. The trip exceeded any expectation that I had…the warmth, generosity, skill, knowledge of the guide, Miguel, the variety of experiences we participated in – Inka history, social projects, connection with the people, and especially the children – made for an unforgettable trip. Rainbow   Mountain was one of the most deeply spiritual experiences I’ve ever had. I’m saving my money for my next Discover Corps trip!

Peru: Children of the Andes

Learn more about this trip

What makes international travel a beautiful experience for us is the opportunity to learn about the culture firsthand through its people, food, and music. Discover Corps designed this trip to Cuba with all of that in mind. We developed genuine connections with people we would have never had a chance to interact with otherwise, and the casa particular was an incredible opportunity to hone our Spanish and, for my 8-year-old daughter, to be immersed in the language for a week. Our tour guide gave us chances to make the trip our own during free-time and showed us the local perspective day after day.

Cuba: Building Bridges

What really drew me to this trip was the ability to take my children on vacation and watch them fall in love with nature. Each day, we joined our guide on a mission to track animals that we had only seen in movies. Watching my kids stare in awe as they watched elephants and rhinos play in the wild was truly priceless. Since we’ve been home, they cannot stop talking about everything they learned in South Africa.

South Africa: Wildlife Conservation Experience

Types of Grassroots Volunteer Trips

Volunteer trips for single travelers.

Single travelers are often charged an expensive “single supplement” if they want a room to themselves.  However, we make it affordable for single travelers.  On all trips, we can pair single travelers with a roommate in order to avoid any additional fees. On some trips we offer a free single room to solo travelers – just look for dates marked “Solo Traveler Savings” (STS).   Read more about our Solo Traveler Savings program .

Volunteer Travel for Women

Women often face unique safety challenges when traveling abroad.  However, our volunteer trips offer women an easy, turnkey service program that is managed by our expert in-country staff.  Our staff will make you feel like you’re part of their family, and share all of their insider knowledge so you have an insightful, authentic and safe volunteer vacation.  Read more about how our volunteer trips accommodate women travelers .

Volunteer Vacations for Seniors

Combine your love of travel with your desire to make a difference.  Whether you’re traveling with a friend, spouse or your grandchildren, our trips feature all-inclusive pricing so you don’t have to worry about a thing.  Our trips are not physically demanding, and our guides can tailor activities to your level of fitness. Read more about our volunteer travel for seniors .

Volunteer Travel to Costa Rica

Travel to Costa Rica has never been easier.  We plan your entire Costa Rican vacation with meticulous care.  Our volunteer trips to Costa Rica allow you to experience its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and friendly people.  Whether you want to volunteer with sea turtles , help protect the environment , or simply relax – we have the perfect trip to Costa Rica for you.

Intergenerational Volunteer Family Travel

Are you looking for the perfect family vacation? A volunteer vacation for your family might be the ideal getaway.  Volunteering abroad as a family is a great way to expose children to other cultures in a safe and secure environment.  Intergenerational volunteer trips are also a wonderful way to pass on your values of service and compassion to the next generation. Read more about family volunteer vacations .

Trips to Volunteer with Animals & Wildlife

Connect your love of animals and your passion for travel by volunteering with a conservation organization.  Whether you’re protecting sea turtles in Costa Rica or conserving leopards in South Africa , you’ll go behind the scenes of the worldwide animal conservation movement. Read more about our animal volunteer programs .

Explore the World's Greatest Cultural Festivals!

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Not for Profit Trips with MEDLIFE

Safe, Educational, and Impactful

Looking for a different kind of travel experience? Our partner NGO, MEDLIFE , organizes not for profit Service Learning Trips (SLTs) to Peru, Ecuador, Tanzania, or Nicaragua. These are safe, educational, and impactful week-long journeys where participants work hand in hand with the local community on development projects and mobile medical clinics.

Service Learning Trips are 100% operated by and for MEDLIFE. Good Life Expeditions supports MEDLIFE by donating profits, bringing attention to their work, and giving our travelers a greater sense of connection with the world around them.

Click Here For More Information.

Why service learning trips, 1. providing crucial resources.

A service-learning trip’s primary role is to provide the resources to hire doctors, nurses, community organizers, engineers, architects, and supplies such as medicine, educational materials, cement, busses, and food to make it happen. The resources allow MEDLIFE to aid the communities we work in by screening for diseases, providing education, and purchasing building materials.

