Explore Moscow: A 4-Day Itinerary

Sunday, December 31: Arrival and Red Square

Begin your Moscow adventure by arriving at the city and checking into your hotel. After settling in, head to the iconic Red Square in the morning. Marvel at the grandeur of the Kremlin, visit the fascinating St. Basil's Cathedral, and explore the GUM department store for some shopping. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the historical Moscow Metro, known for its stunning architecture. Spend the evening enjoying a traditional Russian dinner at a local restaurant.

• Red Square: Entrance to the square is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Moscow Metro Tour: Cost: approximately 500 RUB ($7) for a ticket, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Local Restaurant dinner: Cost: approximately 1500 RUB ($21) per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Monday, January 1: Kremlin and Arbat Street

Start your New Year off by visiting the Moscow Kremlin in the morning. Explore the historical complex, including the Armoury Chamber, Cathedral Square, and the Diamond Fund. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along Arbat Street, a vibrant pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers. In the afternoon, visit the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts to admire its extensive art collection. In the evening, indulge in Russian ballet or opera at the Bolshoi Theatre.

• Moscow Kremlin: Cost: approximately 700 RUB ($10) for a ticket, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Arbat Street: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts: Cost: approximately 500 RUB ($7) for a ticket, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Bolshoi Theatre: Cost varies based on performance, estimated time spent: 3 hours

Tuesday, January 2: Tretyakov Gallery and Gorky Park

In the morning, visit the State Tretyakov Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Russian art. Explore masterpieces by renowned artists such as Ivan Aivazovsky and Wassily Kandinsky. Afterward, head to Gorky Park, a sprawling recreational area along the Moskva River. Enjoy a relaxing walk, rent a bike, or visit the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art located within the park. In the evening, savor traditional Russian cuisine at a local restaurant.

• State Tretyakov Gallery: Cost: approximately 500 RUB ($7) for a ticket, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Gorky Park: Free to enter, additional costs for activities or museum entry, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Local Restaurant dinner: Cost: approximately 1500 RUB ($21) per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Wednesday, January 3: Cathedral of Christ the Savior and Izmailovsky Market

Start your day by visiting the magnificent Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the largest Orthodox church in Russia. Admire the stunning interior and enjoy panoramic views of Moscow from the observation deck. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Izmailovsky Market, known for its traditional crafts, souvenirs, and Russian folk art. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and pick up unique mementos. End your trip with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

• Cathedral of Christ the Savior: Entrance to the church is free, optional observation deck ticket: approximately 700 RUB ($10), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Izmailovsky Market: Free to enter, costs vary based on purchases, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Local Restaurant dinner: Cost: approximately 1500 RUB ($21) per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Moscow, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the charming Kolomenskoye Estate, an open-air museum showcasing Russian architecture and history. Take a boat ride along the Moskva River for a unique perspective of the city's landmarks. Explore the trendy neighborhood of Patriarch Ponds, filled with hip cafes, boutique shops, and beautiful streets. Lastly, enjoy a traditional Russian banya experience for relaxation and rejuvenation.