The top 10 most famous destinations in Moscow

What to see and where to go in Moscow?

Moscow is a grand and diverse city which reveals many diverse sides, faces and corners of itself to any visiting traveller. Here, the multi-coloured domes of Orthodox churches coexist with monumental skyscrapers built in “Stalin Empire” style.

There is also a huge number of cultural sites in Moscow - more than 400 museums, around 1000 monuments, 130 theatres and dozens of concert halls. Most of the country's fashion events, premieres and international exhibitions take place in the capital. You need to be in Moscow for a long time to truly appreciate the spirit and energy of this dynamic city, but you can sure get a taste of it if you only stop by for a few days!

1. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square

The most recognizable and visited place in the Russian capital. The red towers of the Kremlin crowned with stars is a symbol of Moscow. The Kremlin has served as a defensive structure since the 12th century and has been burned and rebuilt several times. The Red Square has also been the site of important state events many times - it has held meetings, fairs, parades and various cultural events.

2. St. Basil's Cathedral

The Cathedral was built under the orders of Ivan The Terrible to show his gratitude God for his help in the capture of Kazan. Originally the building was the Golden dome and the walls were red-and-white. After a fire in the XVIII century, the temple was painted in bright colours and it now rises above the red square as just like a colourful gingerbread house!

3. Moscow-city

This is the business district of the capital, consisting of modern skyscrapers with futuristic designs. The project is unique both for Russia and for the whole of Eastern Europe. The highest tower of the complex is the "Federation" which reaches a height of 235 meters and other buildings have also been given their own names. Did you know that Moscow city has even been nicknamed "Moscow Manhattan?!

4. Cathedral Of Christ The Saviour

The temple was built in honour of the victory in the Patriotic war of 1812 under the project of Konstantin Ton and the construction work lasted for over forty years. The building was blown up in the Soviet Era, and the Palace of Soviets appeared in its place. The Cathedral was rebuilt between 1994-1997 and now has the greatest resemblance to the original.

5. Kremlin in Izmailovo

A landmark of modern times in the spirit of Russian architecture of the XVII century is the stylized residence of emperor Alexei Mikhailovich. The ensemble was built according to old sketches and drawings. The Kremlin was built in 2007 near to the metro station Partizanskaya. There are also craft shops, museums, restaurants, and a church in the area, too. The Kremlin was created by the project of A. F. Ushakov, built as a tourist attraction.

6. Bolshoi theatre

The main Opera scene of the country and one of the best theatres in the world. The theatre was built in 1825 but burnt down in 1853. Three years later, the Bolshoi was rebuilt. Extensive renovation was carried out in the years between 1886-1893, in 1958, and again between 2005-2011 when the monumental building was decorated with massive columns. Let's just say that the interior will amaze you with its luxury. Make sure you don't miss the crystal chandelier in the main auditorium.

7. Bunker 42 on Taganka

Museum of the cold war is located 65 meters underground. The bunker was built in the middle of the XX century and was conceived as a completely autonomous shelter in case of a sudden nuclear strike. It kept a steady supply of water and food that would last for a very long time. To enter the museum you have to pass through a one-and-a-half-ton door. Visitors can explore the atmosphere of the bunker halls during the tour and watch a film about the cold war.

8.State Department Store (GUM)

The complex is located on the Red Square and is one of Moscow's main attractions. The history of the building began in the XIX century with the opening of shopping malls. During the XX century GUM gradually became the main and most coveted store in the country - travellers tended to visit it to buy scarce goods. Nowadays the GUM is an area of expensive boutiques, historic shops and artist showrooms.

9. Art-factory "Red October»

Numerous art workshops, galleries, design studios, exhibition halls now occupy the former building of the confectionery factory "Red October". This is a kind of Bohemian centre for the capital, where events are constantly taking place with many famous people. The red brick factory building itself is a classic example of industrial architecture of the early XX century.

10. Gorky Park

The Park is located on the embankment of the Moscow river. In recent years it has been transformed to become a meeting point for the outgoing public. There are organized events dedicated to the protection of the environment such as vegetarian festivals, skateboarders competitions and other events. In winter there is one the biggest skating rinks in Europe to enjoy, too!

Our article focused on the most famous destinations in Moscow ends here. After running around in the city all day you definitely need a comfortable bed for rest in the evening. We have tons of choices when it comes to Hostels in Moscow. One of our favourites is Friend House Hostel located in the heart of Moscow. The Tverskoy district is a great choice for travellers interested in culture, history and architecture. For more hostels, check out our "Changing Russia: the boom of hostels in Moscow!" article!