2. Growing the MEDLIFE Movement

The SLT is also a crucial starting point for the MEDLIFE Movement. It  provides an educational opportunity for participants to see firsthand the harsh realities of extreme poverty and how MEDLIFE approaches these issues. They learn about foreign cultures and countries by spending time with patients, community members, and medical professionals. Participating in workshops, they become well-versed in local and global issues.

A local MEDLIFE team supports all SLTs. Participants have 24/7 on the ground emergency contacts and are covered by thorough insurance. Contact MEDLIFE for more information!

From Our Happy Travelers

Good Life Expeditions prides itself on crafting unforgettable journeys for travelers from around the world. Don't believe us? Hear it from the travelers themselves!

Jake, Phillipe, and Michelle tell us about their magical trip!

- Jake, Phillipe, and Michelle

Check out this incredible expedition to the Galapagos Islands!

- Richard and Kara

Check out what these travelers loved about their trip to Peru.

- Sarah and Hakudo

These girls would recommend GLE to friends and family – check out why!

- University of Wisconsin students

Check out what Thu Le has to say about her experience with Good Life Expeditions!

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Service Trips Abroad in 2024 & 2025

Are you planning a service trip abroad for 2024 or 2025? To make your planning easier, we’ve created this helpful guide with International Volunteer HQ’s top 7 service trip programs abroad!

What is a volunteer service trip?

A volunteer service trip abroad with IVHQ enables you to make meaningful contributions to community projects in the areas of education, healthcare, construction, childcare, community development, conservation, social enterprise, volunteering with animals, wildlife conservation and more.

Service trips are purpose-driven experiences that enable you to grow as a person while making a genuine difference with your travel. IVHQ trips are built around visiting a community to devote a dedciated period of time to a specific cause. These experiences are brought to life by the unforgettable moments that come from meaningful volunteer work, cultural exchange and service learning. By immersing yourself in another culture and getting out of your comfort zone, you’ll inevitably change your world view and help make an impact on worthy communities.

Top 7 Volunteer Service Trips for 2024 & 2025

• Africa - South Africa, Ghana & Kenya
• India - New Delhi Medical & Healthcare Volunteer Programs
• Italy - Rome NGO & Community Outreach Volunteer Program
• Guatemala - Sea Turtle Conservation & Sustainable Eco Agriculture
• Argentina - Beunos Aires Childcare & Community Development Volunteer Programs
• Romania - Teaching Volunteer Program
• Peru - Cusco Healthcare Volunteer Program

If you want to take a gap year, you should really consider volunteering abroad. It is such a rewarding feeling when you can make a difference while traveling the world. - IVHQ volunteer Miguel Lopes van Uden

Why volunteer with IVHQ?

IVHQ is a pioneer of affordable and sustainable volunteer travel. Operating in more than 40 countries across Africa , Asia , Central America , South America , Europe , the Caribbean , the Middle East and the Pacific . IVHQ enables volunteers to make meaningful contributions to community projects in the areas of education , construction and renovation , childcare , conservation , wildlife and animal care , community development and social enterprise .

Since 2007, IVHQ has supported more than 136,000 volunteers to spend over 8 million hours supporting community projects abroad. Before departure, all IVHQ volunteers recieve outstanding support services and guidance from a dedicated program manager.

You’ll be accommodated in a volunteer house with like-minded, impact-focused travelers from around the world.

Gap Year Service Trips

If you’re currently in college, planning a gap year , or if you’re a teen thinking about traveling abroad - embarking on a service trip is an adventure that will help a good cause and change the way you see the world.

As an IVHQ volunteer, you’ll be fully immersed in your host community and able to see the benefits of your work through the eyes of locals. It’s an opportunity to take your learning outside of the classroom and gain real world experience in a global setting. Some volunteers are also able to gain course credit towards a qualification through a volunteer trip with IVHQ.

How much do service trips cost?

International Volunteer HQ offers affordable service trips in the form of fully-hosted volunteer abroad programs. Volunteers are able to gain practical experience on a wide range of projects , in more than 50 destinations around the world . You can choose to participate on our service trip programs for durations ranging from 1-24 weeks with affordable volunteer fees from only $20 per day including accommodation.

Why should you take a volunteer service trip?

Embarking on a service trip abroad lets you see the difference you can make by providing hands-on support to worthy communities. It provides practical experience in a number of disciplines, such as teaching, construction or providing much needed support for the elderly.

