Like any other big city, a person could spend years exploring Moscow. Unfortunately, that may not be an option for most visitors to Russia. Sometimes people find themselves in Moscow on a layover, or they may have decided to spend the majority of their time in St. Petersburg or in the Golden Ring cities (tiny, preserved cities popular with tourists).
It is, of course, possible to get a taste of Moscow in a single weekend. There are a few places that can be seen in just a couple of days. These are the essential attractions in Moscow:
Visit Red Square in Moscow
Red Square is essentially the epicenter of central Moscow. Entrance to the square itself is free, and is open almost all the time. It's especially convenient for people staying at a Moscow hotel that is located in central Moscow.
In Red Square, there is the luminous St. Basil's Cathedral (just a few dollars for entrance), and Lenin's Tomb (which is free, although photography is forbidden).
There are also cathedrals and the huge department store "GUM." GUM used to be a government rationing store in the days of the Soviet Union. Today, it is a huge mall, with designer boutiques and all the latest fashions.
The Moscow Kremlin is Right Next Door to Red Square
Tourists only have to walk a short distance through a lovely park before they find the entrance to the Kremlin. Although official buildings are naturally closed to the public, inside the Kremlin grounds are ancient cathedrals, the "Ivan the Great Bell Tower," and the Kremlin Armory, which holds royal furniture and jewels.
Old Arbat Street
Within walking distance of Red Square and the Kremlin, one of the oldest streets in Moscow is still going strong. Traditionally a gathering place of Russian artists and poets, it is now a closed walkway with restaurants, gift shops, bars, and street performers. While some of the restaurants are typical tourist traps with high prices, there are a few gems, like "My-My," the popular cafeteria-style restaurant and bar. This is also where the Hard Rock Cafe Moscow is located.
The Bolshoi Theater
Although the original Bolshoi Theater has been (and will continue to be) under construction and renovation for years, the Bolshoi still holds concerts at a smaller venue right next door to the old theater, or in the Kremlin Palace.
The Bolshoi Ballet Company is world-renowned, and all Moscow tourists should partake in this national cultural event. The Bolshoi also sponsors operas.
While Moscow may seem overwhelming to a first-time visitor, it is actually quite easy to navigate in the city center. In central Moscow, English is widely spoken, and most restaurants, bars and cafes have English menus. If a tourist has only a weekend to spare, these famous Moscow attractions should not be missed.
To learn more about Russia and what to expect, read Advice for People Planning a Russian Trip, and Russian Culture and Etiquette.
