Moscow attractions

A major riverside park for walks, sport and downtime next to Muzeon.

A high bank above the Moskva River with one of the city’s best-known panoramic viewpoints. From the observation area you can see Luzhniki, Moscow City and a broad section of the capital, while nearby paths lead into the green landscape of the nature reserve.

A vast exhibition and leisure complex with pavilions, fountains, museums and seasonal programmes.

A modern park next to the Kremlin with river views and cultural spaces.

Moscow’s central historic square and an easy starting point for the city centre.

One of Moscow’s defining theatrical landmarks and a major architectural focus of Theatre Square. Even without attending a performance, the building is an important part of the historic centre, while the illuminated square is especially attractive on an evening walk after Red Square and Nikolskaya Street.

A monumental Orthodox cathedral on the Moskva River, visible from many parts of the historic centre. Its scale, bright façade and position beside Patriarch Bridge make it simultaneously a religious landmark, a major architectural feature and an important part of the riverfront cityscape.

Mayakovskaya, opened in 1938, is one of the most celebrated architectural stations of the Moscow Metro. Slender columns, stainless steel, stone and Alexander Deyneka’s ceiling mosaics turn the platform into an architectural landmark rather than merely a transport stop.

The historic and architectural heart of the Russian capital, enclosed by the Kremlin walls and towers. Its grounds contain ancient cathedrals, ceremonial squares, museum collections and monuments from different periods, so the Kremlin is best treated as a substantial destination rather than a quick photo stop.

One of Russia’s largest planetariums combines a major star hall, interactive science displays, astronomy areas and programmes for both children and adults. It is a strong choice for a family day, poor weather or anyone who wants to add a scientific experience to a walk through central Moscow.

The monumental main building of Moscow State University on Sparrow Hills is one of the best-known examples of Stalinist high-rise architecture and a defining feature of southwest Moscow’s skyline. Even without entering the university, the complex is impressive for its scale, symmetry and surrounding campus.

The Tretyakov Gallery building on Krymsky Val focuses mainly on Russian art of the 20th and 21st centuries. Its collection spans the avant-garde, Socialist Realism, unofficial art and major temporary exhibitions, making it a strong complement to the classical collection in Lavrushinsky Lane.