Many lessons are best learnt in practice - that may be using a teaching technique successfully, helping to construct a building or spending one-on-one time helping to care for the elderly. This is precisely why service learning is such a powerful way of absorbing knowledge and gaining experience. It shouldn’t be seen as a replacement for theoretical learning; service learning is an excellent supplement to textbook studies.

For students entering the workforce, there are huge benefits in being able to show practical experience. However, without a chance to get that experience, it can be a trap that’s difficult to escape. By taking service learning opportunities abroad, that important practical experience can be gained to make a résumé stand out from the rest. What’s more, the initiative to go on a service trip abroad shows drive, creativity and a willingness to learn that is attractive to employers.

Some volunteer programs might have pre-requisites that you at a certain level of study. For example, students wanting to go on many medical volunteer projects need to show relevant skills and qualifications in order to be accepted. This helps to ensure suitabiliy and a good fit for the volunteer and the community.

International Volunteer HQ specializes in providing quality Service Trips Abroad . If you are traveling with a group our dedicated groups team can create specialized itineraries and specially tailored group packages.

All IVHQ programs are open and hosting volunteers

You can make free changes to your booking up to 14 days before you start, and we have additional health and safety measures in place.

7 Top Service Trips Abroad for 2024 & 2025

Service trips in Africa IVHQ has been offering service trips in Africa for over 12 years. There are several meaniningful projects in 9 African countries to choose from, including service trips in South Africa, Ghana and Kenya. A service trip to Africa is a meaningful way to contribute to an appreciative community, get out of your comfort zone and explore this vibrant continent.

Medical volunteering in India Based in Delhi, the biggest city in India, volunteers can work in either local hospitals or slum clinics. Both involve working in under-resourced healthcare environments alongside local professionals. Volunteering in local hospitals involves more shadowing and observational duties, while volunteering in slum clinics is more hands-on and fast-paced. Both options provide valuable learning opportunities and first-hand experience working alongside respected physicians. This project is available for medical students at any level, in a range of specialities, including nursing and physical therapy.

NGO Support project in Italy NGOs in Italy operate in a wide range of fields, but all face similar challenges in terms of resources and having enough hands on deck to get things done. Based in Rome, volunteers gain valuable insight into day-to-day life working in an NGO and taking part in campaigns, workshops, marketing and research.

Conservation volunteering in Guatemala Guatemala has two choices available for conservation projects, including Sea Turtle Conservation and a unique Eco-Agriculture Conservation project.

The Sea Turtle Conservation project in Guatemala is an excellent opportunity for volunteers interested in getting stuck in and providing hands-on assistance to help protect the endangered local sea turtle population, build nests and create hatcheries.

The Turtle Conservation project is perfect for those willing to roll up their sleeves to help protect endangered sea turtles and help with nest protection programs. It involves predator protection, building hatcheries, beach cleaning and all manner of duties involved in helping to increase the local turtle population.

The Eco-Agriculture Conservation project places volunteers in either a coffee or macadamia nut farm, assisting local farmers with day-to-day tasks. Farming efforts target sustainable means of production and work varies depending on the time of year. This is a fantastic opportunity to work at the coal face of unique agriculture projects with experienced locals to guide and educate you.

Childcare project in Argentina - Buenos Aires This is an ideal project for those interested in childcare to help where they’re sorely needed. Volunteers are placed in local soup kitchens, working with vulnerable children and providing them a safe place to be during the day. Activities can include sports, arts and crafts and songs. Volunteers also help to provide meals for up to 45 children and teenagers at a time.

Teaching project in Romania Romania provides a well structured teaching environment for volunteers, who are placed in schools helping educate students between six to 16 years-old. You’ll volunteer alongside a local teacher and support English language tuition, as well as provide assistance in other parts of the school curriculum. This offers an authentic teaching experience .

Special Needs Care project in Peru - Cusco Those interested in caring for the elderly or children living with disabilities can provide valuable assistance in the city of Cusco in Peru. Working in care centers, volunteers help with all aspects of personal care for those who need it. This is both rewarding and practical work, providing the opportunity to volunteer in a hands-on capacity in a unique setting among the Peruvian Andes.

How can service trips benefit the community?

