Russia’s sprawling capital city can seem daunting, but with a bit of perseverance Moscow never fails to delight. Here are five uniquely Muscovite experiences we recommend:
1. Go Inside St. Basil’s Cathedral: Sure, the iconic cathedral, which dominates one side of Red Square is something you want to see, but surprisingly few travelers actually venture inside. What a lot they miss! The cathedral is a warren of tiny medieval chapels, connected by narrow corridors and winding staircases. In recent years, excellent work has been done restoring the exquisite frescos inside the cathedral. Choirs frequently perform inside the cathedral, taking advantage of the unique acoustics. For those who make it to the top, fabulous views of Red Square await!
2. Take a Boat Ride Along the Moscow River: Grab a seat on the boats leaving from stops along the Moskva River and enjoy a leisurely circuit trip through the heart of the Russian capital and out to its green and leafy environs. Enjoy unparalleled views of some of Moscow’s landmark sights.
3. Attend an Orthodox Church Service: Moscow was once known as the “City of 40 x 40 churches,” and thanks to the current revival of interest in the Orthodox Church, many of these churches, chapels, and cathedrals are working once again. Most churches hold evening services around 6:00 P.M., and visitors are welcome to join. Note that the Russian Orthodox faithful stand for the service and mill about so it is not essential to arrive on time or stay for the entire duration of the service. Both men and women should dress modestly and women should cover their heads to show respect inside the churches.
4. Go Shopping at a Farmer’s Market: Sanctions? What sanctions? There is no shortage of vibrant fresh produce at one of Moscow’s bustling farmers’ markets: Danilovsky, Dorogomilovsky, or Leningradsky. Browse through stalls selling Central Asian spices, Caucasian dried fruits, and jewel-colored jars of jams, jellies, pickles and preserves.
5. Experience Public Transportation: Moscow’s traffic jams are legendary, but the majority of the city’s 15 million inhabitants bypass these by using the highly efficient and sumptuously decorated Moscow metro. For a more leisurely above-ground experience, take a ride around Moscow’s picturesque Garden Ring on the oldest trolley bus line in continuous use: ask your local representative about the “B” or “BK” route, which takes you past some of Moscow’s elegant nineteenth century mansions and storefronts.
Alexander+Roberts were the first to welcome Americans to Russia in 1954 and continue to do so today. Ask one of our knowledgeable reservation agents about visiting Russia on our privately guided
Discover Moscow and St. Petersburg.