Red Square Moscow 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Exploring Red Square, Moscow (Markdown format)

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

  • Arrival at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo or Domodedovo Airport: Pre-book a taxi or use public transportation (Aeroexpress train) to reach your hotel.

  • Check-in at Hotel Ritz-Carlton, Tverskaya Hotel Bolshoy Moskva, or Four Seasons Hotel Moscow: Centrally located hotels offering luxury and comfort for tourists.

  • Lunch at Stolovaya No. 57 Bistro (Толкачовый Двор): A popular eatery with traditional Russian dishes and a cozy atmosphere.

  • Afternoon visit to Red Square (Красная Площадь): Admire iconic buildings such as St. Basil’s Cathedral, the historic Moscow State University, and the GUM department store. Remember that photography may be restricted in some areas.

  • Evening stroll along Tverskaya Street (Улица Тверская): Explore local boutiques, cafes, and landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and the Alexander Garden.

Day 2: Historical Landmarks & Museums

  • Breakfast at Café Pushkin (Кафе Пушкин): A charming restaurant offering Russian cuisine in an elegant setting.

  • Morning visit to Lenin’s Mausoleum (Мавзолей В.И. Ленина): A must-see attraction housing the embalmed remains of Vladimir Lenin, open from Wednesdays to Sundays.

  • Lunch at Teremok (Теремок): Affordable and delicious Russian fast food chain with various locations around Red Square.

  • Afternoon visit to the Armoury Chamber (Оружейная Палата) in the Kremlin: Explore the vast collection of Fabergé eggs, coronation gowns, and royal artifacts.

  • Dinner at White Rabbit (Белый Кролик): A modern restaurant with an innovative menu and fantastic views of Red Square.

Day 3: Museums & Local Culture

  • Breakfast at Kitchki (Кички): A trendy café offering a variety of traditional Russian dishes and an excellent brunch menu.

  • Morning visit to the Tretyakov Gallery (Государственная Третьяковская Галерея): Home to the world’s largest collection of Russian fine art.

  • Lunch at Et Cetera (Эт Цетера): A cozy eatery with a focus on Russian and Georgian cuisine.

  • Afternoon visit to the Bolshoi Theatre (Большой Театр): If available, catch a performance of Swan Lake or another famous ballet or opera.

  • Dinner at Moskva Restaurant (Ресторан Москва): Located in the historic Moskva Hotel with panoramic views of Red Square and excellent Russian cuisine.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Metro & Parks

  • Breakfast at Kroshka Kartofel’ (Крошка Картофель): A charming café serving traditional Russian pancakes and coffee.

  • Morning metro tour: Explore the ornate and impressive stations of Moscow’s metro system, often referred to as “underground palaces.”

  • Lunch at Zhukovsky (Жуковский): A restaurant serving traditional Russian dishes in a modern setting.

  • Afternoon visit to Sokolniki Park (Сокольники) or Gorky Park (Горький Парк): Relax, enjoy a picnic, and take a boat ride on the river.

  • Dinner at Kvartirka (Квартирка): A restaurant serving traditional Russian dishes in a warm and welcoming setting.

Things to Know:

  • Moscow operates on Eastern European Time (MSK), UTC +3 hours.
  • English is not widely spoken, so it may be helpful to have some basic Russian phrases or use translation apps.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to carry some local currency (Russian rubles).
  • Be prepared for cold weather during winter months, and dress in layers.

Transportation:

  • Moscow has an extensive public transportation network, including the metro, trams, buses, and taxis. Buy a Troika card for unlimited travel on public transport.
  • Walking is also an excellent way to explore the city and soak up its atmosphere.

Tips:

  • Respect local customs and traditions while visiting religious sites or museums.
  • Haggle when shopping at markets and souvenir stands.
  • Sample traditional Russian desserts like pirogi, medovik, and syrniki.
  • Enjoy a banya (Russian sauna) for an authentic local experience.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of Red Square from Sparrow Hills (Воробьёвы горы).