Regardless of where in the world you decide to travel, you can rest assured that you will be making a meaningful contribution. When you choose to volunteer abroad with IVHQ you can be sure your efforts are appreciated and you will leave a lasting impact. There are clear benefits that a volunteer service trip provides, for both the community and the volunteer donating their time and effort.

There is a broad variety of important volunteer work available in the communities that IVHQ supports. Volunteers are able to help support the disabled, teach disadvantaged children, assist local farmers in pioneering sustainable agriculture, or help promote wildlife conservation efforts. Some of the work that volunteers provide is often aspirational in nature, which can often be overlooked in the local day-to-day life. Without service trip volunteers to help, this kind of work would simply not be done.

Members of these communities also benefit through cross-cultural exchange. Exposure to different cultures and beliefs helps both volunteers and locals to enhance their appreciation for the world, challenge themselves with a foreign approach to life and have a gain a better appreciation for the way others live.

IVHQ volunteers also help contribute to local communities through volunteer fees . Volunteers pay a program fee which covers food, accommodation, supervision and a pick-up from the airport. This money enables the program to run and goes into the local community to help support community projects.

It’s for reasons like these that IVHQ is a big believer in the power of meaningful travel experiences. Since 2007, IVHQ volunteers have contributed approximately 858 years of volunteer labor abroad and more than US$87 million in Program Fees which have gone directly to local communities. And, more than 136,000 volunteers have become more open-minded, expanded their purpose and uncovered their place in the world through volunteering abroad with IVHQ.

Service Learning for Extra Course Credit

Many of IVHQ’s programs provide experience relevant to a number of majors and career fields. Students on an IVHQ volunteer service program may also obtain additional course credit towards their qualification.

IVHQ’s specialist Campus Support team works directly with colleges and universities to ensure a volunteer’s program is relevant to their study and requirements for service learning course credit are met.

This article shares just a snapshot of the many volunteer trips IVHQ has available to those interested in using service trips as a way of furthering themselves and giving back to a community in need. For more information, search IVHQ projects and find a destination that works for you.

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“MEDLIFE has been the most career-defining experience for me as a nurse… My work with MEDLIFE has significantly impacted the way that I see the world and the avenues that I have pursued within nursing after 7 years in practice… MEDLIFE has laid the framework for my work in global health and has opened up infinite possibilities for continued global health nursing in my career.”

 – cynthia peterson, phd(c), msn, rn.

What is a nursing service learning trip?

A MEDLIFE Nursing Service Learning Service Trip offers free, high-quality healthcare to communities that lack access to essential health services. Local practitioners staff our Nursing Students Service Trips and offer essential medical treatment and preventative screenings. These service learning trips are specially designed to find patients who are in need of long-term assistance.

As a nursing students volunteer, your tasks may include the following:

• Supporting local healthcare providers in essential medical duties like triage.
• Recording vital signs and compiling patient medical records.
• Shadowing local medical professionals to gain insights into healthcare practices in developing communities.
• Providing education on hygiene, family planning, and various healthcare topics to individuals, families, and communities.
• Joining MEDLIFE’s local nurses during home visits to gain an understanding of prevalent or high-priority medical needs within the community.

HIGHLIGHTS of the trip

• Engage: Shadow local medical professionals and work alongside community members.
• Educate: Connect experiences from the field to academic themes through educational discussions.
• Build your CV: Gain 40 service hours!
• Advocate: Become a global citizen and learn how to advocate for social issues, both locally and abroad.
• Travel Abroad: Explore more of the adventure, culture, and wildlife of our destinations by adding travel extensions to a Service Learning Trip.

The MEDLIFE Difference

Providing Quality Care to Low-Income Communities

Our Service Learning Trips travel to low-income communities to provide quality healthcare to people who would otherwise struggle to access it. They offer general medicine, dental, and pharmacy services as well as preventative tests such as Pap Smears and breast cancer screenings.

Working On-Site with Local Professionals

MEDLIFE’s in-country medical professionals speak the local language, understand local systems, and provide culturally sensitive care to their patients.

Providing Follow-Up Care

Any patient who may have a serious or long-term condition is immediately placed in our patient follow-up program. Our local nurses are dedicated to supporting patients every step of the way throughout the course of the treatment.

Global Education Through Service Learning

On Service Learning Trips, volunteers learn about foreign cultures and customs through first-hand experience, reflections, and workshops. By spending time with patients, community members, and medical professionals as well as attending reflective and educational meetings, they are educated on global issues.

The MEDLIFE Nursing service learning trips Week

When you sign up for a Service Learning Trip, you are automatically registered for medical emergency insurance for the duration of your trip. Visit our  travel safe page  or email us at  [email protected]  to learn more.

SERVE, LEARN, GROW: JOIN MEDLIFE’S NURSING SERVICE LEARNING TRIPS

Learn more and start planning your Nursing Service Learning Trip with our advisors. Fill out the contact form, and we will be in touch.

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Africa: Tanzania, Morocco and South Africa

Calling all adventure-seekers: Our Africa programs are perfect for you! With its famed wildlife and fascinating history, you know you’re guaranteed a trip unlike any other. Go on a safari and spot giraffes and lions in Tanzania or wander around the mountainous seaside paradise that is Cape Town. Either way, Africa offers the kind of possibilities you’ve only dreamed about. We offer teen travel programs in South Africa, Tanzania, and Morocco!

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Tanzania Service & Safari

• Jul 15 - Jul 31 Available

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9, 10, 11, 12

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Spain, Portugal & Morocco

• Jul 15 - Aug 1 Full

Spain & Portugal

• Jul 15 - Jul 27 Very-limited

Europe for Older Teens: Spain & Portugal

• Jul 11 - Jul 23 Full

Europe for Older Teens: Spain, Portugal & Morocco

• Jul 11 - Jul 28 Very-limited

Fun Facts About The Region

If you want to get to properly know Africa’s wildlife, there’s no better option than a sarafi! Ride out deep into the savannah to truly experience the beauty of Africa’s landscape — and spot some truly awesome animals along the way.

Africa is home to beautiful views and wonderful people, but it also offers a complex and fascinating history. Learn about the effects of Apartheid and how it was brought down from former political prisoners who experienced it firsthand in South Africa or go further into the past through the stories of the nomadic Hadzabe Bushmen tribe in Tanzania.

When you picture Africa, you may not envision mountains — but that’s a mistake. Africa is home to some of the most iconic mountains in the world, like the unusually-shaped Table Mountain in Cape Town or Kilimanjaro itself, one of the tallest mountains in the world.

You’ll learn an entirely new meaning for “retail therapy” after strolling through the markets here. Local artisans offer handmade goods and chefs hawk traditional culinary delights in the markets, allowing you to both shop and experience the culture at the same time.

Can you really experience another country if you don’t chow down on traditional delicacies? Africa offers an array of delicious dishes unlike food you’ll find anywhere else. Even better yet, learn to cook these local favorites to bring Africa home with you.

Sharks and Whales

Great white sharks and humpback whales are borderline mythical creatures at this point, spawning dozens of legends. But in Africa, you can come face to face with these famed creatures, through boat tours and *gulp* cage diving.

01 / 02 See wildlife on a true safari!

02 / 02 Work on meaningful service projects with local communities.

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Students will serve, learn, and grow while visiting Africa. Please get in touch with Professor Reich ( [email protected] ) for more information.

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Service Learning in Africa

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Unique Book Shows Benefits of WCU’s Journeys to South Africa

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These students brought home more than just photos. They returned with new perspectives and sometimes new academic and career pursuits, notes Victoria Tischio, WCU professor of English, who completed four of these journeys. She has compiled students’ reflections, notes, research, and photos into a recently released book: Journeys to South Africa: Reflections on 20 Years of Short-term Service Learning . The chapters explore how students learn and the various ways communities benefit from these projects.

She shared the ethos of the book: “We intended to give something more back, something lasting.”

Academically, the book provides scholars with more descriptive data and analysis than is currently available regarding international service-learning experiences. That information includes interviews conducted with host communities, surveys of recent student travelers, interviews with students who participated in the early years of the program, and students’ travel journal entries.

Royalties from book sales are earmarked for the three non-profit organizations that the Honors College visited and assisted on each trip: H.E.L.P. Ministries Soup Kitchen, Nkosi’s Haven, and Nederberg Primary School.

One example of how students were transformed: After the 2006 trip, three participating students returned and launched Aid to South Africa, an Honors College student-run fundraiser that became an annual event, several times having Cecil Begbie, who established H.E.L.P. Ministries Soup Kitchen, join the event in person on campus.

Some students changed their majors or added minors to incorporate study of social justice issues after witnessing still-visible remnants of apartheid. Others found careers in philanthropy, activism, and human rights.

“Difficult concepts and experiences of poverty and hunger effected the biggest breakthroughs in students,” Tischio noted.

An excerpt* from Tischio’s three student co-authors (now alumni) who served as volume editors , Camryn Carwll ’20, CJ Deskie ’22, and Dunya Markovic ’22 , illustrates the transformative value of the students’ experiences:

“For all of the hardship that we saw in some of the townships and heard about in the stories of those we met along the way, there were little pockets of joy and success. While progress is difficult to measure and maintain, and even more difficult to see during a short-term visit, the end result can be life-altering for those in need by helping ensure that vital nonprofits continue to exist. Progress may not look the way we would like it. It may not happen on the timetable we prefer. However, learning to value the messiness of progress and the role we can play in that slow process toward justice is part of what we took away from our experiences in South Africa and that lesson will continue to influence our lives into the future.”

Tischio continues to conduct service with Nederberg Primary School in the form of virtual storybook videos and read alongs with their second- and third-grade students.

Two other faculty contributed to the book: Peter Loedel, professor of political science and current interim department chair, and Kevin Dean, the former Honors College director who established the South Africa program.

Journeys to South Africa: Reflections on 20 Years of Short-term Service Learning is available through major booksellers and online. Visit this site for blog entries and links to social media.

* Excerpt from Journeys to South Africa: Reflections on 20 Years of Short-term Service Learning , Chapter 4: “The Messiness of Progress: Lessons from 20 Years of International Service Learning Trips to South Africa” by Camryn Carwll, CJ Deskie, and Dunya Markovic. (Peter Lang, 2023)

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Delta is reinforcing its No. 1 position as the largest U.S. carrier to Africa this winter by relaunching daily* service to Lagos, Nigeria (LOS), from  New York-JFK on Dec. 1. Fleet enhancements in service to Accra, Ghana (ACC), and South Africa are also underway. 

The airline carries more than half a million customers between the U.S. and Africa each year on more than 34 weekly flights. 

“These enhancements reflect our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our customers,” said Joe Esposito, Delta’s Senior Vice President of Network Planning. “We’re expanding our options for customers to experience the premium service and elevated hospitality they expect from Delta.”    Delta currently operates daily service between Atlanta and Lagos and, with the resumption of daily New York-JFK service, will offer a total of 14 weekly flights to Nigeria in December through the first half of January and 10 weekly flights for the remainder of winter 2024. 

Customers on this flight will have a choice of Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin experiences on the  Airbus A330-200 . Once on board, customers in Delta One can look forward to an extensive food and beverage program that includes thoughtfully curated menu options, as well as specialty snacks and premium beer, wine and spirits. Customers flying in Delta Premium Select will have more space to relax and stretch out, with a wider seat, deeper recline, an adjustable footrest and leg rest. 

All customers can enjoy a wide selection of in-flight entertainment options – movies, TV series, music, podcasts and more – via Delta Studio. Delta also partners with diverse suppliers worldwide for in-flight products such as artisan-crafted amenity kits and beverages like Thrive Farmers Tea.

Premium upgrades in service to Ghana and South Africa 

As the first U.S. airline to initiate service to Ghana, Delta remains the largest operator in the U.S.-Ghana market, offering year-round daily service from New York-JFK.  

Furthermore, in late October 2024, Delta will upgrade its aircraft serving Ghana to the 281-seat Airbus A330-900neo , adding nearly 1,000 more seats each week, providing 30% more capacity between Ghana and the U.S. The aircraft features four differentiated cabin experiences: Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin.

Delta One Suites feature a sliding door for enhanced privacy, memory-foam mattress and soft bedding made from recycled materials. Delta One customers can also enjoy more beverage options and a seasonal chef-curated four-course meal.      Delta is also upgrading its aircraft from Atlanta to South Africa, where it operates 10 weekly flights year-round to Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT). With the introduction of the higher-premium 35H  Airbus A350-900 , this upgrade will provide an additional eight Delta One Suite seats, bringing the total to 40, along with improved operational performance. Customers can look forward to these changes for JNB effective Jun. 20 and CPT on Sept. 9.   For more information and to book travel, visit delta.com . 

*This route will initially fly daily, shifting to three times per week on Jan. 16, 2025. 

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

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

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

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

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

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

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

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

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

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

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Godzillas Hostel

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

• Towels Included

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

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

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

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

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

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

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

The Alexander Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ostankino Television Tower

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

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

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

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

Izmaylovo District

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

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

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

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

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

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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

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

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

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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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Moscow travel guide

Moscow tourism | moscow guide, you're going to love moscow.

Moscow is sometimes known as "The Third Rome" and it doesn't disappoint. With the amazing architecture and history behind some of the buildings, it's the perfect combination of contemporary mixed with historic.

Everywhere from the Moscow Business District to the Red Square will have some beautiful building or park and a plethora of delicious Russian food options. You'll be immersed in history everywhere you go, but you'll also see the signs of modern-day tsars.

The people of Moscow are welcoming and kind and can't wait to show you everything their city has to offer.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Moscow

1. it's a history buff's paradise.

Moscow has a rich history, and not just from the time of the USSR. If you love history than the stories behind every building, landmark, and road in Moscow will have you chomping at the bit for more. Be sure to take a historic tour of the city.

2. It's an Architectural Dream

Moscow's architecture is unmatched, and the design and colors of every building are breathtaking. Visit the Kremlin, built in the 15th century, or Saint Basil's Cathedral from the 16th century.

3. Art Galleries and Museums Aplenty

There's nothing quite like Russian art, and Moscow is home to some of the world's most impressive collections. Be sure to visit the Tretyakov State Gallery or if you're into something more modern, the ARTPLAY Design Center and Flacon Design Factory.

4. The World-Renowned Subway Stations

Not many cities can claim their train stations as a drawcard, but the Moscow subway, built in 1935, is truly like walking through a royal castle. You can only imagine the engineering that went into building something so complex and impressive.

5. The Russian Theater

Probably the biggest draw to Moscow is the Russian Theater, which hosts everything from plays to ballet. The Bolshoi Ballet Company is among the most well-known symbols of Russia and experiencing this in person is incredible.

What to do in Moscow

1. moscow kremlin: russia's must-see.

The first stop in Moscow is the Red Square - home to the iconic St. Basil's Cathedral with its multicolored domes, and the gateway to the Kremlin. Just past Lenin's Mausoleum, this fortified citadel was built for royalty. Overlooking the river, it boasts a density of cathedrals and palaces behind thick walls. Step into the State History Museum and the Museum of Fashion for contrasting but equally enthralling Russian learning opportunities, or enjoy a stroll through the Aleksandrovsky Garden.

2. Bolshoi Theatre: The Show Must Go On

The Bolshoi Theater is a historical gem. This grand institution has hosted the famous Russian opera and ballet for centuries, and the performances have never lost their grandeur. The most talented opera singers and ballet dancers keep coming from Russian schools. Naturally, it is the ultimate venue to immerse yourself when it comes to traditional performance. The little sister to the Bolshoi, Maly Theater, is just across the street.

3. Cathedral of Christ the Saviour: A Worthwhile Reconstruction

This Orthodox Christian church was one of the tallest in the world until it was demolished by Stalin in 1931, as he planned to have the "Palace of the Soviets" built. Of course, this idea never came to fruition, and the Cathedral of Christ the Savior was certainly significant enough to rebuild. Since 1997 it has become a huge attraction for its beauty as well as a symbol of the country's tumultuous history. The golden domes shimmer from across the city, and the interior is fabulously colorful.

4. Gorky Park: Where Everyone Comes out to Play

This "Central Park of Culture and Leisure" lives up to its self-proclaimed title, boasting newly renovated recreation zones for visitors of all ages. For the ultimate experience, hop on the Sokolnicheskaya Metro Line and get off at Park Kultury to walk over the Crimean Bridge - the first thing you will see is the Main Gate of Gorky Park. From amusement rides to ice skating rinks, activities abound. Not to mention the simple delight of strolling by the river or lounging on the grass.

5. State Tretyakov Gallery: One Thousand Years of Art

The largest collection of Fine Russian Art in the world is found in Moscow's Tretyakov Gallery. National glory is celebrated across the halls of this museum, giving artists a platform when their work is often overlooked in foreign collections. Particularly telling are the modern art galleries, which exhibit political art created largely in response to the fascinating and tumultuous history of Russia over the 20th century.

Activities & attractions in Moscow

Where to Eat in Moscow

Moscow is great for food of all types. There are high-end dining restaurants, some of which are world renowned, but there is also a lot of tasty street food and mid-range dining as well. For a luxury experience, try Savva in the city center, but expect to pay anywhere from ₽1,590 to ₽3,200 for a main. If you opt for street food, you'd be looking at paying around ₽400. For some lovely mid-range dining experiences great for solo travelers, couples, or families, check out Chaikhona No. 1 in Pushkin or Mari Vanna in Tverskaya. Mains here will be around ₽700 to ₽900. Drinks vary in price, but a beer will usually cost somewhere around ₽300.

When to visit Moscow

Deciding when to visit Moscow depends a lot on your budget and your durability. Russian winters are incredibly harsh with temperatures that reach below zero on some days and winds that will chill you to your core. This kind of weather isn't for everyone, but in the summer the temperatures can reach the high 80s. Shoulder seasons are a great time to experience Moscow because the temperatures are mild enough to enjoy the sights. Summers will always cost more because it's a peak travel period.

How to Get to Moscow

Most visitors come into Moscow by plane. The main airports are Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO), Domodedovo International Airport (DME), and Vnukovo International Airport (VKO). Sheremetyevo International is approximately 20 miles from the center. The best way to get into Moscow is by the Aeroexpress, which costs ₽500. Domodedovo International is around 28 miles away. To get into the city, take the train from the Paveletsky Rail Terminal for ₽470 rubles. Vnukovo International is about 19 miles from the city, and you can take the train for ₽470.

Although there are quite a few trains into Moscow from other European cities, it's not a particularly popular mode of transport since the journeys are quite long. There are nine train stations in Moscow, but the main one is Leningrad Station. The main train route is the overnight train from Warsaw on Russian Railways, which costs around ₽9,000.

The M1 goes into the city from the west and the M7 goes into the city from the east. Moscow has two circular highways around it, the Third Ring Road and MKAD. This makes it easy to approach the city from any angle once you get in from the M1 or M7.

Similar to the train, approaching Moscow by bus isn't a very common way to get there. However, Lux Express has many routes to Moscow. You can travel from Riga, Tallinn, Berlin, Warsaw, Minsk, Budapest, and more.

Airports near Moscow

Airlines serving moscow, where to stay in moscow.

When it comes to accommodation, Moscow has a little bit of everything. It does luxury beautifully, with stunning 5-star hotels dotted around the city with breathtaking views, such as the Ritz Carlton in Tverskaya, or the Ararat Park Hyatt Hotel in the city center. If you're after budget options, there are plenty of mid-range hotels such as the Hilton, and many excellent hostels, such as the Davydov Hostel in the Arbat district.

Popular Neighborhoods in Moscow

Tverskaya Street - this area north of the business district is one of Moscow's most popular. Famous for its amazing cafes, nightclubs, and overall nightlife, this is the suburb to be in for a fantastic party time.

Petrovka - east of Tverskaya lies this district, which is a perfect upmarket area for boutique shopping. You'll also find lots of historic sights here like two ancient monasteries.

Arbat district - although this district is very touristy, its colorful appearance and cute eating establishments make it a lovely area to pass some time without spending a fortune.

Where to stay in popular areas of Moscow

Most booked hotels in moscow, how to get around moscow, public transportation.

The public transportation routes in Moscow are excellent with a very well-connected subway network, trams, and buses. You can buy tickets ranging from a single journey all the way up to 60. One journey only costs ₽28.

Unlike other large cities, taxi prices in Moscow are relatively reasonable. You can expect to pay a base fee of around ₽150, and then about ₽90 per mile. There are plenty of taxis around Moscow, so you shouldn't have any problems flagging one down.

With multiple Hertz, Avis, Sixt, and Elite outlets, you'll have your pick of rental companies, and you can expect to pay around ₽2,403 a day. Rates become cheaper the longer you rent. For a three-day rental, expect to pay around ₽6,310.

The Cost of Living in Moscow

Shopping streets.

Moscow is great for high-end luxury shopping, but it also has many popular international stores that you would expect to see as well. The street for top-of-the-line jewelry and items is Tretyakovsky Proyezd, located in the city center. At Izmailovsky Park you'll find a large open-air bazaar where things will be much more affordable, but you will have to pay an entrance fee of ₽50.

Groceries and Other

Moscow is filled with cheap markets to find all kinds of delicious food at affordable prices. However, for your other grocery or personal needs, you'll find the big chain Auchan or the more upmarket Perekrestok. A loaf of bread will cost around ₽50, and a dozen eggs will cost about ₽109.

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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